From Naples: Everglades with a Wet Walk, 2 Boat Trips & Lunch — A Genuine Adventure
If you’re headed to Naples and want a full day of exploring Florida’s most iconic wetlands, this tour offers a hands-on, up-close experience of the Everglades. For $389 per person, you get to spend a day with experienced guides, visiting both National Parks and remote island villages, with plenty of wildlife sightings, boating, and even a wet walk through the wetlands. The itinerary includes two boat trips, an airboat ride, a guided wet walk, and a taste of local culture — all packed into roughly 10 hours.
What really makes this tour stand out are two things: first, the guided wet walk led by a biologist, offering a rare opportunity to see the swamp’s flora and fauna on foot; second, the airboat ride into the “River of Grass,” which delivers an exhilarating perspective on the sprawling landscape. Plus, the visit to a Miccosukee village adds an authentic cultural layer you might miss elsewhere.
A potential consideration is the physical nature of the tour — while mostly flat terrain, the wet walk involves uneven sections, so comfortable shoes and a readiness to get a little muddy are recommended. Also, it’s a full day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with very young children, you might want to plan accordingly.
This trip suits travelers who want more than just scenery — it’s ideal for those eager to learn about wildlife from knowledgeable guides and experience the wild in a hands-on way. If you’re a nature lover, curious about local indigenous cultures, or just looking for a comprehensive day trip from Naples, this tour could be just the ticket.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic wildlife experiences with guided wet walks and boat tours
- Visit remote areas, including the 10,000 Islands and Miccosukee village
- Multiple boat trips for diverse perspectives of the Everglades
- Educational and cultural insights from expert guides
- All-inclusive with transportation, lunch, and water shoes
- Small group size (limited to 14 participants) for a personalized experience
Planning more time in Everglades City? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
In-Depth Review of the Everglades Tour from Naples
A Well-Organized, Full-Day Adventure
This tour from Naples is designed as a comprehensive exploration of the Everglades, combining nature, culture, and adventure. Starting early and ending around late afternoon or early evening, it packs in a lot of activity without feeling rushed. The transportation is smooth, with hotel pickup and drop-off in a clean, modern Sprinter van, setting a comfortable tone from the start.
The small group size (no more than 14 travelers) allows for personal attention from guides and an intimate experience in these vast, often remote wetlands. The guides, notably the naturalist leading the wet walk, are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making complex ecosystems accessible and engaging.
The Wet Walk with a Biologist — A Unique Perspective
One of the tour’s most lauded features is the wet walk. Led by an experienced biologist, this guided journey takes you into the swamp and cypress dome, allowing for a rare foot-level view of the wildlife and plants. Expect to see orchids and epiphytes, as well as the chance to spot wildlife like herons, turtles, or even elusive gators from a very close vantage point.
Travelers often comment on how this walk elevates the experience. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way the guide explained how these wetlands function and pointed out plants and animals we would never have noticed on our own.” The walk is mostly flat, but do prepare for some uneven ground and possibly getting your shoes a little muddy — which is part of the fun.
More Great Tours NearbyBoat Tours and Wildlife Encounters
Following the wet walk, the first 80-minute boat tour takes you through the 10,000 Islands — a vast, lush mosaic of waterways and mangroves. Here, you’ll encounter dolphins, manatees, sawfish, and a variety of bird species like roseate spoonbills and white pelicans. Many travelers find these boat trips awe-inspiring, providing a different angle on the landscape and wildlife.
The second highlight is the airboat ride — a 75-minute thrill into the “River of Grass.” The high-speed ride offers sweeping views and the chance to see alligators basking, birds swooping, and the endless green of the wetlands stretching in all directions. Riders consistently mention the adrenaline rush and the photo opportunities it provides.
Cultural and Eco Stops
A visit to a Miccosukee village introduces visitors to the indigenous culture of the area. Accessible only by airboat, this stop offers insights into how the Miccosukee people have survived and thrived in these wetlands. It’s an authentic experience, not staged or touristy, giving you a glimpse of their traditional way of life.
Additional stops include a local artist gallery, showcasing regional crafts, the smallest post office in the world, and a local museum — these are small but enriching cultural touches that round out the day.
Lunch and Practicalities
Lunch is included, with a menu offering local flavors and vegetarian/vegan options. Many travelers appreciate the variety and quality, especially after a busy morning in the sun. Snacks and drinks are unlimited, making sure you stay refreshed throughout the day.
A notable bonus is the water shoes provided, which come in handy during the wet walk and other water-based activities. The tour is designed for comfort and convenience, ensuring you don’t have to worry about packing extra gear.
A Balance of Education, Adventure, and Comfort
The tour’s structure balances educational moments with adventure. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge elevate the experience, making it accessible to all levels of wildlife enthusiasts. The small group size ensures personalized attention and the flexibility to ask questions or get close-up views.
Worth the Price?
At $389, this tour might seem steep compared to simpler day trips, but when you consider the all-inclusive nature—transportation, permits, multiple boat trips, lunch, and water shoes—it offers strong value. Access to protected parks with permits held only by a few companies means you’re supporting responsible tourism that respects the environment.
Possible Drawbacks
The main considerations are physical readiness and the full-day commitment. The wet walk involves uneven terrain, and the day includes several boat rides, which can be tiring. Children under 5 are not recommended, and travelers should be prepared for a day outdoors in Florida’s sun. Some reviews suggest that the boat rides can be crowded during peak times, so early booking is advisable.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is best for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts who want to see the Everglades from multiple angles. If you’re eager to learn about local plants, animals, and cultures through guided explanations, you’ll find this tour incredibly rewarding. It’s also well-suited for people who enjoy small-group experiences and are comfortable with a physically active day.
If your goal is a relaxed sightseeing trip or you’re traveling with very young children, this might be too intensive. But for those ready to get wet, explore remote islands, and see Florida’s wild side, it delivers on all fronts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in a comfortable van are included, making it easy to start and end the day without worry.
How long is the tour?
The entire day lasts around 10 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, especially for the wet walk and water activities. Water shoes are provided, but you might prefer to bring your own for comfort.
Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, the lunch menu includes vegetarian and vegan choices.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The activity is not recommended for children under 5 years old due to the physical nature and length of the day.
Are the boat trips suitable for everyone?
Yes, but be prepared for potentially choppy waters and the excitement of boat rides, especially on the airboat.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, Wild Lime Adventures holds permits for the parks and preserves the environment, ensuring tours are conducted responsibly and sustainably.
Final Thoughts
This tour from Naples offers a balanced blend of wildlife observation, education, cultural exposure, and adventure. Its multiple stops in protected parks, combined with hands-on experiences like the wet walk and airboat ride, create a memorable and authentic look at the Florida Everglades. It’s a full day of discovery that rewards curious travelers with a deeper understanding of this unique ecosystem and its inhabitants.
For nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in indigenous cultures, this trip provides genuine value. Just be ready for a physically active day and a bit of sun — the wild side of Florida is waiting to be explored.
You can check availability for your dates here: