Everglades National Park: 3 Hikes + 90 minute Boat Tour + Lunch

Exploring the Everglades: A Guided Adventure with Hikes, Boat Tours, and Natural Wonders

Imagine stepping into a vast, mysterious landscape where wading birds glide through the air, alligators bask on the banks, and lush mangroves stretch as far as the eye can see. That’s exactly what you’ll experience on this full-day adventure in Everglades National Park, led by a knowledgeable naturalist. For $275 per person, you’ll spend roughly eight hours discovering three distinct habitats through guided hikes, enjoy a 90-minute boat trip, and indulge in a locally-savored lunch. The tour begins early in the morning, with pickup from Homestead, FL, and is designed for small groups—less than 12 guests—to keep things intimate and authentic.

Two things really make this tour stand out. First, the expert guides—all Master Naturalists or biologists—are passionate about sharing their knowledge, turning what could be a simple nature walk into a vibrant, educational experience. Second, the exclusive access to guided tours within the park, as Wild Lime Adventures is one of the few permitted operators, ensures you see the wildlife and landscapes most visitors miss.

One consideration to keep in mind is the weather, which can influence the day’s plans. While the tour is well-organized and flexible, poor weather might lead to cancellations or adjustments. And because the tour involves quite a bit of walking and boat time, it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activity. This experience appeals especially to nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers eager for an immersive, off-the-beaten-path adventure—particularly those who appreciate expert naturalist guides and authentic encounters.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Led by licensed guides who are Master Naturalists or biologists, offering genuine insights into the Everglades’ ecosystems.
• Exclusive Access: Only permitted company to guide in Everglades National Park, ensuring a more intimate and educational experience.
• Diverse Habitats: Three different hikes through key habitats—River of Grass, Pinelands, and Hardwoods—each offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see alligators, crocodiles, manatees, wading birds, turtles, and more during both hikes and boat trips.
• Well-Planned Itinerary: A mix of hiking, boating, and leisure with time for a delicious, healthy lunch and tastings at Robert Is Here.
• Small Group Feel: With fewer than 12 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transport

The tour kicks off early at South Tip Farm Stand in Homestead, FL, with a pickup around 7:00 am. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, setting the tone for a day of exploration. The early start ensures you beat the crowds and maximize wildlife sightings in the cooler morning hours. The transportation itself is straightforward, and with most travelers participating, it’s a good setup for those who prefer a hassle-free start.

First stop: Miami Enroute to the Park

On the way, your guide will share insights into Miami’s fascinating history and its relationship with the Everglades, giving you some context before you step into the wilderness. This brief but informative segment sets the scene for what’s to come.

Visitor’s Center and the Anhinga Trail

The first real stop within the park is the Visitor’s Center, where you can pick up maps, stamps (if you’re a collector), and get oriented. Then, it’s time for the Anhinga Trail, one of the most celebrated paths in the park. It takes you through the “River of Grass”, a vast sawgrass marsh that’s home to alligators, various bird species, fish, and turtles.

We loved the close-up views of alligators, often seen basking lazily on the banks—an iconic sight—and the chance to snap photos of wading birds like herons and egrets. Guides often emphasize that this trail is the best opportunity to see American Alligators in their natural habitat, which is true based on reviews.

90-Minute Boat Trip

Next, the highlight for many: a 90-minute boat ride through the park’s backcountry. This is where the diversity of life truly shines. You’ll glide through the second-largest mangrove forest in the world, watching for dolphins, crocodiles, manatees, and an astonishing variety of birdlife, including white pelicans and flamingos.

Participants often mention how knowledgeable guides make this trip particularly engaging, pointing out wildlife and explaining ecological relationships. One reviewer said, “we loved seeing both alligators and crocodiles,” highlighting how this boat trip offers a rare chance to observe different species in a relatively natural setting.

Picnic Lunch

After the boat, it’s time to relax with a delicious picnic lunch. Options include vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices, reflecting a thoughtful approach to dietary needs. The meal provides a chance to rest and share impressions of the morning’s sights.

Exploring Endangered Ecosystems

The afternoon continues with two more guided hikes: the Pineland Trail and the Mahogany Hammock.

• The Pineland Trail takes you through a rare, endangered ecosystem that only 5% remains in Florida. This habitat hosts threatened species, including butterflies and snails—a reminder of the ecological importance of preservation.
• The Mahogany Hammock immerses you among lush hardwood trees, ferns, and tropical plants. You might even spot barred owls or snakes if you’re lucky, adding a bit of the thrill of potential wildlife surprises.

Both hikes are relatively short but packed with interest. Guides are attentive to spotting wildlife and explaining the significance of each ecosystem.

Final Stop: Robert Is Here

To cap off your day, you’ll visit the famous fruit stand, Robert Is Here, where you can indulge in a fresh fruit smoothie or milkshake. It’s a sweet, tangible reminder of Florida’s bounty—simple, authentic, and a perfect way to wind down.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $275 might seem steep, consider what’s included: expert guides, park entrance fees, multiple guided hikes, a boat trip, and lunch. The small group size ensures you’ll get personalized attention and ample opportunity to ask questions or photograph wildlife without feeling rushed.

The fact that this company holds special permits to guide within the park elevates the experience—you’re more likely to see interesting wildlife and learn nuanced ecological details than with a generic tour. Plus, reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm, making the day more memorable.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews mention how “knowledgeable guides” made all the difference, and that the wildlife sightings were extraordinary. One reviewer called it an “Incredible Day!” and appreciated the flexibility to switch from a boat to a kayak, demonstrating the guides’ attentiveness. Others emphasize how educational the experience was, thanks to guides who shared detailed insights about the ecosystems and animals.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best for nature lovers wanting more than just a quick peek. It’s ideal if you’re interested in learning from expert guides, seeing wildlife in action, and visiting multiple habitats. It suits travelers who appreciate small group settings for a more personal experience and are comfortable walking and being on a boat for extended periods.

However, if your mobility is limited or you’re not keen on outdoor activities, this might be more demanding than some prefer. Also, because the tour depends on weather conditions, flexible travelers should be prepared for potential schedule changes.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and authentic wildlife encounters. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll leave with a much deeper understanding of the delicate environments that make the Everglades so special. The combination of hikes, a boat trip, and a local lunch creates a comprehensive experience that’s hard to match for anyone wanting to go beyond the usual tourist stops.

If you’re eager to see alligators, manatees, and a variety of birds in their natural habitats, and enjoy learning from passionate naturalists, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s perfect for those who want to explore the true heart of the Everglades—away from crowds and with a genuine focus on conservation and education.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally appropriate for most travelers, children should be comfortable with walking and boating. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it engaging for families, but check with the operator if you have very young kids.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat ride lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing plenty of time to see wildlife and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Are dietary options available?
Yes, the picnic lunch includes vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, catering to various dietary needs.

What is included in the tour price?
Your fee covers park entry, guides, hikes, boat trip, lunch, snacks, and bottled water—a comprehensive package.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to less than 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup is available from Homestead, FL, making the start of your day smooth and convenient.

This in-depth exploration of the Everglades tour reveals a thoughtfully crafted, high-value experience tailored for those eager to connect with Florida’s most iconic and vital ecosystems. With expert guides, authentic encounters, and a well-rounded itinerary, it promises an unforgettable day in the wild.