From Miami: Everglades Tour w/ Wet Walk, Boat Trips, & Lunch

Discover the Everglades on a full-day tour from Miami, combining wildlife encounters, scenic boat rides, and a wet walk led by a naturalist—all for $389 per person. This 9-hour journey takes you deep into Florida’s most iconic wetlands, with a carefully curated itinerary that balances adventure, education, and authentic local flavor. Guided by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore remote areas that few visitors see, increasing your chances of spotting dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species.

Two aspects we particularly love are the wet walk through a rare cypress forest—a chance to walk through water in a lush, untouched habitat—and the longer, more immersive boat trips that allow for better wildlife viewing than many other tours. The tour also includes local lunch at a historic Florida-style restaurant and visits to a native American village, adding cultural depth to the natural adventure.

One potential consideration is the duration and physical activity involved—you’ll be walking in marshy water up to mid-thighs and will need a change of clothes and long pants. The tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, and don’t mind getting a little muddy. It’s ideal for those seeking a genuine, small-group experience with expert guides, rather than a crowded, commercialized show.

If you’re eager to step into the wild and appreciate authentic natural encounters, this tour from Miami offers a well-rounded blend of scenery, wildlife, and local history, all led by passionate guides.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal, engaging experience.
• Wildlife encounters include dolphins, manatees, rare birds, alligators, and turtles.
• Expert guides lead the wet walk and boat tours, providing insightful commentary.
• Longer boat trips offer better chances to see wildlife and explore remote areas.
• Cultural stops include a native American tree island village and a historic trading post.
• Includes all tickets and transportation—no hidden costs or logistics to worry about.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Ultimate Everglades Day Trip

Imagine starting your day with a smooth, air-conditioned ride out of Miami, watching the cityscape fade as you head into the vast, open wetlands. The scenic drive itself sets the tone—an introduction to the sprawling landscape of the Everglades, with narration that hints at the wildlife and ecosystems you’re about to encounter. The tour’s price of $389 might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider what’s included—two boat trips, a wet walk, lunch, all park entries, and transportation—it becomes clear this is a comprehensive, value-packed experience.

The Airboat Ride: A Florida Icon

One of the tour’s highlights is the 75-minute airboat adventure across the “River of Grass.” This is the classic way to get a feel for the wetlands—fast, bumpy, and close to the water. The guide’s narration often points out alligators sunning themselves on the banks, and the possibility of seeing the endangered Everglades snail kite makes it even more special. The airboat ride is about more than just scenery; it’s an adrenaline rush that also provides a unique perspective on the landscape’s vastness and vitality.

Visiting a Native American Tree Island Village

Next, you’ll visit a remote tree island village, a rare glimpse into the lives of the native peoples who have thrived here for centuries. Walking among the tall cypress trees, you’ll learn how indigenous communities used the environment for sustenance and shelter. This stop adds cultural richness to the day, reinforcing the idea that the Everglades are not just a wildlife sanctuary but a living landscape with deep human roots.

The Wet Walk: A Botanical and Wildlife Wonderland

The wet walk is the most memorable part for many visitors. Led by an experienced naturalist, you’ll walk through a bald cypress swamp—a lush, almost surreal environment with hanging moss, orchids, bromeliads, and a chorus of bird calls. You’ll be given water shoes and walking sticks—a sign of how carefully this tour is designed to keep you comfortable and safe. The walk involves wading into shallow water, so a change of clothes and long pants is recommended.

We loved the opportunity to see rare orchids and bromeliads, along with alligators, turtles, and even snakes under a canopy of cypress trees. It’s a rare chance to see the Everglades’ plant and animal life up close, in conditions as close to nature as possible. One reviewer described it as a “bucket list” experience, emphasizing the photographic opportunities and the sense of stepping into another world.

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Lunch at a Historic Florida Style Restaurant

After getting muddy, you’ll head to Everglades City for a lunch at a local, old Florida-style restaurant. The menu is ordered off, giving a chance to sample regional flavors and relax before the next adventure. It’s a great way to support local businesses and enjoy some hearty, flavorful food—another plus that adds to the overall value of the tour.

The 10,000 Islands Boat Tour

Post-lunch, it’s time for the 80-minute boat trip through the 10,000 Islands—a true highlight for wildlife lovers. Here, the chances of spotting dolphins, manatees, and even sea turtles or sharks are high. The guide’s expertise shines during this part—pointing out roseate spoonbills, pelicans, and other bird species, while explaining the ecosystems that sustain them.

The boat stops at a pristine beach, offering a chance to stretch your legs and explore the unspoiled shoreline. The longer duration of this boat trip makes it stand out against other tours, giving you a more relaxed and immersive experience.

Cultural and Historic Stops

Before heading back, the tour makes a few additional stops—such as a historic trading post and a local museum, also featuring a famous photographer’s gallery—adding cultural and historical context to your day. These smaller visits provide a well-rounded picture of the region’s significance beyond just its wildlife.

End of the Day: Back to Miami

The return trip wraps up with a scenic drive, reflecting on the day’s adventures. The small group setting ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, and the included snacks and drinks keep everyone refreshed and energized.

Why This Tour Works Well

This tour’s longer boat rides and expert guides make it stand out. Unlike generic or shorter excursions, Wild Lime Adventures has permits for all the parks visited, giving you access to areas most other companies can’t reach. The wet walk offers a rare, hands-on encounter with the environment, something that truly elevates the experience from a simple sightseeing trip to a memorable adventure.

The Authentic Experience

Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides, especially Stacy and Stan, make all the difference by providing insights into the environment and wildlife. As one traveler noted, “Thanks to Stacy and Stan for this wonderful day,” emphasizing the value of their expertise.

The Value of Long Boat Trips

The extra-long boat trips are appreciated by those who want to see as much wildlife as possible. With more time on the water, your chances to spot dolphins and manatees increase, and the relaxed pace allows for better photos and a deeper appreciation of the ecosystems.

Practical Details

The 9-hour duration is ideal for travelers who want a full-day experience without feeling rushed. Pickup and drop-off are included, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive. The small group size (limited to 14 participants) enhances the intimacy and allows guides to give personalized attention.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who enjoy active, hands-on encounters. It’s also suitable for adventurous families (with children over 5, as younger children aren’t recommended) who want a genuine, immersive day in the outdoors. If you appreciate expert guides and want to see remote parts of the Everglades rather than crowded tourist spots, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a comprehensive, authentic look at the Everglades, this tour offers a thoughtful balance of adventure, education, and cultural insight. The wet walk and immersive boat trips** allow you to see wildlife in its natural habitat, while stops at native American sites and local eateries add layers of local flavor.

While the price might seem high at first, the inclusion of park entries, transportation, multiple boat trips, and guided walks makes it a good value for a full-day, all-inclusive experience. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for this unique ecosystem and memories of up-close encounters that are hard to match.

Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or a curious traveler eager to explore Florida’s wild side, this tour offers an enriching, well-rounded adventure into the heart of the Everglades.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in a new Sprinter van, making logistics simple.

How long is the total tour? The entire day lasts approximately 9 hours, with multiple stops and activities.

Are snacks and drinks provided? Yes, unlimited snacks and drinks are available throughout the day, keeping you energized.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.

Is the tour suitable for children? Children under 5 are not recommended for this experience. The wet walk and active nature may be challenging for very young kids.

Is wheelchair accessibility available? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating more travelers.

What should I bring? Pack a change of clothes, long pants, and perhaps a towel, especially if you plan to do the wet walk.

Do I need to bring special equipment? Water shoes and walking sticks are provided for the wet walk, but bringing your own water shoes is optional.

What wildlife might I see? Expect to see dolphins, manatees, alligators, turtles, various birds including roseate spoonbills, pelicans, and possibly snakes.

In all, this tour offers a genuine, in-depth exploration of the Everglades that balances natural beauty, wildlife viewing, and cultural insights—truly a worthwhile choice for curious travelers eager to experience Florida’s wild heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: