Kayak Trip, 1 Wet Hike + 2 dry hikes in Everglades National Park

Exploring the Everglades: A Full-Day Adventure with Kayaking and Hikes

If you’re after a genuine taste of Florida’s iconic wetlands, this full-day tour in the Everglades offers a fantastic blend of nature walks and paddling. Priced at $275 per person and lasting roughly 9 hours, this trip takes you from the lush “River of Grass” to the tranquil waterways filled with manatees and crocodiles. Led by knowledgeable guides, it’s designed for those curious about ecosystems, wildlife, and the natural beauty that makes the Everglades so special.

What we love most? First, the way it combines two different ecosystems on foot—the Anhinga Trail and Mahogany Hammock—giving you a well-rounded view of the park’s diversity. Second, the guided kayak trip feels like an authentic encounter, likely to reveal some of the park’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat. On the downside, it’s a long day with a pretty tight schedule, so it might be a challenge if you prefer more relaxed, less structured experiences.

This tour is perfect for adventurous families, nature enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a full-immersion experience in the Everglades. With all logistics taken care of—transportation, lunch, and equipment—it’s a seamless way to explore without hassle, especially for those new to the area or visitors short on time.

Key Points

• All-inclusive: Lunch, snacks, bottled water, kayaks, and transportation are provided.
• Small group size: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Varied ecosystems: Hikes through the “River of Grass,” Mahogany Hammock, and Pinelands.
• Wildlife encounters: Likely sightings of manatees, crocodiles, alligators, and numerous bird species.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable naturalists who share insights about flora, fauna, and ecology.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for ages 5 and up, making it perfect for families seeking adventure.

The Itinerary: A Day Packed with Nature and Adventure

Pickup and Introduction

Your day begins early, with pickup from South Tip Farm Stand or designated hotels, around 7:30 am, giving you plenty of time to get ready for a full day outdoors. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the journey comfortable, and the small group setting (max 12) guarantees a more intimate experience.

First Stop: Everglades National Park and the Anhinga Trail

After a quick narrated drive, you meet your naturalist guide, who will share stories and insights about the park’s fascinating history and ecological significance. This sets the tone for the day, getting you excited about what’s ahead.

Your first hike, the Anhinga Trail, lasts about an hour and takes you through the “River of Grass”—a vast expanse of sawgrass marshes and wetlands. Here, the chance to see American alligators is high, especially in the early morning hours. Birdwatchers will appreciate the variety of species, and you might even spot turtles basking on logs. The trail is well-loved for its accessibility and abundance of wildlife spotting opportunities, as the reviews highlight guides’ impressive knowledge and friendly demeanor.

Flamingo: The Heart of the Park

Next, you’ll head to Flamingo, a hub for guided kayaking. This two-hour paddling adventure is the highlight for many, offering close-up views of manatees, crocodiles, and a stack of bird species. You’ll paddle through calm waters, often with wildlife just a few feet away, creating fantastic photo opportunities and memorable moments.

Participants have shared that guides are excellent at spotting wildlife and explaining behaviors, making the experience educational and fun. It’s worth noting that the tour goes at a gentle pace, suitable even for beginners or less experienced paddlers.

Mahogany Hammock: A Forest of Giants

After lunch, you’ll explore the Mahogany Hammock, home to the largest living mahogany tree in the U.S.. The 45-minute walk through this unique ecosystem offers a chance to see ancient trees, as well as potential sightings of barred owls and snakes. The quiet serenity here offers a stark contrast to the wetlands, and the scenery is especially captivating for those interested in old-growth forests and rare plant life.

Pineland Trail: Endangered Ecosystems

Your final hike, approximately an hour long, takes you through the endangered Pineland habitat. This area is home to threatened species like the Liguus snail, and offers a different view of the park. Expect a peaceful walk where you can observe the delicate balance of these less-visited ecosystems.

Sweet Finish: Robert Is Here

The day wraps up with a short stop at Robert Is Here, a beloved local fruit stand. Here, you can indulge in a fresh fruit smoothie or homemade treats, a well-earned reward after a day of exploring.

What We Appreciate About This Tour

One of the standout features is the guides’ expertise. Testimonials mention guides like Stacy and Elijah, who are “warm, personable, funny,” and incredibly knowledgeable about wildlife, ecosystems, and plant life. Their ability to share stories and answer questions adds a layer of authenticity and connection that makes the experience memorable.

The variety of ecosystems visited—wetlands, hammock forests, endangered pinelands—means you see more than just one aspect of the Everglades. This diversity is a big plus, helping you appreciate the complexity of this fragile environment while also increasing your chances of wildlife sightings.

The all-inclusive nature of the tour is another major plus. From lunch and snacks to kayaks and transportation, you’re free to focus on enjoying the day rather than worrying about logistics. For families, this is particularly appealing, with the tour being suitable for children aged 5 and above.

A Few Considerations

While the tour offers a comprehensive experience, it’s quite full on. You’ll be on your feet for most of the day, and paddling for about two hours. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or shorter outings, this might feel a bit intense. Also, the schedule is tight, so delays or weather issues could impact the flow; however, the tour provider offers the flexibility of rescheduling or refunds if weather cancels the trip.

For those with mobility concerns, walking the trails is generally accessible, but the physical activity involved in kayaking and walking should be considered.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This tour is particularly suited for adventurers and curious nature lovers who want a comprehensive, guided experience in the Everglades. It’s ideal if you value expert-guided wildlife spotting, want to see multiple ecosystems, and enjoy hands-on activities like kayaking.

It also suits families with children over 5, thanks to the family-friendly activities and manageable pace. If you’re eager to learn about flora and fauna and appreciate the insights of a storyteller-guide, this tour delivers on many levels.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Everglades experience offers a well-rounded dive into one of Florida’s most iconic landscapes. You’ll cover significant ground, witness stunning wildlife, and learn from passionate guides. The small group size enhances the feeling of connection and allows for personalized attention, making every sighting and story more meaningful.

For travelers looking for a full-immersion tour that combines nature walks, wildlife viewing, and paddling, this trip hits all the right notes. It provides excellent value considering the all-inclusive setup—transport, meals, equipment—and the chance to explore multiple ecosystems in one day.

If you’re eager for an active, educational, and authentic experience and are comfortable with a professional, guided adventure, this tour is a smart choice. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking adventure, or a first-time visitor wanting to see the best of the Everglades, this trip promises a memorable day.

FAQ

Where do we meet for the full-day tour?
You can be picked up from a designated hotel or meet at the South Tip Farm Stand in Homestead. Be sure to specify your pickup location when booking.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup typically begins around 7:30 am; the tour itself will start between 8 and 8:15 am. Confirm your exact pickup time after booking.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive at your pickup point at least 15 minutes early to check in and get ready for the day.

Is parking available?
Yes, free parking is available at the South Tip Farm Stand if you choose to meet there.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. It’s designed for ages 5 and over, making it a good option for families with kids who enjoy outdoor adventures.

What is the terrain like during the hikes?
The walks are relaxed and accessible, suitable for most fitness levels; expect mainly flat terrain with some walking on well-maintained trails.

Are mosquitoes a problem?
Mosquitoes are usually not a big issue outside of summer months. Bringing insect repellent is recommended, especially during warmer seasons.

What should I bring?
Bring a valid ID, camera, change of clothes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket if needed. Towels are provided.

How strenuous is kayaking?
The kayak trip is gentle and suitable for beginners. Guides pace the activity comfortably, and wildlife sightings often make the paddling more enjoyable.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour provider offers full refunds or rescheduling if the weather cancels the trip. Otherwise, be prepared for possible rain or heat—pack accordingly.

This tour offers a fantastic way to experience the Everglades’ wildlife and ecosystems in one full, engaging day. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning on the go and want a friendly, well-organized adventure that truly captures the spirit of this remarkable national park.