Miami isn’t just about sunbathing on sandy beaches or strolling through lively neighborhoods. Its proximity to Everglades National Park makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Florida’s most extraordinary natural environments. Whether you’re craving a high-speed airboat ride, a peaceful kayak trip, or a private ecotour, Miami offers a variety of tours that showcase its wild side. Highlights like seeing alligators, native birds, and learning about delicate ecosystems make these excursions engaging and memorable. One favorite among us is the Miami: Everglades National Park Airboat Tour & Wildlife Show—it combines education with a fun wildlife encounter, including a photo op with Jaws the gator.
For a deeper dive into the natural beauty, tours like the Half-day Everglades National Park Tour and 1-Hour Air Boat Ride offer guided experiences with naturalists, and Hiking and Kayaking Day Trip provides a full day immersed in the landscape, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. If you prefer a private experience, the Private 4 Hour Everglades Tour offers personalized exploration, and for those short on time, the Everglades National Park Day Tour from Miami hits many highlights in one day. Each of these options has its own charm—let’s explore what makes each one special.
1. Miami: Everglades National Park Airboat Tour & Wildlife Show
At number one, this popular airboat tour consistently earns a 4.5-star rating from over 6,800 reviews and is priced affordably at $42 per person. The tour offers an educational and exciting glimpse into the Everglades’ unique ecosystem, with plenty of chances to spot alligators, turtles, and various bird species that are exclusive to this habitat. The highlight is a photo with Jaws the famous gator, along with a lively wildlife show demonstrating alligator wrestling techniques used by Native Americans.
Visitors also get to sample local specialties like alligator tail and sausage at the on-site restaurant, making this a full sensory experience. The tour’s 1-day duration is perfect for travelers who want a quick, fun introduction to the Everglades without a huge time commitment. The reviews praise the tour for its mix of education and entertainment, especially the wildlife show and the chance to see wild animals up close in their natural habitat.
Bottom line: It’s a great choice for families and first-timers who want a lively, interactive experience at a reasonable price. If you’re looking for a fun, accessible intro to the Everglades, this tour hits the mark.
2. Half-day Everglades National Park Tour and 1-Hour Air Boat Ride
For those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable adventure, this half-day tour earns a perfect 5-star rating from nearly 670 reviews. It’s priced at $179, which reflects its more in-depth approach, including a guided nature walk and a scenic airboat ride that ventures far out into the “River of Grass.” The tour is led by a naturalist guide who shares insights about the ecosystems, native flora, and fauna—making it educational as well as thrilling.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on immersive experiences—you’ll explore Native American tree island villages, see large alligators, and get close-up views of birdlife. The small group size fosters a more personalized experience, and the round-trip transportation from Miami or Fort Lauderdale adds convenience. Visitors consistently praise guides like Enoch and Lindsay for their knowledge and friendliness, making the adventure both fun and informative.
Bottom line: Perfect for nature lovers who want a more detailed, hands-on experience with the Everglades’ wildlife and ecosystem, this tour balances adventure with education and comfort.
3. Miami: Everglades National Park Hiking and Kayaking Day Trip
If you’re looking for a full-day, active adventure, this hiking and kayaking trip is a standout, earning a perfect 5-star review from just 3 guests. Priced at $285, it’s the most expensive on this list, but for good reason: it offers a deep dive into the environment. The day begins with two hikes that show off different habitats, followed by two hours of kayaking through the waterways.
During this tour, you’ll get to marvel at diverse flora and fauna, paddle through quiet estuaries, and learn about the native species with a naturalist guide. Lunch is included, allowing you to refuel amid stunning surroundings. It’s ideal for travelers who want to stay active and see a variety of ecosystems up close, with the full-day schedule providing the most comprehensive experience.
Since this is a longer, more physically demanding tour, it’s best suited for fit travelers comfortable with walking and paddling. The limited reviews mean you should book early to secure your spot, but the experience promises an intimate, educational exploration of the Everglades’ vibrant habitats.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts eager for a hands-on, immersive day in nature, with plenty of opportunities to hike, paddle, and learn.
4. Private 4 Hour Everglades Tour Experience in the Wilderness
Looking for a personalized adventure? This private 4-hour tour costs $350 per person but offers a tailored experience in the heart of the Everglades. It begins with a private airboat ride designed to showcase remote, scenic areas that larger groups might miss. You’ll also enjoy an alligator show, where the guides demonstrate behavior and conservation efforts for these ancient creatures.
The tour is ideal for travelers who want a luxury, intimate experience and prefer to avoid crowds. The included hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple, and the private guide can customize the experience based on your interests. Reviews highlight the expertise of guides like Adriana, who are knowledgeable and friendly, adding a personal touch that makes this tour stand out.
This tour suits travelers with a higher budget who prefer privacy and customization. Because of its shorter duration, it’s not suitable for those seeking a full-day adventure but is perfect for a quick, high-end glimpse into the Everglades.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a bespoke, intimate, and comfortable experience in the wild, especially if they value privacy and expert guiding.
5. Everglades National Park Day Tour from Miami
For travelers with limited time, this day-long tour offers a practical way to see the highlights—costing around $117. It combines visits to Miami’s iconic neighborhoods, like Wynwood Walls and Little Havana, with a visit to Everglades National Park and an optional airboat ride.
The tour is designed for efficient sightseeing, with transportation included so you won’t waste time arranging logistics. You’ll get to see public art, cultural hotspots, and the swamp’s wildlife—all in one day. While reviews are sparse, the itinerary’s variety and the convenience of guided transit make it a good choice for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a taste of Miami’s city life and natural wonders in one trip without sacrificing too much time. It’s a cost-effective way to tick off multiple sights.
$117.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you want a quick, fun intro, the Everglades Airboat & Wildlife Show is perfect. For a more detailed, nature-focused experience, the Hiking & Kayaking Day Trip is unmatched. Prefer a private adventure? The private 4-hour tour offers tailored exploration. And if your schedule is tight, the Day Tour from Miami combines city and swamp in one easy package.
Booking early, especially for the more popular tours, helps secure your preferred date. To get a true sense of the Everglades’ ecosystems or native culture, look for tours led by experienced naturalists or guides with specific ecological knowledge. For those eager to sample local flavors, the wildlife show with alligator tasting is a memorable bonus.
Final Thoughts
Miami’s proximity to Everglades National Park makes it an easy gateway to explore one of Florida’s most fascinating ecosystems. Whether you’re after a fast-paced thrill ride, an educational day in nature, or a private, customized experience, there’s a tour suited for you. For families, the airboat and wildlife show provides a lively introduction, while outdoor lovers will appreciate the hiking and kayaking options.
Remember to book early, especially for tours with limited reviews or small group sizes. The diverse options ensure that every traveler, from casual sightseers to avid adventurers, can find a way to enjoy the wild beauty of the Everglades right from Miami.