Everglades Day Safari from Miami

Discover the wild side of South Florida with this full-day Everglades Day Safari, departing from Miami. This ecotour stands out for its blend of immersive wildlife encounters, a narrated van journey through Big Cypress National Preserve, and a series of guided adventures including an airboat ride, a boardwalk nature walk, and a boat cruise into the Ten Thousand Islands. With a group size limited to 13 and led by a naturalist guide, this safari is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to explore the cultural and ecological heritage just beyond Miami’s bustle.

Your journey begins along the legendary Tamiami Trail, where you’ll traverse sawgrass prairies and cypress swamps, surrounded by ancient bald cypress trees and vibrant wetland life. As you travel, your guide shares stories of the region’s indigenous Miccosukee and Seminole peoples, the area’s early development, and ongoing conservation efforts. Wildlife is ever-present—look for alligators, deer, otters, turtles, and an impressive variety of birds. Depending on the season, you might also spot blooming orchids or migratory birds.

The adventure continues with an exhilarating airboat ride across the “River of Grass.” Glide over the shallow wetlands as your captain narrates the landscape’s unique features and the traditions that have shaped this region. Next, venture deeper into Big Cypress National Preserve, a mosaic of habitats supporting everything from Florida panthers to rare orchids. At the Oasis Visitor Center, you’ll find exhibits and viewing platforms perfect for observing alligators and learning more about the swamp’s ecosystem.

Lunch is served at Island Cafe in Everglades City, where you can choose from fresh seafood, grilled Mahi, burgers, BBQ pork tacos, or light salads and veggie wraps. After lunch, you’ll step back in time at the Historic Smallwood Store in Chokoloskee—a preserved trading post offering a fascinating look at early Everglades settlers, Gladesmen, and the tribal communities who shaped the region’s culture.

Your day culminates with a 60-minute boat cruise launching from Chokoloskee Bay. As you navigate through the mangrove forests and estuaries of the Ten Thousand Islands in Everglades National Park, your local captain points out dolphins, manatees, sharks, and countless coastal birds. This peaceful exploration provides a deeper connection to the Everglades’ extraordinary biodiversity and a serene glimpse of Florida’s remote wilderness.

The tour includes a narrated van tour, airboat and boat rides, a knowledgeable guide, museum admission at the Smallwood Store, and lunch at a waterside restaurant. Pickup and drop-off are available from select Miami hotels. Gratuities are not included.

You’ll explore the vast, subtropical landscapes of Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park—both vital habitats for rare wildlife, ancient trees, and diverse plant life. The route takes you through sawgrass prairies, cypress forests, mangrove channels, and the scenic Ten Thousand Islands, areas known for their natural beauty and ecological importance.

This is a shared experience with a maximum of 13 participants, guided in English. Pickup is available at select hotels, or you may meet at the starting point. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but travelers should be reasonably fit and prepared for some walking. Not recommended for those with significant cardiovascular issues. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses, and note that the minimum age for this adventure is 6 years old.