Everglades Tickets
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Fort Lauderdale to Everglades Tours

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Airboat gliding through Everglades wetlands during private 1-hour adventure tour in Miami
Group enjoying an Everglades private airboat tour through marshlands.
Aerial view of winding waterways in the Everglades for a private airboat tour.
Group enjoying an Everglades airboat ride through marshland.
Man holding a small alligator during Everglades private airboat tour.
Group enjoying an airboat tour in the Everglades, Florida.
Baby alligators held during Everglades Private Airboat Tour.
Person holding a large snake at Everglades reptile exhibit.
Airboats docked at Everglades marina for private 1-hour adventure tour.
Sightseeing Cruises
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Miami: Private Everglades Airboat Tour [Group Pricing]

Private Everglades airboat tour with wildlife exhibits, no crowds, just your group, and meet an alligator!

  • Everything you get: This 60-min private airboat tour zooms across the Sawgrass Recreation Park at 40mph. It includes the alligator & reptile exhibit with a 1,000-pound alligator known as Cannibal, plus the “Meet a Baby Alligator” experience with expert handlers. You can even choose between group sizes of 4, 6, 12, or 15 according to your preference.
  • Why choose this: This private tour offers an intimate way to experience the Everglades. About 30 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 40 miles west of Miami, Sawgrass Recreation Park is perfectly positioned for guests from either city.


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Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

1 hr.

Private Everglades airboat tour with wildlife exhibits, no crowds, just your group, and meet an alligator!

  • Everything you get: This 60-min private airboat tour zooms across the Sawgrass Recreation Park at 40mph. It includes the alligator & reptile exhibit with a 1,000-pound alligator known as Cannibal, plus the “Meet a Baby Alligator” experience with expert handlers. You can even choose between group sizes of 4, 6, 12, or 15 according to your preference.
  • Why choose this: This private tour offers an intimate way to experience the Everglades. About 30 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 40 miles west of Miami, Sawgrass Recreation Park is perfectly positioned for guests from either city.

Inclusions

  • Entry to Sawgrass Recreation Park

  • 60-min private airboat tour

  • Entry to alligator & reptile exhibit

  • ”Meet a Baby Alligator” experience

  • Gratuity for airboat captain

  • Ear protection for airboat ride.

  • Free parking onsite

  • Groups of 4, 6, 12, or 15 (as per option selected)

  • Children aged 6 and under need to wear a life jacket while they are on the airboat.
  • Children aged 3 and under can board the airboat for free.
  • Pregnant women can participate as well, but it is recommended they consult a doctor before the experience.
  • Private tours get reserved fast, so make sure to book your experience at least a week in advance.
  • Service animals are allowed in the Park but at your own risk. They are not allowed on the airboat. Those with mobility issues can participate in the airboat tour. The airboats are not wheelchair-accessible, but assistance is provided in case necessary.
  • The animal exhibits are wheelchair-accessible, and wheelchairs are available at no cost at the Park.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Group on an airboat during a night tour in the Everglades, surrounded by marshland.
Alligator resting on a log in the Everglades during a night airboat tour.
Airboat with tourists in Everglades at Sawgrass Recreation Park.
Turtle swimming in Everglades water during airboat night tour.
Airboat gliding through Everglades at dusk during night tour.
Alligator partially submerged in Everglades water during night airboat tour.
Airboat with tourists exploring Everglades wetlands during a night tour.
Alligator swimming underwater during Everglades night airboat tour.
Sightseeing Cruises
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Miami: Sawgrass Recreation Park Airboat Tour at Night

Spot alligators by spotlight & stargaze on this thrilling night airboat tour at Sawgrass Recreation Park.

  • Everything you get: Take a 60-min airboat ride at night through the Everglades with a captain, as you search for alligators, other reptiles, insects, and amphibians. Use a flashlight to spot these creatures, plus get free daytime entry to Sawgrass Recreation Park exhibits.
  • Why choose this: Situated around 30 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 40 miles west of Miami, Sawgrass Recreation Park is a prime destination for a quick day trip.
  • Upgrades: Upgrade to include transportation to and from Miami in a comfortable shuttle, along with an expert English-speaking guide.


Check availability
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

1 hr. - 3 hr.
Guided tour

Spot alligators by spotlight & stargaze on this thrilling night airboat tour at Sawgrass Recreation Park.

  • Everything you get: Take a 60-min airboat ride at night through the Everglades with a captain, as you search for alligators, other reptiles, insects, and amphibians. Use a flashlight to spot these creatures, plus get free daytime entry to Sawgrass Recreation Park exhibits.
  • Why choose this: Situated around 30 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 40 miles west of Miami, Sawgrass Recreation Park is a prime destination for a quick day trip.
  • Upgrades: Upgrade to include transportation to and from Miami in a comfortable shuttle, along with an expert English-speaking guide.

Inclusions

  • 1-hour nighttime airboat ride

  • Ear protection for the airboat ride.

  • Free parking onsite

  • Complimentary entrance to exhibits at Sawgrass Recreation Park during the day (as per option selected)

  • Round-trip transport from Miami (as per option selected)

  • Live commentary in English by an expert guide (as per option selected)

Exclusions

  • Food and beverages

What to Bring

  • To visit the exhibit areas at Sawgrass Recreation Park between 9am and 5pm, please carry your night tour voucher and a valid ID for entry.

Accessibility

  • This experience is not wheelchair accessible.

Additional Information

  • Since each tour requires at least 10 passengers and has limited availability, booking in advance is necessary to reserve your spot.
  • Guests will be informed on the tour day if the minimum isn't reached or if weather conditions lead to cancellation.
  • For safety, children six years old and younger must wear a life jacket.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Airboat gliding through Everglades at Sawgrass Recreation Park with passengers.
Airboat gliding through Everglades marshland on a private 1-hour adventure tour.
Airboat with tourists in Everglades at Sawgrass Recreation Park.
Alligator on grass in Everglades reptile exhibit.
Visitors feeding a tortoise at Sawgrass Recreation Park Wildlife Show.
Children interacting with a small alligator at Everglades reptile exhibit.
Group on an airboat during a night tour in the Everglades, surrounded by marshland.
Alligator partially submerged in Everglades water during night airboat tour.
Guided Tours
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Miami: Sawgrass Recreation Park Airboat Tour with Reptile Exhibit & Optional Transportation

Zoom through Sawgrass Recreation Park on an airboat and encounter Florida’s native reptiles up close.

  • Everything you get: Set out on a 40-minute airboat journey with a professional guide and explore the park’s wetlands, home to alligators, birds, and other wildlife. After your ride, visit the reptile exhibit, where you can see native species like snakes and turtles.
  • Why choose this: Sawgrass Recreation Park is approximately 30 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 40 miles west of Miami, making it easily accessible for guests from both cities.
  • Upgrades: Choose an airboat night tour to explore the wetlands after dark or opt for a private airboat tour for a more exclusive experience. Alternatively, you can select the round-trip transportation option, where you'll be picked up and dropped off at Fort Lauderdale hotels.


Check availability
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

1 hr. - 4 hr.
Transfers included

Zoom through Sawgrass Recreation Park on an airboat and encounter Florida’s native reptiles up close.

  • Everything you get: Set out on a 40-minute airboat journey with a professional guide and explore the park’s wetlands, home to alligators, birds, and other wildlife. After your ride, visit the reptile exhibit, where you can see native species like snakes and turtles.
  • Why choose this: Sawgrass Recreation Park is approximately 30 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 40 miles west of Miami, making it easily accessible for guests from both cities.
  • Upgrades: Choose an airboat night tour to explore the wetlands after dark or opt for a private airboat tour for a more exclusive experience. Alternatively, you can select the round-trip transportation option, where you'll be picked up and dropped off at Fort Lauderdale hotels.

Inclusions

  • 40-min airboat tour

  • Live English-speaking guide

  • Entry to alligator and reptile exhibit

  • Ear protection for airboat ride.

  • Nighttime airboat tour (as per option selected)

  • Private airboat tour (as per option selected)

  • Airboat tour with round-trip transportation from downtown Fort Lauderdale (as per option selected)

Accessibility

  • The boats are not wheelchair accessible, but the exhibits are.

Additional information

  • The night tour also comes with access to the alligator and reptile exhibit during the day of your visit.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Airboat with tourists gliding through Everglades wetlands under a clear sky.
Everglades airboat gliding through lush wetlands, showcasing scenic waterways.
Group enjoying an airboat ride through the Everglades with grassy wetlands in the background.
Group enjoying an Everglades airboat ride through marshland.
Alligator on grass in Everglades reptile exhibit.
Children interacting with tortoises at Everglades reptile exhibit.
Children interacting with a small alligator at Everglades reptile exhibit.
Person holding a large snake at Everglades reptile exhibit.
Airboat with tourists gliding through Everglades marshland at Sawgrass Recreation Park.
Tickets
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Miami: Everglades Airboat Tour with Reptile Exhibit & Optional Transportation

Glide through the Sawgrass Recreation Park on an airboat & see fascinating reptile exhibits up close.

  • Everything you get: A 40-minute airboat tour led by an expert guide takes you through the Sawgrass Recreation Park at the UNESCO-listed Everglades. Enjoy a small-group ride and get close to rare wildlife like alligators and birds. Visit the reptile exhibit to see native species, including snakes and turtles.
  • Why choose this: Sawgrass Recreation Park is approximately 30 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 40 miles west of Miami, conveniently located from both cities.
  • Upgrades: Choose the airboat tour with the wildlife show included, along with transportation from Miami for a hassle-free round-trip journey.


Check availability
Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

1 hr. - 4 hr.
Guided tour
Transfers included

Glide through the Sawgrass Recreation Park on an airboat & see fascinating reptile exhibits up close.

  • Everything you get: A 40-minute airboat tour led by an expert guide takes you through the Sawgrass Recreation Park at the UNESCO-listed Everglades. Enjoy a small-group ride and get close to rare wildlife like alligators and birds. Visit the reptile exhibit to see native species, including snakes and turtles.
  • Why choose this: Sawgrass Recreation Park is approximately 30 miles west of Fort Lauderdale and 40 miles west of Miami, conveniently located from both cities.
  • Upgrades: Choose the airboat tour with the wildlife show included, along with transportation from Miami for a hassle-free round-trip journey.

Inclusions

  • 40-minute airboat tour in Sawgrass Recreation Park

  • Live English-speaking guide

  • Entry to alligator and reptile exhibit

  • Ear protection for airboat ride.

  • Wildlife show (as per option selected)

  • Round-trip transportation from Miami (as per option selected)

  • The boats are not wheelchair accessible but the exhibits are.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Airboat tour in Everglades Holiday Park with passengers exploring wetlands.
Airboat cruising through Everglades Holiday Park waterway surrounded by lush greenery.
Man interacting with an alligator at Everglades Holiday Park during an airboat tour.
Everglades airboat tour with passengers gliding through wetlands under a clear sky.
Man interacting with an alligator during Everglades airboat tour.
Alligators with open mouths on Everglades airboat tour.
Children holding a small alligator during Everglades airboat tour experience.
Child holding an alligator puppet at Everglades gift shop during airboat tour.
Guided Tours
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Miami: Everglades Holiday Park Airboat Tour with Alligator Show

Glide through Everglades Holiday Park on an airboat, spot wild alligators, and catch a thrilling Gator Boys show.

  • Everything you get: A 60-minute airboat ride guided by an expert, gliding through the Everglades’ cypress forests. Enjoy a 20-minute live alligator show by the Gator Boys and receive a free professional group photo. Access the gift shop, cozy café, and general store for souvenirs and refreshments.
  • Why choose this: Located about 22 miles west of Fort Lauderdale, Everglades Holiday Park sits in an easy-to-reach spot for visitors from both directions.
  • Upgrades: Travel with ease, book the airboat tour with round-trip Miami transportation.


Check availability
Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Flexible duration

Glide through Everglades Holiday Park on an airboat, spot wild alligators, and catch a thrilling Gator Boys show.

  • Everything you get: A 60-minute airboat ride guided by an expert, gliding through the Everglades’ cypress forests. Enjoy a 20-minute live alligator show by the Gator Boys and receive a free professional group photo. Access the gift shop, cozy café, and general store for souvenirs and refreshments.
  • Why choose this: Located about 22 miles west of Fort Lauderdale, Everglades Holiday Park sits in an easy-to-reach spot for visitors from both directions.
  • Upgrades: Travel with ease, book the airboat tour with round-trip Miami transportation.

Inclusions

  • Fully narrated Everglades airboat tour

  • English-speaking guide

  • Gator Boys alligator show

  • 1 free group photo per party

  • Access to gift shop and café

  • Bring along the credit card used for your online purchase (matching the last four digits) along with a matching driver’s license for verification.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Everglades airboat with tourists gliding through wetlands, Miami tour.
Everglades aerial view with waterways and lush greenery, Miami airboat tour.
Group on airboat tour in Everglades, Miami, with bird flying over water.
Children on an airboat tour in the Everglades, Miami, pointing at wildlife.
Crocodile resting on a log in the Everglades, Miami tour.
Bird drying wings in Everglades wetlands, part of Big Bus Miami tour.
Guided Tours
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Miami: Airboat Tour with Wildlife Show & Transportation from Miami

With transportation from multiple spots in Miami, this Everglades Holiday Park tour is an easy-breezy experience.

  • Everything you get: This 4-hour adventure starts in Miami, comes with an airboat ride, entry to Everglades Holiday Park, and an exciting wildlife show. Expert guides will share cool facts about the ecosystem in either English or Spanish, depending on the tour you choose. You’ll even get a free photo to remember the trip by.
  • Why choose this: With Fort Lauderdale only 22 miles away and Miami 45 miles out, the park is ideally placed for guests from both cities.


Check availability
4 hr.
Transfers included

With transportation from multiple spots in Miami, this Everglades Holiday Park tour is an easy-breezy experience.

  • Everything you get: This 4-hour adventure starts in Miami, comes with an airboat ride, entry to Everglades Holiday Park, and an exciting wildlife show. Expert guides will share cool facts about the ecosystem in either English or Spanish, depending on the tour you choose. You’ll even get a free photo to remember the trip by.
  • Why choose this: With Fort Lauderdale only 22 miles away and Miami 45 miles out, the park is ideally placed for guests from both cities.

Inclusions

  • Round-trip transportation from select locations in Miami (Miami Beach & Bayside Marketplace)

  • Expert English or Spanish-speaking guide (based on option selected)

  • Entry to Everglades Holiday Park

  • Airboat ride

  • Wildlife show

What to bring

  • Remember to bring comfortable shoes, water, insect repellent, a hat, and sunscreen.

Accessibility

  • This experience is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

Additional information

  • Guests simply need to access Big Bus Tour's 'Manage My Booking' portal, enter their PRN (found on their ticket voucher) and their registered last name, to view their tickets.
  • Find complete details on the departure time and locations here.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

From happy customers

Loved by 45 million+
Tashon Shockey
US

Tashon

United States
Nov 2025
5/5
Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Darius was amazing. Took time to answer our questions and did not make us feel like we were bothering him. Quite a memorable visit and Darius made it unforgettable with the new knowledge that he delivered to us about snakes, alligators and crocodiles. Tashon Shockey Raleigh NC
Yasmina Rosado Mendez
GB

Yasmina

United Kingdom
Nov 2025
5/5
The tour was amazing, from the bus driver Mr Blanc, he was super nice and funny, to the tour itself. The boat ride was good and the captain made sure we all saw the alligators, the show was also good. The. You can hold a gator or a snake and take a picture. We loved it.
Charlotte C

Charlotte

May 2025
5/5
The Everglades let us fully dive into wildlife and stunning landscapes. A well-organized, efficient, and super interesting excursion!
Henry-Blanton J

Henry-blanton

May 2025
5/5
The airboat ride was not just fun but very educational. It was wonderful to see nature and animals in their natural settings. Great experience for my family.
Nolan K

Nolan

May 2025
4/5
Fantastic trip to the Everglades. We saw all kinds of animals (alligators, grasshoppers, snakes, birds, even a frog and a turtle) while walking the trail and saw more gators on the airboat. This time of year is perfect for seeing them since the females are nesting. We even got snacks and drinks. I totally recommend it!
Pauline Johnston
GB

Pauline

United Kingdom
Nov 2025
5/5
The Airboat Tour was very enjoyable, everyone was friendly and helpful. Amazing to see the gators up close in their natural habitat!
Ray M

Ray

May 2025
5/5
Cost was $23.00 per person for a 45-minute tour. Our tour guide "Mike" was fantastic!! He took his time explaining the details of the trees and plants along the way and stopped so we could enjoy some gators in their natural habitat too! Airboats are awesome!! Totally worth the money. Don’t forget to tip generously if you enjoy the guide!! Ray - Edwardsburg, Michigan
Lynette M

Lynette

May 2025
5/5
It was a blast taking the ride—beautiful scenery—wind in your hair through the Everglades. It was interesting to see baby and adult alligators and other wildlife during the boat ride. Awesome captain Kevin!! So much information!

Top things to do in Miami

Fort Lauderdale has plenty to offer with beaches, nightlife, and boating canals, but if you're craving something a little more wild, you’re in luck. Just a short drive away is the Everglades, one of the most unique ecosystems in North America. Everglades day trips are the perfect mix of high-speed adventure, rare wildlife encounters, and Florida’s one-of-a-kind landscapes. Ready to glide through the “River of Grass”? Let’s go!

Why take a day trip from Fort Lauderdale to Everglades?

Alligator resting on a log in the Everglades during a night airboat tour.
Guests on an airboat tour enjoying the Everglades view.
Alligator resting on grass beside water in Everglades National Park.
Airboat navigating through lily pads in Everglades National Park.
Aerial view of winding waterways in Everglades National Park, Florida, USA.
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Adventure right next door

Who says you have to drive hours to find real wilderness? The Everglades are just 30 to 60 min from Fort Lauderdale. You can swap beachside vibes for sawgrass marshes, airboats, and alligator sightings in less than an hour.

The airboat rides are pure thrill

Nothing says “Everglades escapade” like an airboat ride. These fan-powered boats glide over shallow waters and tall sawgrass, zipping through hidden trails you’d never find on foot. It’s part sightseeing cruise, part adrenaline rush, especially when your captain kicks up the speed and takes a sharp turn.

Gator encounters you’ll talk about all week

A day trip here guarantees gator action. Spot them from the boat, see them sunbathing on the banks, or watch live shows like the Gator Boys at Everglades Holiday Park. You get the excitement of the wild without needing to rough it overnight.

Nature photography easily accessible

The Everglades pack a ton into a short visit, think flocks of birds, turtles crossing your path, blooming lilies, and mirror-like waters. Even if you're only there for a few hours, you’ll leave with incredible photos that look like you spent days in the wilderness.

A quick dive into the real Florida

If you want to understand the real Florida, this is where you start. Drive right through endless sawgrass prairies, along winding waterways, and ancient cypress groves. You'll see gators, wading birds, and maybe even a manatee, all thriving in their natural habitat.

What tour is best for you?

TourInclusionsHighlightsDurationPrice
Visitors feeding a tortoise at Sawgrass Recreation Park Wildlife Show.

Sawgrass Recreation Park Airboat Tour with Reptile & Wildlife Exhibit Access

- 40-min airboat tour - Live English-speaking guide - Entry to alligator and reptile exhibit - Nighttime airboat tour (as per option selected) - Private airboat tour (as per option selected)

Speed through Sawgrass Recreation Park on an airboat and come face-to-face with Florida’s native reptiles in their natural habitat.

1 hour

From $30.98
Group enjoying an airboat ride through the Everglades with grassy wetlands in the background.

Everglades Airboat Ride with Access to Reptile & Wildlife Exhibits

- 40-min airboat tour - Live English-speaking guide - Entry to alligator and reptile exhibit - Wildlife show (as per option selected) - Round-trip transportation from Miami (as per option selected)"

Glide across Sawgrass Recreation Park on an airboat and get up close with fascinating reptiles at the on-site sanctuary.

1 hour-4 hours

From $30.98
Group on an airboat during a night tour in the Everglades, surrounded by marshland.

Everglades Airboat Night Tour

- 60-min nighttime airboat ride - Entry to exhibits at Sawgrass Recreation Park during the day - Free parking onsite - Airboat captain gratuity

Spot alligators by spotlight and take in the stars on this exhilarating night airboat adventure at Sawgrass Recreation Park.

1 hour

From $48.15

Highlights from your day trip

Airboat with tourists gliding through Everglades National Park wetlands.

Airboat adventure

Skim across the "River of Grass" at up to 40mph on a thrilling airboat ride that’s equal parts fun and adrenaline.

Alligators with open mouths on Everglades airboat tour.
Aerial view of Everglades with airboat navigating through winding waterways.
Blue Heron standing among trees during National Park airboat tour.
Boat cruising through Everglades at sunset with mist and silhouetted trees.

The Everglades deconstructed

Map of Everglades National Park showing visitor centers, trails, and tour parks.

Overview of the parks inside the Everglades region

RegionWildlife highlightsAccess from Fort LauderdaleTerrain typeTour style
Shark Valley Observation Tower in Everglades National Park with walkway and lush greenery.

Everglades National Park (Shark Valley)

Alligators, wading birds, turtles

Approx. 1 hour via Tamiami Trail

Open marshland

Nature-focused, slow-paced tram and trail tours

Kids enjoying a meal at Sawgrass Recreation Park with a peacock in the background.

Sawgrass Recreation Area

Gators, exotic animals, native birdlife

Approx. 30 mins west

Grassland marshes

Airboat rides, reptile exhibits

Airboat cruising through Everglades Holiday Park waterway surrounded by lush greenery.

Everglades Holiday Park

Gators, birds, live Gator Boys show

Approx. 40 mins west

Canals and open marsh

Airboat rides, action-packed gator shows

Best things to do in the Everglades

Guests on an airboat tour enjoying the Everglades view.
Guests holding a small alligator at Everglades Holiday Park animal encounter.
Flamingos wading in the Everglades wetland area.
Kayakers navigating through mangrove forest in the Everglades.
Boardwalk over lily-covered water on the Everglades' Anhinga Trail under a blue sky.
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Hop on an airboat ride

Speed across the marsh as your guide points out gators, birds, and snakes. It’s Florida’s version of a rollercoaster, except your track is a river of grass.

Catch a live gator show

Watch trained experts handle alligators with awe-inspiring confidence. These shows are fun, educational, and safe (for the humans).

Go wildlife spotting

Bring your zoom lens, you’ll want it. Birds, turtles, gators, and maybe even river otters make their home here.

Paddle through mangroves

Some tours offer kayaking or canoeing, perfect for a quiet, up-close experience in shaded mangrove tunnels.

Walk the Anhinga Trail

Located inside Everglades National Park, this easy boardwalk trail is a top spot for gator sightings. You might see more wildlife here than on a safari.

Tips for visiting the Everglades from Fort Lauderdale

  • Choose your pickup option: Some tours offer hotel pickup. You can choose from tours that depart from a central location in Fort Lauderdale or ones that require you to drive yourself to the Everglades.
  • Dress for the outdoors: Expect sun, wind, and occasional splashes from the airboat ride. Wear light, breathable clothing, bring sunscreen and sunglasses, and don’t forget the bug spray.
  • Tours run rain or shine. Florida weather can change in minutes, so a light poncho or rain jacket is a smart addition to your daypack, even if the sky looks clear in the morning.
  • Arrive early for your pickup or check-in: Whether meeting your group at the park or getting picked up in the city, be at the gathering spot at least 15–20 min early. 
  • Pack snacks and water: While some parks have snack bars, options can be limited. Bring a water bottle and a light snack to stay comfortable between activities.

Frequently asked questions about taking a day trip from Fort Lauderdale to Everglades

How long does the day trip to Everglades from Fort Lauderdale take?

Most Everglades day trips from Fort Lauderdale take about 4 to 6 hours, depending on where you're headed. Whether you're hopping on an airboat or heading into the national park, it’s an easy half-day escape into the wild.

Is there a lot of walking involved?

Not really. Most Everglades tours are pretty easy on the feet. You’ll mostly be riding in an airboat, with optional short walks around wildlife exhibits or boardwalks, so comfy shoes are a good idea, but no major hiking is required.

Is transportation included in the Everglades day tours?

Yes. Many tours include round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off from Fort Lauderdale. Always double-check while booking, especially for shared vs. private transfers.

What’s the best time of day to take an Everglades tour from Fort Lauderdale?

Morning departures are ideal for cooler weather and better chances of seeing active wildlife. The light is also perfect for photography. Afternoon tours tend to be warmer but are less crowded.

Are the day trips suitable for children and older adults?

Absolutely. Airboat rides are fun for all ages. Just be sure to check the age recommendations for specific tours, and inform your provider if someone needs mobility support.

Do I need a permit or park fee to enter the Everglades from Fort Lauderdale?

Yes, you’ll need a park entry fee to explore the Everglades, even on a day trip from Fort Lauderdale. Most tours include it in the ticket, but if not, it’s about $35 per vehicle or $20 per person.

More reads

Airboat gliding through Everglades at dusk during night tour.

Night tours

Guests enjoying an airboat tour in the Everglades, surrounded by water and reeds.

Things to do

Man holding a small alligator during Everglades private airboat tour.

Facts