The 2 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours in Florida
Florida might be best known for its beaches and theme parks, but it’s also a prime spot for adventurous outdoor explorers. Its extensive wetlands, lush ecosystems, and diverse wildlife make it a great place to lace up your hiking boots or hop into a kayak. Whether you’re after a peaceful walk through ancient woods or a day paddling with manatees and crocodiles, Florida’s natural beauty is on full display.
The Everglades, in particular, stands out as a must-visit for nature lovers. The unique blend of marshes, mangroves, and prairies offers endless opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. With guided tours tailored for different interests and fitness levels, you’ll find options that turn a day in the wilderness into a memorable adventure.
Quick Overview
Below, we highlight the best hiking and trekking tours in Florida, each offering a different way to explore the Everglades and its ecosystems. From a full-day kayak trip with two hikes to a combination of three hikes with a boat tour, these tours have been carefully selected for their quality, uniqueness, and value. You can explore the Kayak Trip, 1 Wet Hike + 2 dry hikes in Everglades National Park or the Everglades National Park: 3 Hikes + 90-minute Boat Tour + Lunch.
1. Kayak Trip, 1 Wet Hike + 2 dry hikes in Everglades National Park
This tour is perfect for those who want a balanced day of hiking and paddling in the Everglades. Starting from the Southern Tip Farm Stand or Port Miami, you’ll be picked up and transported to this iconic national park. The day kicks off with a narrated drive, giving you context about the Everglades’ ecology and history. The first stop is the Anhinga Trail, where you’ll walk through the “River of Grass” and have a good chance of seeing American alligators, wading birds, fish, and turtles. The trail is accessible and great for all ages over five, making this an inclusive experience.
After a provided lunch and snacks, you’ll switch gears to the kayak segment. Paddle alongside manatees and crocodiles, with a chance to spot other wildlife in the mangrove-lined waters. The tour includes bottled water, kayaks, and all necessary gear. Guides like Stacy and Elijah bring 25 years of wildlife knowledge, making the experience both educational and fun.
Key highlights include two ecosystems explored on foot and water, plus the chance to see iconic wildlife in their natural habitat. The small group size (max 12) ensures personalized attention. Almost everyone who takes this tour describes it as “incredible,” with many praising the guides’ expertise and friendly approach.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active families and outdoor enthusiasts wanting a robust mix of hiking and kayaking in a single day, with excellent value for $275.
2. Everglades National Park: 3 Hikes + 90-minute Boat Tour + Lunch
This tour offers a more immersive exploration of the Everglades’ various habitats, led by a Florida Master Naturalist or trained biologist. It starts with a short drive from Miami to the park, with an introduction to the region’s history. The itinerary includes three different hikes, each through distinct ecosystems, such as the Pineland Trail and others that showcase the park’s diverse flora and fauna.
The highlight is the 90-minute boat trip through the back-country, during which you’ll see dolphins, manatees, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife like white pelicans and flamingos. The boat ride takes you through the second-largest mangrove forest in the world, a spectacular sight and perfect for wildlife observation. After the boat, enjoy a picnic lunch, with options catering to vegan and vegetarian diets, enhancing the experience for all dietary preferences.
Guests rave about the depth of knowledge the guides share, turning what could be a simple hike into an educational adventure. The small group size helps maintain an intimate experience, and the combination of land and water exploration offers a comprehensive view of the Everglades’ ecological richness.
Key highlights include the three hikes into different ecosystems plus the boat tour. It’s a great choice for those who want to connect with nature on multiple levels and learn about the environment from an expert.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers eager to see a broad range of wildlife and habitats, with a well-rounded itinerary at $275.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two tours, consider what kind of experience you’re after. If you prefer a day with a mix of hiking and kayaking, and want to get your feet wet with wildlife observation, the Kayak Trip, 1 Wet Hike + 2 dry hikes is a solid choice. It offers a hands-on, active day that’s suitable for families and outdoor lovers alike.
On the other hand, if you’re interested in a more in-depth ecological tour that combines multiple hikes with a boat ride, the Everglades National Park: 3 Hikes + 90-minute Boat Tour + Lunch might better suit you. This option provides a broader understanding of the park’s ecosystems, ideal for nature enthusiasts wanting a detailed experience.
For travelers with limited time, both tours run around 8–9 hours, making them perfect for a full-day adventure. Be sure to consider your physical activity preferences, dietary needs, and level of wildlife interest when choosing.
Final Thoughts
Both tours showcase the diverse and fascinating ecosystems of the Everglades, each with its own focus. The kayak tour offers a dynamic, hands-on experience with wildlife in a smaller group, perfect for families and water lovers. Meanwhile, the multi-hike and boat tour provides a broader ecological perspective and is great for those keen to learn from expert guides.
If you’re planning a trip, booking early is wise—these tours are popular due to their high quality and limited group sizes. Whether you want to paddle with manatees or trek through different habitats, Florida’s wetlands promise an authentic adventure that will leave you with stories to tell.
Happy hiking—and don’t forget your camera!