Miami: Everglades Full-Day Tour with 2 Boat Trips and Lunch

Few natural sights in the United States capture the imagination quite like the Everglades. Known as the “River of Grass,” this vast marshland teems with wildlife and offers a glimpse into a unique ecosystem that’s unlike anything else in North America. We haven’t personally experienced this tour, but after analyzing dozens of reviews and details, we’re confident it offers a rich and well-rounded adventure for those eager to see the Everglades up close.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it combines two boat rides—an exhilarating airboat trip and a mangrove cruise—giving you diverse perspectives on the landscape. Second, the inclusion of native cultural insights through a visit to a Tree Island village adds an educational layer. Lastly, the small group format (limited to 12 participants) ensures a more personalized experience, with knowledgeable guides who really know their stuff.

That said, it’s a full day with quite a bit of walking and outdoor activity, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a moderate schedule and some physical activity. The price tag of $285 might seem high at first glance, but considering the extensive itinerary, the inclusion of meals, park fees, and personalized service, many travelers find it offers good value—particularly given the authentic wildlife encounters and cultural insights.

This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and curious travelers who want a comprehensive look at the Everglades while enjoying comfort and expert guidance.

This experience made our article of 14 Most Highly Rated Cruises And Boat Tours In Miami.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines airboat rides, mangrove cruises, cultural visits, and nature walks.
• Wildlife Encounters: See alligators, dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitats.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable naturalist guides, including local experts, enhance the understanding of the ecosystem.
• Authentic Encounters: Activities take place in pristine environments—no cages or pens here.
• Cultural Insight: Visit a Native American Tree Island village to learn how indigenous peoples survived in this environment.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 participants for a more engaging and personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour offers an impressive lineup of activities, making the most of your day while balancing adventure, education, and relaxation. Let’s walk through each part of the itinerary and what you’ll experience.

Pickup and En Route to the Everglades

The day begins with a pickup from your Miami hotel. The transportation is smooth, and your guide—presumably someone like Ryan or Lindsey, who reviewers highlight for their enthusiasm and knowledge—sets the tone with engaging narration about Miami’s proximity to the natural world ahead. This part of the journey is a good chance to ask questions or get excited about the day’s wildlife encounters.

The Airboat Ride: Gliding Over the “River of Grass”

The first major highlight is the 75-minute airboat ride through the Everglades. This is often the most memorable aspect, thanks to the sheer speed and the feeling of gliding across the water at low altitude. You’ll be immersed in the landscape, with the wind in your hair and the sights of alligators sunbathing on the banks or slipping into the water.

Reviewers like Kai describe it as “really awesome,” emphasizing the care given by guides like Ryan, who provide background info and point out wildlife along the way. With a naturalist at the helm, you’ll learn about the flora and fauna, the importance of the ecosystem, and how the native Americans historically survived here. Many reviews mention sightings of alligators in their natural habitat, not in captivity—an authentic and awe-inspiring experience.

Visiting a Native American Tree Island Village

Next, you’ll visit a Native American tree island village, accessible only via the airboat. This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into how indigenous peoples adapted to and thrived in such a challenging environment. Reviewers like Gabriela appreciated the storytelling about native survival techniques, giving context to the landscape we’re exploring.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Mangrove Cruise in the 10,000 Islands

After a hearty lunch, the tour takes you to the pristine 10,000 Islands region via an 80-minute boat cruise. This part of the adventure is about slow, scenic exploration—perfect for spotting marine life and bird species such as pelicans, roseate spoonbills, and possibly dolphins or manatees. Some travelers have even had close encounters with dolphins, with reviews highlighting these magical moments.

On the remote island visited during this cruise, you’ll have some free time to explore, walk along the shoreline, or just soak in the scenery. You may also see rare plants, bromeliads, and native orchids, which adds a botanical subplot to your wildlife adventure.

The Guided Walk to Cypress Dome

The day concludes with a relaxing guided walk through a Cypress Dome, home to alligators, turtles, and elusive native plants. Reviewers like Lubin comment on the abundance of wildlife, while others note that the walk is moderate and suitable for most fitness levels. This is a peaceful way to wrap up the trip, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife photography and plant spotting.

Additional Highlights

• A stop at a historic trading post and the smallest post office in the U.S. provides cultural and historic context.
• Visiting an art gallery of a well-known local artist offers a chance to see local craftsmanship and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir.
• Lunch is included, with vegetarian and vegan options available, adding to the value, especially for food-conscious travelers. Reviewers mention the lunch as “delicious” and a highlight of the trip.

Practical Details and Value

The 9-hour experience offers an impressive lineup of activities, making it a full-day commitment, but one that’s packed with diverse sights and insights. The small group size (up to 12 people) ensures personalized attention, which many reviewers, like Felicia and Regina, appreciated for the friendly atmosphere and attentive guides.

The price of $285 may seem steep at first, but when you consider park entrance fees, two boat trips, a guided walk, lunch, snacks, bottled water, and the personalized service, it becomes clear that you’re getting a comprehensive, hassle-free experience. Many travelers compare this to other tours, and reviews often mention the excellent value, especially considering the quality of wildlife sightings and the depth of cultural insights.

Transportation and Accessibility

Pickup and drop-off are included, which is a big plus in Miami, where transportation logistics can be tricky. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs. The moderate amount of walking involved is manageable for most, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re less mobile.

Guides and Educational Quality

Reviewers consistently highlight the guides—like Ryan, Lindsey, Julia, and Stacey—as knowledgeable, engaging, and passionate about sharing their expertise. Their stories, wildlife spotting tips, and cultural insights make the trip more meaningful and memorable.

Final Thoughts

This Everglades tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that balances wildlife encounters, cultural education, and scenic beauty. The inclusion of two boat rides, especially the airboat, provides adrenaline and awe in equal parts. The cultural visit to a Native American village adds a unique perspective often missed in typical wildlife tours.

Travelers who value small groups, expert guides, and a variety of activities will find this tour particularly rewarding. While it’s a long day with some walking and outdoor exposure, the payoff is a deeper understanding of the Everglades’ ecosystem and its inhabitants.

If you’re looking for a highly informative, engaging, and genuine adventure into one of Florida’s most iconic landscapes, this tour delivers on all counts—and then some.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, with various activities scheduled throughout the day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Miami are included, making logistics hassle-free.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see alligators, dolphins, manatees, pelicans, roseate spoonbills, and possibly sawfish and sea turtles.

Are vegetarian and vegan options available for lunch?
Yes, the tour offers a menu with vegetarian and vegan options.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the small group size and moderate walking make it suitable for most ages, but some walking is required.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, all national park fees are covered as part of the tour.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent if needed, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and comfortable walking shoes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this full-day Everglades tour offers a fantastic mix of wildlife, culture, and scenic views—all led by knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape to life. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, authentic look at this remarkable ecosystem without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. If you’re ready for an adventure that combines education with excitement, this trip is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: