everglades day trip

Question

We are day tripping up from key largo, and looking for some direction coming from there, what best to see and possibly an airboat tour?

Answer

Taking a day trip from Key Largo to the Everglades National Park is a fantastic way to explore one of Florida’s most unique and diverse ecosystems. The Everglades are vast, so planning your trip with some key highlights and airboat tours in mind will help you make the most of your visit. Here’s a suggested itinerary and some tips to help you get the most out of your day:

Getting to Everglades National Park from Key Largo:

The drive from Key Largo to Everglades National Park is around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on which entrance you are visiting. The main entrance to the park is at Shark Valley, which is about 45 minutes from Key Largo. Alternatively, you can head to the Gulf Coast entrance near Everglades City if you are interested in seeing different parts of the park.

Top Things to See:

Shark Valley Visitor Center: This is a great starting point for a visit to the Everglades. It’s known for its 15-mile loop trail, which can be explored by foot, bike, or tram. It’s an easy way to spot wildlife like alligators, birds, and even the occasional deer. The observation tower here offers stunning panoramic views of the Everglades. A tram tour is also available if you prefer a guided experience.
Anhinga Trail (Royal Palm Visitor Center): The Anhinga Trail is a short, paved, and very accessible trail that offers excellent opportunities to see wildlife up close, especially birds and alligators. The boardwalk takes you through lush wetlands, where you can see various species of birds, turtles, and alligators.
Everglades City & Gulf Coast Visitor Center: If you're interested in exploring the coastal side of the Everglades, head to the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City. This area offers a completely different experience with opportunities for boat tours through the mangroves, and it’s also the gateway to the famous 10,000 Islands.
Eco Pond and Gumbo Limbo Trail: For a more serene experience, visit the Eco Pond Trail near the Flamingo area. It’s an easy, quiet walk where you can spot birds and sometimes even alligators. The Gumbo Limbo Trail offers a short, shaded walk through a tropical hardwood hammock, providing a peaceful escape from the sun.

Airboat Tours:

If you want to experience the Everglades up close, an airboat tour is an absolute must. These fast, shallow boats take you into the heart of the Everglades, where you can spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife while speeding through the water. There are several tour operators to choose from in and around Everglades City and the Shark Valley area:

Everglades National Park Airboat Tours (Gulf Coast Visitor Center): Tours from Everglades City take you into the Ten Thousand Islands area, offering a completely different view of the Everglades. These tours are less “touristy” and more focused on eco-tourism.
Shark Valley Airboat Tours: There are also operators near the Shark Valley entrance, where you can take a thrilling airboat ride through the sawgrass marshes. Many of these tours provide knowledgeable guides who can share interesting facts about the ecosystem.
Miami Everglades Airboat Tours: If you’re closer to the Miami area, several companies offer airboat tours near the Homestead area, just outside of the park. These tours are typically shorter but still offer a great way to see the Everglades.

Additional Tips:

What to Bring: Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as it can get very hot in the Everglades, especially in July. A camera or binoculars for wildlife spotting will also enhance your experience. If you're doing an airboat tour, be prepared for some splashing!
Stay Hydrated: The Everglades can be quite hot and humid, so it's essential to stay hydrated throughout the day. Bring a water bottle, especially if you're hiking or exploring for several hours.
Wildlife Safety: Keep your distance from alligators and other wildlife. The animals are wild, and while they are a big draw for visitors, it’s important to respect their space and not feed them.
Timing of Your Trip: July is in the rainy season, so you may encounter afternoon thunderstorms. It’s a good idea to start your day early to take advantage of the cooler morning hours and beat the afternoon rain.

Suggested Itinerary for Your Day:

Morning: Start early with a visit to the Shark Valley Visitor Center. Take the tram tour or explore the loop trail to spot wildlife and get a great overview of the park.
Mid-Morning: Head to the Anhinga Trail at Royal Palm Visitor Center for a short walk and more wildlife sightings.
Lunch: Pack a picnic or enjoy lunch at one of the park’s designated picnic areas. Alternatively, there are small restaurants in Everglades City for a local meal.
Afternoon: Take an airboat tour to explore the water habitats of the Everglades. Depending on the tour you choose, you can explore the mangroves, sawgrass marshes, and islands.
Evening: Head back to Key Largo or your accommodation, taking in the scenic drive and reflecting on the day's adventure.

By combining some key hikes and a thrilling airboat ride, you'll have a memorable day in one of the most unique national parks in the U.S. Have fun exploring the Everglades!

everglades day trip

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