From Miami: Everglades Tour w/90 minute boat trip & 3 Hikes!

Thinking about a day trip into one of Florida’s most iconic natural landscapes? This guided tour from Miami offers a solid introduction to the Everglades’ vast, wild beauty. It combines a boat ride, three different hikes, and a picnic, all led by experienced naturalists who bring the park’s landscapes and wildlife to life.

We like how this tour balances active exploration with informative storytelling. The guides are trained biologists, so you’ll get insights into the ecosystems that make the Everglades special. The longer boat trip—90 minutes compared to many standard tours—means more chances to spot wildlife such as alligators, manatees, and wading birds. Plus, the small group size helps ensure a more intimate experience.

One potential consideration is the cost of $285 per person, which may feel steep for some. However, when you factor in round-trip transportation from Miami, three guided hikes, the boat trip, and a catered vegetarian/vegan lunch, the value adds up. This isn’t a quick, superficial visit; it’s a well-rounded, educational experience designed for travelers eager to understand and see the real Florida wilderness.

Perfect for nature enthusiasts, eco-conscious travelers, and anyone who enjoys active outdoor adventures, this tour offers an authentic glimpse into the Everglades’ unique habitat. It’s especially well-suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and who appreciate guided education on local ecosystems.

Key Points

• Expert-led Tours: Guides are Florida Master Naturalists or trained biologists, providing knowledgeable insights.
• Comprehensive Experience: Includes a 90-minute boat trip, three hikes, and a picnic lunch.
• Wildlife & Ecosystems: Spot animals like alligators, crocodiles, manatees, and birds, while learning about their habitats.
• Round-Trip Transportation: Convenient transportation from Miami makes logistics simple.
• Eco-friendly & Permitted: The only ecotour company with permits for all major South Florida parks, emphasizing responsible tourism.
• Price & Value: At $285, the tour offers a full day of guided activities, making it a good value for serious wildlife and nature fans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look: What to Expect from This Everglades Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins with pickup from various Miami locations—South Beach, downtown, Brickell, or near the airport—making it flexible for travelers staying in or near Miami. The van, marked with Wild Lime Adventures’ logo, provides a comfortable ride as you leave the city’s hustle behind and head into the park.

The drive itself is narrated, offering contextual insights into the journey that primes you for what’s to come. Once at the main entrance of Everglades National Park, you’ll check in at the Visitor’s Center, where you can also collect a National Park stamp if you’re into those souvenirs.

The core of the experience centers around three distinct hikes, each exploring different habitats. These hikes are designed to showcase the ecological diversity of the area, from sawgrass marshes to mangroves and possibly higher ground with different flora and fauna. While the exact locations of the hikes aren’t specified, you can expect a variety of terrains, with comfortable footwear recommended. The guides do a good job of explaining the significance of each habitat, so you won’t just be walking; you’ll be learning.

The Boat Ride into Florida Bay

After the hikes, the tour shifts to the water. The 90-minute boat trip into Florida Bay is a highlight for many travelers. The boats are spacious and narrated, with guides pointing out wildlife and explaining the ecological importance of this area. You’ll likely see wading birds—herons, egrets, and ibises—along with larger creatures such as alligators and crocodiles in their natural environment.

The inclusion of the boat trip is a big plus, as many other tours offer shorter or less extensive boat rides. The longer duration gives you more time to take in the scenery and observe wildlife. Some reviewers mention that guides are very knowledgeable and passionate, which enhances the experience. As one reviewer states, “We loved the way the guides explained the ecological importance of everything we saw, making it feel like a lesson in wildlife conservation.”

Picnic & Food

A boxed lunch, with vegan and vegetarian options included, is provided—which adds value, especially considering the full-day nature of the trip. You can expect a simple but satisfying meal, perfect for refueling after hiking and boat riding. Snacks and drinks are available throughout the day, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty.

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Other Practical Details

While the tour is packed with activities, it’s worth noting it doesn’t include hotel pickup and drop-off. This means you need to coordinate your own transportation to the starting point unless your Miami hotel offers shuttle services. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, those with back problems, or individuals with mobility issues.

The total duration is approximately a full day, and the small group size offers a more personal experience, with attentive guides. The tour operates with flexible booking options—cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, or reserve now and pay later, adding convenience and peace of mind.

Why It Stands Out

Wild Lime Adventures holds permits for all three major parks—including Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve—which means they operate within the proper guidelines and focus on eco-friendly tourism. This commitment to responsible wildlife viewing and conservation is reflected in their longer, more informative boat trips, and their guides’ expertise.

The Experience from the Traveler’s Perspective

Reviewers often remark on the guides’ passion and knowledge. One noted, “The guides were so passionate about conservation that it made the trip even more meaningful.” Another appreciated the longer boat ride, saying, “It’s not just a quick tour—this felt like a real immersion into the wilderness.”

Most travelers seem to agree that the hikes provided diverse perspectives of the park, with some noting that the walk into mangroves and marshes helped them better understand the importance of these ecosystems. The combination of land and water exploration makes for a well-rounded experience.

Some mention that the tour is physically moderate—ideal for those comfortable walking on uneven terrain and sitting on a boat for extended periods. The weather can be hot and sunny, so packing sunscreen, a hat, and water is advised.

Cost and Value Considerations

At $285 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option available, but it offers a comprehensive, guided experience that covers transportation, three hikes, a boat trip, and a meal. When you compare it to other similar experiences—some of which might be shorter or less personalized—this price reflects a well-organized, eco-conscious outing with expert guides.

Many reviews highlight the educational value, with one saying, “The guides made the wildlife and ecosystems come alive, making it money well spent.” The inclusion of vegan and vegetarian options also makes it accessible for different dietary needs, which is appreciated by many travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and active travelers who want more than just a quick snapshot of the Everglades. It’s perfect if you’re interested in ecology and conservation or simply want a deeper understanding of Florida’s wetlands. While it’s not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, it caters well to those comfortable with walking and boat rides.

If you prefer a more relaxed, less interactive experience, this might not fit. But for those eager to explore the landscapes and learn from passionate guides, it offers a rewarding day in the wild.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point in Miami.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat trip into Florida Bay lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing ample opportunity to observe wildlife and enjoy the scenery.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, snacks, water, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended to make the most of your day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or people with back problems or mobility issues. The activities require some walking and sitting on boats.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Expect to see alligators, crocodiles, manatees, sharks, sea turtles, and a variety of wading birds, depending on the season and weather.

What makes this tour different from others?
The company holds permits for all South Florida parks and offers longer, more informative boat trips led by expert guides. They also focus on eco-friendly and responsible wildlife viewing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reservations are flexible, and you can book now with the option to pay later.

This tour from Miami offers a thorough, eco-conscious way to experience the Everglades’ beauty and wildlife. With expert guides, thoughtful itineraries, and a mix of water and land exploration, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want to deepen their understanding of Florida’s most famous wilderness area.

While the price might seem high, the combination of transportation, full-day activities, and the educational focus makes it a worthwhile investment for those eager to see and learn. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and are looking for a guided experience that respects and highlights the park’s ecological importance.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply curious about the Everglades’ unique landscape, this tour promises an engaging, authentic adventure — a day well spent in Florida’s wild heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: