From Naples: Everglades w/ a Wet Walk, 2 Boat Trips & Lunch!

Exploring the Everglades from Naples: A Deep Dive into Nature’s Playground

If you’re looking for a way to see the wild heart of Florida without spending days in the sweltering heat, this day trip to the Everglades from Naples offers a thorough and engaging adventure. With guided wet walks, boat tours, and an airboat ride, it promises a well-rounded glimpse into this unique ecosystem.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to experience the Everglades up close and personal—whether it’s walking through the wetlands with a biologist or watching dolphins and manatees from a boat. The inclusion of a visit to the remote 10,000 Islands and a tree island village adds an authentic touch that you won’t find on most generic tours.

One potential consideration is the physical activity involved—most of the walk is flat, but uneven sections may challenge those with mobility issues. The tour is designed for small groups, making it a more intimate and flexible experience, perfect for nature lovers who want to avoid large, crowded trips. It’s especially suitable for travelers keen on wildlife, eco-enthusiasts, or anyone eager to learn directly from professional guides about this remarkable landscape.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Spot dolphins, gators, sharks, pelicans, and more in their natural habitat.
• Unique Wet Walk: Led by a biologist, this walk offers a rare chance to explore wetlands with expert insights.
• Multiple Excursions: Two boat trips plus an airboat ride mean diverse perspectives on the ecosystem.
• Authentic Cultural Experience: Visit a tree island village and learn about the Miccosukee peoples.
• All-Inclusive: Transportation, park entry, snacks, lunch, and gear are included, making it a hassle-free day.
• Small Group: Limited to 14 participants, ensuring personalized attention and fewer crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Guide to the Everglades Day Trip from Naples

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

This tour, priced at $389 per person, packs a full day of exploration into a manageable price point. Given the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off in a comfortable Sprinter van, you avoid the hassle of figuring out logistics yourself. Plus, the tour includes all major entrance fees—for Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve—so no surprise costs pop up on the day.

What really sets this experience apart is the combination of guided activities—a wet walk with a biologist and two boat trips—that provide multiple vantage points of the ecosystem. The wet walk is especially notable; led by a naturalist, it offers a chance to see rare orchids, epiphytes, and wildlife while walking through cypress domes and wetlands. The experience is described as “a unique opportunity to see the diversity of wildlife in the Everglades,” and many reviews highlight guides’ deep knowledge and enthusiasm, which greatly enhances the visit.

The 80-minute boat ride across the 10,000 Islands is a highlight, with opportunities to see dolphins, manatees, pelicans, and even sharks. The boat operators are permitted in the national parks, ensuring access to pristine areas few others can visit. Later, the 75-minute airboat ride adds excitement—zipping through the “River of Grass” and giving you a thrilling perspective of the wetlands’ vastness. The visit to a tree island village offers a glimpse into native life and the survival skills of the Miccosukee peoples, elevating the tour from just sightseeing to cultural understanding.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day kicks off with pickup from Naples, where you’ll board a small group van with other eco-minded travelers. The first stop is the wet walk, which is mostly flat but involves walking through wetlands and cypress woods—be prepared for uneven patches, so sturdy shoes or water shoes are recommended (shoes are provided if you prefer). Here, your naturalist guide will point out orchids, epiphytes, and wildlife, giving you insights that turn a simple walk into an educational adventure.

Next, you’ll cruise through the 10,000 Islands on an 80-minute boat tour. This stretch of water is famous for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. Expect to see pods of dolphins playing in the water and sea cows (manatees) grazing in shallow bays. The boat stops at a historic trading post—an interesting peek into the area’s past—and other eco stops that add variety to your day.

Then, it’s time for lunch, which is included on the menu with vegetarian and vegan options available. The meal is a good chance to rest and chat with your guide or fellow travelers while enjoying local flavors. Afterward, the adventure continues with the airboat ride, a fast-paced, high-adrenaline experience that whisks you into the “River of Grass,” revealing the wetlands’ vast, flowing landscape from a new perspective.

The tour concludes with a visit to a remote tree island village, accessible only by airboat. Here, you’ll learn about the Miccosukee tribe’s history, traditions, and survival strategies—an authentic cultural experience that enriches the natural exploration. Other stops include a local artist gallery, a tiny post office, and a museum, rounding out your understanding of this unique area.

The Value in the Experience

At $389, the tour offers a comprehensive look at the Everglades, combining natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural insights. The inclusion of all transportation, park entries, and gear (like water shoes) makes it a convenient option, especially for those unfamiliar with the area or who prefer a guided experience. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a chance to ask questions freely.

Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, who are passionate and eager to share their insights. The stunning views across the wetlands, islands, and wildlife-rich waters are consistently praised. Reviewers have called the guides’ commentary “informative and enthusiastic,” adding depth to their understanding of this fragile environment.

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The Experience for Different Travelers

This trip suits those who love wildlife and natural landscapes, and who want a more authentic, educational experience rather than just cruising by on a large tour bus. It’s especially good for travelers who enjoy small groups, natural history, and cultural stories.

However, it’s not ideal for children under five or anyone with mobility challenges—given the flat but uneven terrain of the wet walk and the nature of boat rides.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This day trip offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, education, and cultural insight. It’s perfect for anyone eager to see the best of the Everglades without sacrificing comfort or guidance. The combination of wet walks, boat tours, and an airboat ride means you’ll leave feeling like you’ve truly experienced the ecosystem’s diversity and wonder.

For nature lovers or curious travelers who want a personalized, small-group experience with expert guides, this tour stands out as a valuable choice. It’s a full day of exploration that promises unforgettable sights and stories, all in a convenient package.

While the price might seem steep at first glance, the inclusion of all major activities, transport, and meals makes it a straightforward, all-in-one adventure that’s worth the investment. Those willing to step outside their comfort zone—walking through wetlands, zipping in an airboat—will find this trip both exciting and enlightening.

FAQs

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in a custom Sprinter van are included, making logistics simple.

What should I bring?
A change of clothes is recommended since the tour involves wet walks and boat rides. Water shoes are provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years due to the physical nature of some activities.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately one day, with multiple stops and activities designed for a full, immersive experience.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, the included lunch offers vegetarian and vegan choices, with the menu ordered in advance.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 14 participants, ensuring a small, intimate experience with plenty of guide interaction.

Do I need any special skills or prior experience?
No prior experience is necessary. Guides are knowledgeable and will ensure you get the most out of each activity.

To sum it up, this tour provides an engaging, well-rounded look at the Everglades’ wildlife, landscapes, and cultural history. It’s ideal for eco-enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and curious travelers wanting a meaningful day in one of Florida’s most unique environments. With expert guides, diverse activities, and all-inclusive pricing, it’s a strong choice for a memorable adventure from Naples.

You can check availability for your dates here: