Hiking + Kayaking Tour in Everglades National Park W/ Wet Walk!

Everglades National Park is a natural wonder unlike any other. Visitors can now explore its diverse ecosystems through an exhilarating hiking and kayaking tour that includes a unique "wet walk" experience. This all-day adventure takes adventurers deep into the heart of the park, where they’ll encounter magnificent mangrove forests, expansive sawgrass marshes, and a wealth of captivating wildlife. From spotting elusive manatees to observing alligators in their natural habitat, this tour promises an unforgettable journey into one of America’s most remarkable natural treasures. But the real question is, are you prepared to learn about the Everglades’ enchanting waters and witness its hidden wonders firsthand?

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Florida.

Key Points

• This 9-hour small group tour offers a unique combination of hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting in Everglades National Park.
• The tour features two guided hikes through diverse ecosystems, including a lush mangrove forest and the iconic sawgrass marsh.
• Participants have opportunities to see a variety of Everglades wildlife, such as manatees, crocodiles, birds, and endangered fish.
• The guided kayak adventure provides a tranquil and immersive experience, allowing visitors to paddle through mangrove tunnels and observe the natural beauty.
• The tour includes amenities such as lunch, snacks, bottled water, kayaks, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

Overview of the Tour

The Hiking and Kayaking Tour in Everglades National Park offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystems of this renowned natural wonder.

This small group tour, limited to 12 participants, lasts 9 hours and is suitable for ages 5 and over. Guests will embark on two guided hikes through different habitats and enjoy a kayak trip, where they can spot manatees, crocodiles, birds, and endangered fish.

The tour includes lunch, snacks, bottled water, and the use of kayaks and an air-conditioned vehicle. Pickup and drop-off services are available from various locations in South Florida.

With a 5.0 rating from 4 reviews, this tour provides an immersive and memorable experience in the Everglades.

Highlights of the Hikes

On the hikes, participants venture through two distinct ecosystems within Everglades National Park.

The first hike leads them through a lush, dense mangrove forest, where they’ll have the chance to spot various wading birds, such as herons and egrets.

The second hike takes them into the heart of the sawgrass marsh, offering a glimpse of the park’s iconic "river of grass".

Along the way, they may encounter:

1. Alligators sunbathing on the banks
2. Colorful butterflies fluttering through the vegetation
3. Endangered Florida manatees gliding through the shallow waters
4. A variety of subtropical plant life, including air plants and bromeliads.

Encountering Everglades Wildlife

Teeming with a vibrant array of wildlife, the Everglades ecosystem offers captivating encounters for participants.

During the hikes, guests may spot majestic manatees gently gliding through the tranquil waterways, their graceful movements a mesmerizing sight.

The tour also provides chances to observe elusive American crocodiles basking on the banks, their prehistoric presence a testament to the park’s ecological richness.

Plus, a diverse array of bird species, from vibrant wading birds to the endangered Everglades snail kite, can be spotted soaring overhead or nesting in the lush mangrove forests.

These up-close wildlife sightings heighten the immersive experience, leaving participants with a deepened appreciation for the Everglades’ delicate balance.

The Guided Kayak Adventure

After the engaging hikes, participants embark on the guided kayak adventure, seeing the tranquil waterways of the Everglades.

The knowledgeable guides lead the way, sharing insights about the unique ecosystem and the wildlife that calls it home. Paddling through the serene mangrove tunnels, guests have the chance to spot manatees, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

The kayaks provide a stable and comfortable platform, allowing participants to fully appreciate the beauty and serenity of the Everglades.

The guided kayak tour offers:

1. An intimate encounter with the Everglades’ diverse aquatic life.
2. A peaceful and relaxing experience on the tranquil waterways.
3. Knowledgeable guides to provide context and information.
4. A unique perspective of the park’s stunning natural landscapes.

Included Amenities and Perks

The tour includes an array of amenities and perks that enhance the overall experience.

Guests can enjoy a provided lunch, snacks, and bottled water to sustain them during the day’s activities. The tour also includes the use of kayaks and an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation.

Gratuities are included, eliminating the need for additional out-of-pocket expenses. Complimentary luggage storage is available at the meeting point, allowing participants to travel light.

With these thoughtful inclusions, the tour ensures a comfortable and hassle-free adventure through the Everglades’ stunning natural landscapes.

Meeting and Pickup Details

To begin the tour, guests convene at the South Tip Farm Stand in Homestead, Florida, which serves as the designated meeting point.

From there, complimentary pickup is available from various locations, including hotels, vacation rentals, Port Miami, and airports in Miami, Hollywood, and Fort Lauderdale.

The standard pickup time is between 7:15-7:30 a.m., with the exact time confirmed the day before.

Free parking is available at the meeting point, making it a convenient starting location for the adventure.

The tour offers the following pickup and drop-off options:

1. Pickup from hotels, vacation rentals, Port Miami, and locations in Miami, Hollywood, and Fort Lauderdale.
2. Drop-off at Port Miami, Port Everglades, Miami Airport, and Fort Lauderdale Airport.
3. Complimentary luggage storage available.
4. Not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

Tour Accessibility and Policies

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

The tour is located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. Participants should expect to fully participate in the hiking and kayaking activities during the 9-hour experience.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time. Discounts are offered when booking directly through the tour operator, Wild Lime Adventures.

Pricing and Booking Information

At a starting price of $275.00, the Hiking and Kayaking Tour in Everglades National Park offers a great value for the immersive 9-hour experience.

Guests can take advantage of the Lowest Price Guarantee and the Reserve Now and Pay Later option. Discounts are available for those booking directly through Wild Lime Adventures.

The tour package includes:

1. Lunch, snacks, and bottled water
2. Use of kayaks and an air-conditioned vehicle
3. Complimentary gratuities
4. Free luggage storage

With a variety of pickup and drop-off locations throughout Miami, Hollywood, and Fort Lauderdale, the tour provides convenience and flexibility for participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Kayak?

Unfortunately, you cannot bring your own kayak on this tour. The tour provides the kayaks for participants, which are included in the tour price. Guests are not permitted to use their own kayaks during the guided kayak experience.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment for the Hikes?

The tour provides all necessary hiking equipment, including sturdy closed-toe shoes, so participants don’t need to bring any special gear. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended for the hike.

Are There Options for Kids to Participate?

Yes, this tour has options for kids to participate. The tour allows children 5 and over and provides activities suitable for all ages, ensuring a family-friendly experience in the Everglades.

Can I Extend the Tour to a Full-Day Experience?

Yes, the tour can be extended to a full-day experience. The 9-hour tour includes two hikes and a guided kayak trip, allowing ample time to explore the Everglades’ diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Do I Need to Know How to Swim for the Kayak Trip?

No, you don’t need to know how to swim for the kayak trip. The tour provider will ensure all participants are provided with life jackets and receive basic kayaking instructions. The guides will also accompany the group during the kayak portion.

Recap

This immersive Everglades tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems. From guided hikes to a serene kayak adventure, you’ll witness the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife of this national treasure. With included amenities and the expertise of knowledgeable guides, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in the Everglades.