self guided tour everglades

How to do a self guided Everglades tour

The Everglades National Park is one of the best things to see in Florida . If you’re traveling to Florida and planning on visiting Everglades National Park, you’re in for a treat; especially with this Everglades driving tour.

Out of all the places we saw during our trip around America over 3 months , the Everglades National Park was a highlight. You should definitely add it to your Florida travel itinerary!

It was one of our favorite days from our whole road trip of three months around the USA we saw SO many animals in the Everglades and you should make sure you visit Everglades National Park while in Southern Florida.

Before we started our USA road trip I thought the best way to see the Everglades National Park, Florida was to take one of the airboats in the Everglades. However, when I started researching companies to do this with I quickly went off the idea.

Instead, we opted to plan our own, self-guided tour of the Everglades that involved driving through the Everglades and stopping off where we wanted.

I truly believe it’s the best Everglades tour you can do and this post will show you exactly how to do it!

About Florida Everglades National Park

Are you wondering just “What are the Everglades?” You’ve probably heard of them but aren’t quite sure what they look like in practice. Well, the Everglades is a huge area of land in South Florida. In fact, it’s the third-largest park in the US just behind Death Valley and Yellowstone.

The ecosystem in the Everglades is a wetland which means this area is inundated by water either permanently or seasonally. In the case of the Everglades, it’s more seasonal and the Everglades has a dry season and a wet season.

There’s an amazing amount of wildlife in the Everglades National Park. We were both blown away by the number of alligators, birds, and turtles we saw. This wildlife is why the Everglades was designated a National Park. In fact, it was the first National Park created to protect wildlife rather than geographic features.

The Everglades also borders Big Cypress National Preserve which is actually the area we preferred as we saw the most impressive sites! Therefore this guide to the Everglades also includes things to do in Big Cypress National Preserve.

Entrance fees for the Everglades National Park

To enter the Everglades National Park costs $30 per vehicle and lasts for 7 days. Pedestrians and cyclists cost $15 to use the national park service in the Everglades.

You can buy your pass online or at one of the Entrance stations in Homestead and Shark Valley. If you’re visiting multiple national parks in one year, then the National Parks Pass is the best option.

Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save a tonne of money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year, or visiting the same one more than once!

Getting to the Everglades National Park from Miami

Most of you will probably be visiting the Everglades from Miami as it’s the largest city in the area and a popular tourist destination.

Wondering “How far are the Everglades from Miami?”

Well, the Shark Valley Visitor Centre is just over 41 miles away from downtown Miami. Getting from Miami to Everglades National Park it takes about an hour to drive there on the US-41 W.

Why not to take airboat rides in the Everglades

Originally I’d planned on going boating in the Everglades and taking an Everglades National Park airboat tour. But, when I started looking into them and reading reviews I very quickly went off the idea.

I read a lot about Florida Everglades tours before our trip and time and time again I saw that airboat tours in the Everglades seemed to be far from eco-friendly.

Many of the reviews of Everglades airboat tours mentioned that guides fed the alligators and other wildlife sweets and food to attract them closer to the boat.

Some said that the boat rides in the Everglades seemed downright dangerous and others mentioned that Everglades National Park boat tour companies tended to have “sanctuaries” attached where animals were kept in tiny cages.

I also don’t think holding a baby alligator should be the highlight of a responsible airboat tour in the Everglades which means, in my view, there’s no such thing as best Everglades airboat tours.

Sure, it’s up to you at the end of the day but I’d recommend seeking a more eco-friendly tour such as an Everglades kayaking tour .

Below are some options for the best Florida Everglades tours that are more ethical. These Everglades national park tours all get great reviews and will likely get you better sightings of the alligators anyway!

• Everglades National Park Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco Tour: 3-hour kayak tour in the mangrove tunnels alongside alligators.
• Everglades small-group kayak tour: Book this once-in-a-lifetime tour as you glide through Everglades mangrove tunnels and cypress ponds
• Small Group Motorboat Eco Tour of the Everglades : Explore the Everglades on this intimate eco-boat tour and disembark on an isolated island during the tour too

Animals from the Everglades

You won’t believe your eyes when you step foot in the Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve! There are so many different types of birds of the Everglades alongside endangered species in the Everglades too.

If you were wondering “Are there crocodiles in the Everglades?” the answer is yes, there are crocodiles in the Everglades! They’re smaller than the alligators and are usually less aggressive but can pose danger!

Some more common animals of the Everglades are

• American Alligator
• American Crocodile
• Manatee (threatened but not endangered since 2017 – sometimes injured by airboats)
• Bottlenose dolphin

Endangered species of the Everglades

• Florida Panther – perhaps the most endangered animal of the Everglades

Birds of the Everglades

There are over 360 different species of birds in the Everglades. They can usually be categorized into the following groups: wading birds, land birds, and birds of prey.

Some of the birds in the Everglades you’ll see include egrets, herons, and eagles.

Best things to do in the Everglades National Park

Add these Big Cypress and Everglades attractions to your itinerary for driving through the Everglades. You do all these stops on an Everglades day trip, just get up early to make the most of your day.

I’d also recommend packing a picnic as there aren’t many places to grab food along HYW 41 as you’re driving through the Everglades.

This probably ended up being the best way to see the Everglades as it turned out. We saw so much wildlife on our self guided Everglades tour, could stop when  we wanted to  and it was  free .

If you want to do the same, here is the route we took going from west to east. You could do this self-guided Everglades tour the other way around too, of course, if you’re coming from Miami.

Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk

Technically this one isn’t actually inside the Everglades National Park but it’s a must do for your what to do in the Everglades list!

We came from the town of Naples on Florida’s west coast and this was our first (and favorite) stop of the day. We easily could have spent all day watching the wildlife here!

This trail, like many Everglades trails, involves a boardwalk. The boardwalk takes you into the wetlands where you’ll likely see alligators, crocodiles turtles and so many species of birds.

We saw owls, great egrets, alligators, and their babies, fish, and lizards all within 10 minutes. It was incredible!

Smallest Post Office in North America

Jump out of the car for a quick visit to America’s (and maybe the world’s) smallest post office. This isn’t just a picture opportunity, but actually a fully working post office. Buy a stamp as a reminder of your trip or as a unique souvenir.

Note: The post office closes for a few hours over lunch so go before 11 am, or after 2 pm if you want to pop inside.

Skunk Ape Headquarters

I’m adding this to the list as I think if the man behind the idea for this stop is there you’ll have a pretty enjoyable visit. When we visited there wasn’t really anyone on hand to talk about the myth (or truth!) of the Skunk Ape – a kind of swamp version of Big Foot.

It’s worth having a stroll around the shop and flicking through books about Skunk Ape whatever you think.

H. P. Williams Roadside Park

This is another great place to stop off at during your self guided Everglades tour. It’s right off the road and there’s a short boardwalk along the river which is teeming with alligators.

There are plenty of picnic benches too if you’re feeling hungry!

Kirby Storter Roadside Park

Another great place to stop is Kirby Storter Roadside Park. The boardwalk here is longer (1 mile) through the Cypress trees towards a small pond where you’ll likely see gators (or at least their tracks!).

Miccosukee Indian Village

If you want to add some culture and history to your Everglades activities, then stop off at Miccosukee Indian Village.

Sure, it’s pretty touristy but you’ll still learn about the Miccosukee tribe (the original inhabitants of these parts). Just skip the alligator show.

A map for your driving tour of the Everglades

Check out this Florida Everglades map to see the suggested stops on your self-guided Everglades driving tour.

This self-driving tour of the Everglades takes you along Hwy 41 avoiding the infamous “alligator alley” in the Everglades to the north.

Additional things to do in the Florida Everglades

If you’re looking for more Everglades National Park things to do then check out the following ideas for your Everglades vacation.

Drive the scenic Loop Road in the Everglades

The scenic Loop Road takes you into some of the more remote areas of the Everglades National Park. It’s not a paved road so bear in mind you’ll probably one a 4×4 or at least a vehicle with high clearance.

You should also take into consideration that the cypress swamp you drive through on Loop Road is flooded in the summer wet season (May – October).

Other things to consider when visiting the Everglades

• Take food and plenty of water . It’s hot and there are very limited places to stock up on food. Most roadside stops have a water fountain though.
• Take sunscreen : It’s usually hot and sunny in Everglades city
• Respect the wildlife . Alligators are dangerous when threatened. Stick to the paths and don’t get too close.
• Take all your rubbish with you.  Leave no trace.
• Go early. This way you avoid the crowds and are likely to see more wildlife. During the heat of the day, they tend to hide away.

Best time to visit Everglades National Park

The dry season in the Everglades lasts from November to March and the wet season from April to November.

We visited towards the very end of the dry season and noticed that a lot of the pools were dried up. The dry season is considered to be the busy season because of the warm winters.

During these months you’ll see the largest variety of wading birds and their predators as the animals tend to congregate in the small pools of water that remain.

This creates prime animal-watching spots for you!

In the wet season, there are a lot more bugs and the National Park doesn’t run its ranger programs.

For these reasons, I’d recommend visiting during the dry season when you can make the most of ranger programs and are more likely to see a wider variety of wildlife.

We did our driving tour of the Everglades early in the morning when the temperatures were cooler, the wildlife was out before it retreats to sleep during the day, and there were fewer people about to.

Where to stay in the Everglades

If you’re coming from Miami then it’s probably worthwhile staying in Miami and travelling out for your Everglades trip. 

The following are all west of downtown Miami which makes them closest to Everglades National Park. They’re also budget-friendly and highly rated.

• Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Airport West/Doral: Well located for enjoying the Everglades Florida and you can enjoy the added luxuries of an on-site bar and a complimentary hot breakfast.
• Courtyard by Marriott Miami at Dolphin Mall: Free parking, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and on-site dining at The Bistro, all just a stone’s throw away from Miami International Mall and a short drive from Florida International University.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Miami-Doral Dolphin Mall: Outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and complimentary hot breakfast, coupled with rooms with kitchenettes in all suites; get in shape at the fitness center and explore local dining options like Las Vegas Cuban Cuisine and Spizzigo Italian Restaurant

FAQs about arranging an Everglades Park tour

Where are the everglades in florida.

The Everglades are located in southern Florida. There are four Everglades National Park entrances with Everglades Visitor Centres. There’s the Gulf Coast Visitor Centre in the east, the Shark Valley visitor center to the west, the Ernest F. Coe visitor center, and the Flamingo visitor center in the south. We drove to the Everglades from the small town of Naples in southwestern Florida and stopped at the Shark Valley visitor center.

Can you drive through the Everglades?

Yes, you can drive many of the roads through the Everglades but you’ll want to get out and walk some of the boardwalks and trails to maximize your chances of seeing some of the wildlife.

How to visit the Everglades?

Visiting the Everglades National Park can be done via driving, biking, boating, or hiking. A range of guided tours, including airboat rides, are available. Remember to prepare for the weather and bring bug repellent, as the park is a wilderness preserve

How far is the Everglades from Miami?

The Everglades National Park is approximately a one-hour drive from Miami, depending on the starting point and traffic. The distance is approximately 35-50 miles, which makes it a great day trip opportunity for those staying in Miami.

How to tour the Everglades?

There are many ways to tour the Everglades, including hiking, canoeing, biking, and airboat tours. This drive through everglades national park takes you to all the best places for wildlife spotting in the unique ecosystem of the Everglades.

Final thoughts on this Everglades tour Miami

As your Everglades self driving tour comes to an end and you’ve experienced the beautiful Everglades by car, you’ll have hopefully seen plenty of wildlife from alligators in the marshes to birds in the trees.

This Everglades National Park driving tour is a chance to embrace nature, learn about diverse wildlife, and create unforgettable memories. Instead of booking a guided Everglades tour, check out these free things to do in the Everglades instead.

Now that you’ve crossed off this Everglades Florida trip, it’s time to continue working through your Florida bucket list or this list of the best places to see on the east coast of the USA .

Last Updated on July 12, 2023 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

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We’ve just got back from Miami and did an Everglades tour without reading up on it first. OMG some of it was awful – there was a show after where a guy handled the alligators who were kept in cages and you could have your photo taken with a baby croc for $3 … I felt so so uncomfortable about the whole thing but looking round no one else seemed to care. I’ll be doing a blog post and will definitely link your article as an alternative others should do!

I’m even more glad I skipped the tour now! I would’ve felt really awkward too. We were chatting to some people on the trails we walked along and they all seemed super happy they got to stroke a baby crocodile but that’s totally not for me. Thanks for sharing it and hope you had a fab time in Miami!

[…] a tour in the Everglades it’s easy, and arguably more fun, to plan a self-guided tour to the Everglades. This gives you the chance to watch the wildlife at your own pace and stop where ever you like […]

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Everglades Tour: Self-Guided Drive

Tour Details

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Welcome to the everglades tour.

Venture into a strange, diverse ecosystem unlike anywhere else on planet Earth! This Everglades Tour takes you to the most remarkable sites in this one-of-a-kind national park and delves into the complicated, fraught history of the land along the way.

Stroll along boardwalks shaded by lush jungle greenery, see alligators and wading birds in their natural habitat, and find out for yourself what makes this stretch of southern Florida so special!

About the Tour

Your Everglades tour begins in Florida City, just northeast of the national park. From there, you’ll drive toward the park itself, passing a wildlife rescue and an alligator farm along the way!

On your way to the park entrance, you’ll hear about how the Everglades formed, how it became home to the powerful Calusa tribe, and how that tribe ultimately met their end. Then, you’ll get a glimpse into the numerous distinct ecosystems which make up the Everglades.

The first trail you’ll pass upon entering the park is actually two trails! The Gumbo Limbo and Anhinga Trails are among the park’s most popular thanks to their shade, scenery, and plentiful wildlife.

After that, you’ll pass the Pinelands Trail, which leads through beautiful hardwood forests. You’ll also learn about 20th-century plans to drain the Everglades and the hard work of conservationists to stop that from happening.

Pa-Hay-Okee Lookout Tower is next, offering panoramic views of the so-called “river of grass” all around. It’s an unbeatable spot for a photo op!

On your way to the Mahogany Hammock Trail, featuring the largest living mahogany tree in the United States, you’ll hear some chilling tales about Everglades cryptids, including the menacing Alligator King and the elusive Skunk Ape—also called Bigfoot’s cousin!

Nine Mile Pond trail waits ahead for those looking to escape the water. This canoe trail is perfect for anyone bringing a boat on their journey. Around here, you’ll also find out about the continuing threats to the delicate environment of the Everglades, from air pollution to invasive species like the Burmese python.

West Lake Trail and Snake Bight Trail wait just ahead, both offering incredible views of the water. See if you can spot the telltale ripples of a crocodile or alligator somewhere on the lake!

As you drive toward Christian Point Trail on the Everglades tour, a slightly more challenging trek, you’ll discover how natural disasters like wildfires and hurricanes might not be so disastrous for the Everglades after all.

Then you’ll pass by the Flamingo Visitor Center, which offers boat and bike rentals for adventurous travelers.

Finally, you’ll reach the Eco Pond. Usually full of wading birds, softshell turtles, and alligators, this is a wildlife watcher’s dream! Your tour concludes just beyond the pond.

NOTE:  For road closures & reservation fees, visit  nps.com

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Where To Start?

Starting Point Address: 254 W Palm Dr, Florida City, FL 33034

How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Your tour of the Everglades begins in Florida City, just outside Miami.

Everglades Outpost

Pay a visit to a wildlife rescue where you can meet over 200 exotic animals and support an important mission.

Alligator Farm Detour

Take a detour to a stretch of marshland where you're guaranteed to see some alligators.

Everglades Formation

Turn back the clock 150 million years and find out how the Everglades became what they are in the first place.

Get to know the ancient Calusa tribe, who once called these Everglades their home.

Juan Ponce de Leon

Revisit the dramatic events which unfolded when explorers first encountered the Calusa people.

Entering the Everglades

Pick up some quick tips as you enter Everglades National Park.

Everglades Ecosystems

Learn about the many distinct ecosystems of the Everglades, including how all of them manage to thrive in a single region.

Gumbo Limbo & Anhinga Trails

Stroll two of the most popular trails in the Everglades and spot some of the park's incredible wildlife.

The End of the Calusa

Find out what became of the once-powerful Calusa and how it happened.

Draining the Everglades

Hear about the settlement of the Everglades and the plans to destroy this precious landscape for good.

Get acquainted with the wildlife of the Everglades, including the most endangered species in the park.

Pinelands Trailhead

Take a quick, easy walk through one of the lesser-known ecosystems of the Everglades.

Earnest F Coe

Learn about the so-called "father of the Everglades" and how he earned his esteemed title.

Marjory Stoneman Douglas

Hear about Earnest F Coe's partner in conservation, who helped save the Everglades from destruction.

Uncover the hidden history of wilderness experts who survived off the land in the Everglades for years.

Pa-Hay-Okee Lookout Tower

Survey the "river of grass" from on high at this lookout tower offering unbeatable views.

Gators and Crocs

Get to know the most famous residents of the Everglades a whole lot better with some quick facts.

The Alligator King

Hear the chilling tale of an enormous alligator who is said to have once roamed this wetland.

The Legend of Skunk Ape

Discover the legend of Skunk Ape, a supposed cousin of Bigfoot!

Mahogany Hammock Trail

Walk through dense hardwood forest along a winding boardwalk which leads to the largest living mahogany tree in the US!

Building the Roads

Find out how workers actually built a road atop these notoriously treacherous wetlands.

Clean Air Act

Learn why the Clean Air Act of 1977 was so important for the survival of the Everglades.

Climate Change

Hear about one of the biggest threats to the Everglades, as well as what's being done to prepare for it.

Nine Mile Pond Trail

Paddle along this one-of-a-kind canoe trail which weaves through the lush marshland.

Building Blocks of Life

Zoom in on one of the most important and most unappreciated residents of the Everglades.

Invasive Species

Uncover the true threats posed by invasive species, from ferns to fish to giant snakes.

West Lake Trail

Check out a boardwalk trail offering clear views across the West Lake.

Snake Bight Trail

Visit this humorously-named hiking trail through dense undergrowth and keep your eyes open for wildlife.

Find out how the Everglades have adapted to wildfires and how each ecosystem interacts with this phenomenon differently.

Everglades Hurricanes

Discover why the powerful hurricanes which sweep across Florida might not be as dangerous to the Everglades as they appear.

Christian Point Trail

Escape the crowds with this less-populated hiking trail through the wilderness.

Flamingo Visitor Center

Stop for snacks, info, and a quick break at this eco-friendly visitor center.

Eco Pond Trailhead

Your tour concludes just beyond the Eco Pond, one of the top spots to see Everglades wildlife.

Preview The Tour

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Everglades National Park: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Curious about exploring Everglades National Park in a whole new way? Imagine cruising through its enchanting landscapes while enjoying captivating stories and fascinating facts.

The self-guided driving audio tour offers a unique perspective, but what makes it stand out from traditional tours? There’s a reason why travelers are opting for this modern approach to discovering the secrets of the Everglades.

• Explore 9 diverse ecosystems with audio storytelling.
• Enjoy hassle-free booking and flexible cancellation.
• Encounter alligators, birds , and Calusa tribe history.
• Experience seamless support, informative content , and affordability.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Full-Day Kayak Adventure in the Everglades
• Clear Kayak Tours in Fort Pierce
• Clear Kayak Tours in Weeki Wachee
• Semi-Private 1-Hour Airboat Tour of Miami Everglades

Booking and Flexibility

When booking the Everglades National Park audio tour, travelers can enjoy flexible arrangements with features like free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later for convenient travel planning.

The cancellation policy allows visitors to make changes without worry, providing a safety net in case plans shift. Plus, the payment options offer ease of mind by enabling travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment, ensuring a hassle-free booking process.

These features cater to the needs of modern explorers who seek convenience and flexibility in their travel arrangements, making the Everglades National Park audio tour a stress-free and enjoyable experience from the moment of booking.

Tour Highlights

Explore the Everglades National Park audio tour to encounter 9 distinct ecosystems teeming with alligators, crocodiles , wading birds , and more in their natural habitats. Enjoy the picturesque boardwalks surrounded by lush jungle scenery , where you can learn about the rich history of the Calusa tribe and the environmental advocacy of Marjory Stoneman Douglas. The tour takes you through various trails, each offering unique features and abundant wildlife sightings. To provide a quick overview of the tour highlights, here is a table:

Included Features

The audio tour of Everglades National Park offers a user-friendly app that provides an interactive experience with engaging storytelling and a comprehensive route. Through various engagement techniques , visitors can enjoy the rich history and biodiversity of the park.

The app includes interactive elements that enhance the touring experience, such as offline maps and hands-free audio stories. One notable feature is the all-day support line, ensuring assistance is readily available. Plus, the tour is priced per car for affordability, allowing groups to explore together without additional costs per person.

These included features make the self-guided driving audio tour a convenient and enriching way to discover the wonders of Everglades National Park.

Customer Reviews

Visitors have praised the Everglades National Park audio tour, giving it an impressive overall rating of 4.3/5 based on 17 reviews.

The value for money was rated at 4.4/5, with positive feedback on the informative content and engagement provided. Many reviewers appreciated the engaging storytelling and comprehensive route. Some customers suggested including more detailed ecology insights to enhance the experience further.

While interactive quizzes weren’t explicitly mentioned, the reviews highlighted the tour’s value and engagement. The majority of customers found the tour informative, engaging, and worth the investment.

The feedback indicates a high level of satisfaction with the audio tour experience at Everglades National Park.

Support and Communication

Support and communication for the Everglades National Park audio tour are easily accessible through various channels such as calls, chats , or emails , ensuring visitors have assistance whenever needed. Meeting points are clearly marked on the app, guiding travelers to the starting locations for the tour.

In case of any emergencies or inquiries, there are dedicated emergency contacts available for immediate help. Whether it’s a question about the tour route or a need for some guidance on the best spots to explore, the support team is just a call, chat , or email away.

This ensures that visitors can enjoy a seamless and stress-free experience while exploring the beauty of the Everglades National Park with the self-guided driving audio tour.

Route Suggestions

For enhanced exploration and wildlife encounters in the Everglades National Park, consider following the suggested routes that showcase diverse ecosystems and unique wildlife habitats.

Photography tips : Capture stunning shots of the Everglades’ flora and fauna.

Nature walk suggestions: Take leisurely strolls along designated trails to immerse in the park’s natural beauty.

Scenic viewpoints : Stop at designated areas to enjoy breathtaking vistas and capture memorable moments.

These routes not only offer opportunities for photography enthusiasts but also provide ideal settings for peaceful nature walks and picnics at scenic viewpoints . By following these suggestions, visitors can make the most of their self-guided driving tour in the Everglades National Park.

Wildlife Spotting Tips

To maximize your chances of spotting diverse wildlife in the Everglades National Park, venture into the heart of its ecosystems with patience and keen observation. Wildlife spotting in the Everglades can be a thrilling experience if you come prepared. For photography enthusiasts, consider bringing a telephoto lens to capture clear shots of animals from a safe distance.

Binoculars are essential for spotting birds like herons and egrets in the distance. Look for movement in the vegetation, as many animals blend seamlessly into the surroundings. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for wildlife activity, so plan your visit accordingly.

Remember to tread quietly and avoid sudden movements to not startle the creatures you’re hoping to see.

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• Anna Maria Island Scavenger Hunt
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• Rosemary Beach Scavenger Hunt

Common questions

Are There Any Recommended Stops for Food or Restroom Breaks Along the Self-Guided Driving Tour Route in Everglades National Park?

Restroom facilities and picnic areas are available along the self-guided driving tour route in Everglades National Park. Visitors can also find local dining options and convenience stores for food and snacks during their exploration.

Can the Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Areas of Interest Within the Park?

Yes, the self-guided driving audio tour offers customization options , allowing visitors to focus on specific areas of interest within the park. Experience the park highlights in a personalized way, enhancing your exploration and learning.

Are There Any Restrictions or Guidelines for Photography During the Self-Guided Driving Tour?

Photography guidelines during the self-guided driving tour involve respecting wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors should maintain a safe distance from animals, refrain from using flash photography, and follow park rules to ensure both their safety and the animals’ well-being.

Is There a Recommended Time of Day to Start the Self-Guided Driving Tour for the Best Wildlife Viewing Opportunities?

For the best wildlife viewing opportunities during the self-guided driving tour, experts recommend starting in the early morning for prime birdwatching. Sunset safaris offer unique animal sightings, while midday picnics and nighttime stargazing provide different perspectives of the Everglades ecosystem.

Are There Any Special Events or Activities Happening Within Everglades National Park That Visitors Should Be Aware of During Their Self-Guided Driving Tour?

Visitors embarking on the self-guided driving tour should keep an eye out for special events and wildlife sightings within Everglades National Park. These experiences can add unique and memorable moments to their journey.

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• Fort Pierce: 4-hr Mangroves & Dolphin Watch Sandbar in FL
• Miami: South Beach Golf Cart Tour
• Jupiter: Loxahatchee River Scenic Kayak Tour
• Silver Springs: Guided Glass Bottom Kayak Tour
• Silver Springs Manatee Kayaking Tour
• Orlando Kayak Tour: Blackwater Creek Scenic River With Lunch
• Naples, FL: Manatees, Grasslands and Mangroves Kayak Tour
• Private 1.5-Hour Airboat Tour of Miami Everglades
• Orlando: Small Group Manatee Discovery Kayak Tour
• Florida Keys: Dockside Dolphin Experience
• LEGOLAND Florida Resort: 1-Day With Peppa Pig Theme Park

Set out on a seamless journey through Everglades National Park with the self-guided driving audio tour, offering flexibility , immersive storytelling , and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Discover the park’s rich history and diverse ecosystems at your own pace, guided by informative audio stories and offline maps.

With free cancellation and pay-later options, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free exploration of this natural wonder.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the wonders of the Everglades in a whole new way!

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Everything you need to know about Everglades National Park

Plan your trip to the southern tip of Florida to visit the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.

Why you should go to Everglades National Park

Sprawling between South Florida’s Lake Okeechobee and the Gulf of Mexico, the Everglades is one of the world’s largest tropical wetlands. About 20 percent of the region is protected within the confines of Everglades National Park , the third largest national park after Death Valley and Yellowstone in the lower 48 states. While the park’s main purpose is preserving wilderness, Everglades also provides plenty of scope for outdoor adventure.

Although technically a wetland , perhaps it’s best to think of the Everglades as the nation’s slowest, widest river—a constant stream of freshwater roughly 60 miles wide, moving at a speed of around 2.5 miles per day as it makes its way south to Florida Bay. The Seminole people called the region Okeechobee (“river of grass”). And while a large part of the Everglades is covered in razor-sharp sawgrass, the region also encompasses mangroves , tropical hardwood hammocks (island forests), pine and cypress forests, freshwater prairie, and various marine and estuarine habitats.

(This ambitious new trail will someday connect South Florida’s two national parks.)

“A visitor with an untrained eye—especially one used to the dramatic vistas of some western national parks—might arrive at Everglades National Park and think ‘What's the big deal?’” says Eve Samples, executive director of Friends of the Everglades. “It's a park that requires you to really train your eye and be mindful and be present. When you do that, you can experience some really incredible and subtle nature.”

Where to find the best views in the park

With elevation ranging between sea level and eight feet, it’s not easy to snatch a lofty view of the park anywhere other than the 70-foot-high Shark Valley Observation Tower . Opened in 1984, the futuristic spiral renders views of up to 20 miles across the Everglades.

Fourteen miles west of Coe Visitor Center along the Main Park Road, the Pa-Hay-Okee boardwalk and elevated shade shelter provides another wide view across the river of grass.

One of the best coastal views is from the second-floor breezeway of the Guy Bradley Visitor Center in Flamingo.

Where to find the park’s best trails

Located near Coe Visitor Center, the Gumbo Limbo Trail (0.4 mile) and Anhinga Trail (0.8 mile) meander through Royal Palm hammock, while the 22-mile Long Pine Key Trails   penetrate the park’s largest stand of native pines.

Dead flat and paved, the 15-mile Shark Valley Trail varies between sawgrass marsh and tropical hardwood hammocks. Despite the name, there aren’t any sharks, just snoozing gators to step around (at a safe distance, of course).

Where to spot wildlife

Flamingo village is surprisingly good for wildlife. Osprey hatch and raise their young on nesting towers beside the marina, while manatees and American crocodile are sometimes spotted in the bay and nearby mangrove channels.

Alligators   routinely emerge from the swamp and sun themselves on or beside the Shark Valley Trail . It’s also a primo bird habitat for creepy-looking wood storks, gorgeous roseate spoonbills, and anhinga “snakebirds.”

Other places to watch gators and birdlife are the Anhinga Trail and Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk   in Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park adjacent to the national park.

(Go on a wildlife odyssey through the Everglades and Key West.)

How to visit the park like a Nat Geo Explorer

National Geographic Young Explorer and conservation biologist Gabriela Tejeda has guided visitors along the park’s Florida Bay coast in boats, kayaks, and on paddleboards.

Her favorite way to explore inland areas is "slough slogging." It entails hiking in knee-to-waist-high water through sawgrass to reach secluded hardwood hammocks   or cypress domes —flora and fauna rich arboreal islands in the sawgrass.

When viewed from above, the domes form a rough circle around a pond. “What I didn’t know the first time I explored a dome,” Tejeda recalls, “is that the water in the middle is an ‘alligator hole’—a place where they hang out in the winter when the rest of the Everglades is drying out.”

“[The cypress domes] are unlike anything I had ever seen,” Tejeda continues. “I like to equate them to a fairy tale—a little fairy dome where you just feel like there’s going to be something magical flying around.” No fairy sightings so far. “But I always see owls and alligators and snakes.”

She highly recommends joining a ranger-led slough slog to Double Dome or other cypress domes along the Main Park Road.

Notable activities and excursions

Driving:   The Main Park Road runs through a variety of Everglades ecosystems—freshwater prairie, cypress forest, mangrove, and coastal marsh — on a 38-mile journey between the Coe Visitor Center and Flamingo . Along the way are sideroads to the Royal Palm trails, Historic Nike Missile Site , the   Mahogany Hammock boardwalk trail, and West Lake Boardwalk .

Tours:   Shark Valley offers two-hour narrated tram tours that stop at the Shark Valley Observation Tower. January through April, rangers lead Full Moon/New Moon Bike Rides and other activities.

Narrated boat tours depart from Flamingo and Everglades City . The latter is also homebase for private outfitters offering airboat tours, including Everglades City Airboat Tours. History buffs should visit the town’s small but interesting Museum of the Everglades .

Paddling:   Flamingo and Everglades City bookend the Everglades’ ultimate kayak/canoe experience —the Wilderness Waterway —a 99-mile meander through mangroves and marshes with raised platform “chickee hut” campsites along the way. Everglades City is also the starting point for self-guided paddles along the Turner River Canoe Trails .

Best things to do for families

Bikes & boats:   If keeping kids active is your mission, rent bikes and dodge snoozing alligators along the Shark Valley Tram Trail or explore Florida Bay and the mangroves by boat. Flamingo Adventures   offers canoe and kayak rentals in two-hour increments, as well as full-day pontoon boat rentals.

Tours:   Hop aboard a narrated boat tour of Florida Bay (from Flamingo Marina) or the Ten Thousand Islands (from Port Everglades); or feel the wind in your face during an adrenaline-pumping airboat ride from outfitters around the periphery of the park.

Junior Rangers:   Offered in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole, the park’s Junior Ranger Booklet features hands-on and self-guided activities including a scavenger hunt to spot wild animals that call the park home.

The park also participates in the Every Kid Outdoors program that provides vouchers for fourth graders and their families in the U.S. to visit the Everglades (and other national parks) free of charge for an entire year.

Where to stay

Hotels: Destroyed by a hurricane in 2005, Flaming Lodge is open again with new waterview rooms. Outside the park, the closest hotels are in Homestead and Doral (on the eastern edge of the park) and Everglades City, Marco Island, and Naples (beyond the western edge).

Houseboats: Modern, six-person, 42-foot houseboats at Flamingo Marina are equipped with a bathroom (and with shower), an indoor galley, outside grill, air conditioning, bedding, and fish-cutting tables.

Camping: Long Pine Key Campground is open November 1 to April 30. Flamingo Campground is open year-round. Both feature bath houses, dump stations, and potable water. Reservations highly recommended. For camping with the comforts of home, Winter Glamping Tents are available November-April in Flamingo.

Wilderness camping is allowed on certain ground or beach sites or “chickees” (elevated camping platforms). Most sites are accessible only by water and all require wilderness permits. Reservations at Recreation.gov .

Here’s what else you need to know

Access: Although the entire coast is open to exploration via watercraft, land-bound visitors have three options for entering the park: Everglades Homestead in the east, Shark Valley in the north, and Gulf Coast in the northwest.

When to visit:   The dry season (December to March) is when most ranger programs and park concessions are available. This is also the best time to see wading birds and other wildlife. The wet season (April to November) is hot, humid, buggy, and has fewer park services.

“Many people prefer the winter for the terrific weather,” says ranger Allyson Gantt. “But each season offers something special. The shoulder seasons of fall and spring are less busy and may offer more solitude. Summer is especially great for boating and other water activities.”

Closures: A multi-year construction project to raise the level of the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) often features delays. Shark Valley parking is often full by 10 a.m. Check out the latest road, trail, and parking lot conditions, plus weather and prescribed burning alerts at the park’s   conditions page.  

Fishing: Unless you’re under 16 or a Florida resident 65 or older, a state fishing license is required. Anglers casting south of Nine Mile Pond need a saltwater fishing license; from Nine Mile Pond northwards, a freshwater fishing license is mandatory.

Swimming: Swimming and snorkeling are forbidden anywhere inside the park.

Remote control aircraft: Drones, model airplanes, and similar unmanned aircraft are not allowed in the park.

Read before you go:   Originally published in 1947, the definitive Everglades book remains The Everglades: River of Grass ,   by Florida writer and conservationist Marjory Stoneman Douglas.

Are pets allowed?  

Because of the park’s wildlife-rich environment—and the potential threat that it poses to both pets and wild animals—pets and service animals are only allowed in parking lots, on boats, and in the campgrounds and picnic areas at Flamingo and Long Pine Key.

How accessible is Everglades?

Among the accessible sites and services are seven trails, all four visitors centers, two developed campgrounds and one backcountry campsite, narrated boat tours, and the Shark Valley Tram Tour. Visitor information via TDD is available at (305) 242-7740.

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS
• BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

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This Is My South

A travel guide to the Southern USA

6 Ways to Experience the Florida Everglades

July 17, 2013 By Caroline Eubanks 1 Comment

The Florida Everglades are unlike the landscapes found anywhere else in the world. Everglades National Park encompasses over 1 million acres through three counties. 

You could easily spend a week in the area, wandering around the national park, paddling out into the water in search of wildlife or just checking out the quirky landmarks nearby. Drive from Miami in a rental car or campervan and head south to experience the fascinating landscapes.

Tours of the Florida Everglades

Airboat tours, sawgrass recreation park.

Located near Fort Lauderdale , Sawgrass Recreation Park  offers airboat tours through the glades, the quintessential experience. It’s a great place to spot Florida’s wildlife , namely the alligators and manatees. If you don’t have time to travel further south, this place is a good introduction.

1006 N. U.S. Highway 27, Weston

Wet Walk Tours, Everglades International Hostel

The area’s best and only eco-hostel not only offers cheap accommodation through dorms and camping but also offers tours through the park led by expert local guides for around $30. Everglades Hostel and Tours  even offer tours at night!

20 SW 2nd Avenue, Florida City

Self Guided Tour, Everglades National Park

Even if you don’t take a tour from Florida City or even Miami , you can rent a car and drive yourself through the Everglades National Park’s Ernest Coe Visitor Center.

There are many points of entry into the park, but admission is $10 per vehicle, which is good for 7 days. Campsites are also available.

Ernest Coe Visitor’s Center, 40001 State Road 9336, Homestead

Essential Places to Visit in the Everglades

Coral castle.

Easily one of the state’s most quirky destinations, Coral Castle Museum  was built by a man trying to prove his love to a woman. At only five feet, how he created this coral masterpiece is still a mystery. Admission allows visitors to wander the “castle.”

28655 South Dixie Highway, Miami

Robert is Here Fruit Stand

What started as a small town fruit stand has become a regional sensation. Robert Is Here Fruit Stand  has some of the most offbeat fruits and delicious smoothies anywhere. It also boasts a petting zoo on site. It’s the perfect place to fuel up before driving further into the park.

19200 SW 344th Street, Homestead

Schnebly Winery & Brewery

If you’re looking for a way to kill a few hours, visit the Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery . For $7, you can get samples of their beers and wines as well as purchase some to take with you. Many use the tropical fruits found in South Florida.

30205 SW 217 Ave, Homestead

Everglades Tours to Book

• Everglades Walking Tour
• 3-hour Everglades Tour from Miami
• Full day Everglades, Big Cypress and 10,000 Islands, Airboat and Boat Ride
• Full Day Kayak Adventure in the Everglades
• Small-Group Tour: Florida Everglades Swamp Walking Eco-Tour

Have you been to the Florida Everglades?

About Caroline Eubanks

Caroline Eubanks is the editor of this website, a Lowell Thomas award-winning travel writer, and the author of This Is My South: The Essential Travel Guide to the Southern States. Her stories from the South have appeared in National Geographic Traveler, Afar, Thrillist, Roads and Kingdoms, and BBC Travel.

Reader Interactions

January 5, 2020 at 5:48 pm

Flying to Fort Lauderdale on Tuesday and I want to meet up with my cousin from Naples,FL on Wednesday. would you recommend a meeting point?

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