Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park, located in southern Florida, is one of the most unique natural treasures in the United States. Known as the largest tropical wilderness of its kind in the country, it spans more than 1.5 million acres of subtropical wetlands, sawgrass marshes, mangroves, and estuaries. The park is world famous for its extraordinary biodiversity, with habitats that support species such as the American alligator, West Indian manatee, Florida panther, and hundreds of bird species. Recognized as a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, it is not only a destination for nature enthusiasts but also a crucial area for conservation and ecological study. For travelers who are passionate about exploring natural wonders, the Everglades offers a journey through pristine landscapes that cannot be found anywhere else. While exploring this guide, you may also want to read about Olympic National Park, another outstanding natural wonder in the United States.

Best Time to Visit

The Everglades has two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season.

• Dry Season (December to April): This is considered the best time to visit the park. Weather conditions are mild, humidity levels are lower, and mosquito activity is significantly reduced. This season also attracts an abundance of migratory birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. By 2025, new visitor programs will have been introduced during the dry months, including specialized ranger-led tours focusing on climate change and wetland restoration.
• Wet Season (May to November): This period is characterized by heavy rainfall, high humidity, and frequent thunderstorms. Wildlife can be more challenging to spot as animals disperse, but it is also the time when the Everglades is most lush and green. While mosquitoes are abundant during this time, the wet season provides a more adventurous and less crowded experience.

For travelers planning in 2025, the National Park Service has expanded mosquito management zones and added new shuttle services to help visitors access less accessible trails even during wetter months.

How to Reach

Reaching Everglades National Park is relatively convenient because of its proximity to major Florida cities.

• By Air: The closest airports are Miami International Airport (approximately 50 minutes from the park entrance) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (about 70 minutes away). Both airports offer direct connections to domestic and international destinations.
• By Road: Visitors can drive to the park from Miami, Homestead, or Naples. U.S. Highway 41, also known as the Tamiami Trail, provides scenic access across the Everglades, while U.S. Highway 1 connects Miami to the southern entrance near Homestead.
• By Train and Bus: Amtrak services run to Miami and Fort Lauderdale. From these cities, buses operated by local companies provide routes that connect to Homestead, where visitors can continue via shuttle services directly to park entrances.
• By Guided Tours: Many operators in Miami and Fort Lauderdale offer day trips to the Everglades. These packages typically include transportation, guided airboat rides, and wildlife encounters.

Estimated Trip Cost

Planning a trip to the Everglades requires an understanding of costs that include transportation, accommodations, food, and activities. Below is a breakdown based on average expenses in 2025.

• Flights: Domestic round-trip flights to Miami typically range from 250 to 400 USD. International flights vary significantly depending on the point of origin, but can range from 600 to 1200 USD.
• Accommodation: Budget travelers can expect to spend 50 to 100 USD per night on motels or hostels near Homestead. Mid-range hotels and lodges range from 150 to 250 USD, while luxury resorts in nearby Miami may cost between 350 and 600 USD per night.
• Food: Meals range from 10 USD for simple takeout to 50 USD for a fine dining experience. Average daily food expenses can be estimated at 40 to 70 USD per person.
• Transport: Renting a car typically costs 40 to 70 USD per day. Gasoline and parking fees at certain access points should also be considered.
• Activities: Airboat rides cost about 30 to 50 USD per person. Ranger-led tours and special excursions can range from 20 to 80 USD. Backcountry camping permits are generally 20 to 30 USD.

Overall, a 5-day trip can cost between 900 and 2000 USD per person, depending on the chosen style of travel.

Top Attractions and Activities

The Everglades is a vast park with diverse ecosystems and attractions. Some highlights include:

• Shark Valley: A popular spot for wildlife viewing, offering a 15-mile loop road that can be explored by tram, bicycle, or on foot. The observation tower provides panoramic views of the wetlands.
• Anhinga Trail: Located near the Royal Palm Visitor Center, this short boardwalk is one of the best places to see alligators, turtles, and wading birds at close range.
• Flamingo Visitor Center: The southernmost area of the park, ideal for spotting manatees and crocodiles, as well as embarking on canoe or kayak adventures through the backcountry.
• Ten Thousand Islands: An incredible maze of mangroves perfect for kayaking and boating. This area is particularly rich in marine life and birdwatching opportunities.
• Mahogany Hammock: A boardwalk trail that takes visitors into a dense forest dominated by mahogany trees, showcasing the contrast between the open marshes and closed-canopy environments.
• Wilderness Waterway: A 99-mile water route stretching between Everglades City and Flamingo. Popular among experienced paddlers and campers, it offers one of the most immersive backcountry experiences in the park.
• Big Cypress National Preserve: Located adjacent to the park, this preserve provides additional opportunities to explore swamp habitats and spot wildlife.
• Airboat Rides: Although not permitted within the national park boundaries, airboat tours are available in nearby areas and provide a thrilling introduction to the ecosystem.

Accommodation Options

Visitors to the Everglades can choose from a variety of accommodations depending on their preference and budget.

• Budget: Motels and hostels in Homestead and Florida City are the most affordable, ranging from 50 to 100 USD per night. Camping is another budget-friendly option, with sites at Long Pine Key and Flamingo.
• Mid-Range: Family-friendly hotels and lodges in the Homestead area, as well as eco-lodges that emphasize sustainability, cost between 150 and 250 USD per night.
• Luxury: While the park itself does not have luxury accommodations, nearby Miami and Key Largo offer upscale resorts, beachfront hotels, and boutique properties with costs starting at 350 USD per night.

Local Food and Cuisine

The Everglades region offers a blend of culinary traditions influenced by Southern, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures.

• Must Try Dishes: Alligator tail (served fried or grilled), conch fritters, stone crab claws (seasonal), and key lime pie are regional specialties.
• Seafood: Fresh catches such as snapper, grouper, and shrimp are widely available at local restaurants.
• Cuban and Caribbean Cuisine: Due to the proximity of Miami, visitors can enjoy authentic Cuban sandwiches, plantains, and black beans with rice.
• Recommended Restaurants: Robert Is Here (a famous fruit stand near Homestead), Everglades Gator Grill, and local seafood shacks in Flamingo and Everglades City are favorites.

Travel Tips and Safety Advice

• Weather Preparedness: Bring lightweight clothing, sun protection, and rain gear. The weather can change rapidly, especially in the wet season.
• Mosquito Protection: Mosquitoes are abundant, especially during summer. Carry insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and avoid standing water when possible.
• Wildlife Safety: Keep a safe distance from alligators and snakes. Feeding or approaching wildlife is prohibited.
• Permits: Obtain permits for backcountry camping and certain boating activities. Reservations may be required during peak seasons.
• Packing Tips: Essentials include binoculars, sturdy walking shoes, water bottles, and a camera for wildlife photography.
• Cultural Etiquette: Respect conservation rules and remain on designated trails to protect sensitive habitats.

Itinerary Suggestions

3 Day Plan

• Day 1: Arrive in Miami, drive to the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, explore Anhinga Trail, and enjoy the Shark Valley tram tour.
• Day 2: Visit the Flamingo Visitor Center, take a boat tour to see manatees and crocodiles, and explore Mahogany Hammock.
• Day 3: Experience kayaking in the Ten Thousand Islands, enjoy local seafood in Everglades City, and return to Miami.

5 Day Plan

• Days 1 and 2: Follow the 3-day plan.
• Day 3: Take a day trip to Big Cypress National Preserve.
• Day 4: Go birdwatching in the early morning, then spend the afternoon exploring cultural sites in nearby Homestead.
• Day 5: Participate in a ranger-led eco-tour and spend time in local markets before departure.

7 Day Plan

• Days 1 to 5: Follow the 5-day plan.
• Day 6: Embark on the Wilderness Waterway with a canoe or kayak, camping overnight at chickees or beach sites.
• Day 7: Return from the waterway, enjoy final birdwatching or photography sessions, and conclude with a farewell dinner featuring local cuisine.

Final Thoughts

Everglades National Park stands as one of the most remarkable and fragile ecosystems in the world. Its subtropical wetlands, rare species, and cultural heritage make it a destination that is both educational and adventurous. Travelers can explore a diversity of landscapes, from sawgrass marshes to mangrove forests, while also learning about the challenges of conservation in the face of climate change. Whether visiting for a day or a week, the Everglades promises unforgettable experiences that highlight the deep connection between humans and nature.

FAQs

What is the best month to visit the Everglades?

The best months are between December and April during the dry season, when weather conditions are comfortable and wildlife sightings are abundant.

Are airboat rides available inside the park?

No, airboats are not permitted within the park boundaries, but several licensed operators nearby offer airboat tours.

What animals can I expect to see?

Common wildlife includes alligators, manatees, crocodiles, turtles, and over 350 species of birds. With luck, you may also spot the endangered Florida panther.

Can I camp inside the park?

Yes, there are front-country campgrounds at Long Pine Key and Flamingo, as well as numerous backcountry sites accessible by canoe or kayak.

How many days are recommended to explore the park?

A minimum of three days is ideal to experience the main highlights, but five to seven days provide a more comprehensive adventure.