Sometimes, taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city is what many people need to get refreshed. Fortunately, the Florida Everglades are there if you want to go somewhere unique.
Many locals and tourists try an airboat tour at least once to go on a thrilling ride and see the animals in their natural environment. This is going to be cool, as it’s often designed for kids and adults alike.
You can embark on a journey and experience the wild ecosystem of the Everglades. Also, there are experienced captains make the most of your time in these wonderful environments, and the drivers will ensure the utmost safety of the passengers. You can also get the supplies that you need, such as coolers, so you can stay refreshed for the remainder of the tour. Some of the reasons why so many people are interested in these tours are the following:
1. Do Some Birdwatching
You can find a peaceful environment where you can watch the birds in their natural habitats and enjoy their colorful feathers. You can also get lucky when you come during the migration season, as hundreds of bird species can pass over the Everglades each year.
Wading birds are often common with the Anhinga trail, while you might see white-crowned pigeons on the nine-mile pond. Take photos of the red-shouldered hawks, warblers, and osprey that can be viewed here during the morning.
2. Attend a Ranger-Led Program
A guided tour where you can explore the Everglades can be a good idea, as there are volunteers or park rangers that will help you see the mangrove sanctuaries, help you throughout a hike in the Big Cypress, and go on boat tours with you. There might also be an option for marsh landing and exploring the wild side of Florida.
This can be a good experience to calm down even the crankiest child. There’s enough stimulation, and the engines and the boats are often running at moderate speeds to keep the older kids entertained. Most captains and rangers are also going to provide tidbits of information about the wildlife in the area, and this is a chance to learn something new.
3. See lots of American Alligators
There are a lot of alligator species that are thriving in the Everglades water. Sometimes, you can see them basking on the grassy banks and enjoying the sun. Some of these massive reptiles can grow from 8 to 15 feet, and they can often be brown, gray, or dark gray in color.
Crocodiles can also be found in South Florida, and they have narrow V-shaped snouts. Contrary to what’s often shown in the media, the Crocs are not often going to approach people and are rather shy, so they are more often going to keep a low profile when they notice that there are people around their turf. Read info about the crocodiles and alligators on this website.
4. Go into a Mangrove Haven or Jungle
You can be welcome aboard and embark on an exciting adventure with the help of an airboat. It can sail on shallow waters, and you can get into a tour that allows you to ask questions. They can go faster and get propelled by fans between the tree lines, and this is where the adrenaline rush can go in.
Overall, it’s a beautiful wilderness of interlocking branches, roots, and leaves, and you can spot some crabs, raccoons, birds, and other wildlife that’s living in the trees. You’ll also know more about their roles in the Everglades and how they can make the environment more livable for various species.
5. See the Grasslands
After going out of the mangrove forest, you might see the vast expanse of grasslands where a lot of sawgrass and cord grass are growing. You can expect the captains to perform a slow turn and maneuver to different surfaces so you can get closer to the places where they want to go. This can be a chance to know more about their history, take wonderful photos, and see clear waters. Some might even stand up in areas with low water levels, but it’s not recommended because gators are everywhere.
Other Things to Do
There are a lot of restaurants and the best places to eat after a wild ride in the Everglades. If you love food, there are shrimp, fried chicken, chili cheese, burgers, and seafood available. You can also try a gator sandwich if you want, as well as some tacos and stir-fry. If you feel a bit adventurous, then this might be a good choice for you.
Mexican flavors with gorditas, quesadillas, and burritos that are hearty and homemade can also be available in Taquerias. There are more casual destinations that feature a picnic-style environment, so you can enjoy salad, soup, and pizzas at an affordable rate.
What about the Tours?
There are a lot of airboat tours available, and their prices and services can vary. Some will be more personalized, where you can take a tour with just the entire family aboard, while others may want the group tours for cheaper rates. These guided excursions will let you see the iconic soft-shelled turtles and the alligators, and there are also shows every single day.
Some guides spend a lot of time explaining and educating, especially if you prefer the two-person outings. They can provide you with a deeper appreciation of snail kites, crowned herons, and a variety of birds that live in the marsh. Get discounted rates when you book early. It’s best to go during the off-peak season so it will be quieter. There will be few people around, and you can enjoy everything in peace.
Get a close-up view of the scenery, and you can even get a panoramic view of the marshes on certain valleys. Also, you should keep an eye out for dolphins and manatees because they may show themselves among the mangroves when the weather is nice.
