The Everglades near Fort Lauderdale offer Florida’s most authentic wildlife encounters. Small-group airboat rides provide the best value, zipping through sawgrass marshes while spotting gators and wading birds.
Local operators like Sawgrass Recreation Park combine boat tours with hands-on wildlife exhibits. For a quieter experience, guided paddleboard tours let you glide silently past basking turtles and tropical birds.
We especially appreciate Everglades Holiday Park’s expert naturalist tours – their guides know exactly where to spot wildlife, and their airboat captains prioritize both safety and fun.
The included gator shows are educational rather than sensational.
Check our recommended safari tours below for detailed schedules and pricing.
Key Points
The Everglades Day Safari offers an immersive experience with an airboat ride, wildlife drive, and nature walk, making it a top-rated safari tour in Fort Lauderdale.
The Mangrove SUP Safari provides a private stand-up paddleboard tour through mangrove channels, led by a master naturalist guide for an educational and scenic adventure.
The 2-Hour Exclusive Everglades Airboat Safari offers an extended, private airboat ride with knowledgeable guides, providing the opportunity to see alligators in their natural habitat.
These safari tours in Fort Lauderdale offer a range of personalized group sizes, from a maximum of 13 travelers to private experiences, ensuring a tailored and intimate exploration.
The safari tours feature unique dining experiences, such as alligator appetizers, to provide an authentic and memorable Everglades adventure.
Everglades Day Safari From Ft Lauderdale
On the Everglades Day Safari from Fort Lauderdale, adventurers embark on a captivating journey into the heart of one of Florida’s most iconic natural wonders.
With a 97% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this full-day guided adventure promises an unforgettable experience. Guests begin their day with a morning pickup from the Fort Lauderdale area before boarding an air-conditioned van for the adventure ahead.
The highlights of the tour include an exhilarating airboat ride through Everglades National Park, a wildlife drive through the Big Cypress National Preserve, and a serene nature walk among the bald cypress trees.
Travelers also enjoy a scenic boat ride through the serene Ten Thousand Islands mangrove forest, where they might spot alligators, turtles, birds, and even the elusive Florida panther.
Lunch is provided, featuring the unique inclusion of alligator appetizers, adding to the authentic Everglades experience.
With a maximum of 13 travelers, this tour offers a personalized and accessible exploration of the region’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Everglades Day Safari From Ft Lauderdale Review
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Mangrove SUP Safari
Gliding effortlessly through the serene mangrove channels, adventurers embark on a captivating Mangrove SUP Safari from Fort Lauderdale. This private tour immerses guests in the lush, natural beauty of the region, as they paddle on stand-up paddleboards and discover the captivating ecosystem.
With a knowledgeable master naturalist guide leading the way, participants learn about the diverse flora and fauna found in this unique environment.
The tour includes all the necessary equipment, from stand-up paddleboards and life jackets to water bags and bottled water. Adventurers can capture their journey with the included photos, creating lasting memories of their excursion.
The private transportation ensures a seamless start and end to the experience, with pick-up and drop-off at the conveniently located West Lake Park.
Suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, the Mangrove SUP Safari offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with nature and explore the hidden waterways of Fort Lauderdale.
This activity is a must-try for anyone seeking an active, educational, and awe-inspiring adventure.
Read our full review: Mangrove SUP Safari Review
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2 Hour Exclusive Everglades Airboat Safari
Set out on a thrilling Everglades airboat safari, immersing oneself in the untamed wilderness of this iconic natural wonder. Presented by Florida Love Airboat Tours, this exclusive 2-hour journey offers a private guided ride through the serene waterways, accompanied by knowledgeable guides who share captivating insights into the Everglades’ rich history and diverse wildlife.
Glide effortlessly across the vast, grassy expanses, keeping an eye out for the majestic gators that call this ecosystem home. With free ear protection provided, adventurers can fully enjoy the sights and sounds of this unique environment, from the rustling of mangroves to the calls of native birds.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 by previous travelers, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for first-time visitors and nature enthusiasts alike, with the option to book now and pay later. Prepare for an adventure that will leave a lasting impression and a deeper appreciation for the Everglades’ natural beauty.
Read our full review: 2 Hour Exclusive Everglades Airboat Safari Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?
On a safari adventure, bringing your own food and drinks is often allowed and encouraged. Enjoy the wild experience by packing a tasty picnic, staying hydrated, and savoring the journey at your own pace.
What Should I Wear for the Safari Tour?
For the safari tour, dress in comfortable, breathable clothing that protects you from the elements. Opt for layers, sturdy shoes, and a hat to shield you from the sun. Remember to pack sunscreen and insect repellent for an optimal safari experience.
Are the Safari Tours Suitable for Children?
Safari tours are generally suitable for children, offering an engaging and educational adventure. With safety precautions in place, kids can delight in spotting wildlife, learning about nature, and creating unforgettable memories on these exciting excursions.
Do the Safari Tours Provide Any Medical Assistance?
The safari tours typically provide first-aid kits and staff trained in emergency medical care. They’ll also assist guests with any special needs or accommodate those with mobility challenges, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure for all.
Can I Take Photographs or Videos During the Safari?
Absolutely! Safari-goers can capture the thrilling sights and sounds of the wild with their cameras. Most tours encourage photography, allowing visitors to immortalize the unique wildlife encounters and create lasting memories from their exciting adventure.
The Sum Up
Venture into the lush Everglades, glide across serene mangrove waterways, and soar over the swamplands on an exhilarating airboat safari. These unforgettable experiences in Fort Lauderdale immerse you in the captivating beauty of Florida’s untamed wilderness, where you’ll discover a world of extraordinary wildlife and natural wonders. Embark on an adventure that’ll leave you awestruck and eager to explore more of this remarkable region.