Jump into the heart of Florida’s wetlands with Gator Airboat Rides in Kissimmee. Feel the rush across marshes and spot native wildlife on an unforgettable airboat tour.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness needed; primarily a seated experience with occasional movement to board and disembark.
Wildlife
History
Kissimmee was historically a hub for cattle ranching and remains rich in native Seminole heritage tied to the wetlands.
Conservation
The tours promote awareness of the fragile wetland ecosystem, encouraging responsible tourism and habitat protection.
Gator Airboat Rides
Jump into the heart of Florida’s wetlands with Gator Airboat Rides in Kissimmee. Feel the rush across marshes and spot native wildlife on an unforgettable airboat tour.
Gator Airboat Rides is a Kissimmee, Florida-based operator offering guided airboat tours and specialty farm experiences in the headwaters of the Everglades. With over 20 years of experience operating airboat excursions, the company provides short and extended rides focused on wildlife viewing, local ecosystems, and hands-on educational components.
Tours include a 30 Minute Airboat Tour that delivers an exhilarating introduction to Florida’s wetlands and unique wildlife; a 1 Hour Night Tour designed to encounter alligators and nocturnal species during their most active hours; and the Vanilla Experience Luncheon & Farm Tour, which pairs a curated vanilla-themed meal with a Vanilla 101 presentation and a farm visit.
Safety and knowledgeable guides are central to the operations, and each tour emphasizes responsible wildlife viewing and guided interpretation of the habitat. The Vanilla Experience features a menu that includes vanilla-marinated chicken, a fresh salad, and Hawaiian vanilla bean ice cream for dessert, offering a culinary complement to the outdoor programs. The combination of airboat rides and a farm luncheon provides a distinctive regional experience that appeals to families, small groups, and visitors seeking both adventure and education.
Gator Airboat Rides operates from Kissimmee with direct access to the Everglades headwaters and positions itself as a local specialist for short-duration tours and unique specialty events. Tours offer photography opportunities and close-up wildlife observation from the airboat, suitable for guests of varied ages. Reservations are recommended during peak travel seasons and special events.
Tours Offered
3
Three distinct experiences available
Location
Kissimmee, FL
Access to Everglades headwaters
Night Tours
1 Hour Night Tour
See alligators during active hours
Experience
20+ years
Two decades of local guiding
Book the 30-minute ride, the 1-hour night tour, or the Vanilla Experience Luncheon & Farm Tour — limited spaces available.
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing
Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best for humid Florida air, with a hat and sunglasses recommended for sun protection.
Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting
A good pair of binoculars enhances your chance to see distant birds, gators, and turtles at water’s edge.
Arrive early to secure best seats
Early arrival allows for better boat placement and more personalized interaction with guides before launch.
Be prepared for noise
Airboats are loud; bring ear protection if sensitive to sound, especially for younger guests.
Sunscreen
Protects skin from strong Florida sun exposure during open-air rides.
summer
Hat
Shields face and neck from sun during the ride on open water.
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water surface to improve visibility of wildlife.
Light rain jacket
Useful to stay dry if spring showers pop up during the tour.
spring