Alligators & Orchids Eco Tour—the Beauty, and the Beast!

Rates

Adult (Ages 13+): $149.95 Child (Ages 12 & Under): $99.95

Duration

3 Hours

About

The Everglades area is a vast and varied ecosystem containing the largest mangrove forest in North America. Throughout the forest are brackish "lakes" whose waters are a mix of "sweet" freshwater and saltwater. This is part of what makes the Everglades so special. These lakes, surrounded by mangroves, are refuges and nursery grounds for herons, egrets, stilts, ducks, wood storks, spoonbills, alligators, otters and a gamut of fishes. This is where the Everglades transition from freshwater to saltwater and is a wonderful place to experience.

Interconnecting these lakes are narrow, flowing tidal creeks. The mangrove forest grows to the very edge and even over the tops of these creeks forming a canopy or a tunnel. The sunlight (or moonlight) shimmering through the canopy, the stillness of the forest vegetation and the sounds of the forest itself, make for a surreal and mystical experience in the tunnels. The dense canopy regulates moisture and humidity allowing orchids, mosses, and bromeliads to thrive. A moonlight tour or sunset tour in the tunnels can be something you will never forget.

Many guests choose a private experience. Tours conducted privately are more intimate... just you and your guide. As well, we can tailor the tour to your needs ... specific departure times, sunrise photography, sunsets, birding, etc. Our favorite times to be on the water are very early mornings and late afternoons...wildlife is commonly more active and the lighting best for photography.

This trip is commonly conducted on the upper end of the Turner River in Big Cypress Swamp National Preserve or within Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park … two wonderful parts of your planet. Sign up for a tour today! It is an experience that you will remember for a lifetime