Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission with Optional Lunch

Traveling through Florida’s wetlands offers a chance to see a side of the state that many visitors miss — quiet, wild, and full of surprises. Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters or a scenic escape from theme parks, the Florida Everglades Airboat Tour combined with Wild Florida’s Wildlife Park makes for an engaging experience. We’ve looked into what this tour offers, and here’s what you should know before booking.

Two things stand out immediately: the chance to glide across 4,200 acres of swampy wilderness aboard an airboat, and the opportunity to meet animals like lemurs, zebras, and alligators at the park. Plus, the reviews show that guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience more educational and enjoyable. That said, it’s worth considering the weather, as wind and chill can affect comfort during the boat ride. This tour suits wildlife lovers, families, and adventure seekers wanting a taste of Florida’s natural beauty without straying too far from Orlando.

Key Points

• Combines a scenic airboat ride with wildlife park visits.
• Guided by knowledgeable US Coast Guard captains.
• Offers flexibility with 30-minute or 1-hour boat options.
• Suitable for all ages, including children.
• Emphasizes connection with nature and conservation.
• A solid value for the price, especially when combined with park attractions.

A Close Look at the Itinerary

The adventure begins at Wild Florida’s location in Kenansville, about an hour’s drive from Orlando. This is an ideal way to escape the city’s bustle and enjoy Florida’s natural landscape. The journey itself is straightforward: no complicated logistics, just a scenic drive through central Florida’s countryside.

Stop 1: Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park

Once there, you’re greeted with the promise of an authentic wilderness experience. The highlight is the airboat ride — either 30 minutes or one hour, depending on your choice. As we understand from many reviews, this ride takes you through a sprawling 4,200 acres of wetlands that are teeming with life. The airboats skim over the water, offering a unique vantage point for observing gators, herons, eagles, and other wetland wildlife.

Expect the captain to be both entertaining and informative. Several reviews praise guides like Captain Eric or Jimmie for their knowledge and friendly manner, making the tour feel personalized rather than just a generic boat ride. The scenery is often described as peaceful, with many noting how quiet and untouched these wetlands feel — a stark contrast to Orlando’s busy attractions.

Wildlife and Park Attractions

After the boat, you’ll have access to the 13-acre Wildlife Park. Here, visitors can walk among animals like lemurs, sloths, zebras, and even Tuli Watusi cattle. The park emphasizes conservation and education, giving families a chance to see animals they might not encounter in the wild. Reviews highlight how well-maintained and friendly the park’s staff are, with one traveler noting that the small life jackets and ear protection provided for children made the experience safe and comfortable.

The park also features a tropical bird aviary and a popular alligator-handling show. Several visitors mention how engaging and humorous the show is, making it especially enjoyable for kids. One reviewer said, “We saw a lot of wildlife and beautiful scenery,” emphasizing how the experience balances education with fun.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

The tour is designed to be straightforward: check-in is about 30 minutes before your booked boat time, so arriving early helps avoid last-minute stress. The group size is capped at 14, making it intimate enough for questions and interaction with guides.

The boat ride itself is well-paced, with safety measures in place, including provided ear protection and small life jackets for children. Since most reviews mention the weather’s impact, dressing in layers and bringing a windbreaker is recommended, especially in cooler months or on windy days. Note that the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transport accordingly.

The Value for Money

At $36 per person, the experience is quite affordable considering it combines both a scenic boat ride and the chance to explore the wildlife park. The reviews are filled with comments like “worth every penny” and “great value,” especially when you factor in the educational aspect and the family-friendly nature of the tour. The optional lunch isn’t included in the base price but could be considered a bonus if you want to extend your visit.

Authentic Comments from Travelers

Many visitors appreciate guides like Captain Jimmie and Alex, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. One traveler said, “This was probably our favorite part of Florida,” while another mentioned, “They are all so friendly,” highlighting the quality of staff service.

The reviews also reveal that this tour is accessible to most travelers, including families with young children, and offers a relaxing yet exciting way to experience Florida’s wilderness. Some noted that summer gators are less visible, so planning for cooler months might enhance wildlife sightings. The scenery and wildlife encounters seem to satisfy most visitors.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a genuine feel for Florida’s wetlands, away from the commercialized attractions. The guided airboat rides provide memorable views of alligators and birds, while the Wildlife Park allows for close animal encounters. The combination of nature, wildlife, and education makes it an ideal choice for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a break from Orlando’s theme park grind.

While not a luxury experience, it’s a solid value and an authentic look at Florida’s natural side. Expect friendly guides, scenic views, and a good dose of wildlife — all wrapped in a well-organized, family-friendly package. Just come prepared for the weather, and you’ll leave with plenty of stories to tell.

FAQs

How long is the airboat tour?
You can choose either a 30-minute or a 1-hour ride, depending on what suits your schedule and interest level.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 3301 Lake Cypress Rd, Kenansville, FL, about an hour from Orlando.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, this tour is family-friendly, and small life jackets and ear protection are provided for kids.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the chosen airboat ride length and admission to the Wild Florida Wildlife Park.

Are tips included?
No, gratuities are not included and are at your discretion.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather may lead to rescheduling or refunds.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour does not include hotel transportation, so plan your own transfer or drive directly there.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I buy lunch on-site?
Lunch isn’t included in the base price, but there may be options available if you choose to extend your visit.

This guided airboat tour and wildlife park visit provides a balanced mix of adventure, education, and natural beauty — an experience that leaves most visitors pleased and eager to recommend it. Whether you’re a wildlife lover or just looking for a scenic break from theme parks, this day trip from Orlando delivers a genuine taste of Florida’s wild side.