I knew that my Florida trip would not end without a visit to the Everglades. As part of the national parks, it is protected and plays host to an array of gorgeous wildlife: Herons, turtles and of course, alligators! Everglades Holiday Park shares this unique preserve via Everglades airboat tours, a rescue “gator pit” and presentations, boat rentals and more.
Here, highlights of my airboat trip: Such a fun, beautiful view, even on a rainy, overcast day.
Airboat rides are a great (if rather loud) way to see the Everglades. They’re flat-bottomed, so they can ride over foliage and not disturb or destroy it.Our venerable Captain Fantastic is very knowledgeable about the Everglades and protecting its wildlife.Lilypads for miles!The view is almost epic, to distant channels and the homes of much wildlife.Alligators!Boat captains know the names of every gator and call them, and don’t feed or encourage them. Each has its own territory.Getting up close with some of the younger gators. It’s a $5 fee to hold or pet.The “Gator Pit” lets captured alligators — which are usually killed in Florida — hang out in their own habitat.An educational presentation after the boat ride gives more understanding of these magnificent creatures, and is led by a volunteer (who wasn’t hurt!). Gator Boys Alligator Rescue is home to backyard invader gators.I don’t know if I can eat gator while watching gators…
I received this tour for free and all opinions are my own.
