Everglades Airboat Ride and Wildlife Park Orlando

The airboat ride across the Central Florida Everglades

An airboat ride is the classic way to explore Florida's wetlands. The flat boat is driven by a large fan, so it skims over shallow marsh, sawgrass and water plants where a normal boat cannot travel. Your guide steers across open water at speed and slows down to show you wildlife, explain the landscape and answer questions.

The ride covers a large area of protected swamps, marshes and rivers in the headwaters of the Everglades system, and it is not the same as the southern Everglades National Park hours away. It gives you the feel of the Everglades close to Orlando. With the main option you have a full hour on the water, while the shorter option covers a quick 30-minute loop.

Alligators, birds and other wildlife

Alligators are the star attraction of an Everglades airboat tour. You often see them sunbathing on the banks or floating close to the boat, and guides know their favourite spots. Wading birds such as egrets, herons and ibis are common, and you may see ospreys, turtles and other marsh animals depending on the season.

Wildlife is wild, so sightings cannot be promised, but the varied habitat gives you a good chance. Early morning and late afternoon are often the most active times. Bring binoculars if you have them, wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from the wind and keep your hands inside the boat.

The wildlife park

Your ticket also includes admission to the wildlife park, which has exhibits with animals such as alligators, birds, deer and tortoises, along with a tropical bird aviary and a long sightseeing dock over the water. It is easy to walk around and takes as long as you like, so it suits families with children.

The park gives you a chance to see animals close up after the ride and to learn about the ecosystem. There are usually a gift shop and a place to buy snacks, though food and drinks are extra. Some special encounters, such as photographs with a live alligator, cost extra, and tips are not included.

Planning your visit: times, options and what to wear

Rides depart through the day, from about 9:00 AM to mid-afternoon, and the booking panel shows the times available, including same-day options. The meeting point is at the airboat park, and the exact address is shown on your voucher after booking. Depending on the option you choose, your ride lasts 1 hour or 30 minutes, and both include park admission.

Dress for the weather in light clothes and closed shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat that ties on and sunglasses. The boat is loud, so ear protection can help if you are sensitive. Children aged 3 to 12 have their own category, and infants have theirs. The facility is wheelchair-accessible. Please tell us in advance if you need help.