Explore Florida Family Adventure

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the parks, wetlands, and islands of Florida, where unique ecosystems and vibrant wildlife await. Explore the freshwater wonders of Big Cypress National Preserve with a thrilling swamp buggy tour through its vast wetland landscapes. Visit Everglades National Park to take in its awe-inspiring beauty and learn about its significance as a protected ecosystem. Experience the calm, winding waterways of the Everglades by paddle and enjoy a scenic boat tour through the breathtaking 10,000 Islands, where mangroves, dolphins, and birdlife create a living mosaic of Florida’s coastal wilds. Each day offers a new opportunity to connect with the diverse environments and rich natural heritage of the Sunshine State.

Sample Itinerary

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Meet your group in Miami, then head to Everglades National Park for a guided tram tour through Shark Valley. Enjoy lunch as a group before continuing on to your campsite in Big Cypress National Preserve. After settling into your lodging, take some time to explore the area or relax before dinner. Big Cypress is a certified International Dark Sky Place, so if scheduling allows, join a ranger-led astronomy program under the stars.

Begin with breakfast at the lodge before heading out for a morning paddle. After lunch, explore the Turner River or enjoy a swim. End the day with dinner and evening activities back at your lodging.

Pack up for the day and head out for a swamp buggy tour through the wetlands of Big Cypress, where you'll discover the unique landscapes and wildlife of this vast preserve. After lunch, enjoy a scenic boat tour through Florida’s 10,000 Islands, with opportunities to spot manatees, dolphins, and a variety of birdlife. In the evening, return to your lodging for dinner and relaxation.

Start the day with a paddling adventure through the area’s scenic waterways, exploring mangroves and spotting local wildlife along the way. In the afternoon, head out on a hike to experience Florida’s unique coastal ecosystems up close. Enjoy some free time before ending the day with a reflective evening back at the lodge.

Enjoy one last breakfast with the crew before your transfer to Miami.

Dates & Fees

Wilderness Inquiry leads trips to this area, but currently has no dates scheduled for this itinerary. If you have a group of people interested, we can set up a customized adventure just for you! Please contact us or request a trip quote below if you are interested in a group trip to this destination.

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What to Expect

TERRAIN/ROUTE: This trip involves a variety of medium-to-low exertion activities. Hiking on this itinerary will range from flat, paved trailways, to guided off-trail “wet walks”. Elevation gain will be minimal, however wet walks may involve stepping over uneven and rough terrain in an average of knee deep fresh water. This itinerary also includes snorkeling/swimming with personal flotation devices and potentially flat water canoeing.

WEATHER: Temperatures in February range from 75 F to 85 F. Nighttime temperatures in the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit, lower humidity, and relatively low rainfall.

YOUR GROUP: The group size ranges from 10 to 12 participants, plus two or more Wilderness Inquiry staff. Each group consists of people of various ages, backgrounds, and abilities, including people with disabilities. Our trips are cooperative adventures and people pitch in with camp chores as they are able.

ACCOMMODATIONS: This trip involves tent camping for the full duration of the experience. You will be staying at a local campground, where restrooms may consist of pit toilets and showers may be limited or unavailable. Be prepared for a rustic, immersive outdoor adventure!

SINGLE TRAVELERS: If you are traveling alone, you will feel at home with a welcoming group. If you would like to have your own room throughout the trip, you may purchase a single supplement for an additional fee. Please email or call us if you would like this option.

MEALS: All meals are provided as part of your trip fee. You can expect predominantly local fare from our lodges and hosts. Opportunities to purchase additional snacks will be available to participants at your own expense.

EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING: A packing list will be provided to you after confirmation of your registration. Expect a range of temperatures and climates with potential high UVA/UVB sun exposure and rainfall. We recommend you review weather forecasts in advance of your trip to best help you prepare for your personal comfort levels.

MEDICATIONS: Please list all of your medications on your registration form. Consider bringing two sets of your medications: one set that can be kept with you, and another set that will be kept by your trip leaders. If you need assistance taking your medications, please explain on your registration form. Wilderness Inquiry will bring a collection of over the counter medications (ibuprofen, Advil, anti-nausea, etc.).

CELL PHONES AND OTHER DEVICES: You are welcome to bring cell phones and other devices like cameras, but they are your responsibility to take care of. You may have spotty cell service, so we’d encourage you to take the opportunity to unplug! Wilderness Inquiry is not responsible for any lost or broken electronic devices.

SAFETY & EMERGENCIES WHILE ON TRAIL: All Wilderness Inquiry guides possess experience in administering First Aid, CPR, and Water Safety, carry fully-stocked first aid kits, GPS communication devices, and are trained on how to respond to emergency situations while on trail. If a loved one is participating in a Wilderness Inquiry experience and you need to get in contact with them due to an emergency, please contact the Wilderness Inquiry main phone line at 612-676-9400. We will work to get in contact with trip leaders as soon as possible.

COVID POLICY: We continue to monitor and update our COVID-19 policies. Wilderness Inquiry strongly encourages everyone to be fully up to date with their COVID-19 vaccination and take other necessary steps for the health and wellness of all. We ask you to self-screen for any signs of illness prior to your trip’s departure. Please contact Wilderness Inquiry if you are exhibiting signs of illness. We continue to follow all guidance and requirements of locations that we travel, keeping in mind some international destinations do require vaccinations and/or negative COVID tests.

GROUP EXPECTATIONS: To facilitate a safe and inclusive environment where we can all come together as our true selves, feel supported, and enjoy the outdoors in community, we have developed community agreements that align with Wilderness Inquiry’s core values and brand promise. We ask that you review these before your adventure so you can help Wilderness Inquiry create an inclusive environment for all.

COMMUNITY AGREEMENTS AS WE ADVENTURE TOGETHER

☐ We are safety-conscious so everyone can have fun!

☐ We seek to understand each other and celebrate our differences.

☐ We are curious, open-minded, and communicate respectfully.

☐ We are open to trying new things and pushing outside of our comfort zone.

☐ We support each other and collectively contribute to group tasks.