Explore Florida Family Adventure
Price
Activity Level
Between 2-3
We rate trips on a scale from 1 (leisurely) to 5 (avid), with a range of activity levels in between.
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.
On our family trips, youth travel at 25% less than adults. Youth fee discounts will be reflected upon booking your trip reservation. Our Explore Florida Family Adventure trip is best suited for kids 6 years of age and older for kayaking activities. Please contact us at 612-676-9400 if you have questions or would like more details.Â
Included/Excluded
- Skilled Outdoor Leader guides
- Delicious meals in local restaurants or group prepared meals/snacks for on trail
- Equipment for all outdoor activities
- Double-occupancy or group rooms by gender or request
- Limited single-occupancy rooms available for extra cost
- Park permits & fees
- Transportation to & from trip activities
- Transportation to and from trip start and end location (including airfare)
- Optional trip insurance
- On-your-own activities, food, and shopping
Location Map
Day 1 – Exploring Shark Valley and Wetland Wonders
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 a casual afternoon activity exploring the local area. Later today you’ll settle into your lodging, and take some time to relax before dinner. If the group is feeling energized, head to Big Cypress, a certified International Dark Sky Place, and join a ranger-led astronomy program under the stars.
Day 2 – Paddling and Everglades Exploration
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.
Day 3 – Hiking and Wildlife Watching
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.
Day 4 – Paddling and Hiking
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.
Day 5 – Say Farewell to Your Trip Mates
Enjoy one last breakfast with the crew before your transfer to Miami.
Our Approach to Accessibility
Wilderness Inquiry takes a creative and multifaceted approach to accessibility on trips and programs. Understandably, an ADA-level accessibility may not always be available in wilderness and even international settings. That is why we utilize Wilderness Inquiry’s Universal Program Participation Model (UPPM) to guide our approach to accessibility by leveraging key resources such as adaptive equipment, support personnel, itinerary and activity choices, and weighing in unique environmental factors to create experiences that can be accessible to many individuals. While our trips may not follow a one-size-fits-all approach, our team does its best to ensure a variety of travel and program options that offer differing levels of accessibility for a variety of needs and abilities. If you have questions about your ability to participate on a Wilderness Inquiry trip or program, our team is always willing to explore options and solutions that suit a traveler’s interest and ability – don’t hesitate to reach out!
What is included in the trip price?
Trip fees cover all of your needs while you are traveling with us — including equipment, food, guides, permits, etc. You are responsible for bringing personal clothing and hygiene supplies. Gear such as sleeping bags, pads, and cots can be checked out during the booking process for no additional fee.
Could the itinerary change after I sign up?
Your trip is dependent on weather, availability, and potential other unforeseen circumstances. All itineraries online are “sample” itineraries that are subject to change. Please check your confirmation packet for the most up-to-date information.
There are many different route choices available within our trip locations for hiking and paddling. The routes will be chosen by Wilderness Inquiry Outdoor Leaders based on availability and the strength of the group.
What type of food will I eat during the trip?
Typical menus for overnight camping trips include pesto pasta, burritos, stir-fry, avocado caprese wraps, brats and burgers, apple cobbler, and plenty of snacks. The exact menus vary trip-by-trip. On longer wilderness expeditions, we bring more nonperishable foods that keep well for days without refrigeration. On international trips, we tend to eat the local cuisine. We can accommodate most dietary restrictions and preferences — please note this information on your registration form.
I or a member of my family has a disability. Can I/they still participate?
We strive to put accessibility at the forefront of our programs so that individuals of all abilities, including people with disabilities, can successfully participate in our trips. If you or a member of your family has a disability, you will have an opportunity to confidentially share more during the registration process for your trip. A member of our team will connect with you further over the phone to make sure we are able to provide the appropriate support or accommodations you need to have a safe and rewarding experience on your trip.
Do you offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes! We believe the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors should be available to everyone. To keep our programs as financially accessible as possible, each year we raise funds to support need-based scholarships. Certain restrictions apply. Financial aid is available for a select number of trips and is typically not available for international trips. Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more and apply.
What is your cancellation policy?
Trip deposits are due at the time of booking and are generally non-refundable.Â
- Within five weeks prior to trip departure (0-34 days):
- You are responsible for 100% of trip fees. No refunds issued.
- Five to ten weeks prior to trip departure (35-70 days):
- We will refund up to 50% of your trip fee, minus your deposit.
- Ten weeks or more prior to trip departure (71+ days):
- We will issue a refund of all trip fees paid, minus your deposit.
- The deposit may be credited to a future trip.
To view our full cancellation policy, please click here.
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