Quick Details
Meeting Location: Miccosukee Indian Village along the Tamiami Trail on U.S. Highway 41
Duration: 2.5- 3 hours depending on the group size and conditions of the day
Start Time: 10:15 AM
Age Requirement: Ages 5+ are welcome to join this program. Guest ages 5+ can join in our Institute vehicle as long as the passenger does not require a child seat or booster.
Vehicle Option:
Important Information:
- The program will start and end at the Miccosukee Indian Village. Passengers will return to them after the last stop of the tour.
- This program is not a wildlife viewing tour; it is a discussion on the intricacies of conservation.
- This program DOES NOT enter Shark Valley and DOES NOT go onto the Shark Valley tram loop road.
- 14 passengers maximum.
- Make sure to read all the information below including the drop-down menus to learn more about this trip.
- Before completing your booking, make sure to read our Cancellation Policy.
New Program Discount
Passenger
$50
$ 30
Join us on this insightful and educational journey through the Everglades National Park. This van tour offers a rare glimpse into the intricate water restoration projects that are vital for maintaining the health of the park’s diverse ecosystems.
Participants will embark on an up to three-hour guided exploration, learning about the historical, cultural, and ecological significance of the Everglades. Departing from the Miccosukee Indian Village to this trip goes to key water management structures to witness the dynamic interplay between human intervention and nature’s resilience.
While we may encounter wildlife along the way, this is not a wildlife viewing tour. Instead, our focus is on understanding the essential water restoration efforts and the balance between development, conservation, and community needs. Discussions will cover topics like the role of stakeholders, historical impacts of construction, and the indicators of a thriving ecosystem.
If you are curious about how water shapes life in the Everglades, this tour promises a unique opportunity to explore and engage with the challenges and triumphs of preserving one of the world’s most extraordinary ecosystems.
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This tour meets at the Miccosukee Indian Village, located along the Tamiami Trail (U.S. Highway 41):
đź“Ť 500 US-41, Miami, FL 33194
You can also type “Miccosukee Indian Village” into your GPS or maps app for accurate directions.Directions from Miami:
Take SW 8th Street (Tamiami Trail/U.S. 41) west out of the city. Stay on U.S. 41 for approximately 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic. The Miccosukee Indian Village will be on your left, shortly after Mile Marker 36.
Check-In Details:
Please check in with your naturalist in front of the store at the village.
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure.
- After check-in, you’ll board the Everglades Institute van for the tour.
- The program concludes back at the Miccosukee Indian Village.
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Participants must be 5 years and older to join this tour. Guest ages 5+ can join in our Institute vehicle as long as the passenger does not require a child seat or booster.
All minors must be accompanied by an adult
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We recommend bringing the following items for this tour:
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Snacks
- Plenty of Water
- Bug Repellent and/or bug jacket
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This tour uses a 14-passenger Institute van.
Please note: This vehicle is not wheelchair accessible.
If you require ADA accommodations, we encourage you to call us in advance so we can help recommend an accessible program option.
Guest ages 5+ can join in our Institute vehicle as long as the passenger does not require a child seat or booster. Our vehicle can spaciously sit 14 passengers. All passengers will return to the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center with the Naturalist at the end of the tour.
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No printing necessary. You can even complete the waivers on your phone! Adults over the age of 18 must complete and submit their own waiver. Minors ages 17 and younger must have a parent or legal guardian complete and submit a waiver on behalf of the minor. There are separate waivers for adults and minors, please be sure you are completing the appropriate waiver. All minors must be accompanied by an adult. To complete the waiver process, you will need to confirm your email address through and email that will be sent by Smartwaiver.
If you have a medical condition described on the Medical Statement or any other condition that would be contrary to safe participation in any activities, you must provide documentation that you sought the advice of a physician prior to engaging in any activities.
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Does this tour go into Shark Valley?
No. Despite the name, this tour does not enter Shark Valley or use its trails. Instead, we travel along the Tamiami Trail, near the Shark Valley area.
Where does the tour start?
We meet at the Miccosukee Indian Village (Mile Marker 36 on Tamiami Trail). This is not the Shark Valley Visitor Center, so please double-check your confirmation for the correct location.
Is this a wildlife viewing tour?
No, this is not a wildlife-focused tour. While you might see birds or alligators along the way, the focus of this program is on Everglades restoration and hydrology — how water moves through the landscape and what’s being done to protect and restore the ecosystem.
How long is the tour?
This is a 2.5 – 3 hour van tour, including multiple stops for short walks and discussion.
Is parking available?
Yes, free parking is available in the parking lot at the Miccosukee Indian Village, where the tour begins.
Are there restrooms available?
Yes, restrooms are available inside the store at the Miccosukee Indian Village before the tour begins. There are no additional restrooms available once the tour starts, so please plan accordingly.