Know Before You Go - Everglades National Park

Start Planning! 

You’re about to go on an epic adventure at Everglades National Park! Here’s what you need to know before you go. 

• The tour has one starting point: West Palm Drive in Homestead, Florida. 
• Entrance to the park is $30 per vehicle. 
• The park is open 365 days a year - the hours vary based on staffing and seasonality. Call (305) 242-7700 to confirm the park hours during your visit.
• The park has four visitor centers that are open until 5 p.m. 
• There are no restaurants in the park - pack snacks for your visit! 
• Pack bug spray! 

Budgeting and Hours of Operation 

Budget

How much you spend truly depends on what you do along the tour route, but here’s a breakdown of some costs. 

• Entrance to the park is $30 per vehicle. 

Hours of Operation 

Although the park is open 365 days a year, the hours of operation vary based on the time of year and staff availability. Call (305) 242-7700 to confirm the park hours during your visit. The park’s visitor centers also have varying hours of operation. Those are listed below: 

• Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (April through Mid-December) and 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (Mid-December through March).
• Flamingo  8 am to 5 pm, daily. 
• Shark Valley 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, daily. 
• Gulf Coast 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, daily. 

Get Packing!

Scenic view of Everglades National Park with lush greenery, winding waterways, and diverse wildlife.Shutterstock Image

Here’s our packing list for this tour. It may seem a little long, but remember, what you bring depends on the activities you choose to do for the day. 

• Car Charger
• Lightweight clothing
• A change of clothes 
• Towels
• Swimsuit
• Sunscreen
• Snacks
• Hats/Sunglasses
• Camera/phone cleanser
• Bug repellant
• Cash

Best Time to Visit 

The best time to visit Everglades National Park is during the dry season, which is December to April. During this time the temperature is milder, the mosquitoes are at bay, and the air is less humid. 

Leave No Trace 

While exploring, we encourage you to abide by the leave-no-trace principles. Embrace the outdoors responsibly with our commitment to preserving natural wonders.

Respect wildlife habitats, minimize your footprint, and carry out memories, not waste. By following Leave No Trace principles, you contribute to the longevity and beauty of our planet's most stunning landscapes.