Venture into a strange, diverse ecosystem unlike anywhere else on planet Earth! This self-guided driving tour of the Everglades takes you to the most remarkable sites in this one-of-a-kind national park and delves into the complicated, fraught history of the land along the way.

This tour starts in Florida City, just northeast of the Everglades National Park. From there, you’ll drive toward the park itself, passing a wildlife rescue and an alligator farm along the way! On your way to the park entrance, you’ll hear all about how the Everglades formed, how it became home to the powerful Calusa tribe, and how that tribe ultimately met its end. Then, you’ll get a glimpse into the numerous distinct ecosystems that make up the Everglades. The first trail you’ll pass upon entering the park is actually two trails! The Gumbo Limbo and Anhinga Trails are among the park’s most popular thanks to their shade, scenery, and plentiful wildlife. As you drive toward Christian Point Trail, a slightly more challenging trek, you’ll discover how natural disasters like wildfires and hurricanes might not be so disastrous for the Everglades after all.

Then you’ll pass by the Flamingo Visitor Center, which offers boat and bike rentals for adventurous travelers. Finally, you’ll reach the Eco Pond. Usually full of wading birds, softshell turtles, and alligators, this is a wildlife watcher’s dream! Your tour concludes just beyond the pond.