You want to admire thousands of butterflies in a lush, tropical environment? Then, the Fort Myers Butterfly Estates are perfect for you. Here, colorful pollinators flutter about – and you can walk freely amongst them. Conversationists will tell you more about butterfly breeding, the gift shop offers useful utensils for your garden, and thanks to a café, visitors do not have to go hungry. Interested? Then, read on and learn everything you need to know about this hidden gem in Fort Myers.

Fort Myers Butterfly Estates – Attractions

Peaceful nature, shopping, dining and butterflies galore – the Fort Myers Butterfly Estates offer a wide variety of attractions.

Butterfly House

The main focal point of the Estates is the Butterfly House: a 3617 square ft. green house with lush, tropical plants. This vegetation provides food for monarchs, longwings, peacocks and other native species – and you do not have to search for them: The insects flutter freely in the green house and come close to visitors, especially to those with brightly colored clothes. No question: There is something deeply relaxing about sitting on the benches, listening to New Age music and admiring butterflies in all their splendor. Adding to the peaceful vibes are ponds where you can watch turtles and koi carps.

If you are looking for an extraordinary experience, 10:30 am is the perfect time to visit the Butterfly House. Then, you will witness the newly hatched butterflies take their maiden flight.

Guided Tours

Since its beginnings, the Florida Native Butterfly Society has strived to educate visitors on the ecological importance of butterflies. Thus, guided tours are a main focus of this NGO. In 30 minutes, you will get valuable insights into the life of these insects and learn, among other things, how to make your garden butterfly-friendly. In addition, the guides will show you how butterflies are bred at the Estates.

Gift Shop

Not surprisingly, everything revolves around butterflies at the Estates´ gift shop: There are books for children and adults, plants, gardening utensils and grow kids for breeding your own caterpillars. In addition, you can buy organic honey, and if you are looking for a souvenir, the artfully crafted deco items are ideal for you.

Bullig Coffee & Bites

No trip to the Butterfly Estates would be complete without visiting Bullig Coffee & Bites: This café offers pies and waffles, whose recipes trace back to the owner´s German grandmother. Thanks to sweet and savory variants, you are guaranteed to find something for your taste. Equally popular are the coffee specialties and the homemade frozen yoghurt.

Fort Myers Butterfly Estates – Events

The Butterfly Estates are a popular venue for wedding receptions – but these are not the only events here. During workshops, you can learn how to attract butterflies in your garden. Guided walks will teach you everything about wild herbs, and every other Sunday, children can have their faces painted. In addition, lectures, talks and cooking courses are often held at the gift shop. If you want to know more about these events, you should check the Facebook page of the Butterfly Estates.

Paw tracks in the mud, piles of leaves, scratch marks on trees – these signs indicate the presence of an elusive animal: the Florida panther. In order to protect this endangered species, the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge was established. In addition, other rare animal and plant species also live in this area.

With its rather moderate size, the refuge is perfect for a short nature trip – completely free of charge. We will show you how to make the most out of your visit, which animals you can see and when particularly worthwhile activities take place.

Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge – Things to Do

Since the Panther Refuge comprises a rather small area, the number of things to do is somewhat limited. Depending on the time of your visit, you have the choice between the following activities:

Hiking

There are two hiking trails at the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge:

The first one is a 550 yards gravel path that leads through lush vegetation and wooded hills. This path is well marked and easy to walk, even for beginners.

Being slightly longer, the second path winds its way through grassy prairies and coniferous forests. It takes about 45–90 minutes. Although Florida panthers mostly populate the inaccessible parts of the refuge, you might see their tracks along the path if you are lucky.

Please note that the second trail may be flooded and overgrown during the rainy season. Therefore, it is best to ask the refuge´s main office about the condition of the path (phone: 239-657-8001).

No matter which trail you want to tackle, the best time for wildlife observations are the early morning and late afternoon hours. Around noon, on the other hand, many animals seek shelter from the heat of the day.

Guided Tours

Every year in spring, usually on the third Saturday in March, the non-profit organization “Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge” hosts an Open House program: Then, parts of the park that are usually off-limits are opened to visitors.

Activities include swamp buggy rides, bird watching, plant tours, and guided hikes through the swamp. Bow and arrow shooting and other fun activities for children are also regularly offered.

In the near future, hunting and fishing could become legal at the refuge, as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service seeks to expand visitor access to many protected areas in Florida. More specifically, planned activities at the refuge will include sport fishing and turkey hunting.

From wide, open prairies to pristine mangrove forests, from the rippling waters of the Turner River to the last cypress forests in North America – There is hardly a place in the U.S. that can match the diversity of the Big Cypress National Preserve. If you want to see Florida’s iconic animals like alligators, manatees, turtles, waterfowl, and even panthers, this is THE place to go.

Just as diverse as the flora and fauna are the activities in this green paradise: Whether on relaxing strolls or adventurous swamp tours, whether by bike, kayak or off-road vehicle – there is always something to discover in the Big Cypress National Preserve.

We will show you what makes this protected area east of Naples so special, what kinds of animals and plants you can see here, and which places are particularly worth-while for a trip.

Big Cypress National Preserve – popular Activities

Whether on water or on land, solo or with expert guides – the following activities are particularly popular in the Big Cypress National Preserve:

Hiking

The Big Cypress National Preserve offers both short strolls and long-distance hikes. If you are looking for a comfortable experience, we recommend the wooden boardwalk next to the Oasis Visitor Center. Here, you can overlook a pond that is populated by alligators. The 4,3-mile-long Gator Hook Trail is another easy route for beginners. Please note, however, that the paths of the preserve are flooded for several months of the year. Thus, if you want to avoid wet feet, the dry season between November and May is your best friend.

Are you wondering what secrets await beyond the official hiking paths? Then, a “Swamp Walk” at Big Cypress National Preserve is perfect for you. Armed with rubber boots and a mosquito net, you will follow your guide into the flooded swampland — a place not many visitors get to see. Here, no noises disturb the peace, except for murmuring creeks and the croaking of frogs. This makes every Swamp Walk a truly serene and meditative experience.

Swamp Buggy Tours

With their huge tires, the swamp buggies of the Big Cypress National Preserve may look intimidating at first sight. However, many visitors agree: There is no better way to comfortably explore this wilderness. Depending on the provider, up to 6 people can take a seat on these all-terrain vehicles. Not only do the Swamp Buggies provide perfect vantage points for observing and photographing animals. Experienced guides will also tell you interesting stories about the flora and fauna of the Big Cypress National Preserve.

Kayaking

If you want to explore the extensive waterways of the Big Cypress National Preserve, a kayak is your best choice. Especially popular is the Turner River Paddling Trail, which starts right next to Highway 41, leads 10 miles through the protected area and even cuts into Everglades National Park. Slightly shorter, but even more varied is the Lefthand Turner River Paddling Trail starting in Everglades City. After a 3-mile-long ride along flooded prairies and mangrove forests, the trail terminates at Chokoloskee Island, a truly picturesque place off the coast.

Biking

If you are looking for a balanced mix of exercise and natural scenery, you should explore the Big Cypress National Preserve by bike: either along the historic Tamiami Trail or on one of the designated bike paths. Especially beginner-friendly is the Fire Prairie Trail: a 5-mile-long dirt road where you can marvel at the vastness of South Florida’s grasslands. Or are you looking for a challenge off the beaten track? Then, the off-road trails of the preserve are perfect for you.

Fishing

Fishing is allowed in all lakes, ponds, and rivers of the Big Cypress National Preserve. Although no special permit from the national park is required, visitors still need a State Fishing License. With this license, you will be ready to catch more than 60 species of fish – including eels, catfish, sea brass and snapper.

Camping

There is a lot to discover in the Big Cypress National Preserve – too much for just one day. Luckily, camping is allowed at 8 official campgrounds that are equipped with toilets and charge 10–30 USD per night. If you are looking for a true adventure, you should try Backcountry Camping: Off the beaten track, hikers can pitch their tents for free. All you need to do is fill out a permit – either online or at the visitor centers.

Hunting

It may come as a surprise to foreign visitors – but hunting certain animals is allowed in the Big Cypress National Preserve: these species include deer, wild boar, turkeys, squirrels, quails, hares, raccoons and coyotes. However, hunters have to register at one of the Hunter Check-In Stations along Highway 41 and State Road 93.

Scenic Routes for Motorists

You do not have the time for long hikes or boat trips, but still want to experience the beauty of the Big Cypress National Preserve? No problem. You can also do so by car. Particularly popular is the Loop Road: a junction of the Tamiami Trail that runs for 27 miles along cypress forests and open grasslands; Alternatively, you can turn north onto Turner River Road. This route runs parallel to a canal, where many species of waterbirds can be spotted.

Off-road Rides

Motorists who want to venture deeper into the heart of the Big Cypress National Preserve must leave the roads behind and bring an all-terrain vehicle. This way, you can explore unpaved routes, of which there are plenty in the Preserve. Please note, however, that you need to obtain an Offroad Permit that includes both an online safety course and the inspection of your vehicle. You can get the permit at the headquarters of the Preserve (33100 Tamiami Trail East. Ochopee, FL 34141).

Stretching like pearls on a necklace, Florida’s barrier islands form the most southern points of the US. But while most tourists drive straight to Key West, there is a true hidden gem for nature lovers waiting in the Florida Keys:

Bahia Honda State Park features picturesque beaches, turquoise-blue waters, rare plant species and a colorful variety of waterfowl and fish. Here, you can see the “real Florida”, far away from the hustle and bustle of big cities – a perfect place to relax.

In this article, we will tell you what you should know before visiting this tropical Eden: from the best travel time and the flora and fauna to the most beautiful sights and activities at Bahia Honda State Park.

Bahia Honda State Park – Things to do

Whether on water or on land, alone or with knowledgeable guides, Bahia Honda State Park offers a wide variety of things to do for the whole family:

Swimming and Sunbathing

If you want to relax, enjoy the sun and splash around in the warm water, there are three beaches to choose from at Bahia Honda State Park:

The first one is Sandspur Beach, which many visitors consider the most beautiful beach in all of Florida – or better: considered. As of now (September 2021), the damage caused by Hurricane Irma is still being repaired here. For this reason, Sandspur Beach is currently closed.

Equally picturesque and situated 1.2 miles further west are Calusa and Loggerhead Beach. Not only do these beaches feature powdery, white sand and crystal-clear water. Here, you can also see the half-destroyed but still impressive railway bridge of the Flagler Overseas Railroad.

Snorkeling and Diving

If you want to snorkel or dive at Bahia Honda State Park, you have two options:

On the one hand, you can do so directly off the coast. There, you will find seagrass meadows and rocks that are home to crabs, colorful tropical fish, rays and nurse sharks. Snorkeling trips near the highway bridge are particularly worth-while. Please note, however, that strong currents can occur. A diver’s flag is mandatory to warn boaters.

If you want to experience the true underwater splendor of the Florida Keys, we recommend an organized snorkeling tour to the Looe Key Marine Sanctuary, 12 miles away. There, you can marvel at 50 species of corals and 150 species of fish.

Prior experience is not necessary for the tour and the equipment (mask, snorkel and diving fins) can be rented for a deposit. There is no age restriction. However, participants must be able to swim.

Snorkeling Tour Information:

• Times: 9.30 am, 1.30 pm or 4.45 pm
• Ticket sales: Concession Building (at Loggerhead Beach)
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Costs: 29.95 USD (adults), 24.95 USD (children).

Hiking

Due to its small size, Bahia Honda State Park does not offer long-distance hikes. However, there are short routes that showcase the natural beauty of this area.

The most popular one is Bahia Honda Bridge Trail: a 700 yard-long, marked loop that is easily walkable, even for beginners. It starts with a gentle climb and then leads over an old section of the Overseas Highway. There, you will have a great view of the half-destroyed railway bridge – still a masterpiece of engineering.

Unfortunately, Hurricane Irma ravaged much of Bahia Honda’s Atlantic coast in 2017. This is why the popular Silver Palm Nature Trail on the south side is no longer accessible. As compensation, you can walk around the southern tip of the island and admire the Overseas Railway Bridge from below.

Fishing

The abundance of species at Bahia Honda State Park does not just attract snorkelers. Fishing fans can make the catch of a lifetime here – directly on the beach, off the rocky west coast or on a boat trip. Fishing under the highway bridge might no longer be an insider tip, but is still worth-while if you want to catch big, silvery tarpons. In addition, snappers, groupers and barracudas also populate the waters around Bahia Honda.

Kayaking

If you want to explore the picturesque coast of Bahia Honda State Park, kayaking is the perfect activity for you. You can launch your vessel at two boat ramps: either at the Loggerhead parking lot or at the marina. There, kayaks can be rented for 12 or 18 USD (single or double kayak).

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Have you ever wanted to feel like Robinson Crusoe – stranded in a secluded paradise with pristine beaches and turquoise waters? This dream becomes a reality at Cayo Costa State Park. On the idyllic island near Cape Coral, you can go swimming, sunbathing, fishing and hiking – or even better: go off-line for a few days and pitch your tent under the starry sky.

In this article, we will tell you what makes Cayo Costa State Park so special and how to get the most out of your trip. In addition to information on transport, accommodation options and the best travel time, we will also present the most worth-while activities in this island paradise.

Cayo Costa State Park – Things to do

Whether on water or on land – Cayo Costa State Park offers a wide variety of things to do:

Beaches

Almost 9 miles of sandy beach, far away from hotels and large crowds – sounds too good to be true?

On the west coast of Cayo Costa, you will find such a beach. Here, you can bury your toes in the sand, splash around in the warm water and enjoy the coastal landscape. Shelling is another popular pastime here. If you do not feel like walking to the beach, you can take a shuttle that leaves the ranger station every hour.

Kayaking

Do you want to see Cayo Costa´s beach in its full splendor, access the best fishing grounds or explore the eastern mangrove coast? Then, kayaks are your ideal option. A particularly worthwhile spot is the “Manatee Hole”: As the name suggests, this lagoon offers good chances of seeing Florida’s iconic manatees. Or how about a longer paddling trip? In this case, you should kayak for 2 miles along the eastern coast, visit Cabbage Key and treat yourself to a meal at the island´s famous restaurant.

Kayaks for one or two people can be rented at the Ranger Station.

Snorkeling

Even though Cayo Costa is not considered Florida’s best snorkeling spot — visibility is often clouded and there is no coral reef — you are well-advised to bring your snorkel and mask. Then, you cannot only dive for colorful shells; with a bit of luck, you might also see large schools of fish. The best time for snorkeling is the dry season, and a particularly worthwhile spot lies off the northeastern coast near the island´s old quarantine station.

Fishing

Whether you prefer snooks, redfish, mackerel or silvery tarpons – If you want to make the catch of your lifetime, Cayo Costa´s protected waters are perfect for you. Thanks to its large size, you can easily find a quiet place to cast your rod at the beach. Boca Grande Pass is known for its goliath groupers, and off the east coast, you will find an abundance of mangrove snappers and flounders.

Hiking and Cycling

When you are done frolicking at the beach, you should also visit Cayo Costa´s interior. Here, you will find 6 miles of hiking trails meandering through coniferous and deciduous forests – a perfect place to spot bald eagles in the treetops. In addition, one path leads to the old cemetery in the north, where the Cuban settlers of Cayo Costa are buried.

Visitors who want to explore the island by bike can rent one at the Ranger Station.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Nature lovers should visit Florida´s National Parks and Preserves. Here, you can explore the state´s flora and fauna the authentic way.

Big Cypress National Preserve

No section of the Everglades harbours a larger biodiversity than Big Cypress National Preserve between Naples and Fort Lauderdale. Alligators, snakes, herons, anhingas, otters and manatees are just some of the species you can observe there – whether you go hiking, cycling, kayaking or take a swamp buggy tour.

Bahia Honda State Park

If you are travelling to the Florida Keys and want to see a multitude of water birds, Bahia Honda State Park is the perfect place for you. Underwater, this marine sanctuary is teeming with life, too: On a snorkeling trip you can see colorful starfish, conch snails, parrot fish and barracudas. With a bit of luck, you might even spot a rare sea turtle.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

East of Bonita Springs, you will find a nature reserve with almost unparalleled biodiversity. Not only does the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary feature one of the last cypress forests in North America. Waterbirds like storks, spoonbills and herons also thrive in this flooded habitat. If you are lucky, you might even see alligators, turtles and otters while hiking on the wooden boardwalk.

The term Everglades describes an area that stretches from Lake Okeechobee in North Florida to the southern coast. Between these two the aptly named “River of Grass” flows through large stretches of prairie. During rainy season the river swells dramatically, turning the Everglades into a watery world with extensive canals and deltas.

This world is home to many animals, among them water birds like flamingos and herons, crocodiles, alligators, manatees and black bears. The state’s heraldic animal, the Florida Panther, also lives here, albeit in dwindling numbers. Coastal areas of the Everglades National Park are dominated by mangroves. These plants with their distinctive taproots filter ocean water and play a big role in Florida’s ecosystem. In the south, the meandering River of Grass empties into the Gulf of Mexico.

OPTIONS FOR YOUR TRIP TO THE EVERGLADES

There are many ways to explore the diverse natural wonders of the Everglades. Among them, airboats are the most popular option. These flat vessels with their iconic propellers have been immortalized by films and TV series like CSI Miami, and are perfect for navigating the waterways. Boat tours are available in many places such as the Everglades Safari Park situated between Shark Valley and Miami. Experienced captains will take you to the most beautiful spots, all the while sharing their knowledge about Everglades National Park.

Another well-established company is Captain Jack’s Airboat Tours. Guests can choose between labyrinthine mangrove forests and vast flooded grasslands. Captain Jack’s also offers Swamp Buggy Tours. The ride will take you through enchanted cypress forests and to a lake where you can spot Florida’s famous manatees. If you would rather paddle yourself, you can always book a kayak tour. Organizers like Everglades Area Tour transport guests to secluded spots in the National Park by motorboat, before it is time to launch the kayaks.

This silent, eco-friendly mode of transport is ideal for spotting shy animals like tortoises, snakes, eagles and even dolphins. Of course, you can also explore the National Park on your own. Boats and maps of the waterways can be rented in Flamingo or the Gulf Coast Visitor Center. One of the most popular routes is Nine Mile Pond – perfect if you want to experience the quiet atmosphere of the Everglades National Park and observe alligators in the brackish water.

Guests who wish to see yet another side of the Everglades should hike the National Park’s many trails. The Tamiami Trail is flanked by tall deciduous trees and runs along canals teeming with tortoises and alligators. The end of the trail is marked by the 66 feet tall Shark Valley Observation Tower that offers a perfect view over the River of Grass. The trail also features a curiosity amidst the undeveloped wilderness: Ochopee Post Office, the smallest of its kind in the USA. There is exactly enough space for one customer. Nonetheless, you can buy and send post cards here like you would in a regular post office. If you follow the Otter Trail, you might not only spot intriguing limestone caves but also the furry animals that gave the trail its name.

Shark Valley is also a perfect place for cycling, thanks to 15 miles of bike lanes overlooking the forested islands. If you want to explore the Everglades underwater, you should book a boat trip to the “Ten Thousand Islands” off the southwest coast of Florida. These islands are for the most part unpopulated and harbor more than 200 fish species. Baby fish in particular seek shelter between the mangrove roots. Situated at the National Park’s northern end is Okeechobee, Florida’s biggest lake and a favorite spot for perch fishers.

FLORIDA’S ALLIGATORS UP CLOSE

Alligators form an integral part of America’s pop culture, and the Everglades are the perfect spot to see them in the wild. The Everglades are also the only place on earth where the cold-blooded hunters share their habitat with crocodiles. Alligators mostly live in fresh water, hunting fish, tortoises and other aquatic species. They occasionally come ashore and are known to cross roads and hiking paths. While there is no need to be afraid of these prehistoric reptiles, a bit of caution is called for. Every year there are cases of alligator bites. The chances are minuscule – 1 to 2.4 million, to be precise. Nonetheless, you should heed the official warnings and never enter the water where you are not supposed to.

Baby alligators are a lot less imitating than their fully grown parents, and having your photo taken with a small gator is part and parcel of many airboat tours. Florida’s iconic reptiles not only live in the wild. They are also bred on special alligator farms. The biggest one is located in Homestead and houses 2.000 specimens. Here visitors can learn more about the reptiles and watch their feeding frenzy. The highlight, however, are the alligator shows, where trainers perform daredevil stunts with their 800 lbs pets. “Alligator Wrestling” not only looks nerve-wrecking, but also has a long tradition that dates back to Florida’s native inhabitants.

ENTRANCE FEES AND OPENING TIMES OF EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK

The national park is open every day from 8 am to 4.30 pm. The entrances are located in Shark Valley and Homestead. Tickets cost 8–25 USD, depending on whether you explore the park on foot, by bicycle or by car. Annual passes are available for 40 USD.

DIRECTIONS TO EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK

The part of the Everglades not used for agriculture belongs to the Everglades National Park, a 1.508.976 acres area that was put under protection in 1947. It takes about 1 hour by car to get to the park from Miami. Driving from Fort Myers to the western part of the park, you will need 1.5 hours, while guests based in Cape Coral should plan for a 2 hours drive.

Calculate the route to Everglades National Park – Shark Valley

Calculate the rout to the Everglades Alligator Farm

CLIMATE AND WEATHER IN THE EVERGLADES

The national park is open the whole year round, but the months of October to April are considered the best traveling time. Then, the water that floods most of the park in summer retreats. Animals are forced into small pockets and can be observed more easily. What is more, mosquitoes are less of a pest in the dry season. Thanks to moderate humidity and low chances of rain, the month of May is a good compromise. Compared to the winter months, fewer people visit the park at that time.

CLIMATE CHART EVERGLADES

All details on the climate chart of the Everglades.

Alligators, turtles, raccoons and a wide variety of birds – visitors in Naples who want to see Florida’s wildlife up-close will love the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. This nature preserve in the western Everglades harbors many rare species and allows a glimpse of South Florida’s unspoiled landscape. Not only nature fans with binoculars come here, though. Benches, picnic areas and easy hiking paths in the shade make Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary a perfect place for families with children.

CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY IN A NUTSHELL

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary was established in 1954 to save Florida’s native cypress trees. It was the National Audubon Society that first built a hiking trail. Today, this nature preserve houses the last big cypress forest in North America, after most trees had been cut down in the 1940s and 50s. Some of these gnarly giants are up to 600 years old. Rivers, swamps, pine highlands, flooded meadows and wild orchids also make up the sanctuary’s landscape. Another prominent feature is “Salad Lake”, which got its name for the salad-like hyacinths on its surface.

THINGS TO SEE AT THE CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY

Your first stop is the Blair Audubon Visitor Center. Here, you can watch a movie about the sanctuary and see baby alligators behind glass walls. In addition to postcards, souvenirs, T-shirts and books about Florida’s wildlife, binoculars are available here – perfect for bird-watchers. There are also educational leaflets for adults and children.

Winding through Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a hiking path that is easy to walk, thanks to wooden planks. The path is 2.2 miles long and first runs along flooded meadows where you can spot snakes and rabbits. Afterwards, it leads through a cypress forest. Here, many bird species are found, among them woodpeckers, hawks, blue-gray gnatcatcher and the endangered wood stork. You can also see owls up-close, and the small lizards are not shy, either. Thanks to the elevated boardwalk, you will feel like being in the midst of the wilderness – while keeping your feet dry, that is. Rustling in the undergrowth gives away white-tailed deer and raccoons. If you are lucky, you might even see the very rare Florida panther.

The last part of the trail leads through a swamp. Here, splashing sounds indicate the presence of alligators hunting for food in the water. The wetlands are also home to turtles, frogs and fish otters. Before it is time to head back towards the parking lot, you should stop by at Salad Lake where countless water birds like herons, spoonbills and storks live. You can also watch alligators sunbathing there.

By the way: It is possible to take a shortcut midway on the trail. In this case, you will only walk for one mile. If you want to tackle the whole trail, you should account for 2–3 hours. It pays to take your time and walk slowly and quietly. This way, you will see a lot more of the shy animals. As a nice addition, volunteers often walk on the path. They will gladly answer your questions and point out animals that are difficult to spot.

BEST TRAVEL TIME FOR THE CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY

Except for days with heavy storms, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary can be visited the whole year round.

In summer, the weather is hot and humid like the rest of South Florida. Most days start sunny. In the afternoons, temperatures and humidity levels tend to rise, leading to intense, but mostly short showers before the sky clears up again in the evening. The winter months see more temperate and dry conditions, making them the most popular time for visitors.

The flora and fauna changes dramatically with the seasons, so it pays to visit the park more than once. Summer is the perfect time to see blooming ghost orchids and watch swallow-tailed kites perform their aerial stunts. In springtime, alligators build their nests in the mud. Come summer, the reptiles can be seen with their young. Flocks of migratory birds populate the sanctuary in the winter, among them colorful painted finches. Herons and storks concentrate around dwindling waterholes, where they can easily be observed.

Please note: From March to November, especially between April and June, many horseflies plague the sanctuary, so you should bring long clothes and insect repellent.

GUIDED TOURS AT CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY

If you want to explore the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary with a group and learn more about South Florida’s biodiversity, you can choose from the following tours:

• Free guided tours on the boardwalk; duration: 1.5 hours
• Early Birding Walk: guided bird-watching tours in the morning
• Ancient Forest Tour: Tours through the ancient cypress forest
• Hikes in the flatwoods, away from the boardwalk
• Butterfly Orientation Workshop: Talks and excursions about butterflies
• Sunset Strolls: Hikes at sunset with interesting infos about the park’s nocturnal animals.
• Night Walks: the perfect opportunity to hear the park’s animals after dark.

To find out more about available tour dates, hours and prices, visit the official website corkscrew.audubon.org. There, you can also read about events such as lectures, concerts, art exhibitions at the visitor center and open-air meditation courses

INFORMATION FOR VISITORS

The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary features multiple picnic areas. Eating on the boardwalk, however, is forbidden. From December to April, sandwiches are sold at the visitor center.

The boardwalk is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Dogs are not allowed at the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. You will find more information and a map of the hiking trail on the official website https://corkscrew.audubon.org.

DIRECTIONS, OPENING HOURS AND PRICES

The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary can be reached from Naples in 40 minutes by car. Just follow the brown direction signs on Immokalee Road. On-site parking is free.

The boardwalk is open daily from 7 am to 5.30 pm. Last admission is at 4.30 pm, and the visitor center closes at 5.30 pm every day.

Tickets cost 14 USD for adults and 4 USD for children aged 6–18. Children under 6 visit for free. If you purchase your ticket in the afternoon, you can use it again the next day in the morning.

If you want to explore the diverse landscapes of South Florida, see alligators up-close, visit a 200 year old ranch and learn more about the cities of tomorrow, Babcock Ranch is the perfect place for you.

BABCOCK RANCH IN A NUTSHELL

The Babcock Ranch was named after Edward Babcock. In 1899, this lumber baron bought the 90.000 acre area in today’s Lee County from a wealthy family of bankers to use it for forestry, cattle farming and mining. In 2006, the state of Florida purchased this stretch of land known for its great biodiversity. 90% of the area now form the Babcock Ranch Preserve. No buildings are allowed here. Instead, the area is used for tours by Babcock Ranch Wilderness Adventures. On the remaining land a model city powered by renewable energy has been constructed.

BABCOCK RANCH ECO TOURS

In an area of 26 square miles – more than your average small town – Babcock Ranch Eco Tours offers the perfect chance to explore Florida’s wildlife. Here are some highlights visitors can look forward to at the preserve:

SWAMP BUGGY ECO TOUR

On this tour, guests jump aboard a camouflaged bus and discover ecosystems between water and land that are teeming with wildlife: Alligators and turtles are found in the rivers, herons hunt for fish on the shores, and owls can be spotted in the cypress canopy. The extensive prairie is home to Caracaras: birds of prey that feed on little rodents. If you are lucky, you might even spot a Florida panther in the undergrowth.

Included in the tour is a trip to the Crescent B Ranch. Cattle, pigs and horses are not the only animals raised here. The ranch is also home to baby alligators that you can pet during your visit.

The tour costs 24 USD for adults, 23 USD for senior citizens and 16 USD for children aged 3–12. Younger children take the tour for free. During main season in winter and spring, it is a good idea to reserve your ticket in advance on the official website babcockranchecotours.com.

WALKING TOUR

If you want to explore South Florida’s beautiful forests on lesser-known paths, the Walking Tour is perfect for you. And do not forget your binoculars, as the densely wooded area is teeming with birds of prey like caracaras and swallow-tailed kites, as well as woodpeckers and cranes. A highlight is the Gator Bridge where you can spot Florida’s alligators in great numbers. It takes about 45 minutes to complete this easy loop trail.

DINING OPTIONS AND SHOPS

Spending the whole day outdoors can make you hungry. Luckily, the Gator Shack Restaurant serves hearty comfort food like sandwiches filled with meat and fish, tender steaks and crispy French Fries. The deep-fried cornmeal balls called Hush Puppies are particularly popular with fans of the Southern Cuisine. Visitors who always wanted to try real alligator meat should order the fried Gator Bites.

The Babcock Gift Shop offers a wide variety of souvenirs – from stuffed alligators and coloring books for children to stylish T-shirts and homemade chili sauce.

BABCOCK RANCH TOWN

After touring the preserve, you should also visit Babcock Ranch Town. There, you can see what the cities of tomorrow might look like. This sustainable and eco-friendly town features some remarkable innovations:

• The city gets its energy from solar panels and produces more electricity than it needs.
• The residential homes are equipped with Smart Home technologies that further reduce energy consumption.
• Public transport is done with noiseless, self-driving E-shuttles.

OPENING HOURS BABCOCK RANCH

The Babcock Ranch is open seven days a week from 10 am to 2 pm. During this time, Swamp Buggy Tours are available and the hiking path is open for visitors.

DIRECTIONS TO BABCOCK RANCH

The ranch is located north of the Caloosahatchee River and can be reached from Cape Coral in 45 minutes by car. This makes Babcock Ranch a perfect destination for guests in Cape Coral and Fort Myers who do not want to take the long trip to Everglades National Park.