On the afternoon of our visit to the Shark Valley area, we decided to take a tour, and I honestly can't believe it was my first time. How does that happen? The experience is quintessential South Florida: the roar of the massive fan, the sensation of skimming effortlessly over the "River of Grass," and the feeling of being deep inside a wild, ancient world.
Of course, the main event is the wildlife, and the tour didn't disappoint. We got incredible, up-close views of American Alligators, the undisputed kings of this domain, as well as a stunning array of birdlife. It just goes to show, it's never too late to be a tourist in your old stomping grounds and discover an adventure you somehow missed the first time around.
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The landscape is full of life if you take the time to look.
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| The vast "River of Grass," a landscape that feels endless. |
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| A Great Blue Heron taking flight across the marsh. |
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| The delicate beauty of a Swamp Lily spotted in the reeds. |
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Gliding through the mangrove tunnels.
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All aboard! Our crew for the afternoon's adventure.
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| Even the insects are beautiful, like this Viceroy Butterfly. |
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The stars of the show.
We saw several American Alligators during the tour. |
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| An incredible, up-close view of this powerful reptile. |
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A very bold Boat-Tailed Grackle who
seemed to think the boat was its personal perch. |
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The stunning colors of an American Purple Gallinule,
perfectly at home on the lily pads.
 | A perfect end to a fantastic and long-overdue adventure.
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Wherever you are today, I hope the road you are on is full of new and unique fun experiences.
Don Bergquist – 18 June 2025 – Everglades National Park, Florida, USA
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