Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Florida → Everglades National Park: Into the River of Grass

Fly from NYC to Fort Lauderdale and begin your journey south into one of America’s most extraordinary ecosystems — the Everglades. After lunch, embark on an airboat ride through the “River of Grass,” where naturalists introduce you to the remarkable wildlife that thrives in these wetlands, from alligators to wading birds. A ranger-led tram tour through Shark Valley offers panoramic views and deeper insights into the Everglades’ hydrology, ecology, and ongoing conservation efforts. As the day winds down, head to Florida City to check into your hotel, then gather for dinner and a welcome meeting to set the tone for the days ahead. Overnight in Florida City.

Day 2 – Everglades → Florida Keys: Wildlife, Waterways & Island Life

This morning, return to Everglades National Park to visit the Ernest Coe Visitor Center, where exhibits detail the park’s complex ecosystems and the efforts to preserve them. Walk the Anhinga Trail, one of the best wildlife-viewing areas in the region, where turtles, herons, alligators, and anhingas appear just steps away. After lunch, begin your journey along the famed Overseas Highway into the Florida Keys. Stop at Robbie’s Marina to learn about tarpon migration and feed these impressive fish from the docks. As you arrive in Marathon, check into your hotel and enjoy dinner together. Overnight in Marathon.

Day 3 – Key Largo & Marathon: Coral Reefs and Mangrove Wilderness

Start your morning with a glass-bottom boat tour over the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States. Through clear viewing panels, vibrant coral formations and brightly colored fish come alive as marine naturalists explain reef ecology, bleaching, and the challenges facing these delicate ecosystems. After lunch, continue your exploration at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park with a guided kayaking adventure through winding mangrove tunnels. Along the way, learn how these interlocking root systems provide essential nurseries for juvenile fish, stabilize coastlines, and support the region’s biodiversity. Later this afternoon, enjoy some beach time at Cannon Beach to swim, and investigate shallow-water ecosystems before returning to Marathon for dinner. Overnight in Marathon.

Day 4 – Marathon → Key West: Sea Turtle Rescue & Maritime History

Begin the day at the renowned Turtle Hospital, where marine biologists rehabilitate sea turtles suffering from boat strikes, cold stress, and entanglement. A behind-the-scenes tour provides an inspiring look at conservation work in action, highlighting the dedication required to protect endangered species. After lunch, travel further south to Key West, the southernmost point in the continental United States. Your first stop is the Key West Shipwreck Museum, where dramatic stories of daring rescues, the wrecking industry, and the treacherous coral reefs reveal a fascinating chapter of island history. Climb the 65-foot observation tower for sweeping views of turquoise waters before enjoying free time along Duval Street’s vibrant shops, galleries, and historic streets. End the day at Mallory Square for Key West’s legendary sunset celebration before returning to Marathon. Overnight in Marathon.

Day 5 – Key Largo → Departure: Marine Mammals & Ocean Conservation

Your final day begins in Key Largo with an educational dolphin encounter focused on marine mammal behavior, communication, and conservation. Guided by marine specialists, you’ll learn how dolphins interact, navigate, and adapt — and the challenges they face from changing ocean conditions. After lunch, start traveling north to Fort Lauderdale International Airport for your flight home, carrying with you lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the extraordinary natural world of the Florida Keys.