The Everglades is a vast “river of grass”, home to alligators, wading birds and manatees, and it’s just west of Miami. Here’s how to plan a day trip, and how the new fees affect international visitors.
Everglades National Park fees (2026)
| Fee | Price |
|---|---|
| Private vehicle (7 days) | $35 |
| Per person (walk, bike or paddle) | $20 (ages 15 and under free) |
| Non-resident surcharge (ages 16+) | +$100 per person |
| America the Beautiful pass (non-residents) | $250, which waives the surcharge |
Fees are from the official National Park Service Everglades fees page.
Airboat rides vs the national park
- Airboat parks along the Tamiami Trail (US-41) and near Homestead operate on private or tribal land outside the national park. Their ticket prices include the ride, often with an alligator show, and the national park surcharge doesn’t apply.
- Shark Valley, inside the national park, has a 15-mile paved loop by tram tour or bike, an observation tower and lots of alligators. Park fees apply.
- Anhinga Trail (Royal Palm, from the Homestead entrance) is a short boardwalk with excellent wildlife viewing. Park fees apply.
Getting there
- By car: about 45–60 minutes to Shark Valley or the airboat parks on US-41.
- By tour: half-day airboat tours with hotel pick-up from Miami and Miami Beach. Compare Everglades airboat tours.
Tips
- The dry season (December to April) is best for wildlife, with fewer mosquitoes.
- Bring insect repellent, a hat, sunscreen and water.
- Never feed or approach alligators.
- Combine your visit with Little Havana on the way back. See our Miami itinerary.
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- Miami Airport to South Beach
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FAQ: Everglades from Miami
Do foreign tourists pay more at Everglades National Park?
Yes. Since 1 January 2026, non-US residents aged 16+ pay a $100 surcharge per person on top of the entrance fee, unless they hold an America the Beautiful pass.
Are airboat rides allowed in Everglades National Park?
Most popular airboat tours operate just outside the park boundary on private or tribal land, so they don’t require the park entrance fee.
How long do you need in the Everglades?
A half day for an airboat ride or Shark Valley, or a full day to combine several areas.
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