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✓ Updated February 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Everglades National Park, USA: Jan or Feb 2026

Everglades National Park, USA travel destination - scenic view of Airboat Adventure on the 'River of Grass' during ideal visiting season
Image: Sunset over the River of Grass, NPSphoto, G.Gardner (9255157507).jpg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

The winter months, from December through April, offer the most invigorating time to explore Everglades National Park. During this dry season, the air feels crisp and energetic, perfect for spotting wildlife like manatees and wading birds against the backdrop of a vibrant, sun-drenched landscape. You'll experience fewer mosquitoes and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for kayaking through mangrove tunnels or hiking trails where the morning mist still clings to the sawgrass. This period is truly special for its abundant animal activity and the chance to immerse yourself in the park's energetic, wild heart without the oppressive humidity.

Best Months to Visit:

JanFebMarNovDec

Airport Code

MIA

Coordinates

25.33°, -80.88°

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Top Things to Do

Airboat Adventure on the 'River of Grass'

Feel the wind whip through your hair as your airboat glides across the vast sawgrass prairies, a quintessential Everglades experience. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators basking in the sun and a symphony of wading birds. Opt for a tour that ventures into the less-traveled sections for a more intimate encounter with this unique ecosystem.

Anhinga Trail Boardwalk Serenade

Wander along the Anhinga Trail boardwalk at Royal Palm, where an astonishing array of wildlife is often on full display, especially during the dry season. You'll be inches away from American alligators, turtles, and countless bird species like anhingas drying their wings. Arrive early in the morning for the best light and the most active wildlife.

Kayaking the Mangrove Tunnels of Ten Thousand Islands

Paddle through the mysterious, shaded tunnels formed by the dense mangrove forests in the Ten Thousand Islands region. This is a chance to spot playful dolphins, manatees, and a vibrant array of coastal birds in a truly immersive and quiet setting. Consider a guided tour to learn about the delicate mangrove ecosystem and navigate the labyrinthine waterways.

Robert Is Here Fruit Stand Delights

Indulge your taste buds at this legendary roadside stand, a local institution famous for its exotic fruit milkshakes and fresh produce. Sample unique fruits you've never seen before and savor the rich, creamy flavors of their signature creations. It's a delicious and refreshing stop after a day of exploring the park's natural wonders.

See all 7 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

packing

Pack lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and pants, even in warmer months. The Everglades can be surprisingly buggy, and these clothes will offer protection from mosquitoes and ticks, plus a bit of sun protection. Think breathable fabrics like linen or quick-dry synthetics.

safety

Always let someone know your itinerary, especially if you're hiking or kayaking solo. Cell service can be spotty, so don't rely on your phone for emergencies. Stick to marked trails and be aware of your surroundings; alligators are common and should be observed from a safe distance.

transport

Consider renting a kayak or canoe for a truly immersive experience, especially in areas like the Anhinga Trail or along the Nine Mile Pond. While there are trams in some areas, paddling allows you to get closer to wildlife and explore quieter channels that vehicles can't reach.

money

Bring cash for smaller, independent concessions or boat tour operators, as not all may accept cards. While the park entrance fee is standard, some of the best local experiences, like airboat tours outside the main park entrances, might be cash-only or offer discounts for cash payments.

culture

Take time to learn about the Seminole and Miccosukee tribes who have a deep historical connection to the Everglades. Visit the Miccosukee Indian Village near Tamiami Trail for a glimpse into their culture, crafts, and history – it's a valuable perspective beyond just the natural environment.

food

Pack plenty of water and snacks, as food options within the park are very limited. If you're looking for a local bite, try some 'gator tail' at a roadside restaurant outside the park, like those along Tamiami Trail, for a unique taste of South Florida.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan
5 days
Feb
4 days
Mar
6 days
Apr
7 days
May
10 days
Jun
13 days
Jul
14 days
Aug
14 days
Sep
13 days
Oct
9 days
Nov
7 days
Dec
5 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan24°C12°C75°F54°F50mm
5 days
10.5h
Feb25°C13°C77°F55°F50mm
4 days
11.2h
Mar27°C16°C81°F61°F75mm
6 days
12h
Apr29°C18°C84°F64°F100mm
7 days
12.8h
May31°C21°C88°F70°F150mm
10 days
13.5h
Jun32°C23°C90°F73°F200mm
13 days
14h
Jul33°C24°C91°F75°F175mm
14 days
13.8h
Aug33°C24°C91°F75°F200mm
14 days
13.2h
Sep32°C23°C90°F73°F175mm
13 days
12.4h
Oct30°C20°C86°F68°F100mm
9 days
11.6h
Nov27°C16°C81°F61°F75mm
7 days
10.9h
Dec25°C14°C77°F57°F50mm
5 days
10.3h

Everglades National Park, USA Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Everglades National Park, USA? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Everglades National Park, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

24°C°C / 75°F°F

5 days rainy days • 50mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Feb in Everglades National Park, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

25°C°C / 77°F°F

4 days rainy days • 50mmmm

What to Expect

Late winter, beginning to warm up. Good for budget travelers seeking lower prices.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Feb is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Mar in Everglades National Park, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

27°C°C / 81°F°F

6 days rainy days • 75mmmm

What to Expect

Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Mar is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Apr in Everglades National Park, USA

Weather

29°C°C / 84°F°F

7 days rainy days • 100mmmm

What to Expect

Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Apr offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

May in Everglades National Park, USA

Weather

31°C°C / 88°F°F

10 days rainy days • 150mmmm

What to Expect

Late spring, excellent weather. One of the best times to visit for most travelers.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: May can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Jun in Everglades National Park, USA

Weather

32°C°C / 90°F°F

13 days rainy days • 200mmmm

What to Expect

Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jun can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Jul in Everglades National Park, USA

Weather

33°C°C / 91°F°F

14 days rainy days • 175mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Aug in Everglades National Park, USA

Weather

33°C°C / 91°F°F

14 days rainy days • 200mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Sep in Everglades National Park, USA

Weather

32°C°C / 90°F°F

13 days rainy days • 175mmmm

What to Expect

Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Sep can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Oct in Everglades National Park, USA

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

9 days rainy days • 100mmmm

What to Expect

Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Oct offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Nov in Everglades National Park, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

27°C°C / 81°F°F

7 days rainy days • 75mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Dec in Everglades National Park, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

25°C°C / 77°F°F

5 days rainy days • 50mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

All Things to Do in Everglades National Park, USA

Airboat Adventure on the 'River of Grass'

activity

Feel the wind whip through your hair as your airboat glides across the vast sawgrass prairies, a quintessential Everglades experience. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators basking in the sun and a symphony of wading birds. Opt for a tour that ventures into the less-traveled sections for a more intimate encounter with this unique ecosystem.

Best time: Nov-Apr

Anhinga Trail Boardwalk Serenade

nature

Wander along the Anhinga Trail boardwalk at Royal Palm, where an astonishing array of wildlife is often on full display, especially during the dry season. You'll be inches away from American alligators, turtles, and countless bird species like anhingas drying their wings. Arrive early in the morning for the best light and the most active wildlife.

Best time: Nov-Apr

Kayaking the Mangrove Tunnels of Ten Thousand Islands

activity

Paddle through the mysterious, shaded tunnels formed by the dense mangrove forests in the Ten Thousand Islands region. This is a chance to spot playful dolphins, manatees, and a vibrant array of coastal birds in a truly immersive and quiet setting. Consider a guided tour to learn about the delicate mangrove ecosystem and navigate the labyrinthine waterways.

Best time: Oct-May

Robert Is Here Fruit Stand Delights

food

Indulge your taste buds at this legendary roadside stand, a local institution famous for its exotic fruit milkshakes and fresh produce. Sample unique fruits you've never seen before and savor the rich, creamy flavors of their signature creations. It's a delicious and refreshing stop after a day of exploring the park's natural wonders.

Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center's Naturalist Talks

cultural

Gain deeper insights into the Everglades' complex ecology by attending a ranger-led program at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. These talks often highlight specific wildlife behaviors, conservation efforts, and the park's rich history, offering a valuable educational component to your visit. Check the schedule upon arrival for the day's offerings.

Best time: Year-round

Shark Valley Tram Tour's Panoramic Views

attraction

Embark on the Shark Valley Tram Tour for a narrated journey through the heart of the Everglades, culminating in a climb up an observation tower offering breathtaking 360-degree vistas. This is an excellent way to cover a lot of ground and spot wildlife from a comfortable vantage point, especially if you're short on time. The tram often stops for close-up wildlife viewing opportunities.

Best time: Nov-Apr

Gator Country Alligator Sanctuary

attraction

For an up-close and personal encounter with these prehistoric reptiles, visit Gator Country, a sanctuary dedicated to alligator education and conservation. You can witness feeding demonstrations, learn about different species, and even hold a baby alligator (under strict supervision). It's a fascinating, albeit thrilling, way to understand these iconic Everglades residents.

Best time: Year-round

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GoWithGuide Tours and Experiences

Getting Around Everglades National Park, USA

Rental Car

The most flexible way to explore Everglades National Park, especially if you plan to visit multiple entrances (Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, Shark Valley, Gulf Coast). It allows you to stop at scenic overlooks and trailheads at your own pace.

Cost:$40-$80 per day, plus gas and park entrance fees ($30 per vehicle for 7 days).
Tip:Book your rental car well in advance, especially during peak season (December-April). Many travelers underestimate the driving distances between park entrances; factor in at least 1-2 hours between the main visitor centers. Download offline maps as cell service is spotty within the park.

Private Shuttle Services

Several companies offer private shuttle services from Miami and Fort Lauderdale directly to the park's main entrances. This is a good option if you don't want to drive or deal with parking.

Cost:$70-$150 per person, depending on the service and duration.
Tip:Book these services at least a week in advance. Confirm the exact pickup location and time. A common mistake is assuming they'll drop you off at every point of interest; most go directly to a visitor center, so you'll need to arrange further transport or hike from there.

Tram Tour (Shark Valley)

A narrated 2-hour tram tour that takes you 15 miles into the heart of the Shark Valley area, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. It's a convenient way to see a significant portion of the park without extensive walking.

Cost:$25 per adult, $12.50 per child.
Tip:Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the Shark Valley Visitor Center. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour to ensure a good seat. Travelers often miss the fact that you can rent bikes and cycle the same path for a more immersive experience, but the tram is great for a quick overview.

Bicycle Rentals (Shark Valley)

Rent a bicycle at the Shark Valley entrance and cycle the 15-mile loop road. This offers unparalleled close-up wildlife encounters and a more active way to experience the park's unique ecosystem.

Cost:$10-$20 per hour for rentals, or bring your own bike (park entrance fee applies).
Tip:Go early in the morning to avoid the heat and see more active wildlife. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. A common mistake is not realizing how exposed the loop is to the sun; wear a hat and consider a long-sleeved shirt. The tram often stops for cyclists, so don't be afraid to flag it down if you need a brief rest.

Airboat Tours (Outside Park Boundaries)

While not technically *inside* Everglades National Park, numerous airboat operators are located just outside the park's boundaries, offering thrilling rides through the 'River of Grass'. These tours are popular for their speed and ability to cover vast distances.

Cost:$30-$60 per person.
Tip:Research operators carefully; some are more environmentally conscious than others. Be aware that airboats are noisy, so ear protection is usually provided. Many travelers mistakenly believe these are official park tours; they are private concessions. Check if they offer wildlife viewing beyond just a fast ride.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When's the absolute best time to visit the Everglades, and what should I expect weather-wise?

For the most comfortable experience, aim for the dry season, which runs from December to April. You'll enjoy lower humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring. The wet season (May to November) brings intense heat, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms, but also lush greenery and more wildlife activity if you're prepared for the elements.

What's the deal with mosquitoes in the Everglades? Do I really need bug spray?

Absolutely, and make it a strong one with DEET! Mosquitoes are a reality of the Everglades, especially during the warmer, wetter months. I always pack a couple of different strengths and apply liberally, particularly at dawn and dusk. Wearing long sleeves and pants also makes a huge difference in keeping those biting insects at bay.

Beyond the Anhinga Trail, what are some must-see spots that most visitors miss?

Don't skip the Shark Valley area for a fantastic tram tour or bike ride – you'll see tons of alligators and birds. For a more remote feel, head to the Flamingo district; it's a longer drive but offers stunning coastal views and opportunities for kayaking through mangrove tunnels. The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is also a great starting point for understanding the park's unique ecosystem.

Is it safe to explore the Everglades on my own, or should I always go with a guide?

While many areas are perfectly safe to explore independently, especially the well-maintained trails, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Always let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back. For deeper exploration like backcountry camping or kayaking, hiring a certified guide is highly recommended for safety and to gain invaluable local insights.

What's the best way to experience the 'River of Grass' without a car?

Getting around the Everglades without a car can be a bit challenging, as the park is quite spread out. Your best bet is to rent a car in Miami or Fort Lauderdale. However, some tour operators offer day trips that include transportation from major South Florida cities, which can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive.

Are there any local customs or etiquette I should be aware of when visiting?

The primary 'custom' here is respect for nature. Stick to marked trails, never feed the wildlife (it's harmful to them and can be dangerous for you!), and pack out everything you pack in. Embrace the slow pace of the 'Glades; it's a place to disconnect and appreciate the wild, so leave your city stress behind.

What is the cheapest month to visit Everglades National Park, USA?

The cheapest months to visit Everglades National Park, USA are typically Jun and Jul during the off-season. You can save 30-40% on hotels and flights compared to peak summer months. While weather may not be ideal, you'll enjoy fewer crowds and significant savings.

How many days do you need in Everglades National Park, USA?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Everglades National Park, USA to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

What should I avoid in Everglades National Park, USA?

Avoid visiting Everglades National Park, USA during Jun if possible, when weather conditions are less favorable. Also, be cautious of tourist traps in heavily visited areas - research attractions beforehand and consider booking skip-the-line tickets for popular sites.

Is Everglades National Park, USA expensive to visit?

Everglades National Park, USA can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Jan and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Everglades National Park, USA famous for?

Everglades National Park, USA is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Jan or Feb for the best experience.

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