Experience the incredible ecosystems, wildlife, and history that make up Florida’s National Parks with up close tours and expert local guides. Plus, enjoy fun in the sun with time to explore the bustling vacation hotspots of Key West and Ft. Lauderdale.
DAY 1—WELCOME TO FT. LAUDERDALE!
Arrive in “The Sunshine State” at our starting hotel in Ft. Lauderdale for a festive group welcome dinner. D
DAY 2—FT. LAUDERDALE
Awake this morning to explore the “Venice of America” with a guided city tour of Ft. Lauderdale. We’ll board the Carrie B. this afternoon for a sightseeing cruise of the local canals! Sit in AC comfort inside or catch the breeze on the shaded top deck. Then enjoy dinner at local favorite, Tropical Acres Steakhouse. B, D
DAY 3—EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK
Get up close this morning with America’s largest subtropical wilderness in Everglades National Park. Take a thrilling airboat ride through the “river of grass” and search for the American Alligator during a tram ride through Shark Valley. This immersive experience will provide a plethora of opportunities for local wildlife sightings. B, L
DAY 4—BISCAYNE NATIONAL PARK
Today we learn about the complex marine ecosystem protected at Biscayne National Park with a ranger presentation before a journey to the southern tip of the Everglades for a special sunset boat tour on Florida Bay. Look for dolphins, manatees, crocodiles, and exotic birds that all make their home along the saltwater coast. B, L
DAY 5—KEY WEST
Travel along scenic US-1 through the beautiful Florida Keys to its last stop, Key West. We’ll tour this vacation mecca aboard the iconic Conch Train, a narrated trolley. Then enjoy free time to visit the museums and attractions that pique your interest. A local seafood dinner awaits us this evening along the harbor at Conch Republic Seafood. B, D
DAY 6—KEY WEST
Select your choice of island adventures today! Take the Yankee Freedom ferry to Dry Tortugas National Park for a full day tour to see historic Fort Jefferson with expert guides, plus free time to enjoy the island. Or, spend the day exploring Key West on your own with an unlimited hop-on/hop-off ticket aboard the Old Town Trolley. Local attractions to see include the Hemingway Home & Museum, Shipwreck Museum, Little Truman White House, and much more! B
Option—Dry Tortugas Day Trip. This all-day tour includes a 2-hour ferry ride each way aboard the Yankee Freedom, a guided tour of Fort Jefferson, and free time to explore the island. Lunch included. Price: $190 per person
Option—Old Town Trolley Access. Enjoy an unlimited hop-on/hop-off ticket to explore Key West at your own pace. Travel to any attraction on the island using the Old Town Trolley and its many stops. Price: $48 per person
DAY 7—DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER
Stop in Marathon Key at the Dolphin Research Center to see rescued and rehabilitated marine wildlife, and learn about what is being done to protect these precious species in the wild. B, D
DAY 8—RETURN HOME
Travel home today with memories of the coastal sunshine. B
Quality Accommodations
Nights 1-2: Hilton Garden Inn Cruiseport, Ft. Lauderdale
Nights 3-4: Fairfield Inn, Homestead
Nights 5-6: 24 North Hotel, Key West
Night 7: Hilton Garden Inn, Ft Lauderdale Cruiseport
Dates:
Nov 7-14, 2024
Price Per Person:
Double $2,697
Single $3,635
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
Fall: $238/night
Depart/Return:
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Inclusions:
Free airport shuttle or hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, Hilton Garden Inn Fort Lauderdale Airport, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 p.m.
Departure Time
You may schedule your flight home with flight departure times after breakfast on Day 8. A breakfast voucher will be given to each person to use at their leisure. Breakfast is served from 6:00-10:00 a.m. Plan your return flight home to best fit your schedule. You may use the airport shuttle at your leisure in the morning to get to the airport.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
If you're flying into the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Fort Lauderdale, the Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport-Cruise Port provides complimentary shuttle transportation from the airport to the hotel. This service is available 24 hours per day. After you pick up your luggage at baggage claim, call the hotel directly at the phone number listed above. The hotel staff will advise you when to expect the shuttle and direct you to the appropriate door shuttle pick up.
At the end of the tour, or if you plan to stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport-Cruise Port for extra nights, you can use the hotel's shuttle to get to the airport. Please check at the front desk to confirm you will be using the shuttle service on your own.
Walking Distance
Moderate walking is required to fully enjoy this tour. Some walking will also be on uneven paths. While walking canes are allowed, we are unable to accommodate travelers using other mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
January – high of 75°, low of 55°
November – high of 85°, low of 65°
Time Zone
Eastern
Hotel Amenities
Each hotel has a hair dryer, iron, ironing boards, swimming pool and Wi-Fi.
Additional Information
For those folks interested in snorkeling while visiting Dry Tortugas National Park, the Yankee Freedom provides snorkeling gear, free of charge. Bring a towel and swimsuit with you.
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
