Getting Around Everglades National Park. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation Overview

Public transportation options within Everglades National Park are very limited. No bus or tram system operates to shuttle visitors between different visitor centers or trailheads.

The park's design emphasizes self-guided exploration via private vehicles, bikes, or boats for access to various points of interest.

Limited Options

Within Everglades National Park: No public transportation system exists for getting between visitor centers or trailheads.
Shark Valley Tram Tour: A guided tram tour operates on a 15-mile loop at the Shark Valley section. This is a specific attraction, not general transit.
Outside Park: Miami and Fort Lauderdale have limited public transit (buses, Metrorail/Tri-Rail). These do not extend to the park entrances.
Homestead and Florida City have minimal local public transport.

Route Maps

Not applicable for park access; a personal vehicle is useful for efficient park exploration.

Ticketing & Fares

Not applicable for public transit within or to the park.

Accessibility

Many boardwalk trails and visitor centers are wheelchair accessible within the park.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Availability & Hailing

Taxis are generally not waiting at park entrances or within the park; you would need to call them from nearby towns.
Uber and Lyft are available in the greater Miami area and around Homestead/Florida City.
Coverage is spotty or non-existent once inside the park boundaries, finding a return ride from remote areas is unlikely.

Fares & Safety

Fares from Homestead/Florida City to park entrances could be $20-$40. Navigating within the park would be problematic.
Payment by cash or credit card is typically accepted.
Standard safety precautions apply, as with any ride service. A rental car offers the most independence and safety.

Rental Options Overview

Car Rental

Most recommended way to explore the park.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less practical for long park distances.

Bicycle Rental

Available at Shark Valley & Flamingo.

Specialty Vehicles

Tuk-tuks, jeepneys are not applicable.

Rental Car Requirements & Driving Laws

A rental car provides the most freedom to explore Everglades National Park. Be aware of the requirements for renting and driving in Florida.

Rental Procedures

Valid driver's license (and IDP if necessary for non-English licenses).
A major credit card for booking and deposit.
Meet minimum age of 21 (drivers 25 or older often avoid a young driver surcharge).
All major international car rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, etc.) operate at Florida's airports.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are required for all occupants.
Speed limits are enforced, especially for wildlife protection.
Ample parking at visitor centers and trailheads; park only in designated areas.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-friendly areas: Many short, accessible boardwalk trails (Anhinga Trail, Gumbo Limbo Trail).
Walking tour options: Ranger-led walks offered seasonally; self-guided with interpretive signs.
No-go areas: Certain sensitive areas or backcountry trails may have restrictions. Always obey signage.

Bicycle infrastructure: The 15-mile paved Shark Valley Loop Road offers excellent cycling.
Cycling on Main Park Road: Possible, but shoulders are narrow, and traffic can be present.
Safety: Wear a Helmet. Be alert for wildlife. Carry plenty of water.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Shark Valley Tram Tour: A popular open-air tram tour provides a guided 2-hour experience along the 15-mile loop. Organised day tours from Miami/Fort Lauderdale are also available.

Boat Taxis

Flamingo Boat Tours: Narrated boat tours from Flamingo Marina into Florida Bay or backcountry. Gulf Coast Boat Tours: Explore Ten Thousand Islands area.

Accessibility Services

Many boardwalk trails (Anhinga, Pa-Hay-Okee, Eco Pond) are wheelchair accessible. Shark Valley Tram Tour is wheelchair accessible. Visitor centers and restrooms are generally accessible.

Travel Tips

These tips will help you maximize your transportation choices and ensure a smooth experience during your Everglades visit.

Driving Independence

A private vehicle provides the most flexibility to explore all areas of the vast park.
Download offline maps as cell service can be unreliable within the park.
Fill up your gas tank before entering the park, especially for longer drives to Flamingo.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife crossings, especially at dawn and dusk.

Alternative Exploration

Rent a bicycle at Shark Valley for an immersive ride through the loop trail.
Consider renting a canoe or kayak for an unique water-based perspective of the park.
Join a guided boat tour from Flamingo or Gulf Coast for narration and safe navigation of larger waterways.
Take advantage of ranger-led walks to gain insights into the park's ecosystems.

Visitor Accessibility

Accessible Trails

Many boardwalk trails like Anhinga Trail are designed to be wheelchair accessible, providing access to wildlife viewing areas.

Wheelchair friendly.

Visitor Centers

All visitor centers and most restrooms within the park are generally accessible for individuals with mobility needs.

Accessible facilities.

Tram Tour

The Shark Valley Tram Tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the guided loop.

Inclusive tour option.

Rental Car Best Practices

Pre-Booking Benefits

Book your rental car well in advance, especially during peak seasons, for better rates and availability.
Comparison shop using online platforms to find the most suitable vehicle at a competitive price.
Read the rental agreement carefully, including insurance options and fuel policies.

During Your Rental

Inspect the vehicle for any existing damage before driving off and report it to the rental agency.
Utilize GPS or navigation apps, keeping in mind cell service limitations in remote areas.
Always lock your vehicle and store valuables out of sight to deter theft.

Driving Safety Reminders

Be vigilant for wildlife crossing roads, specifically at dawn, dusk, and night.
Expect sudden weather changes, especially during the wet season, which can bring heavy rain and reduced visibility.
Adhere strictly to posted speed limits, which are often lower to protect park wildlife.
Never feed or approach wildlife, especially alligators, as this is dangerous and against park regulations.

Avoid driving or parking on unmarked or closed roads.
In case of a vehicle breakdown, stay with your vehicle and call for assistance. Cell service may be limited.
Carry an emergency kit in your car with water, snacks, a flashlight, and basic first aid.
Remember 911 for all emergencies.

Your Vehicle is

For comprehensive exploration of Everglades National Park, a private vehicle is the most effective way to navigate its vast and scattered attractions.

Prepare for long drives between areas, and always check road conditions and park alerts before setting out.

Getting Around Everglades National Park