A 19th century island fort, an underwater ecosystem of coral and mangroves, and flooded grasslands teeming with wildlife make up Florida’s diverse National Parks. Experience all 3 with up-close tours plus time to explore in the bustling vacation cities of Key West and Fort Lauderdale.
- Visit Biscayne, Dry Tortugas and Everglades National Parks
- Spend three nights in Key West
- Take an airboat ride through the Everglades
- Tour the home of Ernest Hemingway
DAY 1—WELCOME TO THE SUNSHINE STATE!
This evening after arriving in Fort Lauderdale, you'll meet your fellow travelers and Discoveries Director at our welcome dinner. D
DAY 2—BISCAYNE NATIONAL PARK
Head south to the shores of Miami and Biscayne National Park, where mangroves along the coast provide a home to manatees, crocodiles, dolphins, and sharks. Continue along Florida’s iconic Highway 1 through the Florida Keys all the way to its final stop - Key West. Enjoy an authentic island dinner along the harbor at Conch Seafood Republic before checking in for a 3-night stay in paradise. B, D
DAY 3—DRY TORTUGAS NATIONAL PARK
Board the Yankee Freedom ferry for a full day trip to one of the most remote and least visited National Parks in the US, Dry Tortugas National Park (weather permitting). This island in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico is home to Fort Jefferson, a 19th century naval command center. Tour the fort with a park guide or spend the day relaxing on the island’s pristine beaches. B, L
DAY 4—KEY WEST
Enjoy a full day in one of the premier vacation destinations in the entire world. Board the world-famous Conch Train for a narrated tour of the area and immerse yourself in the vibrant island community with shops, restaurants, and beaches in every direction. The day is yours to explore at your own pace. Visit any of the island’s attractions such as the Truman Little White House or the home of Ernest Hemingway. B, D
DAY 5—EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK
Adventure awaits as we leave paradise and enter the unspoiled wilderness of the Everglades. Have your camera ready as we board the Backcountry Boat Tour and visit the home of crocodiles, manatees, dolphins, and countless tropical birds. Walk amongst the wild on the Anhinga Trail boardwalk, known for closeup views of the park’s famous residents. Continue to Homestead for dinner and a one-night stay. B, D
DAY 6—SHARK VALLEY
Visit Everglades Safari Park for a guided airboat adventure through the swamp and a wildlife handling demonstration. After an open-air tram ride through Shark Valley, check in for a two-night stay at Ft. Lauderdale’s premier historic hotel, the Riverside. Located on the world-famous Las Olas Blvd, shops restaurants, and the water are steps away. B, L
DAY 7—FORT LAUDERDALE
Tour Ft. Lauderdale with our local guide to learn about the rich history and culture of the area. Often called the “Venice of America,” you'll have time to board the water taxi to explore Ft. Lauderdale’s vast system of canals at your leisure. Enjoy a final evening of dinner and fellowship looking back on a fun and exciting trip. B, D
DAY 8—FAREWELL
After a leisurely breakfast, we must say farewell and return home with sunfilled memories of the Sunshine State. B
Quality Accommodations
Night 1: Hilton Garden Inn Ft Lauderdale Airport
Nights 2-4: Fairfield Inn Key West Keys Collection
Night 5: Hampton Inn & Suites, Homestead, FL
Nights 6-7: Riverside Hotel, Ft Lauderdale, FL
Dates:
Jan 18-25, 2023
Nov 5-12, 2023
Price Per Person:
Double $2,997
Single $4,135
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
Pre Night: Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport-Cruise Port $268/night
Post Night: Riverside Hotel January $308/night, November $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 of one suitcase per person at 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 pm. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 pm.
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 6:00am - 10:00am. Plan your return flight home that best fits your schedule. We will be doing one transfer to the airport on our bus at 10:00 am, so if you choose to take this bus you'll want to book your flight for 12:00pm (noon) or later.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our starting hotel Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport-Cruise Port offers a complimentary shuttle service to/from the Fort Lauderdale – Hollywood International Airport. If you are driving to the starting location, they also offer complimentary parking for the duration of the tour. A stop will be made at the end of the tour at the airport and to the Hilton Garden Inn for those of you who have left your vehicle at the hotel. This will be at approximately10:00am on Day 8. If you booked a post night room at the Riverside Hotel, transportation to the airport will be on your own as the hotel does not offer shuttle service to/from the Ft. Lauderdale Airport.
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.
