Shark Valley Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience Shark Valley. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Everglades Tour w/ Biologist Led WET walk + 2 Boat Trips + Lunch!

• Everglades E-Bike Exploration with Airboat

• Florida Audio Tour Bundle 3 Self-Guided Sightseeing Tours

• Big Cypress National Preserve Audio Tour Guide

Shark Valley is situated in Everglades National Park, so you’ll need a park pass to reach it. Day passes cost US$20 for a pedestrian or cyclist, and US$35 for a private vehicle; all non-residents 16 or older are subject to an additional fee of US$100.

Yes, Shark Valley is one of the best places in Everglades National Park to spot alligators and other wildlife. Whether you prefer to hike or bike around the area, take a ride on the Shark Valley tram, or enjoy the views from the observation tower, there are a number of ways to explore the wetlands. Consider visiting with a guide—their sharp eye for spotting animals and knowledge of the Everglades ecosystems will deepen your appreciation of the park.

Per one customer who booked the Everglades Tour w/ Biologist Led WET walk + 2 Boat Trips + Lunch!, "Zac was absolutely amazing with his knowledge and obvious love for nature. He was a fountain of information, and his energy was contagious. We enjoyed two boat rides exploring different areas, a great lunch, and an interesting wet (not really) walk. Saw a lot of wildlife (dolphins, rays, turtles, spoonbills, herons, raptors, gators, and so much more!) and some incredible flora. We had a different driver on the way back (Ryan), who was equally amazing with his knowledge and love of the area. Would definitely recommend this tour."

Most tram tours of Shark Valley last around two hours and cover a distance of around 15 miles (24 kilometers). These tram tours offer a fun, family-friendly way to learn about the unique wetland from Shark Valley naturalist guides and see nature up close as you pass through.

No, visitors can only reach the Shark Valley Observation Tower by taking a tram tour, or by bike or foot. Visitors on the tram tour stop at the tower to soak up sweeping views over the Everglades National Park—views that would lose appeal if marred by parking lots.

The name comes from the Shark River Slough, aka the River of Grass, that flows through Everglades National Park. The water of this river is fed mainly from Lake Okeechobee, where bull sharks have reportedly been seen, although it’s still unclear if this led to the river’s name.

To escape the worst of the mosquitos, storms, and heat, the best time to visit Everglades National Park is in the dry season—roughly from early December through April. This is the most popular time for visitors, so book ahead for boat and tram tours.

Alligators abound in Shark Valley in the Everglades, and you’re likely to see them along with other wildlife like marsh birds and turtles. Head to the park as soon as the doors open, and go anywhere with water for a good chance of seeing these beasts in their natural habitat.

Yes, Shark Valley makes up a major part of Everglades National Park, along with other must-see areas such as Flamingo, Long Pine Key, and the Gulf Coast. For many visitors though, Shark Valley is a park highlight and is a top place for wetland wildlife like alligators.

There are tons of things to do when you're done visiting Shark Valley. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in Everglades National Park:

• Ten Thousand Islands

• Big Cypress National Preserve

• Tamiami Trail

• Chokoloskee Bay

• Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Everglades National Park.