Valley in the Everglades
Shark Valley is a valley located in the Everglades Park in Florida. Only here you can truly appreciate the whole feature, significance and beauty of the state’s nature. Do not forget to bring a camera and comfortable shoes with you, as the walk will be incredibly long and exciting!
As many as 24 kilometers of bicycle paths laid for the maximum comfort of all visitors to the wonderful park and valley. Rent a bike and enjoy the wide trails, incredible scenery and the inhabitants of the valley. Here you can very closely see all the inhabitants of the flora of the presented ecosystem: alligators, turtles, birds and the most amazing butterflies. All of them will be in a natural environment, and therefore the activity and characteristics of their life will be more attractive than in a zoo or other similar place.
Shark Valley reserve infrastructure
In the Shark Valley, bike paths merge into one huge closed loop, a leisurely trip that takes as much as 3 hours! Imagine just how much all kinds of beauty can meet on your way. And you can watch all of it, stopping as much as necessary.
The administration of the park has provided that walking in the valley may not be feasible for some tourists, so you are invited to record a tow truck. Having called, you can order a car that will pick you up from a certain place and take you to the exit. And not only because of fatigue, such a service may be needed, for example, families with children may find themselves in a situation where the child begins to be very capricious.
Throughout the park and the Shark Valley in particular, there are no food zones at all, not to mention restaurants. But there are small vending machines with snacks. They are located next to the tourist coordination office.
On the square of the tourist center There is a gift shop where you can buy various T-shirts and accessories with the symbols of the park. Protective creams are also sold here, as well as batteries and other little things that you might need on your fascinating journey through Shark Valley!
Valley attractions
About halfway to the end of the valley, there is a huge observation deck that rises 14 meters above the park. Here, all visitors can look down on the entire Shark Valley Nature Reserve. From either side, trees or mountains do not obstruct the view — the viewing angle is 360 degrees!
Unbelievable open spaces will open for you with a view of a huge reservoir at the foot of the observation deck. A variety of fish live there, which can be easily seen in the crystal clear water of the reservoir. You can also watch the behavior of turtles and alligators of the Shark Valley in Everglades National Park. Climb to the top of the viewing building is possible in a circular rise.
For everyone who does not want to ride a bike along the loop of the valley, additional two-hour excursions are provided in convenient trams in which there are no closed windows and partitions. Each such tram leaves strictly according to the schedule every hour.
All the features of the Shark Valley Everglades Park are taught by trained guides. Professionals tell you about all the secrets of the presented ecosystems.
Useful information and rules of conduct in the valley
- If you don’t have your own bike, you can always rent a convenient vehicle at the entrance of the park to the Shark Valley tourist center. To be rented, show your passport or rights. It is important to note that bicycles must be returned before 5 pm, otherwise you will face a fine of $20.
- An important advantage of renting bicycles is that models are available for people of different ages. For children, for example, there are small options, and for transporting children weighing up to 15 kg there are adult bicycles with child seats — comfortable and soft. Make sure your child has a safety helmet!
- When traveling through the Shark Valley Nature Reserve, remember that you cannot approach wild animals. The minimum distance to the habitat should be 10 meters. If you get close to the nest or den of the predator, aggression from the animal may occur. Be sure to stock up on clean water (at least 1 liter per person).
- Often rains and thunderstorms begin on the territory of the reserve and the Shark Valley — suddenly and unpredictably. In the morning it can be very hot, and during the day a storm is played out and the temperature drops sharply, so you need to take care of this. Remember that morning hours in Florida are usually cool and sunny. You should always have a hat and sun accessories, as well as a means of protection against mosquitoes and other insects.
- The tourist season lasts from December 26 to the end of April, so tickets for excursions should be booked in advance, otherwise you risk not getting on the tram, even if you wait in line for the whole day.
Shark Valley offers an unparalleled blend of adventure and serenity at the heart of Everglades National Park. Whether you opt for a tranquil tram journey or an active bike ride, you will leave with enduring memories of up-close encounters with Florida's untamed nature.
Here, every snapshot is a work of art, and every natural sound is music to the soul. Come to Shark Valley to witness the beauty and diversity of the Everglades' wildlife in its full splendor.
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