Orlando Wildlife Safari Hike with a Wildlife Photographer
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Get away from the overcrowded airboat tours and come witness the magic of Central Florida's nature scene up close. Led by a local award-winning wildlife photographer and ecologist, this intimate guided hike immerses you in the wild beauty of Florida’s natural landscapes. This area is known for consistent wildlife activity, and sightings of alligators and wading birds are common on most hikes. Journey through forests, swamps, and riverside trails while observing native wildlife and learning how each species plays a role in Florida’s delicate ecosystems. Along the way, your guide will capture professional photos of you and the wildlife you encounter, providing a stunning visual story of your experience to take home and treasure.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Participants should have moderate physical fitness and be comfortable walking 2–3 miles on natural trail surfaces.
What To Expect
Only 30 minutes from Orlando, the Black Bear Wilderness Area offers one of Central Florida’s most beautiful and biodiverse landscapes, nestled along the scenic St. Johns River. The trail winds through hydric hammock forests, cypress swamps, and open marsh edges before revealing sweeping river views. It’s a true glimpse into wild Florida - home to wading birds, turtles, alligators, deer, and, on rare occasions, the Florida black bears that give this remarkable place its name. Guests will hike a portion of the trail at a relaxed, flexible pace, spotting wildlife and learning about the area’s one-of-a-kind ecosystem. As we explore, I’ll capture professional photographs of both the wildlife and of you immersed in this incredible wilderness. The trail features a mix of elevated boardwalks and natural dirt paths, offering an authentic Florida adventure.
Options
Orlando Wildlife Safari Hike with a Wildlife Photographer
What‘s Included
Curated set of professionally taken and edited photos (portraits and wildlife)
Expert nature interpretation and insights throughout the experience
Professional wildlife guide, ecologist, and award-winning photographer leading the hike
Park access and trail fees
Personal hiking gear (appropriate hiking shoes, comfortable outdoor clothing, hat, etc.)
Backpack and water bottle (make sure to bring your own water!)
Transportation to and from the trailhead
Snacks or additional beverages
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
14 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Well worth the experience!
glenncB9702GS,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Highly recommend! Micah provides a great hiking experience and is the best guide. His knowledge of the terrain and wildlife added much flavor to the hike.
Amazing wildlife hike
kevinbmd3,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Micah is a top notch guide. His passion for Florida wildlife is contagious. We saw alligators, many species of birds, turtles, etc. Micah had deep knowledge of the entire ecosystem and made the whole process so much fun. His photography is amazing. Highly recommend and can't wait to do it again!
Amazing way to experience Florida’s nature scene
Dylanrm30,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This experience is a must do looking to learn about Florida’s wildlife with a super knowledgeable guide in Micah. It’s a beautiful hike through a carved out trail with many amazing photo spots. Micah’s true passion for both nature and photography makes this a very unique experience as he rattles off facts about the wildlife that makes Florida’s ecosystem thrive. Likelihood of seeing gators is certainly high but at no point do you feel any sort of risk, just don’t pet them as much as you might want to…
Best wildlife nature tour
Kevin B,Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Micah was the best tour guide. He is so passionate about Florida wildlife that you can’t help but have fun, and learn a lot too. Micah was very knowledgeable about the history of Florida ecosystems and the wildlife we saw! He took some amazing high quality photos of both wildlife and our group. Truly a unique experience of the “real” Florida!
Amazing outdoor experience
Patrick V,Nov 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Micah, our guide for this outdoor adventure, made this trip beyond amazing. His patience during the hike, while allowing us to set the pace, answer any questions, and take timely photographs, made this a very custom experience. His vast knowledge of wildlife and the ecosystem not only educated me, but more importantly helped remind me to pause and enjoy the beauty and wonder of nature. I also appreciated his attention to everyone’s safety, as wildlife is not always predictable. Micah’s ability to notice amazing details, identify various birds, and somehow locate gators camouflaged in the water, made this an unforgettable adventure.
Amazing way to experience Florida’s real nature scene
Dylan R,Nov 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This experience is a must do looking to learn about Florida’s wildlife with a super knowledgeable guide in Micah. It’s a beautiful hike through a carved out trail with many amazing photo spots. Micah’s true passion for both nature and photography makes this a very unique experience as he rattles off facts about the wildlife that makes Florida’s ecosystem thrive. Likelihood of seeing gators is certainly high but at no point do you feel any sort of risk, just don’t pet them as much as you might want to…
Well worth the experience!
Glenn C,Nov 17, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a great hike through the Black Bear Wilderness area. Our guide was very helpful and knowledgeable. Micah answered all sorts of questions about wildlife and the cypress swamps. Very fun! Highly recommend!
The tour guide was...
Josiah V,Nov 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and taught our group about all the unique creatures and animals on the tour.
Amazing
Roman B,Nov 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Very fun experience, learned a lot about the wildlife in the area and really got to see what Florida is all about!
Amazing time exploring...
Carson L,Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing time exploring with the guide Micah, he’s very knowledgeable about all the wildlife. Me and my friends had a 10/10 experience!
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