Orlando Wildlife Safari Hike with a Wildlife Photographer

Overview

Available languages

English

Spanish

2 hours 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Led by an award-winning wildlife photographer and ecologist, this guided hike immerses you in the wild beauty of Central Florida’s natural landscapes. Journey through forests, swamps, and riverside trails while searching for native wildlife like wading birds, alligators, and the elusive Florida black bear. Along the way, you’ll gain fascinating insight into the delicate balance of these ecosystems and how each species plays a part in Florida’s environment. Throughout your adventure, 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.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Black Bear Wilderness Area

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.

2 hours 30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

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

Options

Orlando Wildlife Safari Hike with a Wildlife Photographer

Reviews

5.00

11 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Best wildlife nature tour
Kevin B,,Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Micah 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
5.00
Micah, 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
5.00
This 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
5.00
This 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
5.00
The 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
5.00
Very 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
5.00
Amazing time exploring with the guide Micah, he’s very knowledgeable about all the wildlife. Me and my friends had a 10/10 experience!
I forget how beautiful my...
Debbie V,,Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
I forget how beautiful my backyard can be just several miles up the way. Earlier this week, I had a great experience hiking along this trail with my two adult children. You feel like you are entering the swamp lands within the animal's natural habitat. Micah is passionate about making your experience memorable! Shortly into our hike, Micah spotted a baby gator that I would have never noticed! We also saw a few different species of birds. Additionally, Micah pointed out the bear droppings along the path! Good thing we never saw the bear! The halfway point is a beautiful view of the Saint John's river. This a refreshing getaway with a knowledgeable guide. I would highly recommend! As a bonus, you will love your pictures!
Worth it!
Katy B,,Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
We had an awesome hike out on the trail to the St. John’s River and back. It was gorgeous weather, and a fun trail. Micah was very helpful and knowledgeable about the area and the wildlife. He took some amazing professional pictures. We saw a gator and lots of birds! Would highly recommend this experience!
A Peaceful Day of Adventure to Remember
Mariah V,,Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Wow—what an experience! I’ve lived in Florida my whole life, but I never truly realized how beautiful it is until this tour. It completely opened my eyes to the nature and wildlife around me and gave me such a deeper appreciation for it all. Micah was the best guide—super knowledgeable, warm, and friendly. He’s so easy to talk to and makes the whole thing feel relaxed and fun, like exploring with a friend who knows all the cool facts about the outdoors. The trail was gorgeous, and I loved how the scenery kept changing within just a couple of miles. We even spotted a baby gator and some really cool birds along the way, which made it even more memorable! A few days later, I got the most stunning photos that perfectly captured the magic of the day—memories I’ll cherish forever! I highly recommend this tour to anyone, whether you’re new to hiking or love being outdoors. It’s the perfect mix of learning, exploring, and just having a great time in nature.