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Explore Florida’s Wild Side with UpRiver Adventures

Experience Authentic Florida with UpRiver Adventures

UpRiver Adventures in Arcadia, Florida, offers a genuine taste of the Sunshine State’s wild side. This is the perfect day trip from Fort Myers, Sanibel, or Captiva and the ultimate tour for visitors while in the Sarasota, Venice, and Bradenton areas. Whether you’re seeking high-speed thrills or serene nature encounters, this family-friendly destination has something for everyone.

Photos courtesy of Up River Adventures

Airboat Rides on the Peace River

Feel the wind in your hair as you glide across the Peace River on a 50-minute airboat tour. These powerful vessels, equipped with 450-horsepower engines, provide an exhilarating ride through Florida’s unique ecosystems. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species as you explore the river’s natural beauty. 

Photo courtesy of UpRiver Adventures
Photo courtesy of UpRiver Adventures

Swamp Buggy Adventures

For a different perspective, hop aboard a swamp buggy. These elevated vehicles offer a comfortable and safe way to experience the region’s diverse landscapes, from thick mud and brush to shallow water passages. 

Photo courtesy of UpRiver Adventures

Canoe Trips

One of the most popular ways to explore the Peace River is via canoe. Experiencing the serene beauty of the river as you paddle along the relaxed current is a must do for all ages. UpRiver Adventures offer 3 and 6-mile trips.

Photo courtesy of UpRiver Adventures

Horseback Trail Rides

Not feeling a motorized adventure? Enjoy a leisurely one-hour horseback ride along the river and through Florida’s cypress hammocks. Suitable for all ages and experience levels, the guided tours provide a peaceful way to connect with nature.  

Photo courtesy of UpRiver Adventures
Photo courtesy of UpRiver Adventures

Customizable Outdoor Experiences

UpRiver Adventures offers customizable charters tailored to your interests. Whether it’s fishing in the morning, hunting in the evening, or camping under the stars, the possibilities are endless. Additional activities include fossil hunting, rustic cookouts, canoeing, and more. 

Wildlife Encounters

Don’t miss the chance to hold a baby alligator and feed Dale Jr., the over 13.5-foot-long alligator residing at the park! These up-close encounters provide a unique opportunity to learn about Florida’s native wildlife. 

In addition to Dale Jr., Jungle Doria’s Wildlife Park at UpRiver Adventures offers a variety of one-of-a-kind wildlife encounters and photo opportunities. Meet Madagascar lemurs, emus, capybaras, snakes, tortoise, porcupine, alligators, and more. The Wildlife Park is free for anyone taking a Peace River Charters tour!

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or nature enthusiast, UpRiver Adventures offers an authentic Florida experience just a short drive from the Sarasota and Fort Myers areas.

Photos courtesy of Peace River Charters & UpRiver Adventures

Written by: Laurén Ettinger | Author Website

Laurén Ettinger is the Assistant Editor at Siesta Publications for Must Do Visitor Guides where she manages social media, writes blog articles, and assists in editing print and online copy. Laurén also works as a freelance data specialist, copy editor, and proofreader. She holds a M.S. in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from George Mason University's School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution and a B.A. in Anthropology and a B.A. in Global Studies from Appalachian State University.