Big Cypress Seminole Reservation

Big Cypress Seminole Reservation Review

On the way to the Everglades from Fort Lauderdale is this reservation's two very different attractions.

At the Billie Swamp Safari, experience the majesty of the Everglades firsthand. Daily tours of wildlife-filled wetlands and hammocks yield sightings of deer, water buffalo, raccoons, wild hogs, hawks, eagles, and alligators. Sighting of the rare Florida panther are limited to the two captive felines on-site. Animal and reptile shows entertain audiences. Ecotours are conducted aboard motorized swamp buggies, and airboat rides are available, too. The on-site Swamp Water Café serves gator nuggets, frogs' legs, catfish, and Indian fry bread with honey. Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation, 30000 Gator Tail Trail, Clewiston, 33440. 863/983-6101 or 800/949-6101. www.swampsafari.com. Swamp Safari Day Package (ecotour, shows, exhibits, and airboat ride) $49.95. Daily 10-5.

A couple of miles from Billie Swamp Safari is Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, whose name means "a place to learn, a place to remember." This museum documents the traditions and culture of the Seminole Tribe of Florida through artifacts, exhibits, and reenactments of rituals and ceremonies. The 60-acre site includes a living-history Seminole village, nature trails, and a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk through a cypress swamp. 34725 W. Boundary Rd., Clewiston, 33440. 863/902-1113. www.ahtahthiki.com. $9. Tues.-Sun. 9-5.