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by Kris Thoemke There is no other place on this planet quite like the Everglades. The great swamp occupies most of the land between Florida's lower east and west coasts. It is home to dozens of rare species living among the pine and cypress forests, sawgrass prairies and oak hammocks and a haven for endangered species such as the Florida panther, wood stork and snail kite. This seemingly inhospitable land is also the home of the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The tribe operates Billy Swamp Safari on their Brighton Reservation in the heart of the Everglades. Here, visitors can see the Everglades, learn about this fragile ecosystem and discover the Seminole's respect for and relationship to the land. The most challenging part of your trip is getting there. Travelers must drive into the Everglades on Interstate 75 to the Reservation exit and then take the two-lane paved road about 20 miles north. A 45 mph speed limit is strictly enforced by tribal patrol cars equipped with radar. On your way to the site, you pass the AH-TAH-THI-KI museum. The museum's 15-minute movie portrays the history of the Seminoles. After the movie you can tour the self-guided exhibits and learn more about their culture and how the Seminoles live. AH-TAH-THI-KI, which means a place to learn, a place to remember, is the phonetic pronunciation of the museum's name. The Seminoles do not have a formal written language. There is enough to do at Billy Swamp Safari to keep you busy for a full day. The one-hour swamp buggy tour is a good introduction to the Everglades. Swamp buggies are one of the oldest means of traveling through this wetland wilderness. Knowledgeable guides take you along established trails of the 2,500-acre site stopping to point out some of the unique plants and animals. Along the way, you will also see some of Billy Swamp Safari's exotic guests. There is a herd of bison, Texas longhorn steer, Asian water buffalo and several species of African antelope. You may also catch a glimpse of native white-tailed deer, Florida black bear or, on rare occasions, a Florida panther, one of the most endangered species in North America. The other activity visitors should not miss is the 20-minute airboat ride. This noisy but absolutely unique means of experiencing the Everglades is the highlight for many visitors. Airboats go where swamp buggies cannot, across the vast grassy wet prairies. On this trip, you'll have a chance to see alligators and some of the other animals seen on the swamp buggy trip. You will also experience the rush of wind in your face as you glide and slide along the airboat trails. And, for your comfort and protection, all passengers receive free earplugs. Before you leave, you will also want to spend some time visiting the herpetarium where native snakes are on display. If you have time take in the snake and alligator show in which a trained handler presents an educational program about the snakes of the Everglades. It is especially entertaining for kids. At the end of the day, don't forget to thank your guides by saying sho-na-bish, the Seminole word for thank you. They will understand and appreciate it. Sidebar The most economical way to enjoy the activities is to purchase a combination day ticket. This includes the swamp buggy eco-tour, alligator and snake show and airboat ride. For more information call Billy Swamp Safari at 1 800 949 6101 or visit their web site, www.seminoletribe.com/safari.
