Bring water, sun protection, comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing for a visit to Shark Valley. Insect repellent can also be useful, particularly during warmer or wetter conditions. If you plan to spend several hours in the park, consider bringing snacks or a meal, as on-site food options are limited.

You can book the tram, check the weather, and plan the drive. Then leave the one thing you actually needed sitting at home.
That can matter at Shark Valley. Much of the visit takes place outdoors, there is limited shade along the tram and bicycle trail and the South Florida heat can catch people off guard. If you’re planning to spend a few extra hours exploring, what you pack becomes part of the experience.

So, what to bring to Shark Valley is worth thinking about before you leave. At Shark Valley Tram Tours, we see visitors arrive ready for the tram but sometimes unprepared for the time they’ll spend outdoors before, during or after their tour.

Start With Water

Water should probably be the first thing in the bag. The National Park Service advises visitors to bring plenty of it, especially those planning to bike the 15-mile Shark Valley loop.

There is a water fountain at the observation tower, but it sits seven miles from the parking lot, so it shouldn’t be your only plan for staying hydrated.

Even if you’re taking the tram, you’re still spending time outdoors. When deciding what to bring to Shark Valley, enough water should be near the top of the list instead of something you grab at the last minute.

What to Bring to Shark Valley for the Sun

There isn’t much shade once you’re out along the trail. A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses can make a noticeable difference, particularly on a bright South Florida day. We recommend lightweight, breathable clothing for visitors spending time outdoors.

You don’t need special outdoor gear. Just dress for the conditions you’re likely to experience after you leave the air-conditioned car.

What to bring to Shark Valley can also depend on the weather that day. A hot, sunny forecast calls for more attention to water and sun protection, while rain in the forecast may change what you decide to wear or carry.

Wear Shoes You’ll Actually Want to Walk In

The tram does the driving, but you’ll still have opportunities to get out and walk around. You may spend time at the visitor area, climb the observation tower, or explore before or after your tour. Comfortable walking shoes are usually a better choice than footwear that looks good for five minutes and becomes annoying after that.

If you’re biking the Shark Valley loop, your footwear matters even more. The 15-mile route can take several hours to complete, so what to bring to Shark Valley should also reflect what you actually plan to do once you’re there.

Bug Repellent Is Worth Considering

Mosquitoes and other biting insects are part of the Everglades. The National Park Service recommends insect repellent, particularly during warmer and wetter conditions, when mosquitoes can be more active. Dawn and dusk may also bring more biting insects.

You may not need to use it during every visit but it’s one of those things that is easy to forget and useful to have when conditions change.

If you leave something behind, our gift shop carries practical items including insect repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses and reusable water bottles.

Bring Something to Eat if You’ll Be There for a While

A Shark Valley visit can easily take up several hours. The National Park Service notes that only limited snacks are available and recommends bringing food if you’ll need more than that during your visit. You don’t need to fill a backpack with food.

But if you’re arriving early, waiting for a later tram, or planning to spend extra time in the park, a few snacks or a packed lunch can save you from getting hungry halfway through the day. We recommend thinking about how long you plan to stay before deciding what to pack.

A Camera or Binoculars Might Be Worth the Space

This depends on how you like to explore. Your phone may be all you need for photos. But if wildlife viewing is one of the main reasons you’re visiting, binoculars can be useful for getting a closer look.

We often recommend binoculars for visitors who want a closer look at the wildlife and our gift shop also carries visitor essentials if you need to pick something up before heading out. The trick is not to bring everything you own. Bring what you’ll actually use.

Keep It Simple

When deciding what to bring to Shark Valley, start with the basics: water, sun protection, comfortable shoes and clothing that suits the weather.

Add insect repellent if conditions call for it. Bring snacks or lunch if you’ll be there for a while. Toss in a camera or binoculars if that’s how you like to experience wildlife. That’s really it.

You don’t need a complicated packing strategy. We simply recommend thinking about the conditions, how long you plan to stay and what you want to do while you’re here. Shark Valley is an outdoor experience and the things you forget at home are often the things you wish you had brought.

FAQs

What should I bring to Shark Valley?

Bring plenty of water, sun protection, comfortable footwear and clothing appropriate for the weather. Insect repellent and snacks can also be useful depending on the season and how long you plan to stay.

Should I bring water on a Shark Valley tram tour?

Yes. The National Park Service recommends bringing plenty of water because visitors spend much of their time outdoors.

Do I need insect repellent at Shark Valley?

It can be useful, particularly during warmer or wetter conditions when mosquitoes and other biting insects may be more active.

Can I buy food or snacks at Shark Valley?

Limited snacks and drinks are available, but visitors planning to stay for several hours may want to bring their own food.

What if I forget sunscreen or bug spray?

Shark Valley Tram Tours’ gift shop carries practical visitor items, including sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses and reusable water bottles.

A Trip to Shark Valley Starts With What You Remember to Bring