Our full day with Erin in the Everglades was the highlight of our week in Florida. My husband and I have kayaked with guides before, but usually the group was large and somewhat impersonal. There were only five of us, including Erin, and she was a wealth of information, as well as a joy to be with. We started with a hike through the swamp, and I do mean through it...knee deep. Never fear...she knew the two alligators who reigned over that territory and safely guided us through another area. She told us about the flora and fauna that we saw (luckily no snake type fauna), and it was an amazing experience. Then we kayaked several freshwater lakes, going through mangrove tunnels, getting hissed at by an alligator that didn't appreciate our presence, and were able to spot a number of both alligators and crocodiles, as well as some amazing birds and fish. It was a peaceful and beautiful place, paddling around surrounded by the sounds of nature. Following that, we paddled out into the bay, to a bird rookery, watched the sunset over the sparkling waters, and paddled back just before dark overtook us. Then we went snake hunting. Never fear....the snakes love to rest on the warm night pavement of the road, and every time we spotted one curled up, Erin would stop the van and we would unload with flashlights to see what kind it was. Several moccasins, and some non venomous snakes, but no pythons or boas this time, although they are also found in the Everglades now. We finished with a night walk out on some boardwalks, shining our flashlights into the water and finding gars, and other interesting fish, as well as some more alligators, of course. It was just the best day ever, totally different from what I expected, and I give all of the credit to our great guide, Erin!!! It was an awesome experience, one not to miss on your next Everglades visit!