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Babcock Ranch Eco-Tours

8502 FL-31
Punta Gorda, FL 33982

Discover the natural heart of Florida on a narrated 90-minute eco-tour. Experience the thrill of seeing alligators, birds, deer, birds of all types, and maybe even wild hogs and turkeys, often from only a few yards away, as well as the historic Cracker Cattle. The tour will take you through four different ecosystems of Florida, including the Telegraph Cypress Swamp. Their expert guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the history, wildlife, and various ecosystems you will see and will enhance your experience with their commentaries. Get back to nature and enjoy the excitement of a true wilderness adventure. Services include a Swamp Buggy Eco-Tour, walking tours, and specialty tours. For a wheelchair-accessible tour, please call to book at least 24 hours in advance. After you’ve worked up an appetite on one of their incredible tours, stop by the Gator Shack Restaurant for some incredible eats! The menu rotates daily, so there's always something fresh and new to try.

Peace River Wildlife Center

3400 Ponce de Leon Pkwy
Punta Gorda, FL 33950

Peace River Wildlife Center (PRWC) non-profit wildlife rehabilitation and education center tucked neatly into the mangroves overlooking Charlotte Harbor at Ponce de Leon Park in Punta Gorda Isles, Florida. The Center and gift shop are open to the public for tours every day from 11 am to 4 pm. There is no admission fee but donations are greatly appreciated.

IguanaLand

33900 Bermont Rd.
Punta Gorda, FL 33982

IguanaLand is the largest reptile zoo in the world, exhibiting over 200 different species of reptiles from around the globe. We're dedicated to educating everyone about these amazing animals with unique, hands-on experiences, as well as supporting conservation efforts for their natural habitats. Come and explore the park at your own pace or upgrade your visit with an Animal Encounter or VIP Tour, bookable online through our website! Whether you are already a reptile fan or just curious about the incredible and diverse animals in this group, IguanaLand is an amazing new kind of zoo that will capture the imagination of everyone. Guests are welcome to bring a snack or a lunch to eat in our covered picnic area, surrounded by curious creatures! Like most zoos, IguanaLand is primarily out doors and we encourage guests to dress properly for the weather, including close-toed shoes, hats, and lots of sun screen. Families can typically see the whole park in 1.5 -2 hours.

Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center

10941 Burnt Store Road
Punta Gorda, FL 33951

A free nature park with visitor center, guided tours, educational programs, and recreation that accesses 3,000 acres of public preserve land, with approximately four miles of hiking trails. CHEC boasts a large, screened pavilion for picnics, bird blind (Wildlife Observation) area, Animal Clubhouse with bird and animal displays, alligator dock, and butterfly garden provide enjoyment for visitors. Guided tours with volunteer trail interpreters are available from November through April, Monday through Friday at 9 am. Welcome to the wild side!

Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary

41660 Horseshoe Rd.
Punta Gorda, FL 33982

Octagon is a forever home for discarded and, many times, mistreated exotic animals. We are not a zoo and none of the resident animals have been taken from the wild. We provide a safe haven and healthy environment for these magnificent animals. The sanctuary offers guided tours which feature an up-close view of the animals (from a safe distance). See lions, tigers, bears, and more. They are wheelchair accessible and have beverages available for purchase. There are multiple areas to sit and cool off in the shade.