Before visiting the Everglades in 2026, the most critical thing to understand is that the park is divided into three main, non-connecting entrances: Shark Valley (near Miami), Royal Palm (near Homestead), and the Gulf Coast (near Everglades City). You cannot drive between these inside the park; it can take 2+ hours to drive from one to the other on external highways, so you must pick an entrance based on your desired activity. Secondly, insect repellent is non-negotiable, especially if you visit during the "wet season" (May–October) when mosquitoes and "no-see-ums" are relentless. You should also book airboat tours only through the three authorized providers (Coopertown, Everglades Safari, and Gator Park) to ensure environmental compliance. Lastly, be prepared for limited cell service and bring a full tank of gas and plenty of water, as services like food and fuel are extremely scarce once you enter the deep park boundaries, particularly on the 38-mile drive down to Flamingo at the southern tip.