La Ventana al Mundo | Barranquilla

Information

Landmark: La Ventana al Mundo
City: Barranquilla
Country: Colombia
Continent: South America

La Ventana al Mundo, Barranquilla, Colombia, South America

Sawgrass Recreation Park is a wildlife and airboat tour facility located in the Florida Everglades, west of Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a series of canals and marshland areas. The primary structures are wooden buildings housing administrative offices, gift shops, and covered waiting areas. The surrounding vegetation is characteristic of the Everglades, with sawgrass, cypress trees, and various aquatic plants. Airboats are large, flat-bottomed vessels with powerful fans for propulsion.

Location & Access Logistics

The park is situated approximately 15 miles west of Fort Lauderdale's city center, accessible via US Highway 27. Take exit 41 from I-75 South or exit 21 from I-595 West. Parking is available on-site and is free of charge. No public transport options directly serve the park; private vehicle or taxi/rideshare service is required.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Sawgrass Recreation Park operates within the Florida Everglades, a subtropical wetland ecosystem. The area's ecological origin is tied to the slow-moving sheet flow of water originating from Lake Okeechobee. The park itself was established to offer public access and educational experiences related to this environment. Airboat tours have been a popular method of navigating the Everglades since the mid-20th century.

Key Highlights & Activities

Airboat tours are the primary activity, offering rides through the sawgrass marshes. These tours typically include stops to observe alligators and other native wildlife in their natural habitat. The park also features a "Living Alligator Show" and an animal sanctuary with various reptiles and birds. Visitors can also rent kayaks for self-guided exploration of designated waterways.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Covered seating areas provide shade. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food and beverages are sold at the park's concession stand. A gift shop offers souvenirs and basic supplies.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for wildlife viewing is typically early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. The dry season, from December to April, generally offers more predictable weather and less dense vegetation, making wildlife spotting easier. Airboat tours operate year-round, weather permitting.

Facts & Legends

The Florida Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. A unique tip for visitors is to wear light-colored clothing, as darker colors can attract biting insects more readily.