Celebrating its 60th Anniversary this year Gatorland provides affordable family fun with thousands of alligators, and crocodiles, plus an aviary, breeding marsh with observation tower, petting zoo, nature walk and great educational wildlife programmes. New for 2009, an exhibit of leucistic alligators, the world’s largest white alligators (over 12 feet in length and 800 pounds) with blue eyes and a fantastic new water park Gator Gully Splash Park.
For over half a century, Gatorland has been creating fond holiday memories for millions of visitors who have entered through its gaping gator mouth entrance. Located between Orlando and Kissimmee on the South Orange Blossom Trail, Gatorland is one of Central Florida's oldest attractions, and provides a unique and natural alternative to the larger theme parks of today. Gatorland® offers a number of shows including the unique alligator wrestling show done "Florida Cracker" style in a shaded 800 seat stadium. Gator wranglers catch a 6 to 8 foot alligator by hand and climb onto the snapping animal's back to point out survival features to the audience. After doing stunts that only a few are brave enough to try, the alligator is rolled over and put to sleep...only to be awakened by a tickle!
You never know what kind of animal you'll be encountering next at the Up-close Animal Encounters Show. You'll get to meet fascinating creatures from around the globe as well as Florida's native wildlife - including some of the most dangerous snakes alive.
Trainer for a day
Train to become a real alligator wrestler!
This experience will be a day that you will not forget! You will get a glimpse into what it takes to be able to work with and around dangerous animals. The program starts out with an introductory course that includes safety procedures, handling exercises and basic behavioural animal training. Then it's time for a hands-on training session with one of the reptile experts. This up-close interaction includes a chance to learn all about crocodilians and an opportunity to test your skills at croc wrangling! Experience may range from moving large alligators and crocodiles to assisting a reptile trainer in daily feedings. So be sure to prepare for the unexpected!
Participants must be at least 12 years old.
Gatorland and Airboat Safari
Why not combine a visit to Gatorland with an amazing airboat ride? See some of Florida’s natural beauty as your boat zips across the water before heading off to world famous Gatorland to view the reptilian inhabitants.
This tour operates every Monday and includes pick-ups from central meeting points in the International Drive, Lake Buena Vista, Kissimmee and Walt Disney World areas. Please click here for a pick-up schedule (link through to same schedule pop-up). Should you prefer less time on the bus, you can drive yourself to the centralised meeting point.
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