Get Outdoors…Zip Through Central Florida

“Traveling 20 mph in a car isn’t very fast, but flying by the trees at 20 mph is a different feeling,” comments Matt Duda, director of sales and marketing, as he describes the Zipline Safari, the newest eco-attraction at Florida EcoSafaris at Forever Florida in St. Cloud. 

When you step away from the theme parks and other manmade attractions in this area, you can discover another side of the Sunshine State you might not have known existed. And Florida EcoSafaris at Forever Florida is there to guide you through the natural beauty surrounding Central Florida.

Known for their Coach Safari and horseback safari tours that explore the 4,700 acre wildlife conservation area, the owner wanted add something new and fun, yet still continue with their conservation effort. Thus, the idea of a Zipline Safari (the first and only zipline in the state) was born and created.

“We have two goals,” Duda says. “First, we want the safari to be fun and second, we want everyone to walk away with a better understanding of the land.”

Duda points out that this isn’t your typical zipline. It’s a two-hour journey that includes a guided five-mile hike along the Florida Trail to the start of the course. The course is made up of a system of seven high-tension cables, reaching heights of 55 feet. Don’t worry if you’ve never done this before, because you will learn the fundamentals prior to the first zip. The group, with a guide (who will point out points of interest along the way), will zip along the treetops traveling from platform to platform.

“Seeing the nine different Florida ecosystems from this height provides you with a new perspective of the area,” he says.

And be sure to keep your eyes open for animals. You never know when you might get a quick glimpse of various birds, black bears, alligators or the very rare Florida panthers, which Duda says from time to time you can see baby and mom tracks.

The Zipline Safari is open to children ages 10 (must meet the minimum weight requirement of 70 lbs.) and up, and adults. Tickets are $85/person and Florida residents can take advantage of a special rate – $50 – through the month of January. Advance registration is required and can be made by calling 866-85-4EVER.

photo credit: all photos are courtesy of Florida EcoSafaris at Forever Florida.