Gil and David Castillo - Florida Natives, Wildlife Experts, and Airboat Enthusiasts!

 

Florida-born brothers Gil and David Castillo have been passionate about the Sunshine State’s wildlife for as long as they can remember. For over 35 years, they’ve traveled the country sharing their deep knowledge and love for Florida’s natural wonders, captivating audiences of all ages with live wildlife demonstrations and educational exhibits.

 

Gil’s connection to Florida’s wild places began early. As a teenager, he bought his first airboat and quickly developed a lifelong love for exploring the state’s backcountry waterways. That early fascination evolved into a career when, at just 19, Gil began working with the Seminole Tribe of Florida. There, he led airboat tours through the Big Cypress Swamp, educating guests on the Seminole way of life and the rich biodiversity of the region. From Florida panthers and otters to black bears and snakes, Gil introduced countless people to the state’s unique wildlife. His high-energy rattlesnake and alligator shows quickly became crowd favorites and eventually led to the creation of his own traveling wildlife exhibit.

 

Over time, Gil’s expertise earned him director roles at several zoos in Florida and Louisiana. But it was his founding of Kachunga and The Alligator Show that truly cemented his legacy. Built on an environmental message and packed with captivating insights about Florida’s most iconic predator, the American alligator, the show became a staple attraction at fairs, festivals, and theme parks across the nation.

 

After serving in the United States Marine Corps, David joined his brother Gil in the Kachunga show. His natural charisma and fearless handling skills made him a standout performer and quickly earned him a reputation as one of the top alligator handlers in the country. With thousands of shows under his belt across all 50 states and Canada, David became a crowd favorite everywhere he went, inspiring a deep appreciation for wildlife in audiences far and wide.

 

In their downtime, Gil and David love nothing more than hitting the water—whether it’s airboating through Florida’s remote swamps or offshore fishing in the Gulf. The idea for starting their own airboat tour company was born when friends and family, after joining them on these wild adventures, encouraged them to share the experience with others.

 

With decades of experience and an unmatched knowledge of Florida’s hidden gems, the Castillo brothers now offer private, off-the-grid airboat tours through some of the state’s most scenic and untouched ecosystems. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a first-time explorer, their tours promise to be one of the most unforgettable adventures of your life.

 

Let Gil and David guide you through the heart of Florida’s wilderness—up close, personal, and wild.

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“If you are a nature lover, if you are a wildlife enthusiast, if you are an outdoor adventurer, or if you simply want an experience of a lifetime, I promise this is a trip for you.”
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