Honey Island Swamp Boat Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the mysterious Honey Island Swamp
- Spot native wildlife like alligators and wild boar
- Learn about the swamp's rich history and ecology
- Enjoy a guided tour with local experts
- Experience the natural beauty of Louisiana's bayous
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided boat tour through Honey Island Swamp
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Transportation options available
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Pass by: From New Orleans, take a short drive to Slidell and you'll reach Lake Pontchartrain and the Honey Island Swamp, a wildlife preserve that is one of the last protected wetlands in Louisiana.
Your guide welcomes you aboard a custom-made 22-passenger flat-bottom boat. The smaller sized, quiet boat can fit through narrow passages in the swamp foliage so that you see more and get closer to wildlife. It’s the ideal way to take in the lush environment of Cajun country. As your guide explains the history of Louisiana’s wetlands and swamp ecosystem, be on the lookout for resident wildlife including alligators, raccoons, owls, wild boar, nutria, snakes, turtles, black bears, bald eagles and many other bird species. Get a close look at some wild gators as your guide shares facts about the toothy beasts, who can weigh up to 1,000 pounds (453 kg). Their ancestors once roamed the earth with the dinosaurs and scientists estimate that they have existed for more than 150 million years. Glide safely through the fertile swamplands, learning about Cajun culture and how local people have utilized the swamp for food, homes, and medicine from your guide. You even see an authentic Cajun village that is only accessible by boat. Gain an understanding of why the wetlands are slowly disappearing and about the efforts being made to preserve Louisiana's natural treasures. After a fascinating 2-hour boat tour on Honey Island Swamp, your guide returns you to shore. You can then make your own way to your next destination.
Important information
Know before you book
- Tours are conducted in English; non-English speakers may need to arrange for a translator.
- Children under 6 years old must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
- Tours operate rain or shine; dress appropriately for weather conditions.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for the outdoors.
- Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
- Consider bringing a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Good to know
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Traveler reviews
Great Experience
The buses were punctual and knowledgeable our bus driver was Dewayne and ensured everyone returned and had historical facts the share and the entire operation was well organized. Hunter was the tour guide and he was funny and knows so much about the swamp and then habitat. Great experience and saw a lot of snakes, alligators and raccoons .
Ask for Jody!
Shanira (bus driver) was kind and welcoming. Jody (boat captain) was hilarious! I would definitely recommend Cajun encounters to fellow travelers.
Great Tour Experience
This tour was booked thru the concierge at our hotel without transportation. We had our own method of transportation and were advised that if we took an uber that they would likely not come out to pick us up. Dropping off was not an issue, but no likely to be able to get a ride a back. We enjoyed the tour, we definitely saw many alligators and raccoons, birds, etc. It was a great learning experience and interesting to learn about the alligators and have them surrounding the boat. There were times it felt alarming but we were never in any danger as long as we kept our hands and feet inside the boat. The marsh, spiders and all the creatures living in the swamp made for interesting stories. I would highly recommend this tour.
Enjoyable Ride
Drivers Cornell and Regina were excellent—good driving and interesting stories
Great time!
Regina was out driver and she was great. Overall we had a great time with this tour.