New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Honey Island Swamp's rich biodiversity
- Spot alligators, wild boar, and diverse bird species
- Experience a boat-accessible Cajun village
- Learn about Cajun culture from local guides
- Enjoy round-trip transportation from New Orleans
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Round-trip transportation from New Orleans
- 2-hour guided boat tour of Honey Island Swamp
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Pass by: After pickup in central New Orleans, it's a short drive across Lake Pontchartrain to 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. As your guide explains the history of Louisiana’s wetlands and swamp ecosystem, be on the lookout for alligators, raccoons, owls, wild boar, nutria, snakes, turtles, black bears, bald eagles and 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). Glide safely through the fertile swamplands, learning about Cajun culture and how local people have utilized the swamp for food, homes, and medicine. 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, your guide returns you to shore.
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather.
- Children under 2 years old can join for free if they do not occupy a seat.
- The tour is conducted in English; non-English speakers may need to arrange for a translator.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for a boat ride.
- Bring a camera to capture wildlife sightings and scenic views.
- Consider bringing insect repellent to ensure a comfortable experience.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- PLEASE NOTE: tour ONLY picks up from the location listed. Pick ups from any other location cannot be accommodated.
Traveler reviews
10/10 Would def come again
Our bus driver from Cajun Encounters, Justina, was amazing with a little bus tour on the way to the swamp, she was funny and engaging with other stories on the way. And our Captain Ben was very funny and engaging answering all out questions and giving facts about the swamp.
Swamp Tour after Essence Festival
Had a great time today! Justina was a wonderful tour guide and bus driver!! Captain Ben was amazing!would definitely recommend this tour to others!
Great New Orleans Swamp Tour
Great New Orleans swamp tour. Our captain, Dustin, and bus driver, Justina, were fabulous.
New Orleans swamp tour Cajun encounter
Definitely worth spending the money for this experience. Saw so many swamp puppies and being able to be in the nature, see centuries old trees were beautiful. Highly recommend. And the capt dustin is surprisingly good looking. Iykyk.
Orleans Swamp Tour Guide Experience
This was our first time in Louisiana and our family wasn’t sure where to go. We decided to book tickets to the New Orleans Swamp Tour Guide last minute and were incredibly pleased. If we’re ever back in town, we hope to come back and check out the incredible wildlife!! Beautiful scenery!!