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
Excellent Swamp Tour of Animals and Plants
We had a wonderful early morning trip. The boat captain was very informative about the alligators and other animals. They allowed us to feed the ringtail raccoons and alligators. They also showed us some of the spiders native to the swamp. The fauna and vegetation were in full bloom. Excellent trip.
Wonderful tour. 10/10
The tour was great! We were off to a strong start with Cornell as the driver for our shuttle to the location! He was funny and had extensive knowledge of New Orleans History that was extremely engaging. Then we went on the actual swamp tour with Captain Dustin who was equally knowledgeable, humorous, and clearly dedicated to us being able to see the most of the tour during our time. I would recommend this tour again to anyone who wants to learn more about the nature of NOLA with a set of knowledgeable, kind, and funny staff!
Gator tour
We had a really awesome experience and saw a lot of wildlife. Our bus driver, Dwayne, was so nice and talked about the history of the area on the way down. Aaron was our boat captain and he was phenomenal as well. All around great time
Excellent wildlife viewing and nature adventure
Cornell was an excellent driver, informative and pleasant! I appreciate the A/C controlled comfortable coach ride. Thank you!
New Orleans Swamp Tour
Pickup and drop off was really smooth. Cornell was great and was an excellent guide during the drive to the tour location. The boat tour with captain Scott was excellent as well!! Super friendly and informative