swamp tours in cameron louisiana

SWAMP TOURS

Get ready for a tour of a lifetime through moss-draped cypress trees, where graceful egrets perch just out of the reach of lingering alligators! The young and not-so young will enjoy our swamp tours and airboat rides through one of the most unique wildernesses on Earth.

While on the tour, you'll explore the diverse natural beauty and rich ecological systems of America's largest and most mysterious swamp ecosystem, the Atchafalaya Basin Swamp!

Native Cajun tour guides will explain from personal experience what it is like to live on a houseboat or survive off the swamp--while pointing out the abundant plants of the area and getting you up close and personal with the wildlife!

AIRBOAT RIDES

Join our swamp guides and prepare for an exciting 90-minute tour through the Atchafalaya Basin Swamp! Airboat tours are great for families and groups interested in an exciting way to see the swamp.

Tours Operate Daily

Daily Tour Departures at 9:00AM, 11:00AM, 1:00PM and 3:00PM.   

Adult: $52.50 

Children (5 to 12 years): $45.00

Minimum of 3 Adults for Departure or $157.50

90-minute tours through Louisiana's Atchafalaya Basin Swamp on our swamp tour boats. A comfortable way to experience the swamp. Perfect for tour groups and school field trip experiences!

Boat capacities: are 25, 48 and 48 people

Daily Tour Departures at 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM   

Adult: $35.00 

Children (3-10 years old): $25

Children (0-2 years): FREE

Group Rates (20 or more people): $25.00

Minimum of 4 Adults for Departure or $140.00

PLEASE CALL FOR GROUPS OVER 20 PEOPLE

TOURS OFFERED SEASONALLY

Please call for availability, sunset tours.

Begin your tour just before sundown before venturing into the dark. Watch out for the Rougarou as you spotlight alligators and see the swamp in a completely new light!

Boat capacity: 25 people

Tours Operate SEASONALLY on Friday & Saturday Evenings

Call for Tour Departure times  

Adult: $40.00 

Children (3-10 years old): $35

Minimum of 3 Adults for Departure or $120.00

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Louisiana (LA) » 15 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours

15 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours

Louisiana’s Mississippi Delta is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the United States.

The swamps and bayous are home to countless species of fish, birds, reptiles, and mammals that thrive in and around its fertile waters.

In addition to its natural wonders, the area is steeped in history, going back to the era when Louisiana was a French colony; much of that influence can still be found all over the area even though it is centuries old.

With plenty of swamp and history tours, getting fascinating insights into both aspects of the region won’t be a problem.

Below are 15 of the best Louisiana swamp tours.

1. Louisiana Plantation & Swamp Boat Bayou Full-Day Combo

Starting from New Orleans, this full-day plantation and bayou swamp tour is a great way to see the natural and historical sides of Louisiana in one tour.

The experience lasts about seven hours and includes a stop at historic Laura Plantation, with its amazing oak-lined entrance and permanent history exhibit.

The plantation was once the area’s most elegant and productive, at a time when all labor was carried out by slaves.

It’s a fascinating insight into the past. You’ll get up close and personal with some toothy gators along the way as well.

2. Louisiana Bayou 2 or 3 Hour Swamp Tour

If you’d like to get a bird’s eye view of the amazing swamp ecosystem and the critters that call it home, this three-hour tour is a great way to do it while leaving most of the day open for other adventures.

Cajun country is full of alligators, turtles, and an array of beautiful wading birds. In addition to wildlife, you’ll learn about the area’s unique culture and history too.

Though the boats are noisy, the swamp animals are used to their presence, so you don’t need to worry about scaring them away.

Depending on where you’re staying, door-to-door transportation is an option.

View Prices & Reviews

3. South Swamp Tours South of New Orleans by Airboat

Airboats are exciting ways to zip around the swamps and bayous of southern Louisiana; if you’re up for an exhilarating and unique tour that’s less than an hour from New Orleans, then this airboat journey is a must.

Just shy of two hours long, your skillful captain will get you up close to many of the swamp’s inhabitants.

Before the trip departs, you’ll have a chance to check out some gators in captivity, including two rare albino alligators named Sugar and Flour.

There is a gift and snack shop if you’d like a souvenir or cold drink before heading out.

4. High-Performance Airboat Tour from New Orleans

Airboats are powered by massive, propeller-driven engines and can reach speeds nearing 40 miles an hour, all while skimming over water that’s often no more than a few feet deep.

Riding on these definitely gets the blood flowing and heart beating. This tour that’s less than an hour away from New Orleans will give you some great views of the gators, birds, turtles, and snakes that call the bayou waterways home.

You may see lots of fascinating birds like eagles, pelicans, and kingfishers, and, of course, alligators are the perennial favorite and surprisingly abundant.

At just a few hours long, the tour will leave your schedule free for other adventures.

5. New Orleans Swamp & Bayou Boat Tour

Louisiana’s Barataria Nature Preserve is one of the state’s natural gems and includes thousands of acres of nearly pristine swamp and bayou habitat that is a magnet for wildlife.

This tour includes sections of the Jean Lafitte National Historic Park too; your local guide will fill you in on some of the more interesting points of local history and lore.

Depending on when you go, you may get to see alligator mounds, which mother gators build out of vegetation to protect and incubate their eggs before they hatch.

The tour usually lasts between three and four hours depending on the guests and weather.

6. Plantation and Swamp Tour from ‘The Big Easy’

This five-hour plantation and wildlife tour includes a stop at the scenic Destrehan Plantation that was established in the latter part of the 18th century. It is perhaps the oldest and most well-preserved example of a French-influenced, colonial-style home in the entire Mississippi River delta.

Though you’ll never be too far from New Orleans, you’ll feel like you are worlds away, and have taken a giant step backward in time.

You’ll also visit Manchac Swamp and hear blood-curdling tales about the legend of the Cajun werewolf that has supposedly stalked the swamps for centuries, occasionally devouring a hapless, camera-wielding tourist before disappearing back into the forest.

7. New Orleans Traditional Swamp Tour with Lunch

The Jean Lafitte National Park and Barataria Preserve are some of Louisiana’s most visited areas; they give visitors a great opportunity to learn about the area’s biology and history.

The tour starts mid-morning and includes a lazy pontoon boat ride, from which you’ll see an amazing array of wild animals, including some dangerous and dramatic ones like gators, snakes and snapping turtles.

Lunch is an optional inclusion during your tour; it’s a great way to rub elbows with some locals while dining on some traditional favorites unique to the area.

8. Swamp Tour to Honey Island

Lake Pontchartrain, just north of New Orleans, is one of the American Southeast’s largest lakes. It gained notoriety during Hurricane Katrina for overflowing the dykes that were supposed to contain its rising waters.

This two-hour boat tour includes visits to Honey Island and the surrounding nature preserve, chockfull of local animals, history, and more than a few local legends – many of which include the ghosts and spirits of long-dead pirates and other scoundrels.

The waters in these protected areas are full of amazing creatures – even otters that somehow survive alongside all the gators that populate the lake.

This is a great day-trip option from New Orleans and includes a trip to a historic fishing village.

9. New Orleans: Plantation Brunch & Swamp Tour

This unique tour includes bits of history, nature, and an amazing brunch that’s sure to be a big hit with food lovers.

You’ll dine at the famous Oak Alley Plantation and get to enjoy some well-known and traditional Cajun dishes, like crawfish etouffee, Andouille sausage, gumbo, and lots of fresh fruit.

After your meal, you’ll tour the plantation grounds, learn about its history, and see some areas that were featured in movies and soap operas over the years.

This full-day tour includes a stop at Laura Plantation, one of the area’s most historic plantations that includes a permanent exhibit based on the lives of its former inhabitants.

10. Downtown and Swamp Tour via Helicopter

By now you may have seen the swamps by pontoon and airboat, but if you’re up for the ultimate sightseeing adventure, consider this tour via helicopter.

Though the tour only lasts 30 minutes, you’ll get amazing views of the city’s French Quarter, Uptown, and a few of the most historically significant sites too.

The pilot will fill you in so that you can appreciate what you’re seeing. Since the tour is limited to three passengers, you’ll get more personalized service.

The tour departs from New Orleans and includes headsets so everyone can hear the pilot.

11. Eco Swamp Tour

Swamps and bayous are amazingly diverse ecosystems; this two-hour tour takes visitors through many of them, highlighting the flora and fauna residing there.

Due to its six-person limit, you’ll get an intimate look at your surroundings and will hear all about them from your local captain.

Due to its relatively short length, this tour is great for children with short attention spans; they’ll get to see some amazing creatures, many of which they may not have the chance to see ever again.

The tour’s main focus is the Pearl River and nearby Honey Island areas.

12. New Orleans History and Swamp Tour Combo

This action-packed tour of New Orleans and the surrounding swamplands is conducted aboard a high-performance airboat, giving it an exhilarating element not easily found elsewhere.

You’ll visit the city’s French Quarter, University, and many distinct and historic neighborhoods like the Garden District.

On the natural side, the tour’s stars are the eagles, turtles, snakes, and gators that make the swamps such amazing places. Many areas you’ll visit are full of wading birds like cranes, egrets, and herons that live on small fish, crustaceans, and amphibians.

The tour conveniently includes pickup and drop-off from your New Orleans hotel.

13. Swamp Tour by Boat from New Orleans

The Mississippi River Delta is one of America’s most diverse wildlife habitats; there’s no better way to experience it up close than via a swamp tour.

With its meandering waterways and mossy trees, the area has a notably prehistoric and mysterious feel. Along the way, you’ll hear some historic tales about what life was like here in centuries past.

There will be plenty of opportunities to snap pictures of the scenic swamp and its exotic wildlife, and since the tour only lasts a few hours, you’ll have a large portion of the day left to fill-up with other adventures.

14. Private Bachelor and Bachelorette Swamp Tour

Truly unique among other swamp tours, this tour is strictly the realm of bachelors and bachelorette parties. Since you can bring your own beer, how much fun you have is up to you.

The tour size is limited to 16 or less, which makes it a perfect way to spend your last few hours of freedom.

Round-trip transportation to and from local hotels is included, and you’ll get expert narration from your captain and guide.

The tours head out four times daily, so you’re able to pick the time that’s best for you. Remember you’ll be in a swamp, so dress accordingly.

15. Destrehan Plantation and Small Airboat Combo from New Orleans

This tour is limited to between six and nine guests and is a great way to see the oldest documented plantation in the state. It was also home to a violent slave revolt.

After the historical portion of your tour, which includes a trip to the plantation’s museum, you’ll enjoy a pleasant lunch if time permits.

Destrehan Plantation is one of the state’s historic icons. All entrance fees and round trip transportation is included, though lunch is an optional extra.

There’s also a great museum here dedicated to the slave revolt that you definitely won’t want to miss.

15 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours:

• Louisiana Plantation & Swamp Boat Bayou Full-Day Combo
• Louisiana Bayou 2 or 3 Hour Swamp Tour
• South Swamp Tours South of New Orleans by Airboat
• High-Performance Airboat Tour from New Orleans
• New Orleans Swamp & Bayou Boat Tour
• Plantation and Swamp Tour from ‘The Big Easy’
• New Orleans Traditional Swamp Tour with Lunch
• Swamp Tour to Honey Island
• New Orleans: Plantation Brunch & Swamp Tour
• Downtown and Swamp Tour via Helicopter
• Eco Swamp Tour
• New Orleans History and Swamp Tour Combo
• Swamp Tour by Boat from New Orleans
• Private Bachelor and Bachelorette Swamp Tour
• Destrehan Plantation and Small Airboat Combo from New Orleans

Atchafalaya Basin Landing Airboat Swamp Tours

Airboat tour, traditional swamp boat tour, private tours, group tours, experience cajun country.

Basin Landing is located in the Heart of Cajun Country in St. Martin Parish, Louisiana. This area is home to several of the state's largest attractions and many more.

What our Customers Say

Awesome tour with a great guide. They do have a small store with bathrooms and drinks and also have a bar attached to the building. There is a large covered patio to wait in. The gators got pretty close to the boat after the guide was able to call some in. Thankfully the boats are covered and the bugs are not bad during the day. Will definitely come back for another trip!

Ernesto Amador

I can literally not say enough good things about our experience with Atchafalaya Basin Landing Airboat Swamp Tours. Absolutely worth the money we spent for the tour, even if we hadn't had a close experience with a huge freaking alligator.

Jenny Wilson

Had a great time on the airboat tour! My family and I enjoyed ourselves and learned a few things while we were here too. We got to meet gators like Peanut, Hercules, and Clarence. Beautiful sights on the bayou and an awesome tour guide, Nick. It was fun and a MUST for airboat rides. Good for the kids and handicap friendly. Highly recommend!

Cameron Williamson

News & insights, book a tour for spring break, faq’s about atchafalaya basin landing swamp tours, holiday parties on the basin, the bayou chene community, difference between a swamp and a bayou, how to prepare for your swamp tour, water moccasins vs. water snakes, the rougarou, baby alligators, mardi gras in the swamp, book your swamp adventure.

Explore Louisiana with Captain Billy Gaston

Prepare yourself for a narrated adventure through the swamps and bayous with authentic Cajun music playing along the way. You will embark on your journey in a very comfortable 45-passenger vessel with a covered roof to keep you dry and cool during the hot summer months. Our Bayou Country has the most beautiful cypress swamps and bayous that Louisiana has to offer...

Read More COMING SOON: Air Boat Adventures & Kayak Rentals (Adventuring/Fishing/Photography)

Galleries of Tours and Adventures

On The Boat

Tours with Wendy

Book Your Tour!

The bayou is waiting....

*Someone will contact you to confirm your reservation. Completing this online form does not constitute a booking confirmation.

Private Tours

At lake martin.

9 person capacity 1 hour tours

Nature is best enjoyed up close, so Wendy offers intimate tours in her 9-person skiff for you to enjoy the beauty of the swamp and its wonderful wildlife up close and personal. While many larger, commercial tours have defined ports and high capacity, Wendy follows the bayou's hundreds of species and thousands of gators as seasons and weather influence their behavior; you'll experience the swamp in it's active beauty as you navigate the path-less-traveled that only Louisiana Swamp Tours can provide.

Sunday - Sunday, 7am - 7pm Last tour of the day is 2 hours before sunset Lake Martin 1209 Rookery Rd, Breaux Bridge, LA 70517

The bayou boat

The only way to get the full Cajun experience is on the Bon Ami. A traditional crawfish skiff, these lightweight aluminum boats were designed to navigate the swamps, bayous, and marshes of the Atchafalaya Basin. Don't let its size fool you - This nimble skiff can hold up to over 2,000 lbs of crawfish! The flat bottom and small profile allows for getting up-close-and-personal to the wildlife in a way that just isn't possible with larger tour vessels. Be sure to let Wendy know what kind of wildlife you're after. From birds and bees to gators or Spanish moss, she'll customize your tour experience so you can see everything you want!

Wendy Thibodeaux is not your average Cajun captain. A native to the Lake Martin area in Breaux Bridge, her roots are deeply seated in Louisiana and its rich Cajun culture. Wendy's lifelong love of nature - the animals, birds, butterflies, trees, landscapes, and waterways - makes her Louisiana's natural ambassador. As she says to all her guests: " I extend my welcome to you. Allow me to show you around this beautiful swamp. "  

Plan Your Trip!

Get ready for a good time!  Please bring sunglasses, bug spray, and sunscreen. If you'd like, you are welcome to bring a cooler with water and beverages of your choosing. Wendy will provide a pair of binoculars for everyone to share during your tour.  The starting point may change to optimize conditions and wildlife viewing due to weather and seasonality. Lafayette and Baton Rouge are the two closest cities. Breaux Bridge is a closer, more quaint town with great options for accommodations, local shops, and delicious food, as well! 

Book Your Tour

Please call or email wendy to book your tour 337-380-5632 [email protected] ‍ advance bookings are recommended. we cannot guarantee same-day reservations..

The Best Swamp Tours in New Orleans

Looking for something wild in new orleans.

Venture beyond Bourbon Street to see the REAL Louisiana. See Louisiana’s iconic bayous and swamps with Airboat Adventures. Our personal New Orleans Swamp Tours are kid-friendly, family-friendly adventures!

New Orleans Swamp Tours & Airboat Rides

We are proud to boast some of the most exciting swamp tours in Louisiana! Airboat Adventures is just 45 minutes from the French Quarter. We’re open year-round, seven days a week. We’ll even pick you up from any hotel in the Greater New Orleans area!

Airboat Swamp Tours To Remember

Are you planning a trip to south Louisiana? Complete your Bayou State experience with a Louisiana swamp tour. Taking a tour with Airboat Adventures is taking a step back in time. See the original Louisiana before the hustle and bustle of modern life. Meet the TRUE Louisiana natives—the alligators, birds, and other wildlife. Encounter the essence of Louisiana.

Make sure to bring your camera!

JOIN US FOR AN AUTHENTIC NEW ORLEANS SWAMP TOUR

Tour 20,000 acres of cypress swamps and surround yourself with exotic creatures and otherworldly scenery. Our Louisiana alligator tours provide great fun and hands-on learning for all ages. Don’t miss your chance for a New Orleans Swamp Tour! Private airboat tours are available as well. Click here to book now.

Small Airboat Adventure

Our small boat tours offer a more intimate airboat experience. They’re perfect for families, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or couples on getaways!

Large Airboat Adventure

Our large boat tours offer an awesome group experience with up to 30 of your best friends! Don’t have a huge group? You can still book this option for however many are in your party!

Pontoon Boat Adventure

Your New Orleans Bayou and Wildlife Tour chariot is waiting – our pontoon boats give you and your party all the flexibility in the world as we can accommodate small and large groups for bayou tours. Great for couples, families, friend groups and corporate groups.

Premium Small Airboat

Our location.

If you’re going to do a swamp tour in New Orleans… do it in style! Make yourself at home in our air-conditioned building. Stop by the gift shop for some souvenirs, ice cream, chips, candy and soft drinks. Enjoy the beautiful views from our outdoor patio and enjoy a frozen drink from our bar or see some of the alligators in our indoor habitat. Don’t miss a glimpse of Sugar, our rare albino gator!

#AIRBOATADVENTURES

Want to see more? Follow along on Instagram @airboatadv!

Swamp Airboat Tours

Choose your adventure.

Fly through the swamp on one of Louisiana’s most popular airboat tours. Or go deep into the Barataria-Terrebonne Estuary then back in time on a combo plantation tour. Click here to discover the possibilities.

Discover the Swamp with Real Swamp People

Let the knowledgeable and entertaining guides at Swamp Adventures share their love of Louisiana wildlife, culture and history with you on your Airboat Tour. Here’s your chance to see alligators and other swamp creatures close up in the wild on our "Premiere" small, intimate airboat. Or bring the whole gang for a thrilling adventure on one of our "Friends and Family" larger airboats. We go deep into the swamp where regular swamp tour boats can’t go. Plus, our swamp/plantation combo tours include your choice of Oak Alley, Laura or Destrehan Plantation. Step off your airboat and travel back to antebellum times all in the same day.

Reserve Your Adventure Now

Call (504) 436‑8072 or use our secure online booking system . Reservations required for all parties.

Photo Gallery

Got some great pics? Share, cher! Nothing beats experiencing the swamp in person, but, until then, check out our photo gallery.

Closest Airboat Tour to New Orleans!

6 Louisiana Swamps So Beautiful You Have To See Them To Believe

Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.

More by this Author

Louisiana’s wetlands hold a special place in our hearts. From the bayous to the swamps, these important ecosystems make up a huge part of our lives. People travel from all over to catch a glimpse of our beautiful wetlands, and we’ve got some amazing photos of some of our favorite swamps in Louisiana that will make you proud to live in the Bayou State.

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What’s your favorite swamp in Louisiana? For more epic outdoor adventures, check out some of our favorite state parks in Louisiana.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Natural attractions in louisiana.

What are some must-see natural attractions in Louisiana?

Some must-see natural attractions in Louisiana include:

• The Atchafalaya River Basin : The largest river swamp in the country, and one of the most popular swamps in Louisiana.  
• Driskill Mountain : Louisiana’s beloved mountain. Clocking in at 535 feet, visitors can hike the one-mile trail to the summit to stand at the tallest natural peak in Louisiana.
• Holly Beach : A beach in Cameron, Louisiana known for being a prime spot to find seashells in Louisiana. You can also drive right onto the beach, and camping on the beach is allowed, too.
• Kisatchie National Forest : Louisiana’s only National Forest sprawls out for over 600,000 acres and boasts countless primitive trails for hiking and primitive camping.  

For more outdoor adventures, take this road trip to Louisiana’s most popular natural attractions.

What are some of the best state parks to visit in Louisiana?

Some of the best state parks in Louisiana include:

• Chicot State Park : Louisiana’s largest state park. Located in Ville Platte, there are waterfront cabins, epic hiking trails, fishing, boating, and many other activities to enjoy. The Louisiana State Arboretum is also located within the park, and it features a visitor center, and several hiking trails with informational placards along the way.  
• Chemin-A-Haut State Park : Louisiana’s oldest state park. Located in Bastrop, this northern Louisiana state park is nestled along Bayou Bartholomew and is excellent for kayaking and canoeing. If you do pick up a paddle, head over to the Castle Tree, a massive cypress tree that’s one of the oldest cypress trees in the country.  

Here are 9 underrated state parks in Louisiana that are lesser-known but equally beautiful.  

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The 6 best new orleans swamp tours of 2024.

A local swamp tour is essential for any visit to the Big Easy.

Best New Orleans Swamp Tours

Getty Images

After you’ve had your fill of beignets, strolled through spooky cemeteries and explored other highlights in New Orleans , slow down with a local swamp tour. New Orleans swamp tours offer beautiful scenery and the chance to spot alligators and other native wildlife. Plus, many of them offer transportation to and from the city.

Read on to discover the best New Orleans swamp tours by airboat, kayak, flat-bottomed boat and even zip line. All of the recommended tours either include transportation from the French Quarter and/or New Orleans hotels or offer it as an add-on service.

Best Airboat Tour: Airboat Adventures – Small Airboat Tour

Price: From $89 Duration: 2 hours

For a classic airboat swamp tour in New Orleans, choose Airboat Adventures. With this tour operator, you can expect interesting guides and multiple glimpses of alligators as you weave through 20,000-plus acres of cypress swamps. After your roughly two-hour airboat ride, take some time to explore the company's indoor facility, which houses Sugar, an albino gator.

While tours are available in both small (10 people) and large (30 people) boats, recent tourgoers recommend opting for a small boat tour, as the small airboats can access more remote corners of the swamp.

Pregnant women, children younger than 5 and people with back and neck injuries are not permitted to ride on the airboats. Pets, including service animals, are also prohibited due to the loud noise from the boat. The company provides ear protection, but you may want to bring your own if you are extra sensitive.

Transportation: Hotel pickup and dropoff is available for those staying at hotels in Greater New Orleans; the cost is $30 per person. If you'll be driving to the tour departure point, it's located at 5145 Fleming Park Road, Lafitte, LA 70067 .

Check prices & availability on:

Best Kayak Tour: New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours – Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour

Price: From $75 Duration: 2 hours

Novice kayakers will appreciate this paddle in Manchac Swamp, as it's especially suitable for beginners. During the tour, you'll wind your way through the swamp's calm waters and take a gander at the local wildlife.

For an even more memorable experience, take the early morning or evening tour to see the swamp bathed in warm light. Summer and early fall tours will give you the best chance for seeing alligators and turtles. Reviewers say you'll gain lots of insight not only about the area's ecology but also about local history.

Transportation: Transportation is available for an additional $25 per person. Shuttles depart from the Rampart Treehouse restaurant ( 740 N. Rampart St. ) downtown.

The company also runs tours of the Honey Island Swamp and a half-day kayak tour through the Shell Bank bayou.

Best Flat-bottomed Boat Tour: Cajun Encounters – Swamp Tour

Price: Adults from $59.95; kids from $38.75 Duration: 2 hours

Cajun Encounters' daily tour of the Honey Island Swamp takes place on a flat-bottomed boat. Each ride includes commentary from a friendly guide as you look for alligators, wild boar, owls and more. Tourists say the guides are informative and fun and highly recommend the tour, but caution there are many bugs.

Transportation: Hotel pickup and dropoff is included in the rates noted above; cheaper tickets are available for those who can drive to the tour location ( 55345 U.S. Route 90, Slidell, LA 70461 ).

Cajun Encounters also runs VIP tours (which have up to 10 to 12 passengers) as well as tours of the city.

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Best Family Tour: Dr. Wagner's Honey Island Swamp Tours

Price: Adults from $58; kids from $36 Duration: 2 hours

Participants say that Dr. Wagner's Honey Island Swamp Tours are perfect for groups of all ages, making sure to engage everyone including kids throughout the tour. Guides, who are natives of South Louisiana, narrate the two-hour tours with facts and stories about the area. During the journey, travelers may spot alligators, deer, osprey, hogs, turtles, herons and more along with the traditional cypress trees.

Transportation: Hotel pickup and dropoff is included in the rates listed above, though you can save on tickets by driving to the tour location ( 41490 Crawford Landing Road, Slidell, LA 70461 ).

Best for Comfort: Louisiana Tour Company – Swamp Boat Tour

Price: Adults from $55; kids from $35 Duration: 2 hours

From the experienced, knowledgeable guides to the amiable shuttle drivers, travelers consistently praise Louisiana Tour Company's swamp boat tour. They also appreciate that boats have cushioned seats, a roof and windows to help maximize comfort in all weather. The boats also have restrooms. During the almost two-hour tour, you'll see a Native American burial mound, a fishing village, numerous critters and beautiful swamplands.

Transportation: Transportation to and from your hotel is included in the rates noted above. However, cheaper tickets are available for those who can drive to the tour location ( 9706 Barataria Blvd., Marrero, LA 70072 ).

Louisiana Tour Company also operates airboat swamp tours.

Best Zip Line Tour: Zip NOLA – Swamp Zipline Tour

Price: From $91 Duration: 1.5 hours

See the swamps from above on this adrenaline-inducing tour. The 1.5-hour experience includes five different zip lines, a spiral tree staircase and two sky bridges for prime views of the swamps (and the creatures that lurk in them) below. Recent travelers highly recommend this tour, noting they felt safe throughout. Others note that it's good for beginners.

While there is no age minimum, children must weigh at least 45 pounds to zip line; the maximum weight limit is 280 pounds. This tour is not recommended for anyone who is pregnant or suffers from back pain or serious medical conditions.

Transportation: Round-trip transportation from New Orleans is available for an additional $25 per person. Otherwise, you can drive to the attraction ( 301 Peavine Road, Laplace, LA 70068 ).

Frequently Asked Questions

You can expect to pay at least $50 per person for a swamp tour that includes transportation; if you have a rental car for your trip to New Orleans, you can save some coin by driving to the tour location. Fees also vary depending on the company and type of vessel used to explore the swamps.

If alligators are your top reason for trekking to the swamp, plan for a spring or summer tour, as alligators enter a state of brumation (a modified period of hibernation) during the cold weather months.

Perhaps the most famous swamp in New Orleans is Honey Island. For those interested in visiting this swamp exclusively, Honey Island Swamp Tours and Cajun Encounters are both great options.

You'll want to dress casually for your swamp tour in New Orleans – a T-shirt and shorts or lightweight pants is ideal. You'll also want to bring a light jacket in case you get chilly or it rains during your tour.

Some swamp tour boats (not airboats), such as those operated by the Louisiana Tour Company , offer bathrooms, while others do not. If this is important to you, be sure to double-check whether or not this amenity is offered when booking.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best New Orleans Tours
• The Best Walking Tours in New Orleans
• The Best Ghost & Vampire Tours in New Orleans

Tags: Tours , New Orleans , Travel , Vacations

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The highest rated airboat tour in New Orleans is located just 25 minutes from downtown ... but we're just about as far as you can get from a prefab, artificial experience.

We are the real Swamp People!!!

The Louisiana wetlands are nature's amusement parks ... and our swamp tours are authentic adventures – thrilling, enlightening and, most importantly, real .

For well over 150 years, the swamp and bayous of Louisiana have been our family's backyard. For three generations, we have been family-owned and operated. Our family and our captains are all childhood friends who have grown up making their living in the swamp. Just like the alligators, wild boar, raccoons, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, and many other bird species you’ll see on our tour, we are creatures of the swamp.

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Book Your New Orleans Swamp Tour Online

Airboat tours, private tours, plantation tours, your swamp adventure awaits.

Reserve your Airboat Swamp Tour New Orleans Style Today!

Booking your Airboat Tour is Fast and Easy

New orleans best swamp tour company.

Thrilling, Affordable, Private

New Orleans Swamp Tours | Geaux Wild

New orleans swamp tours official site, welcome to the swamp.

Premium Small Airboat Swamp Tour

$95 Per Passenger

$115 with Transportation

Wildest Ride

Passengers must be 5+ years old

Boat max capacity is 6 persons

Single Seats Available

Large Airboat Swamp Tour

$65 Per Passenger

 $85 with Transportation

Good for Large Groups

Passenger Must be 5+ years old

Up to 24 Passengers

Medium Airboat Swamp Tour

$85 - Per Passenger

$105 with Transportation

Groups up to 10 passengers

Boat Max Capacity is 10 persons 

Private Bay Boat Swamp Tour

$300 - 1-4 Passengers

$70 - Additional Passengers

Private Transportation Additional

Your Party Only

Intimate Adventure

Alchohol Allowed

Ideal for Small Groups

Discover the enchanting allure of New Orleans’ Cajun Country with New Orleans Swamp Tours, your premier attraction for exhilarating and educational high-speed Airboat Swamp Tours and Private Boat Tours. Immerse yourself just 25 miles from Downtown New Orleans in the captivating world of wild swamps and bayous that wind through the rich history and folklore of Louisiana. Delve into the mystery of seemingly endless miles of Louisiana Swamps, as we operate daily, 7 days a week, offering family-friendly experiences that stand as one of the BEST attractions in New Orleans.

Whether you crave the adrenaline of a wild airboat ride or the tranquility of a private bayou boat tour, our tours cater to all preferences and party sizes. New Orleans Swamp Tours ensures an unforgettable journey through the heart of Cajun Country, making us your go-to choice for a remarkable New Orleans experience.

We Create Memories that last a Lifetme!

Explore the fascinating realm of New Orleans swamps with our diverse fleet of boats tailored to meet your preferences. Choose from our Large Airboats, Small Airboats, or Private Bayboats, all accompanied by fully narrated and guided tours led by our experienced U.S.C.G. captains. Delve deep into the swamps, once the notorious home of the legendary Pirate Jean Lafitte, and encounter a plethora of wildlife.

Witness the allure of Alligators, Snakes, Frogs, Nutria, Turtles, Fish, Blue Crabs, and a myriad of bird species, including waterfowl. Immerse yourself in the beauty of diverse native plants, swamp vegetation, and aquatic flora. Our expertly crafted tours provide an up-close and personal experience with the vibrant ecosystem that sets New Orleans apart. Come, indulge in the exploration of this unique and unparalleled eco-system that stands out as a one-of-a-kind adventure on the planet.

Our Daily Swamp Tour Excursions

Embark on a thrilling adventure with our New Orleans swamp tours, available seven days a week, featuring five captivating tour options each day. Explore the vibrant ecosystem of the Louisiana swamps during our expertly guided tours, ranging from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. Whether you’re in town for a Convention, Sporting Event, Mardi Gras, or iconic local festivals like Jazz Fest, make sure to include our airboat swamp tours or private swamp tour on your list of must-visit attractions. Uncover the beauty and excitement of New Orleans’ natural wonders with our daily tours designed to enhance your experience in the city.

New Orleans Swamp Tour Times for Airboats and Bayboats

12:00 p.m .

 2:00 p.m.

Transportation Available – New Orleans Swamp Shuttle

Facilitate your New Orleans swamp tour experience with convenient transportation options to and from downtown New Orleans or French Quarter hotels. Our dedicated swamp shuttle buses and vans ensure a clean and comfortable journey, adhering closely to our published schedule. For added convenience, customers can opt for drive-ups, but it’s essential to book online or call 504-481-9138 in advance to secure availability.

Booking your New Orleans airboat swamp tour or private swamp tour is a breeze when done directly online. Simply click the “BOOK NOW” button, and the entire process takes just 2 minutes. Explore our FAQ page for answers to common questions about our swamp tours, ensuring a seamless and informed booking experience for your adventure in the Louisiana swamps.

Packages and Group Events

Packages and Group Events are available for Corporate Outings, Corporate Team Building, Birthday Parties and Fishing Charters.

Reach out to us with any additional Questions by completing the form below. 

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#1 Rated New Orleans Swamp Tour of 2024

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Your Adventure Awaits!

Explore acres of authentic Louisiana swamps and waterways on a New Orleans swamp tour that gets you up close and personal with Alligators! Strap in, it’s one wild ride!

• The Ride: A thrill on the airboats and a scenic cruise on the pontoon.
• The History: Learn the story of the bayous and of New Orleans swamplands
• The Wildlife: Interact with all the living creatures including gators, raccoons, wild hogs, birds, and much more!

Our Swamp Tour Options in New Orleans

The Small Airboat

6-10 passengers

The Large Airboat

15-27 passengers

The Pontoon Boats

Traditional Covered Boat Swamp Tours

Our Pickup Service

Round trip to the French Quarter

What you will learn?

Highlights of taking a swamp tour in new orleans.

Swamp tours offer an exceptional experience unlike any other. These tours not only provide a thrilling adventure but also a unique educational opportunity. Here’s what you can learn on a swamp tour.

Unveil the Secrets of Diverse Ecosystems

Swamps are teeming with life. On a swamp tour, you'll learn about the intricate ecosystems that thrive in these watery environments. Guides explain how plants and animals coexist and depend on each other.

Encounter Fascinating Wildlife Up Close

Imagine spotting an alligator basking in the sun or a rare bird in its natural habitat. Swamp tours bring you up close with wildlife, offering insights into their behaviors and habitats.

Understand the Importance of Wetlands

Wetlands play a crucial role in our environment. On these tours, you'll discover how swamps protect against flooding, purify water, and support biodiversity.

Experience the Culture and History of the Region

Swamps are rich in history and culture. Learn about the people who live near these environments and how the swamps have shaped their lifestyles and traditions.

Appreciate the Beauty of Untouched Nature

Swamp tours allow you to witness the raw beauty of nature. You'll see landscapes and scenery that remain untouched and pristine, offering a moment of tranquility and connection with the natural world.

Swamp Tour times

Boats leave the dock at 9:45 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm and 6 pm (if there is enough daylight for the 6 pm tour). It is important that you be there at least 15-30 minutes before so you have plenty of time to check-in.

All tours are 1 hour 45 minutes packed with excitement. Give us a call, to join us for a swamp tour New Orleans style. We book up fast! Why book with Bayou Swamp Tours?

Bayou Swamp Tours offers the most thrilling swamp tours New Orleans has to offer. The Bayou tour company offers various options for you to choose from…

Why book with Bayou Swamp Tours?

Our passionate and experienced Captains combine the excitement of a New Orleans airboat swamp tour with the fascination of a backwater nature tour. See why we are the #1 New Orleans swamp tour. Whether you book a small boat, a large, or a pontoon boat tour, the experience our Cajun Captains provide is the best in Louisiana.

Explore thousands of acres in our unique Louisiana ecosystem featuring backwater wildlife such as alligators, over 200 species of birds, wild pigs, raccoons and so much more! Experience the murky waters of the swamp firsthand on your New Orleans (NOLA) airboat trip down the mysterious waterways.

Availibility

Swamp tours from New Orleans typically sell out weeks in advance. With us, you’ll have exclusive access to the most availability on airboat tours and swamp boats in all of Louisiana.

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Frequently asked questions.

Get answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about our Louisiana airboat tours.

What Time are the New Orleans Swamp Tours?

What kind of louisiana airboat tours do you offer, do you offer private tours in new orleans, do you offer new orleans hotel pickup, are there restrictions to being on the airboat, what kind of animals will we see, when is bayou swamp tours open, when should i book my swamp tour in new orleans, what should i wear, do you have a covered boat, what is a ride in a covered boat like, are there mosquitoes in the swamp, what happens if the weather is bad, do you have a wheelchair accessible boats, what to expect after booking.

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Small boat with hotel pickup, small boat drive out.

• 9 am 11:30, & 2 pm
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See the sights of Honey Island Swamp! Look at it's beautiful scenery and inhabitants by viewing our gallery of photos. more >

Photo Gallery

See the sights of Honey Island Swamp! Look at it's beautiful scenery and inhabitants by viewing our gallery of photos . more >

Getting ready for October an the cooler weather cannot come soon enough, wildlife has been out in full force we have been seeing e… more >

Welcome to Honey Island Swamp Tours! Journey into this pristine wilderness with our native guides.

Picture the moss hanging on gnarled cypress trees as you travel into one of the wildest and most pristine river swamps in America. With the swamp tales of pirates and sightings of Big Foot in the back of your mind, you may be just a little bit nervous at first, but after your first boat ride you'll want to go back again and again! You'll be overcome by the primitive beauty of the cypress trees rising from the water...the sweet smell of wild azaleas in the air....

Honey Island Swamp is unique because it's one of the least-altered river swamps in the country. It's pretty much in its original condition, almost a pristine wilderness. Take a personalized narrated nature tour into the 250-square-mile Honey Island Swamp. Nearly 70,000 acres of it is a permanently-protected wildlife area--the Nature Conservancy's First Louisiana Nature Preserve. People from all over the world now explore this wildlife sanctuary with him.

Call (985) 641-1769 or (504) 242-5877 for Reservations between 8 am - 8 pm For After Hours requests - please complete this form and we will attempt to call you to make your booking. Reservations required.

Dr. Wagner's Honey Island Swamp Tours

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Experiences make excellent gifts! Grab an E-Gift Card here for an upcoming Tour!

Swamp Tales

Most exciting and adventurous new orleans tours, new orleans swamp tours.

Our  New Orleans swamp tours  operate from the dock in Marrero (Crown Point) Louisiana, located just a 35 minute drive from the French Quarter of New Orleans. We are situated on the banks of Bayou Barataria, in the heart of the most dynamic ecosystem of North America. The Treasure Isle Swamps that surround our boat dock are part of the “Barataria Estuary”. The word, Barataria, means “The Good Land”. We are quite isolated, where there is but one road in and the same road out and are adjacent to the Largest Urban Park in the United States, “The Jean Lafitte National Park & Preserve”.

The wetlands of the Barataria swamps are so rich in seafood and wildlife, that when Thomas Jefferson bought the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, he was only interested in New Orleans and it’s Swamps. Thomas Jefferson considered Barataria Estuary, the crown jewel of the purchase.

Bayou Culture

The heritage of the bayou people is of French Descent, dated all the way back to Nova Scotia.

The “Cajuns” of the swamps never were worried about going hungry due to the abundance of natural resources. They were worried about Pirates in the swamp.

Jean Lafitte had his headquarters located on “Grand Terre” near the gulf and used Bayou Barataria as his highway to New Orleans. Just across the bayou from our dock is a 200 year old cemetery that is located around the most significant Indian burial mound in South Louisiana. The Indian Mound has been carbon dated back two thousand years. This history & culture of the way of life for the Cajuns of the Bayou, is still a “step back in time”. Many locals still hunt, fish, and trap as a way of making a living. Fishermen catch blue crab, shrimp and fish from the waters around us.

Our Tours are Second to None!

Bald Eagles, Pelicans, gulls and herons are common sites from the tour boat or airboats. Alligators are plentiful in our swamps and commonly seen throughout the year. Yes, gators do hibernate between the end of October to mid February, but because our swamps are shallower and warmer in the winter, than river basins, we see gators on a regular basis. The big gators do go into their dens during the winter, but the smaller guys come out for a little sun in the areas protected from the wind. It is not unusual to see alligators swim past our dock. The gators get real close, so close that you will be able to look into their eyes!

Our captains know where to look and find gators even during winter!

All Our Boats are Operated by Local Captains, That Have Lived the Cajun Life!

They impart their personality into the tours, so that you get an insight of their living in harmony with the Eco-system. They will enlighten and entertain you with their life stories. We get customers returning to the swamp tour for two and three times and ask for the same captain. Most of our guests, tell us that the swamp tour is the highlight of their trip to New Orleans. The tour boats are fully narrated and protected from the sun & rain. The airboats are half tour and half thrill ride. Experience the best swamps, best captains, best modern equipment and a unique all around experience. Don’t forget the Camera!

The most exciting, adventurous New Orleans Tours, including High Speed Airboat Tours, Swamp tours by tour boat, Post Katrina/New Orleans City tour, and Plantation tours. All these tours can be combined and done by “Louisiana Tour Company”.

Swamps & Mosquitoes

When going on a swamp tour, you should definitely bring some mosquito spray. Even though the waters you will be touring, like the bayous, are not stagnant, there is really no area in or around the New Orleans area that is completely mosquito free. When taking an air boat tour, your boat will be moving…

July 6, 2020

Do Alligators Like Rain?

The weather can be rather unpredictable in New Orleans during the summer. Even forecasters have a hard time determining when and where it will rain. We tend to get quite a bit of rain during our summers. As a matter of fact, Louisiana is considered to be the second wettest state in the U.S.. Taking…

June 24, 2020

Ready For A Swamp Adventure?

Right now is the perfect time to head out to the swamp. The temperatures are not too hot just yet, but it is warm enough so you get to enjoy the beautiful swamp scenery. When going on a swamp tour in June or July, you should see a lot of wildlife and plenty of alligators….

June 12, 2020

American Alligator

American Alligator in Louisiana Did you know that the American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) is the largest reptile in North America? About 300 million years ago, the first reptiles appeared on earth and the American alligator’s ancestors appeared about 200 million years ago. The name alligator actually comes from early Spanish explorers who called them “El…

April 1, 2020

Can You Hunt Alligators?

In Louisiana, you can hunt alligators; however, there are a few regulations and fees you need to be aware of before heading out. What You Need To Know In our state, the wild alligator season begins on the first Wednesday of September and continues for 30 days, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and…

March 11, 2020

What’s Cajun?

Cajuns are an ethnic group who are descendants of Acadian exiles.  They were French-Speakers from Acadia which was mainly Nova Scotia, Eastern Part of Quebec, Northern Maine, and some of the Maritime Provinces. The Cajuns settled in four regions in South Louisiana: Coastal Marshes (New Orleans Area and Houma), Swamplands of the Atchafalya Basin, Prairies…

February 14, 2020

Take Your Krewe To The Swamp Now

Take Your Krewe To The Swamp The Carnival season is upon us! This means from now till Mardi Gras day on February 25th, you and your Krewe will be very busy. There will be parties, balls and, of course, plenty of parades. How about a relaxing swamp tour before it gets really crazy? This will…

January 15, 2020

How Do Alligator Farms Get Their Eggs?

Have you ever wondered how alligator farms get their eggs? In an effort to protect Louisiana’s alligators, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Department works closely with farmers. Alligator farms actually collect eggs from nests they find in our swamps. Here is how it works: Farms Always Give Back The state of Louisiana began…

December 18, 2019

Alligators In Our Swamps

The Alligators You Will See On Our Swamp Tours If you want to come up close and personal with some Louisiana Alligators, our swamp tours are perfect for you. Take a look at the YouTube video. The 8 alligators you will see in the video are only a tiny fraction of the reptiles we encounter…

November 14, 2019