Swamp Tours in New Orleans 2024

The most exciting and easy way to discover Louisiana's famous swamps and bayous

Best time: May–October (all year round)

Alligators, wild boars, bald eagles, herons, mink, and turtles—Louisiana swamps are full of unique flora and fauna! There are plenty of options to experience this place: you can take a swamp boat, an airboat, a kayak or a canoe for your exciting trip.

Most swamp tours operate in the Honey Island Swamp, the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, or in the Maurepas Swamp Wildlife Management Area. All three locations are approximately a 30 to 40-minute drive from the French Quarter of New Orleans.

The biggest advantage of airboat tours is that they are smaller than the swamp boats that carry up to 20 tourists, so you can get farther into the swamps at low tide. Airboats are also faster and offer a more exciting experience.

Canoeing or kayaking is another great way to see Louisiana's nature up-close without the crowds of tourists, especially if you already have some boating experience. However, if paddling next to alligators and snakes seems a bit over the top, opt for a safer big boat tour.

You can go on a swamp tour year round, although longer and more frequent tours run during the high season from May to October. Keep in mind that night swamp tours are only offered during high season.

Practical info

When should one visit Louisiana swamps?

The ideal time to visit Louisiana swamps is from May to October, which is during the high season. Visitors to swamps during this time can experience longer, more frequent, and even night tours. Those who prefer fewer tourists and mosquitoes can visit during the low season which lasts between November to April. Despite the season, swamps are accessible all year round.

What are the popular locations to take a swamp tour in Louisiana, other than New Orleans?

Besides New Orleans, visitors to Louisiana can take a swamp tour in places like the Honey Island Swamp, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, and Maurepas Swamp Wildlife Management Area. Guided and self-guided tours are available in these locations, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience the diversity of flora and fauna in different parts of the wetlands.

How are traditional swamp boats different from airboats in swamp tours?

Airboats and traditional swamp boats are different in many ways. Airboats are faster, smaller, and can go deeper into the swamp, while traditional swamp boats carry more passengers and move slower. Airboats can be more thrilling for visitors because they spin and glide speedily over water surfaces. In contrast, traditional swamp boats offer a more relaxing and quieter experience that allows visitors to appreciate the swamp's ecosystem without disturbing it.

What are the advantages of opting for canoeing or kayaking tours?

Canoeing or kayaking through the bayou is an excellent option for visitors interested in experiencing nature up close without many others around. This option offers a more intimate and relaxing experience with Louisiana's environment. It is best suited to visitors who have relevant boating expertise and comfortable with a more secluded experience. However, it's worth remembering that you'll be more exposed to wild animals, such as alligators or snakes.

Is Night swamp tour safe in Louisiana?

Night swamp tours can be safe as long as visitors follow the guidance of experienced guides who have knowledge of the animals and the areas they visit. The swamp areas in Louisiana are home to numerous wild animals like Alligators, snakes, and bald eagles, which are typically more active at night. Visitors should consider the risks and challenges posed by being in such an environment at night, even with a guide that has proper lighting equipment.