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

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

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

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

Premium Small Airboat

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

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!

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

Cajun Encounters Tour Company, New Orleans

(504)-834-1770

Save 10% When you book a swamp and plantation tour with code: 10offcombo

New orleans swamp tours

New Orleans Swamp Tours

Embark on a tour of the renowned Honey Island Swamp with Cajun Encounters. Glide through gator territory aboard a small, flat-bottomed boat, while our local expert captains share fascinating insights about the swamp and its natural inhabitants. For your comfort and convenience, we offer pickup services from numerous French Quarter hotels and visitor centers. Our tours are led by top experts in the field, many of whom have spent their lives on the water and hold specialized degrees, ensuring you an authentic and unforgettable experience. Discover one of America’s most unique ecosystems with us.

Our Swamp tours

Alligator sightings during cajun encounters swamp tours in new orleans

Original Swamp Tour

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a two-hour boat ride and see just how beautiful the swamp truly is.

Private swamp tour new orleans

VIP Swamp Tour | Ages 13+

Experience the ultimate VIP adventure with an exclusive boat ride on a small intimate boat through the Honey Island Swamp.

Honey island swamp kayak tours

Kayak Swamp Tour

Explore an authentic and safe adventure with a personalized, hands-on kayaking tour of the Honey Island Swamp. 

Experience the ultimate VIP adventure with an exclusive two-hour boat ride on a small boat through the Honey Island Swamp.

What you'll see

Exotic wildlife.

This unique wetland is home to a fascinating array of creatures, including alligators, wild boars, raccoons, and a stunning variety of bird species such as egrets and herons. Our expert-guided tours provide an unparalleled opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat, offering insights into their behaviors, life cycles, and the intricate ecosystem they inhabit. Experience the thrill of encountering wildlife up close and learn about the delicate balance that sustains this vibrant environment. Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or a curious visitor, the wildlife of Honey Island Swamp promises a captivating and educational adventure.

This unique wetland is home to a fascinating array of creatures, including alligators, wild boars, raccoons, and a stunning variety of bird species such as egrets and herons. Our expert-guided tours provide an unparalleled opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat, offering insights into their behaviors, life cycles, and the intricate ecosystem they inhabit. Experience the thrill of encountering wildlife up close and learn about the delicate balance that sustains this vibrant environment. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a curious visitor, the wildlife of Honey Island Swamp promises a captivating and educational adventure.

Swamp tour new orleans

Breathtaking Scenery

Honey Island Swamp is a mosaic of towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, serene waterways reflecting the sky, and lush greenery teeming with life. As you navigate through the tranquil waters, you’ll encounter vibrant wildflowers, dense foliage, and panoramic views that change with the seasons. Experience the serene and magical atmosphere where every moment offers a new perspective on nature’s splendor. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, relaxation, or adventure, the scenic beauty of Honey Island Swamp will leave you in awe.

Honey Island Swamp is a mosaic of towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, serene waterways reflecting the sky, and lush greenery teeming with life. As you navigate through the tranquil waters, you'll encounter vibrant wildflowers, dense foliage, and panoramic views that change with the seasons. Experience the serene and magical atmosphere where every moment offers a new perspective on nature's splendor. Whether you're seeking inspiration, relaxation, or adventure, the scenic beauty of Honey Island Swamp will leave you in awe.

Orange cypress tree seen during gator tours new orleans

HEAR FROM OUR CUSTOMERS

I would definitely recommend Cajun Encounters!! The booking process was super easy. We were picked up on Canal St. by our bus driver Derek. He was very sweet, funny and I love how he talked about some of the history in New Orleans. (Especially being a first timer.) Capt. Jacob did an amazing job with our swamp tour. He was very knowledgeable and experienced at what he does. I would do it all over again!

Captain Randy was absolutely fantastic! Despite getting caught in the rain, we had the time of our lives laughing hysterically throughout the entire ride. It added such a fun and unexpected element to our experience. Even though we didn't have the covered boat, we wouldn't have had it any other way - we truly had a blast. Justina, our bus driver, was so upbeat and provided a tour filled with interesting facts and information...

Absolutely loved this tour. Scott the Swamp Manager was outstanding. His boat handling skills were excellent and his commentary and knowledge of the area was exceptional. It would have meant nothing without the commentary. The health and safety considerations were a very high standard but we all had fun. He was considerate to other boats in the area and gave us very full information about the whole area.

Loved my experience! Captain Jacob was so informative and passionate about the swamp and all the beauty it held! I went for my birthday hoping to see Alligators and truly enjoy the scenery and sure enough that’s exactly what we did! We even went to the exact Bayou that was photographed to create my favorite movie (The Princess & The Frog). Even the car ride to the swamp that we coordinated with Cajun Encounters...

Absolutely amazing tour!! From start to finish, the whole experience was smooth and comfortable. Our driver Brian was full of great facts about New Orleans, and made the pick up and drop off very easy and enjoyable. Our captain Scott was incredible, so informative about the local fauna and flora. It felt like he went above and beyond to get the whole boat the best experience we could!

Capt. Steve was a phenomenal tour guide. He made a unique experience superb with his friendly nature and informative facts. He truly loves this area and respects the wildlife within it. We had an amazing time with Cajun Encounters on the swamp tour. If you’re in the area or visiting New Orleans, don’t miss it! A bus will pick you up from your hotel; our driver, Ty the Extraordinaire, shared wonderful local history...

New orleans swamp tours

Why book with us?

Your safety is our top priority at Cajun Encounters. We adhere to the highest safety standards and regulations, ensuring that every tour is conducted with your well-being in mind.

Flexibility

We offer multiple pickup locations around New Orleans, including the most popular spots and hotels. This ensures that starting your journey is as easy and hassle-free as possible. 

Transportation details

  • You may opt to drive to the tour, or select the swamp tour option that includes round-trip transportation. Our drivers only pick-up from the locations  listed here . Requests for other locations cannot be accommodated.
  • Free parking is available providing their own transportation.
  • Cajun Encounters boats return to the original departure point, 55345 US-90, Slidell, LA 70461. Visit our  maps & directions  page for more details.
  • If hotel pick-up was included, a Cajun Encounter coach will return guests to their original departure point.

Cajun encounters city bus tour vehicle parked in front of jackson square in new orleans

Book Your Next Adventure Now!

  • 10-12 Passenger Boat

VIP Swamp Tour

  • 22 Passenger Boat
  • Professional Guides

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Daily swamp tours

504.834.1770

best gator tours new orleans

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Airboat Swamp Tours of New Orleans

Embark on our exciting New Orleans swamp tour! Our high-speed airboats, guided by experienced captains, will provide you with insights into the fascinating swamps and bayous. Witness the awe-inspiring presence of alligators up close in the picturesque Bayou Segnette, located just minutes from Downtown New Orleans, LA. Experience a guided tour aboard a Covered Swamp Boat led by Cajun Captains, or opt for a journey on a Small or Large Airboat. ​  

  CALL 1-504-566-1290 

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CLICK TO SEE OUR REVIEWS!

New Orleans Highest Reviewed Swamp Tour and Airboat Adventure

Ultimate Swamp Adventures is family-owned and operated. Our Cajun Captains will make it a priority that we are your most memorable adventure in New Orleans, LA. Our swamp tour boats are covered and provide plenty of shade for the journey. We have small and large airboats for thrill seekers. View our live online booking to see what we have available. 

New Orleans Swamp Tour

Explore the Allure of the New Orleans Bayous: Wildlife, Adventure & Culture

Native wildlife: Get up close and personal with some of the fascinating creatures that call the swamp home, such as alligators, pelicans, egrets, herons, snakes, turtles, and nutria. Experience more as you take the Ulitmate Swamp Adventure.

Swamp ecosystem

Learn about the unique and vital role that swamps play in the environment. Swamp tours will typically discuss the importance of wetlands for flood control, water filtration, and providing habitat for a variety of wildlife.

Cajun culture

Our swamp tours in New Orleans are led by Cajun guides who will share their knowledge of the swamp and Cajun culture. You might even get to hear some Cajun music and learn a few Cajun French phrases!

Variety of boat tours

Choose your adventure! Swamp tours offer different types of boats to cater to different preferences.

These high-speed vessels skim across the water, offering a thrilling ride and access to shallower parts of the swamp. They are great for getting your adrenaline pumping and seeing a wider area.

Swamp boats

These slower moving, flat-bottomed boats provide a quieter and more stable ride, perfect for getting a close-up look at the swamp's wildlife and plant life. They are ideal for photography and nature observation.

AIRBOAT TOUR

6-10 PASSENGERS

88.00 - 115.00

LARGE AIRBOAT

1-26 PASSENGERS

65.00 - 85.00

PONTOON BOAT

1-69 PASSENGERS

35.00 - 59.00

Airboat & Swamp Tour Times *Fuel Surcharge May Apply To Airboat Tours*

Boats leave our dock at 9:45 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm, and 6 pm (if enough daylight). Please show up at least 15-30 minutes before so you have plenty of time to check in at the front desk. All tours are 1 hour 45 minutes packed with action. Call or book online !

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Most Highly Rated New Orleans Swamp Tours

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Click to read our reviews!

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View Airboat Tours

This is an absolute thrill ride. Skim across the swamps and bayous on a high-powered airboat. Experience the excitement with Ultimate Swamp Adventures!

View Available Airboat Seats

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Covered Pontoon Boats

This tour is great if you want a slow cruise on Bayou Segnette. Our covered boats provide plenty of shade for all passengers. Have your camera ready and let's enjoy a relaxing cruise on the bayou.

  View Available Swamp Boat Swats

Cajun Captains Will Take It From Here

There will be stops along the way to answer questions you may have. You will learn about the American alligator and other wildlife indigenous to the area.

#1 SWAMP TOUR IN NEW ORLEANS

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

Louisiana Tour Company

Louisiana Tour Company

Guided swamp tours in new orleans.

Louisiana Swamp Tours, City Tours, Plantation Tours & More

The Most Exciting New Orleans Swamp Tours For Over 24 Years!

  • Most Popular!
  • Hour Glass 1hr & 40mins

Swamp Tour by Tour Boat

Climb aboard our enchanting swamp tour boat and embark on a thrilling adventure through the mystical Barataria Swamps. Get ready to be spellbound by the hauntingly beautiful cypress trees and the playful antics of curious gators — it’s a journey you won’t soon forget!

  • Hour Glass 1.5hrs

Airboat Swamp Tour

Experience the BEST swamp tour in New Orleans! The area toured is a combination of swamp, marsh and lake. The swamp is such a diverse ecosystem that you may see anything such as a bald eagle, a pelican, an osprey, or even an owl. Book online today!

  • Hour Glass 3.5hrs

3 Hour New Orleans City & Cemetery Tour

Join us on a 3-hour journey through the vibrant streets of New Orleans, where you’ll soak in the city’s rich culture, and gain insight into the resilience and recovery of the community in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, making history come alive in every step!

  • Hour Glass 6.5hrs

Destrehan Plantation & Swamp Combo Tours

Step into history at Destrehan Plantation, then venture deep into the heart of Louisiana’s enchanting swamps on our exciting combo tour, where you’ll encounter alligators and immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the bayou. Book online today!

  • Hour Glass 7hrs & 15mins

New Orleans City & Swamp Combination Tours

Explore New Orleans’ vibrant city & mysterious swamps! If you are interested in experiencing all that New Orleans has to offer, the City/Katrina Tour and Swamp Airboat Tour is the perfect combination tour and ultimate Louisiana adventure. Book online today!

  • Hour Glass 8.5hrs

Oak Alley Plantation & Swamp Combo Tours

Step back in time among the majestic oaks of Oak Alley Plantation before diving into the enchanting depths of Louisiana’s swamps, where alligators and Spanish moss create a truly unforgettable combo tour experience. Book online today!

  • Hour Glass 9hrs

Oak Alley Plantation + 3 Hour New Orleans City & Cemetery Tour

Join our Oak Alley Plantation and 3-Hour City & Cemetery Tour for a captivating journey through New Orleans, where the elegance of the plantation and the resilience of the city’s spirit combine for an unforgettable adventure! Book online now!

  • Hour Glass 5hrs & 45mins

Oak Alley Plantation Tour

Step into a world of Southern splendor on our Oak Alley Plantation Tour, where the stately oaks, grand architecture, and rich history blend together to create an unforgettable journey into the heart of Louisiana’s captivating past! Book online now.

  • Hour Glass 2hrs

New Orleans Ghost Tours

Disease, disaster, sinister spirits, and murder most foul! Join us on our walking tour for historically accurate tales of local haunting and vampire lore. Experience a Spine-Tingling Journey Through the City’s Eerie History! Book online today.

Cajun Invasion Seaplane Tour

Experience the thrill of soaring above the enchanting Louisiana bayous on our Cajun Invasion Seaplane Tour, where you’ll embark on an adventure that blends the flavors of spicy Cajun cuisine with the serenity of a scenic seaplane flight!

About Louisiana Tour Company

A local, family-owned business since 1989.

Join us for the most exciting city, plantation, swamp and high-speed airboat tours while discovering the wild side of Louisiana! You’ll be given first-class treatment on our swamp tours in Louisiana. We pride ourselves on being the best we can be. Ninety Nine percent of our guests tell us our tours were the highlight of their visit to New Orleans and French Quarter. With all the attractions here in New Orleans, that tells us we did a excellent job!

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Experienced Guides 
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& licensed boat captains.

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Tours For All 
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Memorable, Fun 
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Memorable, fun 
& affordable, explore all louisiana tours, airboat tours, seaplane tours, swamp tours, ghost tours, plantation tours, combo tours, group tours, 

top-rated guided louisiana tours near new orleans.

This was definitely our favorite part of our trip to Nola. Our guide, Erik, was really knowledgeable about swamps and gators and made this a truly memorable experience!

It was an amazing experience! The boat ride itself was a thrill, seeing all the different animals in their natural habitat was impressive! The swamp was beautiful and spooky at the same time with the overhanging trees and Spanish beards. We saw alligators, raccoons, birds, swamp cows.

From beginning to end, a delightful day. The Oak Alley tour was very informative. Our swamp tour was truly outstanding. Captain Ernie is personable, knowledgeable, and an all-around terrific captain. I cannot recommend this tour and this company enough!

We had a great time. Our guide was great, answered our many questions, and seemed genuinely interested in giving us the best tour possible. The airboat was pretty comfy and good fun.

Great tour very knowledgeable guide. Friendly and very prompt on pick up time. Guide was very funny and had a lot of personal knowledge about New Orleans.

Had a great time. Seen a bunch of alligators and learned a lot about an area. Ian was a great guide and was very knowledgeable about everything in the area.

We loved the whole thing! The bus driver was so nice, the plantation was lovely. But the highlight of our day was the airboat!! Ian was our guide and he was so knowledgeable about everything in the area!! Showed us so many things in nature from the cypress trees to the gators and all in between!! Highly recommend!!

My boyfriend and I really enjoyed the swamp experience. Our boat tour guide Ernie was full of information and a good sense of humor. I definitely recommend the tour to anyone thinking about it.

Captain Ernie was incredibly knowledgeable and an awesome host for the large airboat tour. We love learning new things and did!

We were picked up at Jackson Square and had a friendly air conditioned ride to the lovely Oak Alley Plantation and then a Airboat Swamp tour. The four of us enjoyed the staff and all the beautiful views and loved our Airboat Swamp tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable and Airboat tour was lots of fun. Highly recommend!

CreoleQueen.com

UPDATE: WE ARE OPEN! Book Now or click HERE to learn more about our COVID-19 Protocol

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  • Swamp Tours
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An unforgettable swampland journey!

Located only twenty-five minutes from New Orleans in the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, Jean Lafitte Swamp and Airboat Tours explore Louisiana's back country along its meandering bayous abundant with wildlife and exotic plant life. Trained navigators escort you into the murky waters of Louisiana swamps where you will come face to face with the beauty and beasts of nature.

Bring your camera to capture the thrills and chills of this unforgettable swampland journey!

Our latest tour: Princess Tiana Swamp Experience

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New Orleans Visitors Guide

best gator tours new orleans

Authentic Airboat SWAMP Experience

New orleans #1 airboat swamp tour.

New Orleans Only 100% Private Property Airboat Swamp Tour Deep in the Louisiana Swamps and Bayous yet just minutes from the French Quarter A safe, fun-filled, one-of-a-kind experience for couples, families and groups

Booking online is secure, fast, and easy!

A MESSAGE FROM CAPTAIN RANDY

Captain Randy

What our customers Say

We have dozens of 5 star reviews.

best gator tours new orleans

Small & Large Boat Tours from 10AM – 6PM

SMALL AND LARGE AIRBOAT SWAMP TOURS

Select your tour time when you book.

  • 10 AM (8:45-9:15 hotel pickup)
  • 12 PM (10:45-11:15 hotel pickup)
  • 2 PM (12:45-1:15 hotel pickup)
  • 4 PM ( 2:45-3:15 hotel pickup) *seasonal*
  • 6 PM (4:45-5:15 hotel pickup) *seasonal*
  • CLOSED: Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, Easter Sunday, and Mardi Gras Day

6 Passenger Airboat Tour

$95 per rider.

The 6 Passenger Airboat Tour is our most compact boat with room for 6 – 7 people. This tour will get you up close and personal with the extraordinary wildlife in the Swamp.

$95 per person

$115 per person with hotel pickup

Airboat Tour

$85 per rider.

Our standard Airboat Tour, has room for up to 10 people. This boat has capacity for groups but is still compact enough to allow everyone a good view of the amazing swamp life.

$85 per person

$105 per person with hotel pickup

Large Airboat Tour

$65 per rider.

Large airboat tours can accommodate up to 16 passengers which is perfect for larger groups and families looking for an unforgettable adventure. Our captains still make sure every passenger gets a chance enjoy the beauty of our Louisiana swamps!

$65 per person

$85 per person with hotel pickup

Frequently Asked Questions

9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Sun – Sat.

Our hours do vary by season. For more information check out this article .

Approximately 1.5 – 2 hours and the time will fly by like one of our airboats! Please be here 15 minutes before your tour starts.

Each tour varies according to the mood of our wildlife. Customers may see:  American Alligators, Bald Eagle, Racoons, Wild Boar, Turtles, Snakes, Numerous different Bird Species. Live Oak trees, draped in mysterious Spanish Moss, Black Willow Trees, Swamp Red Maple Trees, Wild Iris, and Spider Lillys.

Chances are very high you will see an Alligator on our tours. Especially, in the warmer months. The alligators in our swamps are wild creatures so we can’t guarantee an Alligator spotting.

We offer private tours every day including wedding parties, corporate outings, special events, family reunions, etc. Ask our staff or check our site for details.

We are available to accommodate any kind of group/private tours for you and your party.

Snacks and drinks are always acceptable on our tours.

Sunscreen and bug spray are usually recommended. We will also have sunscreen and bug spray available for purchase in our souvenir shop, while supplies last.

While they are not mandatory. We highly recommend that you book to ensure you will have a seat. We do book up very quickly.

Our cancellation policy is as follows: 24 hour-no questions asked full refund.

Inside of 24 hours, there will be no refunds.

We are a rain or shine event. In the event of severe weather that is unsafe to operate our tours, we will refund or reschedule your tour.

We may delay the start or end of any tour based upon real time conditions and hazards.

Yes, there are a few restrictions for riding on our Airboat tours. The following are not permitted: expectant mothers, children under the age of 5, and persons with neck or back problems are not permitted.

Booking Online is Secure and Easy

MEET OUR CAPTAINS

We know we’re in the entertainment business and you’ve got a choice of how to spend your time and money while enjoying yourself in the great city of New Orleans. That’s why all of our Captains are seasoned Airboat pilots who know these swamps and bayous like the back of their hand. This is a precious ecosystem packed with amazing animals such as Alligators, Egrets, Turtles, Eagles, and Nutria. Whether you choose a Small or Large Airboat Tour, we’ll educate, entertain, and get you up close and personal with this wonderful wildlife.

less than 30 minutes from the French Quarter

Ragin Cajun Airboat Tours – 10090 Hwy 90 – Luling, LA 70070. Tel: 504-436-8000.

Copyright © 2021 Ragin Cajun Airboat Tours.  All Rights Reserved.

best gator tours new orleans

Cultural, Educational, Historical, Mystical, Unforgettable…Swampland Journey

Now taking reservations for VIP and VIP Private Tours! Tours for up to sixteen (16) passengers. Available Saturday and Sunday only beginning April 1, 2024. See Swamp Tours page for more information.

Our alligators don’t want to see you later, they want to see you now! Our Cajun Captains can’t wait to welcome you back!

Tours offered daily at 9:30AM, 12Noon and 2:15PM and seasonally at 4:15PM. Please remember this is a family friendly environment, please dress appropriately.

Cajun Pride Swamp Tours is a privately owned wildlife refuge just 25 miles from New Orleans.  We invite you to join us for a unique and educational journey back to the early days of Louisiana bayou and swamp explorations by offering authentic Louisiana swamp eco-tours, plantation tours, and combination tours .

Cajun Pride Swamp Tours is unique in that our privately owned swamp ensures that your narrated tour will not be disturbed by other boats .  Our native Cajun Captains are all natural…homegrown in the Bayous of South Louisiana. With accents and humor that will take you back to the early days of Louisiana bayou and swamp explorations, our Captains guide guests through the primitive beauty of the moss-draped cypress trees while showing off the American Alligator and abundant wildlife.  Experience up-close our fauna-the inhabitants of our swamp, our flora-the sweet smell of our wild hibiscus rose mallow and marsh mallow plants, and the unique history of the Cajun town of Frenier within the Manchac Swamp.

If you are looking for a more personal tour on a smaller boat, you’ll enjoy our 16 Passenger Close Encounter VIP Tour.   Our newest and smallest boat offers you a more intimate tour with more time to interact with our Captain in a small group or private environment.  

We offer tours for those with just a few hours to spare and for those with additional time for sight-seeing. Enjoy a swamp or single plantation tour which requires only 4 hours of your day or relax on one of our full-day combination tours.

Looking for a catered event with Louisiana cooking-large or small? Our large picnic area is the perfect venue for a crawfish, shrimp or crab boil, jambalaya dinner, barbecue or even boxed lunch.

Transportation is available for all of our tours. Unwind and leave the driving to us!

Additional tour options are offered by our industry friends . 

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Swamp Tours

For many years people have traveled extensively to Louisiana to locate a unique and exciting adventure exploring Louisiana’s back country with its meandering bayous and swamp that you can only experience here – the historical Manchac Swamp.   We invite you to join us for an educational journey back to the early days of Louisiana bayou and swamp explorations.

Book a swamp tour!

Protect Your Trip »

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

Explore Louisiana's famous swamps and bayous on one of these tours.

best gator tours new orleans

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Swamp tours are a popular activity for any visit to Louisiana. In addition to alligators, Louisiana's swamps and bayous offer a chance to see bears, beavers, foxes, nutrias and racoons, as well as dozens of amphibian and reptile species.

We've determined the following Louisiana swamp tours to be the best based on traveler reviews and expert opinion. What's more, several of the recommended tour companies are located close to New Orleans and offer transportation.

Airboat Adventures – Small Boat Tours: Lafitte

Price: From $89 Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes

One of the best swamp tours near New Orleans , this small-group excursion accommodates up to 10 passengers and features a multitude of reptiles, birds and other swamp residents. Riders frequently report enjoying the high-speed trips as well as the experienced guides and, of course, the plentiful wildlife on display.

Shuttle service between New Orleans hotels and Airboat Adventures' Lafitte location is available for an additional fee of $30 per person. Note: Airboat passengers must be at least 5 years old. The company also offers tours in its larger airboats and pontoon boats.

Check prices and availability on:

Cajun Encounters – VIP Swamp Tour: Slidell

Price: From $94.99 Duration: Two hours

This small-group excursion traverses the Honey Island Swamp via a flat-bottomed boat, which has the ability to maneuver narrow waterways. The excursion puts travelers within close proximity of alligators, bears, river otters and numerous types of birds, including great horned owls and bald eagles. Tour-takers consistently find the boat guides informative and entertaining, and enjoy the array of observable plant and animal life.

Tours are available several times daily. Cajun Encounters, located on the West Pearl River in Slidell, also offers pickup service from several French Quarter hotels as well as its New Orleans tour office ( 941 Decatur Street ) for an additional fee. Note that children under age 13 are not permitted on this tour; however, they are allowed on the company's larger swamp tours.

New Orleans Kayak Tours – Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour: Ponchatoula

Price: From $59 Duration: 2.5 hours

Many swamp tours rely on motorized boats to navigate Louisiana's waterways, but this tour uses kayaks to explore the peaceful Manchac Swamp. Thanks to the swamp's calm waters, this outing is suitable for paddlers of all experience levels. Trip-takers tend to appreciate the guides' educational commentary, as well as the frequent animal sightings. If you're interested in the paranormal, ask your tour guide about the haunted history of Manchac Swamp — it is believed to be haunted by a voodoo priestess.

Departure times may vary by season, but start times of 9 and 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. are typical. From March through September, there's an additional 4:30 p.m. departure time. Transportation from New Orleans (the Rampart Treehouse/10 pizza ) is available for an additional $25 per person.

Jean Lafitte Swamp Tours – Swamp Airboat Tour: Marrero

Price: From $98 Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Traverse southern Louisiana's swamps and bayous and the canals connecting them aboard a powerful airboat on this top-rated expedition. Tour-takers generally enjoy both the numerous wildlife sightings and the informed commentary by the guides.

Jean Lafitte Swamp Tours operates multiple airboats, with tours departing at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. daily. Winter hours vary. Transportation between select New Orleans locations and the company's Marrero base is available for an additional fee. Hotel pickup starts up to 90 minutes before tour departure times. Note: Children younger than 5 are not permitted on this tour.

Louisiana Tour Company – New Orleans Swamp Tour by Tour Boat: Marrero

Price: From $35 for adults; $15 for kids Duration: 2 hours

Glide through the wetlands within the Barataria Preserve aboard a covered boat built for comfort. Along with restrooms and cushioned seats, boats are equipped with guides who will regale you with amusing and informative commentary as you keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and sights like an ancient Native American burial mound and a Cajun fishing village.

Hotel pickup in New Orleans is available for an additional fee. Boat rides start at 9:40 a.m., 12:10 p.m. and 2:10 p.m. daily with a seasonal 4:15 departure time, and hotel pickups start about 90 minutes prior to start time. In addition to swamp tours, the company also offers plantation and airboat tours, among other options.

Ultimate Swamp Adventures – Covered Pontoon Swamp Boat Tour: Westwego

Price: Adults from $32; kids from $15 Duration: 2 hours

Cruise Bayou Segnette on this excursion, which features captains versed in the local culture and habitat. Past participants describe the guides as highly entertaining and enlightening and report seeing many alligators and birds. Tours are offered multiple times a day all year long. They depart at 9:45 a.m., noon and 2 p.m., with an additional 4 p.m. start time in months with sufficient evening sunlight.

Transportation from New Orleans hotels is available for an additional fee, and shuttle service begins about an hour prior to designated departure times. The large covered vessels can accommodate up to 68 passengers. Ultimate Swamp Adventures, located in Westwego about 10 miles from New Orleans, also offers airboat tours.

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The Best Louisiana Swamp Tours

Atchafalaya Basin Landing Airboat Swamp Tours – Traditional Swamp Boat Tour: Henderson

Price: From $39 Duration: 1.5 hours

The Atchafalaya Basin has bragging rights as the biggest U.S. river swamp – even bigger than the Florida Everglades . A variety of swamp creatures inhabit its nearly 1 million acres of bayous, swamps and lakes. Tourgoers consistently sing the praises of the striking scenery and the friendly, professional staff. Additionally, by opting for the swamp boat tour, you can ride through even more of the basin than during the company's namesake airboat tours.

McGee's Louisiana Swamp & Airboat Tours – Swamp Tours: Henderson

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $25 Duration: 1.5 hours

Enjoy an up-close look at the Atchafalaya Basin's unique ecosystem on this tour. Reviewers say the tour is well-suited for families with children, and applaud the guides for their insightful and compelling narration. Tours happen three times daily, departing at 10 a.m. and 1 and 3 p.m.

In addition to the swamp boat tours (which welcome up to 48 passengers), rides in smaller airboats, as well as seasonal sunset tours, are also available. Henderson, where McGee's is based, is located 45 miles west of Baton Rouge .

Check prices & availability on:

Champagne's Swamp Tours – Swamp Boat Tour: Breaux Bridge

Price: Adults from $28; kids from $23.50 Duration: 1.5 hours

The Cypress Island Nature Preserve at Lake Martin is home to hundreds of bird species, as well as alligators and other wildlife. This tour provides opportunities to see some of these spectacular creatures up close. Guides regularly win accolades for their knowledge of the local flora and fauna.

Reservations are required and can be made by contacting the company directly. The Champagne's Swamp Tours storefront in Breaux Bridge, which is approximately 50 miles southwest of Baton Rouge, opens daily at 8 a.m. (excluding some holidays). The company's boats are wheelchair-accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Atchafalaya Basin is largely considered the most famous swamp in Louisiana. It is the largest river swamp in the U.S.

Dress comfortably (think: loose layers) and bring a light jacket in the event it rains or you get chilly while you're out on the water.

Spring and summer are prime time for alligator sightings, though you'll likely see them no matter when you visit.

You'll increase your chances of spotting alligators by booking a morning tour, as wildlife is typically most active during this time (as well as late evening).

You may also be interested in:

  • The Best New Orleans Ghost Tours
  • The Best New Orleans Cemetery Tours
  • The Best New Orleans Plantation Tours

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Bayou Tours in Louisiana That You Won’t Forget

Looking For Some Good Ol’ Fashioned New Orleans Fun?

Are you ready to experience one of the best excursions New Orleans has to offer? Adventures of Jean Lafitte offers personal Alligator Tours through Louisiana’s beautiful backcountry. Gather your whole crew and come experience the “road less traveled”! Worthwhile New Orleans Alligator Tours, Bayou Tours, & Pontoon Boat Rides

We boast some of the most entertaining bayou tours in Louisiana! Adventures of Jean Lafitte is located approximately 40 minutes from New Orleans, and is open 7 days a week for your convenience. Don’t have transportation? Don’t fret, we got you and your crew. We offer round trip transportation from any hotel in the Greater New Orleans area for a small additional fee.

Bayou Tour Packages

Here at Adventures of Jean Lafitte, we give you options for your slow boat tour. Don’t have transportation to our location? We offer a package with round trip transportation. If you want more details about the different packages we provide, you can visit our Bayou Tours page or give us a call! We are able and prepared to handle questions and parties of all sizes. Our pontoon boat tours leave daily so all you have to do is choose a time that works for you and prepare for a wild experience. Our booking, reservation, and pick-up hotline is 504-323-0570.

Wildlife Tour Packages

You’ll be touring 20,000 acres of tidewater cypress swamp. During your 1 hour 30 minute tour you’ll have opportunities to see alligators, snakes, turtles, egrets, herons and ibis, and we sometimes see hawks, owls and bald eagles.

All tour packages have the option of hotel pickup for your group’s convenience!

Tour Details

Our One-of-A-Kind Location

Our air conditioned indoor facility equipped with candy, soft drinks, ice cream, chips and beautiful views offers the perfect spot to hang out. We even have Southern Louisiana’s only albino alligator, named Sugar! She is most definitely sugar and spice and everything nice. Please bring cash if you plan on buying something from the gift shop, as it is cash only.

#AdventuresOfJeanLafitte

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

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A New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tour

If you’re visiting Louisiana, there’s no doubt you’ve heard about the region’s mossy swamplands. Just a short drive outside of the heart of New Orleans, tour companies offer swamp/bayou tours on boats, where you can see – and even feed – gators and other wildlife. Plus, many companies offer transportation to and from hotels, making it even easier to access these nearby swamps.

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11 Spookiest & Best New Orleans Ghost Tours (2024) 

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Did you know that New Orleans is one of the most haunted cities in the United States? To fully understand the haunted history and spooky stories lurking in the city’s past — you absolutely need to take a ghost tour in New Orleans. 

Whether you are interested in exploring cemeteries after dark, drinking your way through a haunted pub crawl, learning about the city’s haunted history, or embarking on a spooky adults-only tour — you’ll find all that (and more!) on this list of the best New Orleans ghost tours. 

Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

Top New Orleans Ghost Tours

Find the tour below from this list of New Orleans ghost tours that matches your unique interests for a “spooktacular” way to explore New Orleans, Louisiana! 

1. Ghosts, Vampires & Voodoo French Quarter Tour  

Ghosts, Vampires & Voodoo French Quarter Tour is one of the most beloved ghost tours in New Orleans, with 1,250+ raving reviews — and for good reason! 

This two-hour guided walking tour through the French Quarter in New Orleans allows you to dive into the darker side of New Orleans with stops at spooky sites like the Old Ursuline Convent, New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum, and LaLaurie Mansion — the most haunted building in New Orleans and inspiration for American Horror Story . 

This tour is dog-friendly, and you are welcome to bring your own beverages to enjoy on the tour — there are no open container laws in the French Quarter. So, drink up and be spooked on this ghost tour that highlights spooky stories of vampires, voodoo, and witches in New Orleans! 

  • Rating: 4.5/5 stars 
  • Length: 2 hours 
  • Price: $31.99 per person 
  • Provider: Witches Brew Tours 

2. Cemetery Bus Tour at Dark with Exclusive Access  

Does exploring cemeteries at night sound right up your alley? If so, you’ll love this Cemetery Bus Tour at Dark with Exclusive Access to cemeteries in New Orleans, including Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery, Charity Hospital Cemetery, and Hurricane Katrina Memorial Cemetery. 

This two-hour guided bus tour includes transportation on a comfortable bus with a driver and a tour guide, who will share interesting facts and stories about the haunted history of New Orleans during the tour. The tour price also includes EMF readers for each guest — so you can search for paranormal activity while exploring the cemeteries at night! 

  • Rating: 4.6/5 stars 
  • Price: $55 per person 
  • Provider: Tour Orleans 

3. New Orleans Walking Tour Inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1  

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is closed to the public, so if you want exclusive access to the tombs, stories, and haunts inside this cemetery — you’ll need to book a New Orleans ghost tour, like this New Orleans Walking Tour Inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 . 

If you’re more into history than being spooked, you’ll probably love this short tour — it takes place during the day and focuses on the famous figures who are buried here, like Voodoo Queen Mariel Laveau and Homer Plessy, and includes a tomb that was built by Nicholas Cage. Your tour guide will also share interesting information about burial customs in New Orleans. 

  • Length: 45 minutes 
  • Price: $25 per person 
  • Provider: New Orleans Hop-On Hop-Off 

4. Destrehan Plantation Haunted Night Tour  

There are several plantations you can tour in New Orleans — including Oak Alley Plantation and Laura Plantation. But there is only one plantation that you can visit at night on one of the best New Orleans ghost tours to learn about its spooky side and haunted history — Destrehan Plantation! 

On the Destrehan Plantation Haunted Night Tour , you’ll depart from the French Quarter to Destrehan Plantation on a guided tour. The tour includes exclusive access to Destrehan Plantation at night and haunting stories about the house and the people who lived there, including information about the 1811 Slave Revolt — one of the largest slave revolts in the country’s history — that took place here. 

  • Rating: 5/5 stars 
  • Length: 3 hours 
  • Price: $69 per person 
  • Provider: NOLA Ghost Riders 

5. Adults Only New Orleans Ghost, True Crime, Voodoo, and Vampire Walking Tour  

Over 3,000 participants have rated this Adults Only New Orleans Ghost, True Crime, Voodoo, and Vampire Walking Tour with five stars — meaning it’s definitely one of the best New Orleans ghost tours for people over the age of 18! 

On this paranormal walking tour with a professional guide, you will stop by tons of haunted locations in the French Quarter, including Congo Square, The Dragon’s Den, French Market, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, Old Ursuline Convent Museum, LaLaurie Mansion, and more. You will learn tons of interesting history about voodoo, vampires, witches, and ghost in New Orleans — making this tour both informational and a little spooky. 

  • Length: 1 hour and 45 minutes 
  • Price: $29.99 per person 
  • Provider: Hottest Hell Tours 

Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop, one of the most haunted locations to visit on a ghost tour in New Orleans

6. Dead of Night Ghosts and Cemetery Bus Tour  

If kicking back, relaxing, and visiting the most haunted spots in New Orleans on a bus with an expert tour guide sounds right up your alley — you will love the Dead of Night Ghosts and Cemetery Bus Tour in New Orleans. 

On this two-hour New Orleans ghost tour, you will be picked up in the French Quarter and transported via bus to some of the spookiest spots in the city, including famous cemeteries, the Hurricane Katrina Memorial, and more. With 150+ reviews and a rating of 4.7/5 stars — you can be confident you’ll have a great time on this New Orleans ghost tour. 

  • Rating: 4.7/5 stars 
  • Price: $45 per person 
  • Provider: Haunted History Tours 

7. New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl  

Want to have a “spooktacular” good time? If so, this New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl will surely be a memorable experience in New Orleans! Not only will you visit some of the oldest (and most haunted) bars in America, but you’ll be able to do it with a drink of choice in hand — the French Quarter does not have any open container laws! 

This guided tour for travelers 21+ includes one drink at the end of the tour, but more drinks can be purchased. Stops on the tour include Jax Brewery, LaLaurie Mansion, Sultan’s Palace, and Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop. 

8. New Orleans Guided Nighttime Ghost Hunt  

Unlike some New Orleans ghost tours that only take you past the outside of haunted buildings, this New Orleans Guided Nighttime Ghost Hunt allows you to enter two haunted buildings to go hunting for paranormal activity with EMF investigation gear. 

This three-hour tour includes the use of real ghost-hunting equipment, which you will be taught how to use by a paranormal investigator (tour guide). Once you get the hang of using the equipment, you can step inside two haunted buildings in the French Quarter to capture audio, video, and photo evidence of ghosts and spirits in these haunted buildings. 

  • Price: $59 per person  Provider: New Orleans Paranormal Society 

9. French Quarter Ghost and Murder Tour  

With nearly 500 reviews and an overall rating of 4.5 stars — it’s easy to see why the F rench Quarter Ghost and Murder Tour is one of the most popular New Orleans ghost tours! 

On this two-hour walking tour, you’ll be led around the French Quarter with a professional tour guide to see notable (and haunted!) landmarks, including LaLaurie Mansion, May Bailey’s Brothel, and more. You’ll get to learn interesting stories about the city’s history, and this tour is both alcohol-free and kid-friendly, so it’s one of the best New Orleans ghost tours for families! 

A New Orleans cemetery, one of the best places to visit on a ghost tour in New Orleans

10. New Orleans Adults Only True Crime Pub Crawl  

If you’re looking for a top-rated pub crawl in New Orleans — this two-hour tour will be sure to please. On this tour for travelers who are 21+, you’ll be able to go on a “true crime” themed guided pub crawl in the French Quarter. 

This New Orleans Adults Only True Crime Pub Crawl includes one free cocktail per person and plenty of information about the city’s haunted history and conspiracies from a tour guide, including assassinations and murders. You’ll have opportunities to purchase more drinks at bars in the French Quarter throughout the tour, so bring some cash and prepare to have a spooky-good time! 

  • Rating: 4.9/5 stars 
  • Price: $37 per person 

11. New Orleans Ghost Hunt Experience: Voice from Beyond  

With nearly 300 five-star reviews, it’s hard to argue that this New Orleans Ghost Hunt Experience: Voice from Beyond isn’t one of the best New Orleans ghost tours! 

This interactive ghost tour allows you to use ghost-hunting equipment at some of the most popular haunted spots in New Orleans. You’ll also be able to enter a haunted building and learn tons of stories about the city’s haunted past from your professional guide. Stops on the tour might include Andrew Jackson Hotel, Harry’s Corner Bar, Starling Magickal Occult Shop, and other spooky locations in the French Quarter. 

  • Price: $59 per person 
  • Provider: New Orleans Paranormal Society 

FAQs: Best New Orleans Ghost Tours

How much are the haunted tours in new orleans.

Most haunted tours in New Orleans cost $29.99 – $59.00 per person , depending on what is included, from round-trip transportation and ghost-hunting equipment to alcoholic beverages and exclusive access to cemeteries, plantations, and other attractions. 

Can you visit New Orleans cemeteries without a tour?

Some New Orleans cemeteries, like Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 in the Garden District, do not require a tour or tour guide to visit, while others, like St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 , can only be accessed on an official tour with a professional guide.

Was the Haunted Mansion filmed in New Orleans?  

Yes, Disney’s Haunted Mansion movie , released in 2023, was filmed in New Orleans. Popular sites and attractions in New Orleans, like Bourbon Street, can be seen in the film! 

Get Spooked on One of These New Orleans Ghost Tours for a Fun Experience in “The Big Easy”  

In addition to getting spooked and hunting for ghosts, New Orleans ghost tours are a fun way to learn about the city’s history while meeting other travelers and seeing popular landmarks and locations, like the French Quarter, LaLaurie Mansion, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, and more! Ghost tours are also fun Halloween date ideas or activities for older kids and adults on a family vacation.

Regardless of which of these best New Orleans ghost tours you choose to embark on — you’re sure to have a memorable night exploring the French Quarter and beyond! 

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Save The Best New Orleans Ghost Tours for Later

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Looking for more things to do in New Orleans? Check out these related posts:

  • Ultimate Weekend in New Orleans Itinerary: 3 Days in “The Big Easy”
  • Detailed Oak Alley Plantation Guide: Exhibits, Tours & More

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About the Author

Brittany Sawyer

Hi, I'm Brit! I'm a writer from Phoenix, AZ who loves coffee, golden retriever puppies, and obviously, travel! I help ordinary women (like me!) dream, plan, and do extraordinary travel experiences.

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Top 6 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours & More

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Top 6 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours & More in 2024

Top 1: Best Lousiana Swamp Tour

New Orleans Swamp Tours are perfect for kids and families. Explore acres of authentic Louisiana swamps and waterways on a New Orleans swamp tour that gets you up close and personal with Alligators! 

Get an unforgettable, up-close experience with majestic Alligators

  • The Ride: Feel the adrenaline rush on our airboats, where thrills await at every turn, and then enjoy a serene journey on our pontoon, offering a scenic and tranquil cruise.
  • The History: Learn about the bayous and the New Orleans swamplands.
  • The Wildlife: Interact with all the living creatures including gators, raccoons, wild hogs, birds, and much more!

What Animals you will find in NOLA Swamp Tours

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airboat tour in new orleans

Top 2: Swamp Airboat Excursions

If you’re looking for a personalized adventure in the Louisiana swamps, our customizable group excursions are the perfect choice. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a team-building experience, or a special celebration, we can tailor the tour to meet your specific needs and interests. 

Flexibility  is our specialty, and we’re dedicated to creating an unforgettable experience for you and your group.

For a quick overview of our customizable options, take a look at the table below:

Remember, the more, the merrier! Bring your group and let us handle the rest.

Pro Tip: Communicate your preferences and special requests in advance to ensure a truly personalized experience. Let’s make this adventure one to remember!

Our Swamp Tour Options in New Orleans (NOLA)

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The Small Airboat

👫 6-10 passengers ⏰ 1 hr 45 min 👦🏻 Minimum 5yo

Group Airboat tour new orleans

The Large Airboat

👫 15-27 passengers ⏰ 1 hr 45 min

Big Group Airboat tour new orleans

The Pontoon Boats

Traditional Covered Boat Swamp Tours ⏰ 1 hr 45 min

Top 6 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours & More in 2024

Our Pickup Service

Round trip to the French Quarter

Top 6 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours & More in 2024

Top 3: Haunted Cemetery Bus Tours

Join Haunted Cemetery Bus Tour for a thrilling two-hour night adventure in New Orleans. You’ll visit haunted cemeteries and explore the city’s spooky neighborhoods, offering an exciting paranormal experience.

What to expect on this spooky tour:

  • Ghost Hunting: Start with a cocktail from Bon’s Street Food and join a guided tour with an EMF Reader, similar to what’s used on the TV show Dead Files. Feel free to bring your own meter and share your ghostly encounters!
  • Interactive Learning: Your guide will share exclusive ghost videos and photos, adding an exciting visual aspect to your ghost hunting adventure.
  • Cemetery Visits at Night: Explore two haunted cemeteries in New Orleans after dark. Take photos and try to spot ghosts, with help from guides and their EMF readers.
  • Respectful Ghost Hunting: We’re committed to respecting the resting places we visit. Please follow our guide’s instructions for a respectful and responsible experience.

Book in advance to ensure your place on this popular haunted tour.

haunted pub crawl

Top 4: Haunted Pub Crawl

Ghostly Swamp Tours are a popular part of the Louisiana swamp experience. These eerie tales have been passed down through generations, adding an element of mystery to the

Discover New Orleans’ spooky side with our Haunted Pub Crawl. This tour mixes eerie local history with visits to haunted bars and restaurants in the French Quarter. You’ll see famous places like the Lalaurie Mansion and Omni Royal. Here’s what’s included:

  • Flexible Tour Plan: We change our route often for a fresh experience, but we always visit key haunted spots. Your guide will choose some locations on the day.
  • Pirate’s Alley: A legendary part of the French Quarter, Pirate’s Alley is surrounded by stories of pirates and slave trading, adding mystery to your visit.
  • Lalaurie Mansion: Known for its chilling past, the 1832 Lalaurie Mansion is one of the most haunted spots in the area. Your guide will tell you its spooky stories.
  • Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop: Visit the oldest bar in the U.S., dating back to 1772. It’s linked to pirates, including Jean Lafitte, and some say his ghost still haunts it.

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Top 5: City Bus Tour

Explore New Orleans in the day with our City Bus Tour, a two and a half hour trip combining famous sights and historical stories for a complete view of the city.

Here’s what you’ll experience:

  • Tour of Different Areas: Starting in the vibrant French Quarter, we’ll take you through various districts like the elegant Garden District, the cultural Treme, and the artsy Marigny and Bywater, plus more hidden spots.
  • Historical Stories: Learn about 300 years of New Orleans history. Our guide will share a mix of folklore, fun facts, and historical events, bringing the city’s past to life.
  • Great Views: From our bus with high seats and big windows, you’ll get clear views of the city’s beauty.
  • Cemetery Visits: Depending on the tour time, visit St. Louis Cemetery #3 in the morning or Odd Fellows Cemetery in the afternoon. Our expert guides will tell you the stories behind the tombstones.
  • Comfortable Ride: Our air-conditioned Luxury Mini Coach, driven by a licensed professional, offers a comfortable journey.
  • Easy Pick-up and Drop-off: We provide hotel pickups and drop-offs in the French Quarter. Be ready 30 minutes before the tour starts.

Book early to secure your spot on this detailed and exciting tour.

Note: Outside food and drinks are not allowed on the bus.

haunted ghost walking tour

Top 6: Haunted Ghost Walking Tour

Join Big Easy Ghost Tours for a fascinating walk into New Orleans’ supernatural history. This tour offers a deep, accurate look at haunted places like the Lalaurie Mansion and Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, providing more than just stories – it’s a real historical study. Here’s what you’ll get:

Real Historical Background: Our guides, including professors and history students, focus on true, centuries-old stories of the French Quarter’s darker past. This tour is all about real history, not theatrics or scares.

Genuine Paranormal Sites: Visit real paranormal hotspots, some featured on TV ghost hunting shows. This isn’t just for show; it’s an exploration of actual paranormal events.

Interactive Tour: The tour changes based on the city’s events, and we welcome your ghostly stories and experiences. The more you engage, the better the experience.

Respectful Storytelling: We tell chilling tales with the utmost respect for history and the locations we visit.

Book in advance to join this unique, historical ghost tour.

  • This is a walking tour, so wear comfortable shoes.
  • Refreshments aren’t included but can be bought before the tour starts.

Departure and Wild Adventure in 3 Steps

Pick up area.

We will start our Tour in this location: Meet at Bon’s Street Food(620 Decatur St Unit 1B) located next to Landry’s Seafood on the corner of Decatur and St. Peter.

Alligator Adventure

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!

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.

Gator 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…

Request A Call To Book Now

Fill out the form below, and a representative will call you within seconds to help answer any questions and book your tour.

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, who is responsible for organizing all of these different types of tours, what happens if the weather is bad, do you have a wheelchair accessible boats, what to expect after booking.

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  1. 3 Best New Orleans Swamp Tours of 2024 (Ethical Options)

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    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.

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    Pontoon Boat Adventure. 1 hr 30 min. Varies by age. Adult Age 13+ - $35 Youth Age 5-12 - $15 Pickup is an additional $30 per person. 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.

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    Gator 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.

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    An unforgettable swampland journey! Located only twenty-five minutes from New Orleans in the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, Jean Lafitte Swamp and Airboat Tours explore Louisiana's back country along its meandering bayous abundant with wildlife and exotic plant life. Trained navigators escort you into the murky waters of ...

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    7,889 reviews. #5 of 462 Tours & Activities in New Orleans. City ToursHistorical & Heritage ToursSightseeing ToursPrivate Tours. Open now. 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM. Write a review. See all photos. About. A 20 year old locally owned and operated tour company providing highly rated, comfortable, fun, and educational tours of the swamps, city, cemeteries ...

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    If you're looking for the best BYOB Bachelor Party Airboat Tours or Private Airboat Tours in New Orleans, our airboat adventures are exactly what you are looking for! TOUR TIMES (1:30 TOUR): 9:45am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm (4p & 6p tours are seasonal) SMALL BOATS (6, 8, 10, 13 passengers): Per Person: $105 DRIVE OUT or $115 HOTEL PICKUP.

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    Tours offered daily at 9:30AM, 12Noon and 2:15PM and seasonally at 4:15PM. Please remember this is a family friendly environment, please dress appropriately. Cajun Pride Swamp Tours is a privately owned wildlife refuge just 25 miles from New Orleans. We invite you to join us for a unique and educational journey back to the early days of ...

  17. The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

    April 24, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024. More. Getty Images. Swamp tours are a popular activity for any visit to Louisiana. In addition to alligators, Louisiana's ...

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  21. New Orleans Alligator Tours and Bayou Tours

    Adventures of Jean Lafitte offers personal Alligator Tours through Louisiana's beautiful backcountry. Gather your whole crew and come experience the "road less traveled"! We boast some of the most entertaining bayou tours in Louisiana! Adventures of Jean Lafitte is located approximately 40 minutes from New Orleans, and is open 7 days a ...

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    Just a short drive outside of the heart of New Orleans, tour companies offer swamp/bayou tours on boats, where you can see - and even feed - gators and other wildlife. Plus, many companies offer transportation to and from hotels, making it even easier to access these nearby swamps. See the natural, captivating wonders of Louisiana's bayous ...

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    Top 1: Best Lousiana Swamp Tour. New Orleans Swamp Tours are perfect for kids and families. Explore acres of authentic Louisiana swamps and waterways on a New Orleans swamp tour that gets you up close and personal with Alligators! Get an unforgettable, up-close experience with majestic Alligators. The Ride: Feel the adrenaline rush on our ...