New Orleans Guide

New Orleans Swamp Tours

Explore Louisiana bayous with alligators, cypress trees, and wetland wildlife!

68+ tours
From $50
2-6 hours
New Orleans Swamp Tours

Experience Louisiana's mysterious swamps and bayous - ecosystem unlike anywhere! Swamp tours cruise through cypress forests draped with Spanish moss, see wild alligators (guides sometimes feed them - they jump!), spot herons, egrets, turtles, and diverse wetland wildlife. Tours explore Honey Island Swamp (least altered swamp in Louisiana), Jean Lafitte National Park, Lake Pontchartrain, and bayou communities. Airboat tours offer high-speed thrills while pontoon boats provide relaxed nature viewing. Learn about wetland ecology, Cajun bayou culture, how swamps protect New Orleans from hurricanes, and threats facing Louisiana wetlands (losing football field of land hourly!). It's wild Louisiana!

Featured Swamp Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for swamp tours in New Orleans

New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure
From $35
Free Cancellation

Take a New Orleans swamp tour and wetlands adventure! See the Cajuns of the Bayou living and surviving in harmony with the swamps. Here, the waterways are their highways. From the relaxed comfort of our covered New Orleans swamp tour boats, you will drift slowly past a 2,000 year old Indian burial mound, a Cajun cemetery and a fishing village! You may see the wildlife that made the Barataria Swamps the crown jewel of the Louisiana Purchase. Here, birds, snakes, turtles, fur animals, and gators are the kings of the swamp, and are easily spotted in spring, summer, and fall.

4.8(1,833)
1h 40m
View Details
Jean Lafitte 90-Minute Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour
From $32
Free Cancellation

Experience the full magic of Louisiana's bayous on the closest swamp tour to downtown New Orleans. Journey down the bayou on a 90-minute Cajun adventure through the heart of Southern Louisiana on a relaxing and shaded pontoon boat ride in the protected Jean Lafitte National Park and Preserve. As you and your family glide along swamp waters, observe native plant and exotic life in a delicate yet powerful landscape that has both changed and defined Louisiana culture. View moss-covered cypress trees, evading yet beautiful water hyacinths, gators, egrets, and many more interesting creatures that call the swamp their home. Tour guides born and raised in the bayou will reveal the mysteries of the bayou as well as exclusive facts about its ecosystem. Join us and "laissez les bons temps rouler!"

4.7(754)
1h 40m
View Details
New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour with Transportation
From $70.12
Free Cancellation

Meet your guide for pickup in downtown New Orleans and head for a 2-hour boat tour in Honey Island Swamp, a wildlife preserve that is one of the last protected wetlands in Louisiana. Visit a Cajun village only accessible by boat; learn about the animals and plants in the lush swamps; and get close to wildlife that are out and active with an expert local guide. Please note that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

4.9(5,367)
5h
View Details
Large Airboat Swamp Tour with Transportation from New Orleans
From $90
Free Cancellation

Experience the thrill of riding a 16-passenger airboat on a 1 hour and 40 minute New Orleans swamp tour, with informative narration provided by the captain. See alligators and other wildlife in their natural habitat during the adrenaline-fueled ride. This family-friendly tour includes the convenience of hotel transport from downtown hotels.

4.9(1,813)
4h 15m
View Details
Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans
From $131
Free Cancellation

This combination tour combines the best of the best! The best swamp tour with the best plantations along River Road. See a variety of wildlife on a swamp boat ride and explore an authentic southern plantation on this tour from New Orleans. See alligators, egrets, raccoons and snakes during your ride around a private Louisiana swamp. 9am and 11am departure times tour Oak Alley Plantation and are 7 hours and 45 minutes in length returning to New Orleans at 4:45pm and 6:45pm respectively. 1pm departure time tours Destrehan Plantation and is 5 hours and 30 minutes in length returning to New Orleans at 6:30pm.

4.8(3,288)
7h 45m
View Details
New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with Transportation
From $60
Free Cancellation

See the Cajuns of the Bayou living and surviving in harmony with the swamps. Here, the waterways are their highways. From the relaxed comfort of our covered New Orleans Swamp Tour Boats, you will drift slowly past a 2000 year old Indian Burial Mound, a Cajun cemetery and a fishing village! You'll admire the wildlife that made the Barataria Swamps the Crown Jewel of the Louisiana Purchase. Here, birds, snakes, turtles, fur animals, and gators - the king of the swamp - are easily spotted in Spring, Summer, and Fall.

4.8(997)
4h
View Details
Airboat Swamp Tour
From $67
Free Cancellation

Experience the Premiere New Orleans air boat tour, led by a professional Captains. Alternate between high speeds and cruising as you past fascinating flora and fauna. Enjoy the convenience of round-trip transportation by comfortable, air-conditioned coach from your hotel in Downtown New Orleans. You will start your journey right in the swamp with NO Idle Zones and noise ordinance. We operate on private land with No other boats on the property. You will go where no other boats go

4.9(201)
1h 30m
View Details
New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Alligator Tour
From $35
Free Cancellation

Nowhere is Louisiana’s wildlife more abundant than in the swamps and bayous of New Orleans. Take a boat ride through these swamps and bayous and be on the lookout for alligators, raccoons, snakes, turtles and native birds. Hear stories from your guide about local Cajun culture and the mysteries of the swamps and bayous.

4.3(1,306)
1h 15m
View Details
New Orleans Zipline Swamp Tour
From $89
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Zip NOLA is New Orleans' and the World's FIRST ever fully aquatic swamp zipline! With over a half mile of ziplines and suspension bridges spanning the Maurepas Swamp, Zip NOLA is the premier activity for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike. View swamp critters and the amazing swamp ecosystem from the comfort of the moss covered cypress treetops! Zip NOLA’s facility has many amenities including a 1200 sq ft gift shop with the latest and greatest New Orleans souvenirs, gifts, and snack/beverage items. Our shop also boasts a phenomenal enclosure for our baby alligators and turtles! We also have spacious restrooms, locker storage, green space picnic area, and an expansive 2000 sq ft elevated seating area overlooking the beautiful cypress-filled Maurepas Swamp. Guests can take in breathtaking sights of moss covered cypress swamp, while they also view the many wildlife that frequent the area. Alligators can be readily seen, as well as a plethora of other swamp critters!

5.0(927)
1h 15m
View Details
New Orleans Self-Transport Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour
From $37.75
Free Cancellation

Take a short drive from New Orleans to visit Honey Island Swamp, a wildlife preserve that is one of the last protected wetlands in Louisiana, during a 2-hour boat tour. Visit a Cajun village only accessible by boat; learn about the animals and plants in the lush swamps; and get close to wildlife with an expert local guide. This tour does not include transportation.

4.9(2,818)
2h
View Details
Small-Group Airboat Swamp Tour with Downtown New Orleans Pickup
From $115
Free Cancellation

Experience the other Swamp Tour in New Orleans. This destination is only 35 minutes from New Orleans yet a world apart. Hold onto your hat! This New Orleans airboat tour is a high speed adventure that is part tour and part ride. This boat has a maximum of nine passengers to ensure a small, personal and uncrowded experience.

4.9(1,614)
4h 15m
View Details
New Orleans Large Airboat Swamp Tour
From $65
Free Cancellation

The departure location for this tour is only 35 minutes from New Orleans but a world apart in flora and fauna. Your tour will be a mix of high speed adventures and stops for pictures. This tour is completely safe and led by a local and professional guide.

4.9(179)
1h 40m
View Details
New Orleans Small-Group Airboat Swamp Tour
From $89
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a personalized small group experience on this swamp tour just 35 minutes outside of New Orleans. This airboat has a maximum of six or nine passengers giving you plenty of room to admire the views of the Louisiana marshlands from all angles.

4.9(692)
1h 40m
View Details
Oak Alley Plantation and Swamp Boat Tour from New Orleans
From $130
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

On this full-day tour, you'll be driven to the Oak Alley Plantation House, then see the Cajuns of the bayou living and surviving in harmony with the swamps. Located about an hour and a half outside the city of New Orleans, Oak Alley is one of the most magnificent plantation tours because of the 28, evenly spaced, huge Oak Trees that go from the river road to the Plantation House. Experience bayou living where here, the waterways are their highways. From the relaxed comfort of our covered New Orleans Swamp Tour Boats, you will drift slowly past a 2000 year old Indian Burial Mound, a Cajun cemetery and Fishing village! You may see the wildlife that made the Barataria Swamps the Crown Jewel of the Louisiana Purchase.

4.4(373)
8h
View Details
Oak Alley Plantation and Large Airboat Swamp Tour from New Orleans
From $160
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

The Oak Alley plantation tour is one of the most magnificent plantation tours near New Orleans because of the 28 evenly spaced, huge Oak Trees that go from the river road to the Plantation House. The Greek Revival home dates back to 1837. Located on the grounds is a restaurant, blacksmith shop, Souvenir Shop and antique farm equipment. Next up is an airboat tour - hold onto your hat! Our New Orleans Airboat Swamp Tour is a high speed adventure that is part tour and part ride. Along the way, you will get a personal tour by your local Captain. Our airboats have stadium seating, so that the person in front of you does not obstruct your view. So, every airboat seat is great for experiencing the tour and viewing the wildlife.

4.7(709)
8h
View Details

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Why Choose Swamp Tours in New Orleans?

Wild Alligators

See gators in natural habitat - guides feed them (thrilling!).

Unique Ecosystem

Cypress swamps and bayous found only in Louisiana!

Spanish Moss

Haunting beauty of moss-draped trees over dark water.

Airboat Adventure

High-speed airboat rides through shallow waterways!

Types of Swamp Tours in New Orleans

Classic Swamp Boat Tour

Pontoon boat through Honey Island or Jean Lafitte swamp.

2 hoursAlligatorsWildlifeNarratedMost popular

Airboat Swamp Tour

High-speed airboat adventure through bayous.

1.5 hoursFast boatThrillingLoudExciting

Kayak Swamp Tour

Paddle through cypress swamp quietly observing nature.

3 hoursKayakingPeacefulClose to natureActive

Swamp & Plantation Combo

Combine swamp tour with plantation visit.

6-7 hoursTwo experiencesFull dayComprehensiveEfficient

What to Expect on Your New Orleans Swamp Tours

Duration

Tours: 2-2.5 hours on water. With transport: 4-5 hours total from NOLA.

Alligator Sightings

Near-guaranteed gator sightings - guides know where they hang out!

Cypress Forest

Glide through ancient cypress trees with Spanish moss.

Wetland Wildlife

Herons, egrets, turtles, snakes, nutria, and diverse bird species.

Bayou Culture

See how Cajun communities live in remote wetland areas.

Ecology Education

Learn about wetland importance and Louisiana land loss crisis.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Honey Island Swamp least altered - most pristine swamp experience.

2

Morning tours best for wildlife activity and cooler temperatures.

3

Airboats loud (ear protection provided) - pontoons quieter and better for photos.

4

Gator feeding exciting but controversial - some tours don't feed (more natural).

5

Bring bug spray (mosquitoes!) and sunscreen - limited shade on boats.

6

Tours 30-60 minutes from NOLA - transport usually included.

7

Closed-toe shoes recommended (boats can be wet and muddy).

8

Winter (Nov-Feb) alligators less active (cold-blooded) - summer best for sightings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Will I see alligators?

A: Nearly guaranteed! Guides know where gators hang out. Spring-fall (warm months) gators most active. Some guides feed them (they jump out of water!). Perfectly safe on boat. Close encounters but controlled. Thrilling and memorable!

Q:Are swamp tours safe?

A: Very safe! Experienced guides, boats well-maintained, life jackets provided. Alligators don't attack boats. Millions tour safely. Weather cancellations if storms. Use reputable companies. Swamps are wild but tours are controlled and safe!

Q:How much do swamp tours cost?

A: Standard swamp tours: $50-75 (2 hours + transport). Airboat: $60-90. Kayak: $75-100. Combo with plantation: $120-160. Includes hotel pickup usually. Small boats (6-10 people) more expensive but intimate. Worth it for unique Louisiana experience!

Q:Which swamp tour is best?

A: Honey Island Swamp (most pristine, least altered). Jean Lafitte National Park (closest to NOLA, 30 min). Barataria Preserve (free kayaking!). Tour companies: Dr. Wagner's Honey Island, Cajun Pride. Small boats better than large tour boats!

Q:What is the difference between swamp and bayou?

A: Swamp: Forested wetland with trees (cypress). Bayou: Slow-moving waterway/stream. Louisiana has both! Tours explore cypress swamps and navigate bayous. Spanish moss, dark water, alligators - it's all Louisiana wetlands. Both terms used interchangeably!

Q:When is the best time for swamp tours?

A: Spring (March-May) and fall (Sept-Oct): Perfect weather, active wildlife. Summer: Hot/humid but gators most active! Winter: Cooler, gators less active (but still visible). Morning tours beat afternoon heat. Year-round accessible!

Q:Can you swim in Louisiana swamps?

A: NO! Alligators, snakes, and bacteria make swimming dangerous. Stay in boat! Swamps are for viewing, not swimming. Guides won't let you in water anyway. Just enjoy from safe boat - that's exciting enough!

Q:How far are swamps from New Orleans?

A: 30-60 minutes drive depending on tour. Jean Lafitte closest (30 min). Honey Island 45 min. Tours include transport from French Quarter hotels. It's easy day trip - no need for rental car. Schedule 4-5 hours total.

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Why Visit New Orleans?

Iconic French Quarter and historic architecture

World-famous jazz music and culture

Authentic Creole and Cajun cuisine

Rich history and cultural heritage

Mardi Gras celebrations and festivals

Perfect blend of music and culture

Best Time to Visit

Weather

New Orleans enjoys a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from 50°F (10°C) in winter to 90°F (32°C) in summer.

Best Months

February to May and October to December offer the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.

Peak Season

June to August brings peak tourist season with hot, humid weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

January and September offer lower prices and fewer crowds, though with occasional hurricanes.

Plan Your New Orleans Trip

Transportation Tips

Public transportation includes streetcars and buses. Walking is perfect for exploring the French Quarter, and ride-sharing services are widely available.

Car Rental Deals in New Orleans

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Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your New Orleans adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in New Orleans

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