manchac swamp boat tour

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 and 6:15pm.

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 they will take you back to the early days of Louisiana bayou and swamp explorations through the primitive beauty of the moss-draped cypress trees and show 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.   *VIP Tours have been temporarily suspended due to Covid.

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 . 

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.

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• About this activity

Manchac Swamp & Bayou Tour by Boat

• Free cancellation available
• Printed Voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Selective hotel pickup
• Boat tour through the mysterious Louisiana backcountry
• Creatures of the swamps & bayous in their natural habitat
• Hauntingly beautiful & whimsical plants in the wetlands
• History of the small Cajun town of Frenier, Louisiana
• Chance to safely see the famous American alligator up close

Activity location

• New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America

Meeting/Redemption Point

• 110 Frenier Road
• 70068, LaPlace, Louisiana, United States of America

Multiple meeting/redemption points available, see location information for full list

• Sun, Apr 21 -
• Mon, Apr 22 $54
• Tue, Apr 23 $32
• Wed, Apr 24 $32
• Thu, Apr 25 $32
• Fri, Apr 26 $32
• Sat, Apr 27 $32
• Sun, Apr 28 $32
• Mon, Apr 29 $32
• Tue, Apr 30 $32
• Wed, May 1 $32
• Thu, May 2 $32
• Fri, May 3 $32
• Sat, May 4 $32
• Sun, May 5 $32

Tour with Transportation

• Activity duration is 4 hours 4h 4h

Pickup time is between 8:00-8:30am. Please be outside your hotel waiting for 8:00am.

Swamp tour with transportation from and to New Orleans, Kenner, and Metairie hotels.

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Guided tour of Manchac Swamp

Know before you book

• Children 3 and younger are complimentary.
• Car seats are required for children 4 and younger, weighing less than 40 pounds (18 kg). You must provide your own car seat.
• Hotel pickup is available from most centrally located New Orleans, Kenner, and Metairie hotels. Please arrange pickup from your hotel or a nearby location when you call to confirm your reservation.
• Please be ready and waiting outside your hotel 15 minutes prior to your scheduled pick-up time.
• If you did not select the option with hotel pickup, check-in is 15 minutes prior to the booked tour start time at the meeting point in LaPlace, Louisiana.

What you can expect

Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Cajun people, while coming in contact with wildlife, on a Louisiana backcountry tour. Set off on a journey in the mystical Manchac Swamp, experiencing sights, sounds, and stories that can’t be seen or heard anywhere else in the world.

Begin your adventure in central New Orleans or one of its neighboring cities. Watch as urban life transitions into rural as you pass historic bridges, sugarcane fields, and overgrown cypress trees on your way to the swamp. When you reach your destination, hop aboard a boat manned by an expert guide. Drift down the otherworldly waterway as you learn more about the wetlands, the wildlife, and the bizarre history of a Cajun town called Frenier.

Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the real high point of the tour: swamp creatures in their native habitat. Look out for reptiles, raccoons, and snakes peeking out from the underbrush or behind moss-draped trees. If you’re lucky, you may get to see the true King of the Bayou, the American alligator. Thanks to the safety and security of your boat, you may even be able to come within feet of this deadly creature.

Your tour concludes at the dock, but your adventure doesn't need to end there. Luckily, New Orleans has plenty more mystery and whimsy for you to enjoy on ghost hunts, voodoo walks, and plantation tours.

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New Orleans Swamp Kayak Tours

Join Us On An Unforgettable Louisiana Swamp Adventure Today!

Our Most Popular 2hr Trips!

• Most Popular
•  ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
• Beginner Friendly!
• Hour Glass 2 – 3 hours

Manchac Magic Kayak Swamp Tours

The Manchac Magic kayak swamp tour is one of the best eco swamp tours in New Orleans. Beginner friendly and open to all ages, this tour explores the swamps near New Orleans by kayak with local guide!

• Private Tour!
• Flexible Timing
• Cruise Ship Private Motor Boat
• Hiking Easy
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Private Small Boat Manchac Swamp Tour

If you have been looking at going on a swamp tour, and the large crowded boats are not your thing, this is the trip for you! This is one of the most unique swamp tours in Louisiana. We use a mud boat called a “Go Devil” to get you into areas of the swamps even air boats cannot go.

• Sunrise/Sunset Tours
• Trips Daily!
• Hour Glass 2 - 4 hours

Louisiana Cypress Swamp Photography Tour

Perfect for the avid landscape photographer visiting New Orleans. This cypress swamp photography tour is offered daily just 30 minutes from downtown New Orleans.

Our Half-Day Excursions

• Extended Swamp Adventure!
• Bayou And Byways Excursion!
• Hiking Moderate
• Hour Glass 6 hours

Bayous And Byways Half Day Excursion

Bayous and Byways is Wild Louisiana Tour’s swamp and plantation country adventure. Discover the swamps and the historic plantation country in one trip! A kayak tour with stop at Oak Alley plantation all in one!

• Birding In The Marsh
• Private Tour
• Hour Glass 5 hours

New Orleans Birding Tour

Join an experienced birder and photographer for a half day guided trip to the Louisiana Marsh and swamp under an hour from downtown New Orleans.

• Kayaking For Redfish!
• Daily Trips!

Kayak Fishing in Louisiana

This New Orleans fishing tour provides the perfect opportunity to take in the best inshore kayak fishing in Louisiana. Chase hungry redfish in the marshes of Louisiana with a kayak fishing guide!

Multi-Day Adventures

• *8 People Total*
• Fall 2024 Limited Space Left!
• Cypress Swamps In-depth Experience!
• Hour Glass 7 days

Fall Cypress Swamps Photography Workshop

Wild Louisiana Tours is happy to offer a 7-day photo excursion into the old-growth cypress swamps of Louisiana. This cypress swamp photography tour explores scenic swamp and bayou ecosystems. Landscape swamp photography is the focus of this photo tour.

Why Choose Wild Louisiana Tours?

Wild Louisiana Tours is one of the very first kayak outfitters in the state of Louisiana. A small family-run company, we specialize in New Orleans swamp kayak tours as well as guest accommodation and tour quality and information. All of our guides have been trained extensively on the natural history of Louisiana. Having toured many outdoor outfitters across the nation, we have taken what we learned and created a company that provides visitors to New Orleans a high-end outdoor experience . We know that guests expect highly informative tours and and great customer service, and that is what we aim to provide!

Over 600 Five-Star Reviews on TripAdvisor!

I've done about five or six swamp tours since i've moved to LA but this was definitely the best, the guy leading was friendly and informative and I saw so much more wildlife than I ever saw on those loud motorboats.

What a great experience! The tour was so peaceful and majestic. We got to take part in something most Louisiana visitors never get to see. The guides were great guys who made the trip so easy and fun. They went beyond our expectation with helping with the gear and guiding the tour. I will definitely be back for round two!

Josh showed us a side of New Orleans we never expected. He was so knowledgable about the natural habitat and patient ( I am a beginner kayaker). We even saw an alligator!!! Highly recommended to round out the bustle of New Orleans with the surprising serenity that surrounds it.

Very knowledgeable and helpful guide. The trip was peaceful and the kayaking simple. The variety of birds was amazing.

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Louisiana Kayak swamp tours New Orleans kayak swamp tours eco friendly tours Louisiana photography tours new orleans swamp tours Louisiana tours.

Pickup Location Ace Hardware French Quarter 732 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116 https://goo.gl/maps/GVGKzpD688nmGHv2A

Drive Out Location Wild Louisiana Launch

Please contact us by phone or email for any inquiries about tours and scheduling. We hope to see you on the water soon!

New Orleans, LA

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A New Orleans Kayak Tour

Kayak & canoe swamp tours in historic manchac, louisiana, manchac swamp tour.

Let our local guides lead you through the bayou while you enjoy scoping out the native critters and scenery. You don’t want to miss this tour through the historic Manchac swamp!

• Tag Kayaks + Canoes
• Users All Ages
• Hour Glass 2-3 Hours
• Private Tour

Private Small Boat Swamp Tour

Journey through the swamp in a classic “go devil” style mudboat with your own private captain. 4 people maximum group size.

Swamp Photography Workshop

Photograph some of Louisiana’s most beautiful yet hard to reach places. Sunrise and sunset photo trips offered daily in the Manchac Swamp.

Our History

A New Orleans Kayak Tour was founded in 2013 to provide guests visiting New Orleans with an affordable way to get out into the scenic cypress swamps right outside of downtown New Orleans. Kayaking and eco-tourism have become increasingly popular, and A New Orleans Kayak Tour is happy to serve tourists visiting the city.

We pride ourselves on providing a safe and enjoyable experience for our guests. We use top-quality gear and make sure our guests are comfortable on their kayaking outing. Families, small children, couples, seniors, and everyone else is welcome and encouraged to join us. Manchac swamp is waiting! See you on the water.

Five-Star Tour Rating on TripAdvisor

My gf came up with a great birthday gift. Weather was perfect, tour guide was very knowledgeable, the scenery was beautiful. I can’t wait to do another tour. We kayaked about 2.5 miles in, taking in all of the scenery. I’ve lived in the area on and off my entire life but never got to do anything like this. It was so much fun. Very easy going kayaks, easy to maneuver. I would highly recommend this tour company!

This tour was the highlight of my New Orleans trip. Very intimate group, beautiful scenery, up close and personal with the swamp and its critters. The pick up location was convenient. I've never gone kayaking before, but it is very manageable for a newbie. The company was very responsive to my last-minute booking request. Tour guide was from the area and very knowledgeable regarding its natural history. Would highly recommend to anyone!

We were in a very small group and our guide, Max, was extremely knowledgeable about the bayou and its wildlife. We did get to see an alligator but felt safe at all times. It was a very relaxing excursion and probably the highlight of my trip to NO. When dropping us off, Max tried to get us as close to our airbnb as he could, which we appreciated. Would definitely recommend to anyone visiting the area.

LOVED the tour in the Manchac. I highly recommend. It’s beautiful, untouched, and surprisingly very close to New Orleans. Josh was great, taught us about the wildlife, trees, and geography. I’ll be back to Wild Louisiana Tours next time I’m in town.

We had a group of 3 with varied levels of comfort and skill- Max was friendly, knowledgeable, and kind. We had an amazing journey and learned a ton! Telling all my friends if they head your way- it’s a MUST.

My Wishlist

Manchac Magic Kayak Tour

• Additional Info
• Family Friendly

New Orleans Swamp Tour

Grab your paddles for this 2-to-3-hour kayak and canoe tour of the historic Manchac swamp. This area was once home to Ruddock, a destroyed logging ghost town.

The Manchac Magic kayak swamp tour is a great way to get out of the city and experience the scenic cypress swamps right outside of New Orleans. This paddle trip is a great beginner outing and all ages and skill levels are welcome to attend.

During your  Manchac swamp tour , we  provide  you  with kayaks, paddles, life vests, and  all the  necessary gear . Your guide gives you instructions on how to paddle and what they expect from you while on the water. As you paddle down the historic waterway, your guide gives you information on the history of the area and the wildlife that inhabit the swamp.  

Wildlife you can expect to see includes alligators, snakes, turtles, egrets, herons, eagles ,  and owls. We cannot guarantee wildlife  sightings,  but the swamp has abundant wildlife activity, and we see a variety of wildlife every day. The Manchac swamp has a rich history from the Native American inhabitants, logging communities, and into the current day.  Y our  Manchac  swamp tour   guide  discusses the historical significance of the area and points out evidence of the people who once lived in the area.  

Dress comfortably for an outdoor trip. The winters can be cool and the summer can be hot. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen if needed. Bugs and mosquitos aren’t a problem. Don’t forget to bring your camera to come home with great memories from the beautiful Manchac swamp!

Once you make your reservation, an email will be sent to you for confirmation, and further details for directions and arrangements will be provided. Please visit our contact page and send us an email if you have inquiries about large groups and specialized packages; we can put them together for you.

Please allow at least 2 hours between the end of our Manchac swamp tour  and your next scheduled engagement of the day.  The   kayak tou r ’s  beginning and ending times can fluctuate due to guests’  paddling experience and traffic to and from the city. Fridays and Saturdays are particularly bad traffic days. We do not want you to miss your next scheduled engagement!  

This adventure is operated by Wild Louisiana Tours

Where do I leave my vehicle when I drive myself? If you drive yourself to the tour location you can leave your car at our store at 118 Gary Road, Laplace, LA. You can also follow us to our launch location down the road if you prefer.

What should I wear/bring on the tour? We recommend that everyone wear clothes that they don’t mind getting a little wet. Pants and shirts that are quick-drying help to make your experience more enjoyable. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended to protect you from the sun. We have drinks, snacks, dry bags, and other items available for purchase at our store on 118 Gary Road, Laplace, LA where we will be meeting for the tour.

What about bugs? Generally, mosquitos, flies, and other biting bugs are not very bad while on the water. If you have your own bug spray or would like to buy some to bring with you that is perfectly fine.

How far away are your tours/where are directions? If you will be driving yourself to the tour we provide you with turn-by-turn directions to our meeting locations. Once you book your tours you will receive an email receipt where detailed directions to tour locations will be included. All of our tours are a 30 – 40 min drive from downtown New Orleans. Our store and meeting location is at 118 Gary Road, Laplace, LA.

Can I drink alcoholic beverages on the tour? For insurance purposes, we are not allowed to start a tour with someone who appears to be intoxicated.

What if it rains? Our tours still operate in the rain as long as our guests’ safety is not compromised by inclement weather e.g. weather considered hazardous to tour member’s safety. This includes lighting storms, unsafe water conditions, wildfires, etc. A little rain in the swamp can actually be quite refreshing after a long paddle.

What time will I be picked up? 9:00 AM is the pickup time for our 10:15 AM tour.

11:45 AM is the pickup time for our 1:00 PM tour.

Both times pick up at 732 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA

Is kayaking with alligators safe? The short answer is yes! Alligators are a much calmer version than their cousins the crocodile. Generally, alligators have a docile nature. Because they are cold-blooded they spend most of the day either cooling off in the water or sunbathing on the bank. Most of their feeding and activity is done at night. Many boat tours in New Orleans feed alligators to ensure guests will be able to see them every day. When alligators are not fed by humans they have a natural fear of humans, as we have hunted them for centuries. It is illegal to feed alligators in the nature preserve that we kayak in, so the alligators you see on our trips will not approach your kayak and have no interest in you at all. Many times we will take pictures of them from a safe distance and it adds to the wildlife experience of the tour!

Tours & Activities in Nola

• BUCKET LIST
• Cemetery Tour
• Cocktail Cruise
• Cooking Class
• Fishing Tours
• Food & Drink Tours
• Ghost Tours
• Kayaking Tours
• Nature Tours
• Photography Tours
• Photo Shoot
• Plantation Tours
• Walking Tours

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• Transportation Included

Extended Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour

Quick Details

• Bus Transportation: $25 Round Trip Shuttle
• Duration : ~4 hours on the water, 1/2 hour snacking, 5-6 hours total including transportation
• Tour Start Time : See Book now button or calendar
• Transportation Pickup Time: 1 hr and 15 minutes prior to tour time.
• Transportation Pickup Location: Rampart Treehouse/10 pizza – 740 N Rampart St New Orleans, LA 70116
• Paddle through shell bank bayou (same tour as our Maurepas tour) but then head out to the mouth of Lake Maurepas and return
• Bring your own lunch and a cold beverage to enjoy at midway point.
• Everyone gets their own kayak per request or tandem kayaks available.

If you are a more experienced kayaker, trying to get away from the regular crowds and varying levels of experience and skill that come with them, the 4 hour excursion trip is for you. This is a tour for the adventurer, an opportunity to go a little bit further and see a whole lot more. Spend 4 hours total on the water, guided by an experienced local naturalist, exploring the vast cypress forests and bayous that make up our nation’s 2nd largest bald cypress swamp. A great option for bachelor or bachelorette parties looking for a bigger experience.

Mid-way through the trip, we will stop for a scenic lunch overlooking Lake Maurepas.  The area surrounding the edge of Lake Maurepas if famous for its dense barred owl populations as well as other large birds of prey. This is an immersive swamp adventure, educational and rewarding, intended for the outdoorsy traveller looking for a non-touristy authentic swamp experience.

• Chevron down Cancellation/Refund Policy

Feel free to compare our cancellation policy to our competitors and anywhere else our tour is listed for sale.

When purchasing directly through our website, you are guaranteed the best cancellation policy!

New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours offers a 100% refund for tour cancellation due to inclement weather e.g. weather considered hazardous to tour members safety. This includes: lighting storms, unsafe water conditions, wildfires, etc. Tours still operate in rain as long as the safety of clients is not jeopardized.

100% refund is issued if cancellation is greater than 48 hours before tour time.

50% refund is issued if cancellation is less than 48 hours before tour time if rescheduling is not possible.

No refund is issued for no calls/no shows the morning of the tour

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• Most popular, open year round!
• Great for Beginners!
• Transpo avail
• Hour Glass 2-2.5 Hours

Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour

The Manchac Swamp tour is a secluded, calm, and pristine tour. If you are searching for a gorgeous, natural, and picturesque kayak swamp tour – this is your tour!

• Only 15mins from the French Quarter
• Daily Tours
• Hour Glass 3 Hours

Hooked on the Bayou: New Orleans Kayak Fishing Charter

Embark on the ultimate fishing adventure that New Orleans has to offer. Discover the exhilaration of our top-notch fishing excursions, where state of the art pedal drive kayak/SUPs  and new fishing gear await your arrival. Our team of expert guides is not only friendly but also adept at following the ever-changing patterns of fish in the marsh. Let us transform your fishing journey into an unforgettable experience that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

• Only Open During Summer
• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Honey Island Kayak Swamp Tours

The Honey Island Swamp Kayak Tour is a funky backwoods kayak tour experience. Broken down house boats, rope swings, and known for its bigfoot of the south, the Honey Island Swamp Monster. Enjoy a beginner/intermediate paddle through this famous swamp!

• Cajun Food Stop
• Transpo Included
• Hour Glass 8 Hours

New Orleans Whitney Plantation & Swamp Kayak Tour Combo

New Orleans Plantation Tour and Kayak Swamp Tour Combo is a rich cultural and ecological experience! Learn the history and importance of this unique ecosystem on an intermediate paddle through Manchac Swamp.

E-Bike Tours

Once you’ve walked around the French Quarter, see the rest of this beautiful city by electric bike! Cruise through bohemian neighborhoods, ride along the river for spectacular views of the city, explore Bayou Bienvenue’s new bike trail.

• Most Popular
• Transportation Avail

Manchac Swamp Tour

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours
• Bus Transportation: $25 Round Trip Shuttle
• Private residence and hotel pickup available for $40
• Transportation Pickup Time:  1 hr and 15 minutes prior to tour time.
• Transportation Pickup Location: Rampart Treehouse/10 pizza  – 740 N Rampart St New Orleans, LA 70116

Enjoy a peaceful paddle through Manchac Swamp

A secluded, calm, and pristine setting. If you are searching for a gorgeous, natural and picturesque kayak swamp tour – this is your tour!

• Dense cypress forest and expansive wetlands
• An array of wildlife surrounding you as you paddle
• Calm waters ideal for beginners and adventure seekers alike

Book your Manchac Swamp tour online today!

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• Hour Glass 1 hour 45 min

The Bayou Boogie | Pedal Bike Barge Cruise

New orleans pedal barge.

A group bike boat bar! Private or Shared Party | BYOB

• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Clean-Up Event

Give back to the environment at our monthly clean-up event. Hop in your kayak and help us pick up trash along the canals.

Extended Manchac Kayak Swamp Tour

Quick Details

• Clock Duration: 6 hours
• Bus Transportation: $25 Round Trip Shuttle
• Transportation Pickup Time:  1 hr and 15 minutes prior to tour time.
• Transportation Pickup Location: Rampart Treehouse/10 pizza  – 740 N Rampart St New Orleans, LA 70116

Paddle through Shell Bank Bayou

Embark on an extended kayaking adventure that begins with a paddle through Shell Bank Bayou, the same tour as our Maurepas excursion, but then takes you out to the mouth of Lake Maurepas before returning. This comprehensive journey offers a deeper exploration of the captivating Louisiana swamplands.

Duration: 4 hours on the water, with a total experience of 6 hours, including transportation.

Equipment Provided: Binoculars, dip net, optical critter viewer.

Departure: 8:00 AM pick-up from Rampart Treehouse, 740 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116.

If you’re an experienced kayaker seeking a more exclusive and immersive experience away from the usual tourist crowds and varying levels of expertise, our 4-hour excursion is tailored for you. This adventure is designed for true adventurers, offering the opportunity to venture further and witness the hidden gems of the swamp.

Spend a total of 4 hours on the water, guided by a knowledgeable local naturalist, as you explore the expansive cypress forests and bayous that comprise the second-largest bald cypress swamp in the nation.

On the return journey, your guide will provide each kayak with binoculars for bird watching, as the area surrounding the edge of Lake Maurepas is renowned for its abundant barred owl populations and other magnificent birds of prey. You’ll also receive small dip nets to capture and identify the unique aquatic creatures that inhabit this remarkable environment. This is an immersive swamp adventure that is both educational and rewarding, tailored for outdoor enthusiasts in search of an authentic, non-touristy swamp experience.

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Honey Island Kayak Swamp Tour

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New Orleans Kayak Manchac Swamp Tour

Explore the magical Maurepas and Manchac swamps on an unforgettable guided kayak tour. This tour offers the best wildlife viewing in the area.

• Only 7 miles from the French Quarter
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Experience New Orleans’ bayou magic with expert guides, reel in catches, and immerse yourself in the local culture amidst serene beauty

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Swamp and Plantation Tour New Orleans

This full-day experience includes a swamp kayak tour, delicious Cajun food, and a Whitney Plantation tour.

Bayou Bienvenue Kayak Rental

A relaxing kayak rental allows you to explore Bayou Bienvenue.

• Tandem and Single Kayaks
• Life Jackets provided
• Paddles provided
• Backrests provided
• Hourly rental blocks
• Plant a cypress tree on your experience.
• Rent a Fishing pole
• Rent a crab pot

Protect Your Trip »

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

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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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Whitney Plantation and Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour Combo

• Paddle Lesson
• Gratuity is not included in kayak tour price. Your guide works hard to ensure your safety and well-being, please let them know if you had a good time.
• 740 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA Please be waiting outside the Rampart Tree House 740 N RAMPART STREET 1 hour and 15 minutes before scheduled tour time
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Whitney Plantation

Similar experiences

• garibayxi 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Swamp Experience This trip is amazing. My friend and I wanted to experience New Orleans on the less touristy side and this tour allowed us to do that. The pick up location was fairly close to our hotel in the french quarter and our tour guide Alex was amazing. We paddled through the swamps and saw gators, owls and cotton mouth snakes. We freaked out a bit because the gators come straight to the boat, but once we got comfortable, it was great. Definitely recommend if you want to see the swamps etc. Would 10/10 do again. just remember to bring sunscreen and bottles of water, since lunch is not provided. Read more Written April 20, 2024
• debrasR5518CN 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Kali our tour guide is amazing Kali! You are amazing and very knowledgeable! Us gals had a wonderful time. Sun came out, wind died down and we saw an amazing array of wild life. Read more Written April 12, 2024
• tavpercy 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Extended manchac kayak tour Great trip super well organized, knowledgeable guide super friendly and adaptable. The extended tour allowed us to get deep into the Bayou and see alligators barn owls herons kytes and more. Read more Written April 6, 2024
• theadoras2014 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Do the extended tour, totally worth it! The extended Manchak tour was totally worth the extra time and cost -- we got to paddle our way into some fascinating areas and see an incredible perspective of the area. Highly recommend this company and the extended tour! Read more Written April 5, 2024
• EP794 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing experience, great guides A must do if you are the active type and want to see the swamps and bayous around Nola without scaring away the wildlife in an airboat. Well organized company, easy to find pickup spot, and the guides (Nick and MJ) were both welcoming and very knowledgeable and truly care about the delicate environment. This isn't a company that just wants your money, they want a good experience and it shows. The paddling wasn't difficult but a little kayak experience on a lake is probably needed. Highlight of my trip for sure. Read more Written April 3, 2024
• cyoung2790 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An amazing experience Communication was great. Always felt safe. Our guide, Nick, was super knowledgeable and clearly has a passion for the swamp as he would stop the tour to talk about a rare bird sighting. Saw several alligators and overall the scenery and weather was perfect. I definitely recommend the tour and if your guide is Nick, you’ll be in good hands. Btw, they recommend taking a towel or change of clothes in the confirmation email. I ignored it and it was fine but you do get wet. I wasn’t soaked or anything but some people were more wet than others so just keep that in mind! Read more Written March 31, 2024
• Renee A 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Blissful getaway on the water Our tour with Nick was excellent. He was professional, knowledgeable, and passionate about paddling. We thoroughly enjoyed the peaceful paddle. Highly recommend! Read more Written March 30, 2024
• cortneyv333 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent wildlife watching AJ was a great tour guide. We met him on the side of a highway. The kayaks were all ready to go and we were on the water in no time. He pointed out local wildlife (a barred owl, swallow tailed kite, and lots of alligators) and was respectful to maintain distance so as not to disturb the animals. The tour was a little over 2 hours with just 1 strenuous segment of paddling through extremely thick duckweed and hyacinth. Read more Written March 25, 2024
• sanjose692 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Respect the swamp and its inhabitants A tour that was about appreciating and respecting the natural environment. Being in a kayak was a great way to experience the swamp as it allowed us to go into small areas and was very peaceful. Our guide was knowledgable and helpful. Read more Written March 25, 2024
• 779rakeshb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Would recommend! Allie was really passionate, knowledgeable and gave us really good info about the swamp and the wildlife around. We got to see alligators and owl as well! It was a serene experience away from the hustle! Read more Written March 24, 2024
• M8530ILjessican 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Easy and Fun Kayaking Trip This kayak trip was great. Kaylee was our tour guide and she was great. She knew a lot about the bayou and natural environment. The trip was easy and relaxing. We took in some great sights of the bayou/swamp as well some wildlife. We saw one very large gator on the trip which scared me but we didn’t get close and he didn’t bother us at all. The other gators were adorable and we saw a bunch of turtles. Very cool kayaking trip! Read more Written March 15, 2024
• sandramY1211BI 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Swamp Kayak Brilliant experience, had a great afternoon, weather was good, had sightings of alligators and other wold life. Fabulous scenery and a good amount of time out on the water. AJ thank you for your knowledge and a great time. Read more Written March 15, 2024
• Wander19427957195 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Don't think just do it! Outstanding experience! I was very pleased with the length of this outing. AJ was the perfect guy to guide our group! He was very knowledgeable about the whole area and very patience in answering everyone's questions throughly. He took extra time pointing critters out to all of us, explaining their needs, habitat and what is now impacting the swamps. I would 1000x recommend booking this excursion and ask for AJ for an unforgettable experience! I don't have a single negative thing to say about the day!! Read more Written March 13, 2024
• Kelly M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A must do! MJ was our guide. We absolutely loved the beauty of the tour and all of the info MJ gave us about the ecology of the swamp. The was she explained everything could even hold the attention of my 13 year old daughter! I would recommend this to anyone. Read more Written March 12, 2024
• LeahK123 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles no need to be scared Our guide was very knowledgeable and even told us a ghost story based on true events. We saw alligators and other wildlife. I was a bit nervous about being a kayak in a swamp with alligators but none of them got too close and it was a special experience to see them in their habitat. Read more Written March 11, 2024

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Whitney Plantation and Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour Combo provided by Kayak Swamp Tours

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