Viator Rating : 5 (3291 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.9/10 (Solid Experience)
New Orleans
Swamp & Plantation Tour from New Orleans
465
Overview
Experience the best of Louisiana with the "Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans"! This tour combines a thrilling swamp adventure with a visit to a historic plantation. It's a great way to see Louisiana's natural beauty and learn about its past.
What to Expect: Start your day with a ride on a swamp boat through a private Louisiana swamp. Keep an eye out for alligators, egrets, raccoons, and snakes! You'll also visit either Oak Alley Plantation, famous for its stunning avenue of oak trees, or Destrehan Plantation, known for its well-preserved architecture and history. Both plantations offer a glimpse into the lives of those who lived and worked there. You'll pass by Lake Pontchartrain and the Bonnet Carré Spillway. Keep an eye out for wildlife in Honey Island Swamp.
This tour includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and a local guide to share interesting facts and stories. Please note that hotel pick-up and drop-off, food and drinks, and gratuities are not included. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Mobility (7 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (7 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Highlights
See Real Alligators!: Get up close to alligators and other amazing wildlife on a thrilling swamp boat ride.
Explore a Historic Plantation: Step back in time as you tour either Oak Alley or Destrehan Plantation.
Comfortable Transportation: Enjoy a relaxing ride in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Learn from a Local Guide: Hear interesting stories and facts about Louisiana's history and wildlife from a knowledgeable guide.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers say the swamp boat ride is a highlight, with many alligators and wildlife sightings.
-
Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable and entertaining tour guides.
-
Many found Oak Alley Plantation beautiful and historically interesting.
-
The transportation is comfortable and convenient.
Some visitors felt that the tour felt rushed.
-
A few customers wished they had more time at the plantation.
The Journey
Oak Alley Plantation
Step back in time at Oak Alley Plantation, a meticulously preserved antebellum estate famed for its stunning alley of 300-year-old oak trees. Experience a docent-led tour of the opulent mansion, delve into the lives of the families who lived and worked here, and explore the grounds, imagining the plantation's rich and complex history. Don't miss the chance to sip on a refreshing Mint Julep while soaking in the timeless ambiance of this iconic Southern landmark.
Lake Pontchartrain
Discover the vast expanse of Lake Pontchartrain, a brackish estuary teeming with life and history. More lagoon than lake, this expansive body of water connects to the Gulf of Mexico and serves as a vital ecosystem for a diverse range of species. Experience the grandeur of the lake, understand its importance to the region, and appreciate its natural beauty.
Bonnet Carré Spillway
Witness the impressive engineering feat of the Bonnet Carré Spillway, a critical flood control structure designed to protect New Orleans from the mighty Mississippi River. When the river swells, the spillway diverts excess water into Lake Pontchartrain, safeguarding the city from potential disaster. Gain a deeper understanding of the region's ongoing battle against the forces of nature and the ingenuity employed to manage these powerful waterways.
Honey Island Swamp
Embark on a captivating journey into the depths of Honey Island Swamp, a pristine wilderness teeming with wildlife and shrouded in mystery. Glide through the tranquil waterways with local Cajun captains, who share their personal tales and expertise on the swamp's unique ecosystem. Marvel at the moss-draped cypress trees, spot alligators basking in the sun, and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of this enchanting natural wonderland. Enjoy refreshments at the open-air pavilion, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a guided tour of either Oak Alley Plantation or Destrehan Plantation, a swamp boat tour, round trip transportation, and an air-conditioned vehicle. A local guide will narrate the tour. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. Food and drinks are available for purchase. Gratuities are not included.
Hot Tip
Reviewers suggest bringing sunscreen, bug spray, and cash for drinks and souvenirs. Consider wearing comfortable shoes for walking around the plantation. If you are taking the Oak Alley tour make sure you are taking the earlier departures (9am & 11am) because the later departure times tour the Destrehan Plantation.
Review Summary
Customers finds this tour a great combination of swamp wildlife viewing and authentic plantation history, praising the knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics. Many highlight the memorable swamp boat ride and the beautiful Oak Alley grounds, though some note that the tour is long and involves a lot of walking, which may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
New Orleans
$535
Discover New Orleans: An Unforgettable Private Tour Experience
5.0
(88 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
La Vie NOLA! offers an intimate exploration of New Orleans with a multi-generational local guide. Tailored to your interests, uncover hidden gems from the French Quarter to historic districts, even if you're a repeat visitor. Enjoy customized routes and untold stories for a truly memorable adventure, complete with local treats.
New Orleans
$55
NOLA's Soul: Black History & Culture City Tour
4.9
(390 reviews)
Duration: 165
minutes
Soul of New Orleans City Tour: Enslavement to Modern Day Culture takes you on a journey through the heart of New Orleans, revealing the untold stories of its Black history. From the city's Indigenous roots as Bulbancha to the echoes of the Haitian Revolution, and from the bustling Mississippi River slave markets to the vibrant rhythms of Congo Square, discover how Black resilience shaped the music, food, spirit, and soul of the city.
This tour explores historic sites such as Treme, where you'll witness the cultural renaissance, the iconic Jackson Square, and the resilient Lower 9th Ward. Learn about young heroes like Ruby Bridges and Leona Tate, who bravely carried the torch of Civil Rights, and understand how Hurricane Katrina exposed the deep-rooted injustices that persist today.
This experience includes all fees, taxes, and an air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable travel. What's not included is personal expenses. The tour honors the culture, courage, and survival often overlooked in mainstream history, offering a powerful connection between the past and the present.
New Orleans
$137.19
Unveiling New Orleans' History: Plantation & Swamp Adventure
5.0
(77 reviews)
Embark on a 'Full Day Plantation -N- Swamp Tour' in New Orleans, indulging in a comfortable ride with leather seats and on-van entertainment. Explore the rich history of plantations and the mysterious beauty of the swamps. This tour offers a deep dive into Louisiana's cultural heritage.
New Orleans
$86.7
Unveiling History: A Moving Journey Through Whitney Plantation
5.0
(69 reviews)
Whitney Plantation Half Day Tour offers a poignant exploration of slavery's realities. Enjoy a comfortable ride with insightful commentary. This tour uniquely focuses on the enslaved people's lives, providing a deeply impactful historical perspective. Prepare for a powerful and educational experience.
New Orleans
$50
NOLA Sightseeing Tour: Explore City's Best Neighborhoods
4.8
(3001 reviews)
New Orleans Sightseeing City Tour takes people on a fun bus ride around New Orleans. It shows off cool places outside the French Quarter, like the pretty Garden District, Treme, and the lively Marigny. Folks get to hear all about the city's past and see why New Orleans is such a special place.
On this tour, people will see famous spots such as Jackson Square and the big St. Louis Cathedral. The tour goes through the Marigny, where jazz music was born, and the spot where Hurricane Katrina hit the Upper 9th Ward hard. Plus, those on the 4 PM tour get to walk around a private cemetery. They'll also drive by the beautiful Garden District, with its fancy houses, and Magazine Street, which has lots of shops and places to eat.
The tour comes with a guide who knows a lot about the city and a comfy, air-conditioned bus. Depending on the tour chosen, guests might get lunch, yummy beignets, and coffee. What's not included is tips for the guide.
New Orleans
$60
New Orleans Swamp Tour: Boat Ride & Easy Transport
4.8
(997 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
The New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with Transportation lets visitors discover the Louisiana Swamps and the unique Cajun culture thriving within it.
See how the Cajuns live in harmony with the swamp's waterways, their highways for daily life. This relaxing boat tour drifts past a 2,000-year-old Indian burial mound, a traditional Cajun cemetery, and a working fishing village. The boat comfortably seats a small group.
Passengers can admire the diverse wildlife that makes the Barataria Swamps a treasure. Keep an eye out for birds, snakes, turtles, and fur animals, especially alligators, the kings of the swamp, easily spotted during the warmer months.
Nearby Events
Saenger Theatre-New Orleans
Apr 24
8:00 PMCharley Crockett w/ Lee Fields at Saenger Theatre
Charley Crockett w/ Lee Fields lights up the Saenger Theatre-New Orleans with his signature Gulf & Western sound. The GRAMMY-nominated Texas maverick, fresh off his Island Records debut Lonesome Drifter and the upcoming Dollar A Day from The Sagebrush Trilogy, delivers raw, rebellious country that has sold out Red Rocks and the Ryman Auditorium.
Charley Crockett rose from busking on Louisiana sidewalks to global acclaim, praised by Rolling Stone and The New York Times for his unapologetic honesty and hundreds of millions of streams. Special guest Lee Fields adds soulful depth to the night. The historic Saenger Theatre-New Orleans, with its stunning architecture, elevates the intimate energy of this live music showcase.[6]
Baton Rouge River Center Theater
May 29
7:00 PMDesi Banks Live: Baton Rouge Comedy Show
Desi Banks: Your Favorite Cousin brings the Atlanta comedian's high-energy stand-up to Baton Rouge River Center Theater. Known for relatable sketches and characters like Uncle Earl and Lil Johnny, Banks delivers observational humor drawn from Southern life that has sold out tours and amassed millions of fans across social media[1][2][3].
Desi Banks, a triple-threat actor, comedian, and entrepreneur, rose from Vine stardom to headline arenas, founding Desi Banks Productions for original content and starring in films like Little with Issa Rae[1][2][5]. Baton Rouge River Center Theater offers an intimate setting for his dynamic live performances[1].
Orpheum Theater
Apr 20
7:30 PMDavid Sedaris Live at Orpheum Theater NOLA
An Evening With David Sedaris brings the acclaimed humorist to the Orpheum Theater in New Orleans for an unforgettable night of wit and storytelling. Known for his sharp observations on everyday absurdities, Sedaris delivers hilarious personal anecdotes drawn from his bestselling books like Me Talk Pretty One Day and his recent works, captivating audiences with his unique blend of satire and self-deprecation.
David Sedaris stands as one of America's most beloved essayists and comedians, with a career spanning decades of sold-out tours and Grammy-nominated audiobooks that showcase his masterful timing and insight. The historic Orpheum Theater, a Beaux Arts gem renovated to perfection, offers exceptional acoustics in its vertical hall design, ensuring every laugh resonates perfectly.
Jefferson Perf Arts Center
Nov 06
8:00 PMJim Henson's Labyrinth: In Concert 40th Anniversary
Jim Henson's Labyrinth: In Concert 40th Anniversary brings the beloved 1986 fantasy classic to life at Jefferson Perf Arts Center in Metairie, Louisiana. This special 40th anniversary tour features the complete film displayed on a massive HD cinema screen, accompanied by a live band performing David Bowie's original vocals and the iconic soundtrack composed by Bowie and Trevor Jones in perfect sync with on-screen action. Audiences will be transported to the Goblin City as they experience unforgettable songs like "Magic Dance," "Underground," and "As the World Falls Down" performed live with rock band, synth, percussion, and fantastic lighting effects.
Jim Henson's Labyrinth remains a cultural touchstone, celebrating the visionary artistry of puppetry pioneer Jim Henson and the legendary music of David Bowie. This 60-city North American tour marks a triumphant return of the concert experience, which previously visited nearly 100 cities successfully. Jefferson Perf Arts Center, located in Metairie, serves as one of the premier performance venues in the region, providing an exceptional setting for this magical musical experience.
Smoothie King Center
Mar 20
8:00 PMBook We Them One's Comedy Tour Tickets at Smoothie King Center
We Them One's Comedy Tour arrives at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans for an evening of sharp wit and unforgettable laughs. This comedy event showcases a dynamic lineup of rising and established comedians, delivering insightful and engaging performances that captivate audiences. Known for their unique style and humor, the troupe brings a fresh energy to the city’s vibrant arts scene.
We Them One has quickly become a notable name in comedy, blending storytelling and observational humor that resonates widely. The Smoothie King Center, a premier venue in New Orleans with a seating capacity up to 17,800 for concerts, offers an intimate yet grand setting. Located near the iconic French Quarter, the arena is celebrated for hosting top-tier entertainment from concerts to sports, making it an ideal spot for a night filled with laughter.
LSU Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Mar 20
5:00 PMNCAA Women's Basketball: LSU vs Jacksonville, Texas Tech vs Villanova
The NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament First Round comes to Baton Rouge as LSU Women's Basketball takes on Jacksonville while Texas Tech Red Raiders face Villanova in a thrilling matchup at LSU Pete Maravich Assembly Center. This premier college basketball event showcases four competitive teams vying for advancement in the 68-team single-elimination tournament that determines the NCAA Division I national champion. The tournament features some of the nation's most talented collegiate athletes competing at the highest level of women's basketball.
LSU Women's Basketball represents the home team advantage at the iconic Pete Maravich Assembly Center, one of college basketball's most storied venues. These first-round games are critical stepping stones toward the Final Four, with winners advancing to the Round of 16 and continuing their championship pursuit through March Madness.
Your Guide to the Best & Fun Things to do in New Orleans
Explore the best and most fun things to do in New Orleans with Dyvarcity! We cover everything from must-see events and cooking classes to fantastic comedy shows and unique kayak & airboat swamp tours, as well as zipline and ghost tour adventures.
View New Orleans Activities