Nola Voodoo Walking Tour with High Priestess Guide in New Orleans

Exploring the spiritual roots of New Orleans becomes truly authentic with the Nola Voodoo Walking Tour with a High Priestess guide. Priced at $40 per person and lasting approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, this tour offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from practitioners who carry lineage to Louisiana and the Gullah-Geechee traditions. Led by High Priestess Malika and Eshé/Mary J., the tour provides a genuine perspective on Voodoo, steering clear of common misconceptions and stereotypes.

This experience is ideal for those interested in African Traditional Religions, history enthusiasts, or visitors seeking an educational yet engaging walk through some of New Orleans’ most significant cultural sites. The tour is accessible, with most stops involving minimal walking, and suits travelers who appreciate authentic storytelling from knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Authentic leadership by a High Priestess with lineage dating back to the 1700s in Louisiana
• Visits to Congo Square, Louis Armstrong Park, and the Marie Laveau site
• Insight into ancestor veneration through the Egun tree and offerings
• Educational focus on dispelling myths and uncovering facts about Voodoo culture
• Clear, respectful explanations provided by a knowledgeable practitioner
• Small group size with a maximum of 28 travelers ensures personalized attention

The Only Voodoo Tour Led by a True High Priestess in New Orleans

This walking tour is distinguished by its leadership from a genuine High Priestess of Louisiana Plantation Vodou. Unlike many other Voodoo experiences in New Orleans, this one emphasizes authentic practice, lineage, and respectful storytelling. The guides, Eshé/Mary J. and Malika/Osheyo Amanzi, bring real knowledge rooted in West African traditions and Gullah-Geechee heritage.

Their backgrounds ensure that participants receive a deep, accurate understanding of Voodoo’s spiritual significance, history, and cultural context—far from Hollywood stereotypes or sensationalism. With over 170 positive reviews, the tour maintains a perfect 5-star rating, reflecting the quality of storytelling and the depth of knowledge offered.

Starting Point and Easy Access in the French Quarter

The tour begins at Saint Ann Street & North Rampart Street in the French Quarter, a central location accessible via public transportation. Most stops involve minimal walking, making this tour suitable for a variety of physical abilities. The 1 hour and 45-minute schedule allows for a comprehensive yet manageable exploration of key sites.

Guides are praised for their engaging, charismatic style and ability to answer questions thoroughly, creating an open space for learning. Since the tour ends back at the starting point, it fits well into a day of sightseeing in New Orleans.

Visiting Congo Square: The Birthplace of Voodoo Worship

Congo Square is the first stop, where the history of Vodou begins. This site, historically used by enslaved Africans for worship, remains a powerful symbol of spiritual resistance. The tour explains the origins of Vodou here, clarifies Hollywood misconceptions, and shares stories that go beyond stereotypes.

Participants learn about the rituals, music, and community practices that have persisted for centuries. This stop provides context on how African traditions transformed and persisted within the New Orleans culture, making it a pivotal moment of the tour.

Louis Armstrong Park and the Egun Tree: Honoring Ancestors

At Louis Armstrong Park, the Egun tree serves as a focal point for understanding ancestor veneration in Vodou. Guides discuss offerings left at the tree, their meanings, and their connection to deities and spirits. This site highlights how respect for ancestors underpins Voodoo practices.

Most offerings, depending on the deity or spirit, are left to seek guidance, protection, or healing. The guide’s explanations shed light on the spiritual importance of these customs, offering a respectful, educational view of the tradition.

The Historic Site of Marie Laveau’s Residence and Worship Space

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the site where Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen, lived, healed, and worshipped. This location is steeped in folklore and history, yet the guide provides factual insights about her life and influence.

Participants learn about the truths and myths surrounding Marie Laveau, clarifying common misconceptions. The tour emphasizes her role as a spiritual healer and community leader, allowing visitors to appreciate her legacy within the city’s cultural fabric.

The Role of Offerings and Deities in Voodoo Practice

Throughout the tour, the guides detail what offerings are typically left for specific deities and spirits. They explain why certain items are chosen, such as candles, herbs, or personal tokens, depending on the intention—whether for protection, love, or healing.

This practical insight helps demystify the rituals, showing how spiritual requests are expressed through respectful offerings tied to ancestral and deities’ worship. The approach remains respectful and factual, avoiding romanticized or superficial portrayals.

Practical Details: Group Size, Meeting Point, and Timing

This tour operates with a maximum of 28 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of opportunity for questions. The meeting point at Saint Ann Street & North Rampart Street provides easy access within the French Quarter, a vibrant hub for visitors.

Starting promptly at 10:00 am, the tour offers a convenient morning option. It includes most stops in Louis Armstrong Park and the French Quarter, with light walking involved, which makes it accessible for many participants. The mobile ticket system ensures straightforward check-in.

The Authenticity and Respectfulness of the Voodoo Experience

Guided by practitioners with genuine practice and lineage, this tour emphasizes accuracy and respect. The educational focus counters stereotypes by highlighting the spiritual significance of Voodoo, rooted in African traditions.

The guides’ engaging storytelling, combined with their personal experiences, creates a trustworthy and meaningful introduction to the religion. Visitors leave with a better understanding of Voodoo as a spiritual practice rather than a myth or entertainment spectacle.

Who Will Most Benefit from This Tour?

This experience suits those seeking an authentic, educational exploration of Voodoo and African Traditional Religions. It is ideal for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in spiritual practices rooted in lineage and tradition.

Since the tour is led by a High Priestess and involves respectful storytelling, it resonates with visitors wanting a trustworthy, deep insight. The small group size ensures a personal, engaging experience, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for something meaningful.

The Sum Up: An Unmatched Opportunity for Genuine Voodoo Understanding

The Nola Voodoo Walking Tour offers an authentic glimpse into New Orleans’ voodoo culture, led by guides with direct spiritual lineage. It combines historical sites, cultural explanations, and spiritual insights, providing a balanced, respectful perspective.

While it emphasizes correcting misconceptions and highlights the significance of ancestors and deities, the tour is accessible and engaging. It’s particularly recommended for those eager to learn the true story behind Voodoo in New Orleans, away from sensationalized portrayals.

For $40, this tour delivers a personalized, educational experience that deepens understanding of African roots, local history, and spiritual traditions. It’s a compelling choice for anyone wanting a genuine, respectful introduction to one of the city’s most intriguing cultural elements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all physical abilities?
Yes, the tour involves mostly light walking and is accessible for most travelers.

What should I bring to the tour?
Bringing your own drinks is recommended, especially for the park stops, as there are no restroom facilities along the route. Dressing in layers is advised depending on the weather.

Does this tour include any shopping or additional activities?
No, the focus is on visiting sites and learning about Voodoo culture from a High Priestess. It does not include shopping or extra experiences.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, there is a full refund with free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

How many people typically join the tour?
The maximum group size is 28 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Is the guide also a practicing Voodoo priestess?
Yes, the guides, Malika and Eshé, are practitioners with lineage to Louisiana and Gullah-Geechee traditions, providing authentic insights.