From Lafitte: Swamp Tours South of New Orleans by Airboat

Discover the Unique Airboat Swamp Tours South of New Orleans

The From Lafitte: Swamp Tours South of New Orleans by Airboat offers an engaging way to explore Louisiana’s iconic wetlands. Priced at $59 per person, this 105-minute to 4-hour adventure takes place just 30 minutes from downtown New Orleans in Lafitte, Louisiana. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 723 reviews, this tour emphasizes wildlife viewing, scenic waterways, and the chance to see alligators, turtles, and native birds in their natural environment.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of informative guides, up-close animal encounters, and the option for a small group experience. Visitors should note that airboats are high-speed, open vessels, and the tour is best suited for those prepared for an active, outdoor adventure. It’s an excellent choice for those interested in wildlife, nature photography, or simply wanting to enjoy the Louisiana bayou landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price of $59 per person for an engaging swamp adventure
• Duration varies from 105 minutes up to 4 hours
• Located just 30 minutes from New Orleans in Lafitte, Louisiana
• Wildlife sightings include alligators, turtles, and native birds
• Guides are local, knowledgeable, and US Coast Guard certified
• Optional hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience

Convenient Location in Lafitte for Bayou Exploration

This tour departs from Airboat Adventures at 5145 Fleming Park Rd, Lafitte, LA 70067. The location is approximately 40 minutes from New Orleans, making it a manageable trip for visitors staying in the city. Since cab or Uber services do not pick up in this area, travelers are encouraged to consider the optional hotel pickup available through the tour.

The check-in process is simple: arrive at least 15 minutes early at the gift shop, where you’ll receive your wristband and get ready for the adventure. The site also features a gift shop and picnic tables, providing a relaxed environment before departure.

What to Expect on the Airboat Tour

Climb aboard an airboat that holds between 6 and 30 people, with options to select a small boat for up to 10 passengers. The smaller boats enable a more personalized experience, allowing the captain to spend more time with each guest. The tour includes informative commentary as the captain navigates through the secluded waterways and tiny canals deep within the swamp.

Expect wildlife sightings such as alligators, turtles, and various native birds. The guide may haul in a gator if the opportunity arises, or even let you hold a baby gator. The entire ride is designed to highlight the scenic beauty and wild inhabitants of Louisiana’s wetlands.

Wildlife Encounters and Unique Animal Highlights

One of the most popular features of this tour is the chance to see Sugar and Flour, the only albino alligators on the bayou. These rare creatures are a major draw and are displayed at the gift shop.

Throughout the tour, expect regular sightings of alligators, along with turtles and various bird species. The guides are adept at pointing out wildlife and sharing interesting facts, making the experience both fun and educational. Some guides are known for feeding the alligators, which adds an extra element of excitement, while others focus on safe viewing from the boat.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience on Small vs. Large Boats

The tour offers two boat options: a small boat with a capacity of up to 10 passengers for a more intimate experience, and a larger boat accommodating up to 30 guests. The small boat is ideal for those wanting more interaction with the captain and more up-close wildlife viewing.

Even on the larger vessels, the wildlife is close enough for great photos, and the guides make sure everyone gets a good look at the animals. The speed of the boats is fast enough to thrill, but the engine can be turned off to listen to the natural sounds of the swamp, a feature praised for enhancing the authentic experience.

Expert Guides with Extensive Local Knowledge

Guides are local experts with US Coast Guard certification, ensuring safety and professionalism. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Ronnie, Tictoc, Jay, and Captain Larry, who are praised for their knowledge, entertaining storytelling, and respect for wildlife.

Tour guides often share stories about the land, animals, and local history, creating a personal connection with guests. Some guides are so engaging that they respond to visitors’ questions about the environment or wildlife, and are willing to haul in alligators or point out specific species.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

Travelers are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes suitable for outdoor conditions. Since the airboats are open, protective gear like sunglasses and sunscreen is recommended.

Tour cancellations may occur if dangerous weather arises, so check the weather forecast before booking. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, children under 5, or individuals with neck/back problems due to the high-speed nature of the airboats.

For added convenience, choosing the hotel pickup option simplifies logistics, especially since Ubers or cabs might be difficult to arrange in the secluded area.

High Praise from Satisfied Visitors

With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 723 reviews, this tour consistently garners praise for friendly, knowledgeable guides, spectacular wildlife sightings, and scenic boat rides. Visitors mention seeing numerous alligators, turtles, and birds, and highlight guides like T Earl, Dylan, and Mike for their entertainment and expertise.

Many reviews emphasize the value for money, with some noting that the small boat experience feels more personalized. The opportunity to see albino alligators and observe wildlife in natural habitats is frequently cited as a key benefit.

The Overall Value of the Lafitte Airboat Tour

This swamp tour provides an affordable, engaging, and interactive way to explore Louisiana’s famous wetlands. The 108-minute base tour, with options to extend up to 4 hours, suits visitors looking for a full or shorter adventure.

The expert guides, accessible location, and the chance for wildlife encounters make this tour a popular choice. While the open airboats might not be suitable for everyone, those prepared for outdoor adventure will find this a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the tour cost?
The airboat swamp tour costs $59 per person.

How long does the tour last?
Tour durations range from 105 minutes up to 4 hours, depending on the option selected.

Is hotel pickup included?
Hotel pickup and drop-off are available as an option, making the trip easier to coordinate.

Are there age restrictions?
Children under 5 and pregnant women are not allowed on the airboats. The tour is best suited for guests who can handle the high-speed, open boat experience.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see alligators, turtles, and native birds. You may also encounter albino alligators Sugar and Flour and other wildlife depending on the day.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes suitable for outdoor activities. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses.

This Lafitte swamp tour combines wildlife viewing, scenic waterways, and expert guides for an authentic Louisiana bayou experience worth considering for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby