Cajun Encounters Swamp Tour
Rating
Family of 4
$100-$140 (adults $32, children 3-12 $20, under 3 free).
Duration
2 hours (plus 45 min drive each way)
Best Ages
Best for ages 3+
About
A swamp tour is the quintessential Louisiana outdoor experience, and Cajun Encounters' Honey Island Swamp tour is among the highest-rated near New Orleans. The 2-hour flat-bottom boat tour navigates one of the most pristine swamp ecosystems in the US, about 45 minutes east of the French Quarter.
The Honey Island Swamp is a 250-square-mile wetland supporting one of the most diverse ecosystems in North America. Bald cypress trees rise from dark, tannin-stained water, their branches draped in Spanish moss. The atmosphere is primeval, quiet, and beautiful.
Alligator sightings are near-guaranteed during warm months. Captains position the boat for close encounters. American alligators range from 2-foot juveniles to 10-foot adults. Wild boar, raccoons, owls, herons, egrets, and turtles add to the wildlife count.
The Cajun captains share knowledge of swamp ecology, Cajun cultural history, and local legends. The cultural narration transforms the tour from sightseeing into an authentic Louisiana experience.
Logistical considerations: the departure point is in Slidell, about 45 minutes east of the French Quarter. Hotel pickup ($15-20/person extra) is available. Tours run rain or shine. Bug spray is essential in warm months.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
No
Nursing / Changing
Not Available
Kid Meals
Not Available
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
March through November for warm weather and active alligators. Spring (March-May) is ideal -- baby alligators, nesting birds, comfortable temperatures. Morning tours see the most wildlife.
Wait Times
Tours depart at scheduled times. Book in advance -- popular tours sell out. Hotel pickup available from French Quarter.
Nearby Food
Nothing at the departure point. On the way back: R&O's Pizza Place (Italian/Creole, Bucktown, 25 min), Deanie's Seafood (Bucktown, 25 min).
Why Kids Love It
Louisiana swamps are ancient, atmospheric, and teeming with wildlife. The 2-hour flat-bottom boat tour glides through the Honey Island Swamp under a canopy of bald cypress trees draped in Spanish moss. The atmosphere feels prehistoric.
Alligators are the star attraction. Captains know where they congregate and position the boat for close viewing. During warm months, alligators are active and visible -- sunning on logs, swimming alongside the boat, and in spring, accompanied by baby gators riding on their mothers' backs.
The Cajun captains' storytelling is part of the experience. They share swamp ecology, Cajun culture, local legends (including the Honey Island Swamp Monster), and their own family histories of living on the bayou.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Morning tours see the most active wildlife
- Spring (March-May) is peak season -- baby alligators and nesting birds
- Bring binoculars for distant wildlife
- Apply bug spray before boarding -- mosquitoes can be aggressive
- Drive yourself to save money on hotel pickup
What to Bring
- bug spray (essential)
- sunscreen
- hat
- water bottles
- binoculars
- camera with zoom lens
- rain jacket
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$100-$140 (adults $32, children 3-12 $20, under 3 free).
2 adults x $32 + 2 kids x $20 = $104.
Hotel pickup adds $15-20/person.
Tips for captain: $5-10/person.
Tips to Save
- Drive yourself to save $15-20/person vs.
- hotel pickup.
- Book online for occasional discounts.
- Children under 3 free.
- Bring your own water and snacks.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Monday
- 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Sunday
- 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Saturday
- 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Thursday
- 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
