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Swamp Tours New Orleans tourist attraction in New Orleans, LA
Photo: Swamp Tours New Orleans
View of Swamp Tours New Orleans in New Orleans, LA
Photo: Lisa Kizer
View of Swamp Tours New Orleans in New Orleans, LA
Photo: Arishina Goswami

Swamp Tours New Orleans

4.8(696 reviews)$$Adventure
🕑 1.5-2 hours for the tour itself, plus 30-60 minutes travel time each way from downtown New Orleans👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Younger children may be startled by the loud airboat engines (ear protection provided), while school-age kids and teens absolutely love the speed, wildlife spotting, and hands-on gator feeding experience. Most tours welcome all ages, but parents should gauge their child's comfort with noise and fast-moving boats.

About

Swamp Tours New Orleans offers an unforgettable airboat adventure through Louisiana's mysterious wetlands, where kids get the thrill of seeing alligators up close and even feeding them marshmallows! The high-speed airboat rides provide excitement while experienced guides share fascinating facts about the bayou ecosystem, making it both educational and exhilarating for the whole family.

Highlights

  • Feeding marshmallows to wild alligators from the safety of the airboat
  • High-speed airboat rides that kids find thrilling and adventurous
  • Spotting wildlife like egrets, herons, turtles, and nutria in their natural habitat
  • Learning about Louisiana's unique wetland ecosystem from knowledgeable Cajun guides
  • Photo opportunities with baby alligators after the tour (at most operators)

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Book the earliest morning tour (8:00 AM) when alligators are most active and temperatures are cooler, especially in summer months
  2. 2.Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light jacket even in warm weather,the airboat moves fast and creates a breeze
  3. 3.Wear closed-toe shoes and secure hats tightly or leave them behind, as they can fly off during the ride
  4. 4.The tour company provides ear protection, but bringing your own child-sized headphones or earmuffs ensures a better fit for little ones
  5. 5.Keep cameras and phones in secure pockets or use a strap,the airboat's speed and water spray can be intense

Best Time to Visit

Early morning tours (8:00-10:00 AM) are ideal, especially in spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are comfortable and wildlife is most active. Weekday mornings typically have smaller groups, allowing for a more personalized experience and better wildlife viewing opportunities.

What to Know

Tours depart from various locations outside the city (transportation often included from the downtown office), so confirm your departure point and allow extra travel time. Most tours last 1.5-2 hours and prices typically range from $25-$75 per person depending on tour length and transportation options.

Seasonal Notes

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and active wildlife. Summer tours (June-August) can be hot and humid but offer lush scenery. Winter months are cooler but still operational, with fewer mosquitoes and occasional alligator sightings as they're less active in cold weather. Tours run year-round in all but severe weather conditions.

Nearby Eats

Back in downtown New Orleans, try Cafe Du Monde (famous beignets that kids love) in the French Quarter or Cafe Beignet for a less crowded alternative with the same sweet treats and kid-friendly atmosphere.

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