Louisiana’s guided tours pack more authentic experiences per hour than most U.S. destinations. Three types stand out as particularly worthwhile: bayou airboat rides, which zip through moss-draped cypress trees while spotting alligators; historic plantation tours, offering candid looks at both antebellum architecture and slavery’s harsh realities; and guided kayak excursions through peaceful swamplands teeming with birds and wildlife. The best local guides combine deep regional knowledge with entertaining storytelling, making complex history and ecology accessible to all visitors. Let’s check out the finest tours this remarkable state has to offer.

Key Points

  1. Experience the serene Louisiana bayous and swamps on high-speed airboat tours, guided kayak adventures, and immersive plantation house visits.

  2. Explore the historical and cultural significance of Louisiana’s plantations, including the lives of free and enslaved individuals.

  3. Discover the diverse native wildlife and natural landscapes of Louisiana through personalized guided tours and outdoor activities.

  4. Enjoy user-friendly amenities like stroller-friendly access, free cancellation policies, and inclusive safety features for a comfortable tour experience.

  5. Benefit from flexible booking options and affordable pricing, ranging from $10 for Shreveport tours to $65 for all-inclusive kayak adventures.

New Orleans Large Airboat Swamp Tour

New Orleans Large Airboat Swamp Tour

Although the Louisiana wetlands surrounding New Orleans offer a diverse array of wildlife and natural beauty, the New Orleans Large Airboat Swamp Tour provides travelers with an exhilarating way to experience this unique ecosystem.

This 2-hour tour, operated by the Louisiana Tour Company, boasts a 98% traveler recommendation and a 4.9/5 rating on Viator and TripAdvisor. With a maximum of 16 travelers per tour, guests can explore the atmospheric waterways while searching for alligators and learning about the local flora and fauna from a professional guide.

The tour features alternating high-speed bursts and gentle cruising, offering ample opportunities for photography during regular stops. Protective ear wear is provided to ensure a comfortable experience, and gratuities are included in the tour price.

While not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions, most visitors can participate in this immersive swamp adventure, which consistently earns praise for its knowledgeable and friendly guides.

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Louisiana: Laura, Oak Alley, or Whitney Plantation Tours

Louisiana: Laura, Oak Alley, or Whitney Plantation Tours

What’re the options for exploring Louisiana’s historic plantations? Visitors can choose from three different plantation tours: Laura, Oak Alley, or Whitney Plantation. Each tour lasts around 5.5 hours, including travel time, and costs £63.33 per person. The tours offer insights into the daily lives of both free and enslaved people who lived on these plantations.

At Laura Plantation, guests can explore the Maison Principale, French Jardin, Plantation Kitchen Garden, Banana Grove, and original 1840s Slave Cabins.

Oak Alley Plantation is known for its iconic avenue of 28 giant oak trees, and the tour covers the gracious interiors and the history of enslaved people from 1835 to the Civil War.

The Whitney Plantation focuses on the lives and legacies of slaves through a 90-minute walking tour.

The tours include plantation entrance fees, hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, and drinks. While not suitable for wheelchair users, the tours offer live guides (except for Whitney’s self-guided audio tour) and small group sizes.

With an overall rating of 4.5/5, the tours provide a compelling glimpse into Louisiana’s plantation history.

Read our full review: Louisiana: Laura, Oak Alley, or Whitney Plantation Tours Review
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2 Hours Boat Tour in Louisiana Bayous Near New Orleans

2 Hours Boat Tour in Louisiana Bayous Near New Orleans

A 2-hour boat tour in the Louisiana Bayous near New Orleans offers visitors a chance to explore the lush marshlands and wildlife-filled swamps of the region.

Led by a local fisherman, the tour boasts an impressive 100% traveler recommendation across 80 reviews, earning it a Badge of Excellence.

Travelers can expect to observe the impact of Hurricane Katrina and the community’s rebuild, as well as spot alligators and other wildlife.

The small group experience, capped at 12 participants, includes a stop at a riverside camp and blue crab trap that’s only accessible by boat.

Safety features like life vests, ponchos, and an onboard ice chest ensure a comfortable journey.

While the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate.

With a convenient pickup location and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this 2-hour bayou adventure provides an immersive look at Louisiana’s natural wonders.

Read our full review: 2 Hours Boat Tour in Louisiana Bayous Near New Orleans Review
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Historical Plantation House Tour at Ardoyne Plantation

Historical Plantation House Tour at Ardoyne Plantation

For those seeking a glimpse into Louisiana’s storied past, the historical plantation house tour at Ardoyne Plantation offers an immersive experience. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this prominent example of rural Victorian Gothic architecture provides a window into the lives of six generations of the original owner’s descendants.

The tour grants access to the grand rooms and unique features of the home, including the cove-molded ceilings. A professional guide leads the way, sharing personal stories and historical context. With a maximum group size of 15, the experience ensures an intimate setting.

Although the second floor is only accessible by climbing 28 steps, the first floor accommodates wheelchairs and strollers. Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the rich family history revealed during the tour.

Reservations can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and the tour operates rain or shine. Whether admiring the beautiful architecture or learning about the plantation’s past, this tour offers an engaging look into Louisiana’s heritage.

Read our full review: Historical Plantation House Tour at Ardoyne Plantation Review
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Kayak Tour Of The Honey Island Swamp and Backwaters

Kayak Tour Of The Honey Island Swamp and Backwaters

Adventurous travelers can embark on a captivating kayak tour through the Honey Island Swamp, a serene wetland near New Orleans. This guided tour is suitable for both beginner and moderate kayakers, with a small group size of up to 10 participants to ensure personalized attention.

The tour takes kayakers through the tranquil environment, where they can observe the abundant wildlife and the impressive cypress trees. All necessary equipment, including kayaks, life jackets, and paddles, is provided, along with dry bags for storing personal items. Dry phone cases are also available for purchase.

The meeting point is located just north of the Gas Station at the Old Pearl River Boat Launch, making it easily accessible. The activity ends right back at the starting point, providing a seamless and convenient experience.

With a 5.0-star rating from previous guests, this tour is praised for its peaceful atmosphere, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful scenery, offering a wonderful way to explore the local waterways.

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Airboat Swamp Tour With Transportation From New Orleans

Where can travelers embark on an exciting airboat adventure through the captivating swamps of Louisiana? The Airboat Swamp Tour with Transportation from New Orleans offers an unforgettable experience.

This 5-star rated tour takes guests on a scenic ride through the Louisiana swamps, providing the chance to witness a variety of wildlife, including alligators, bald eagles, and herons.

Priced at $65 per person, the tour includes hearing protection, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages.

Pickup options are available, though the tour’s location in Luling, Louisiana isn’t wheelchair accessible. Guests should prepare for potential chilly conditions by wearing layers.

After the thrilling airboat ride, visitors can browse the gift shop for souvenirs.

With a 100% traveler recommendation, this tour is a must-do experience for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts exploring Louisiana. The knowledgeable guides ensure an informative and enjoyable outing.

Read our full review: Airboat Swamp Tour With Transportation From New Orleans Review
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Talking To The Dead On Tour

Talking To The Dead On Tour

Visitors to New Orleans seeking a supernatural experience can embark on the Talking To The Dead On Tour. This private tour offers up to 15 spiritual readings during a seance with a psychic medium.

The tour’s 5.0 overall rating based on 8 reviews suggests a remarkable experience. Priced at £903.40 per person, the tour includes the medium’s travel expenses and accommodations.

Participants can choose their own location or meet at 908 Bourbon Street or the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. The tour concludes back at the starting point.

While the tour provider doesn’t include the venue, seating, or equipment, clients can opt for audio, video, and photo recordings sent via email.

With a maximum of 500 attending viewers, this intimate experience connects participants with the spiritual world in the vibrant city of New Orleans.

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Shreveport City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by 3Quest Challenge

Shreveport City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by 3Quest Challenge

Tucked away in the heart of Louisiana, the Shreveport City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by 3Quest Challenge offers an engaging and interactive way for travelers to explore the city’s vibrant streets.

This 2-hour private tour, led by a remote interactive guide, takes participants on a captivating journey through Shreveport’s landmarks and hidden gems.

Equipped with an activity-owned smartphone, groups navigate the city, solving clues and completing challenges that immerse them in the local culture.

With private transportation provided, the excursion ensures a seamless and personalized experience.

Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a unique way to discover Shreveport, this scavenger hunt ticks all the boxes.

Starting from $10 per person, the tour is accessible, stroller-friendly, and welcomes service animals.

With flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s an excursion you won’t want to miss during your time in Louisiana.

Read our full review: Shreveport City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by 3Quest Challenge Review
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Historical Scenic Water Trail Kayak Tour of St. Tammany Parish

Historical Scenic Water Trail Kayak Tour of St. Tammany Parish

Embarking on a captivating journey through the picturesque landscapes of St. Tammany Parish, the Historical Scenic Water Trail Kayak Tour offers an unforgettable experience.

This guided excursion takes adventurers along the serene Cane Bayou to the shores of Lake Pontchartrain, immersing them in the natural wonders of pine forests, cypress swamps, and salt marshes.

The tour, limited to a maximum of 10 participants, begins at 9:00 AM and is priced at $65 per person.

Kayaks, paddles, personal flotation devices, dry bags, snacks, and water are all provided, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.

The meeting point is conveniently located at 24380 Ronald Reagan Hwy in Lacombe, Louisiana.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, as they’ve the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of wildlife during the excursion.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour is a must-consider for those seeking to explore the natural beauty of Louisiana.

Read our full review: Historical Scenic Water Trail Kayak Tour of St. Tammany Parish Review
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Recap

Louisiana offers a diverse array of captivating tours, from airboat adventures through swamps to historical plantation house visits. Visitors can explore the state’s rich cultural heritage, encounter its unique natural wonders, and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere. Whether seeking thrilling outdoor experiences or delving into the past, Louisiana’s tour options cater to a wide range of interests and preferences.