New Orleans: Destrehan Plantation & Swamp Combo

New Orleans, a city steeped in captivating history and enchanting natural wonders, offers visitors a chance to enjoy its rich tapestry. The Destrehan Plantation & Swamp Combo tour promises to unveil the region’s remarkable past and stunning landscapes. Set out on a journey that blends the grand French Colonial architecture of the Destrehan Plantation with the serene beauty of Louisiana’s swamps, where wildlife flourishes. Through this comprehensive excursion, travelers can uncover the layers of New Orleans‘ captivating story, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration. What secrets and treasures await those who accept the invitation to discover this enchanting combination?

Key Points

• This 6-6.5 hour tour from New Orleans combines a guided exploration of the historic Destrehan Plantation and a 1 hour 40 minute swamp tour.

• The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, gratuities, and lunch, starting from $120 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

• Destrehan Plantation features French Colonial architecture with Greek Revival elements, and the guided tour focuses on the site’s rich cultural history and daily lives of former residents.

• The swamp tour provides an immersive experience to observe various wildlife, including alligators, raccoons, and birds, led by local experts who share insights on the fragile ecosystem.

• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems, and children must be at least 48 inches tall to participate.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Destrehan Plantation & Swamp Combo tour is a comprehensive 6 to 6.5-hour excursion that takes visitors to explore the historic Destrehan Plantation and embark on a guided swamp tour in the Barataria Basin.

Priced from $120 per person, this combo tour is likely to sell out, so it’s recommended to check availability. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes pickup from New Orleans accommodations, with a 30-minute window between 8:15 AM and 8:45 AM. Participants can expect a guided tour of the 110-minute Destrehan Plantation, followed by a 1-hour 40-minute swamp tour to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

Destrehan Plantation Details

Situated in southeast Louisiana, some 45 minutes from downtown New Orleans, the Destrehan Plantation boasts a striking French Colonial architectural style with Greek Revival elements.

The guided tour of the historic home and grounds lasts approximately 110 minutes, offering visitors the opportunity to explore this well-preserved plantation in depth.

The tour allows guests to:

1. Discover the rich history and cultural significance of the Destrehan Plantation, which dates back to the late 18th century.

2. Admire the grand, elegant interiors and furnishings that reflect the plantation’s prosperous past.

3. Stroll the beautifully maintained grounds and learn about the daily lives of the plantation’s former residents.

Swamp Tour Experience

From the historic Destrehan Plantation, visitors embark on a captivating 1-hour-and-40-minute guided swamp tour through the Barataria Basin, where they can expect to encounter an array of native wildlife, including alligators, raccoons, wild pigs, birds, snakes, and turtles. The tour is led by local natives who possess deep expertise in the swamp’s ecology, providing guests with a truly immersive and educational experience. Along the way, visitors will discover unique features such as a 2,000-year-old Indian burial mound, a Cajun cemetery, and a nearby fishing village, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Feature	Description
Duration	1 hour 40 minutes
Wildlife Viewing	Alligators, raccoons, wild pigs, birds, snakes, turtles
Tour Guides	Local natives with expertise in swamp ecology
Unique Sights	2,000-year-old Indian burial mound, Cajun cemetery, fishing village

Inclusions and Recommendations

This tour package includes transportation, entrance fees to Destrehan Plantation, the swamp tour, gratuities, and lunch.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems, and children must be at least 48 inches tall to sit and wear a seatbelt.

While hearing protection is provided, rain ponchos are available for purchase if needed.

The tour offers several notable features:

1. Captains are local natives with expertise in swamp ecology, providing a unique and insightful experience.

2. Visitors can explore a 2,000-year-old Indian burial mound, a Cajun cemetery, and a fishing village during the swamp tour.

3. The tour is designed to be comprehensive, with ample time to explore the Destrehan Plantation property and the surrounding swamplands.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

The tour has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 28 reviews, with particularly high praise for the knowledgeable and friendly guides.

Customers rated the transportation a solid 4.6, while the service scored 4.5. Though the organization was slightly lower at 4 out of 5, the feedback suggests the tour delivers an exceptional experience overall.

Many reviewers recommended allowing more time to explore the plantation, and some suggested incorporating alternate experiences like kayaking instead of airboat tours.

However, the consensus is that the Destrehan Plantation and swamp combo offers a unique, informative, and enjoyable excursion that captures the essence of Louisiana’s history and natural beauty.

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

One of the standout features of this tour is its convenient pickup service, with transportation included from accommodations in New Orleans. Guests can expect a prompt 30-minute window between 8:15 AM and 8:45 AM for pickup, ensuring a seamless start to their Destrehan Plantation and swamp adventure.

The complimentary transportation makes it easy for visitors to relax and enjoy the day without the hassle of driving. Some key benefits of the transportation include:

1. No need to worry about finding your own way to the tour sites

2. Comfortable and safe travel in a climate-controlled vehicle

3. Knowledgeable drivers who can provide insights along the journey

Exploring the Plantation and Grounds

Visitors can enjoy the rich history and architectural grandeur of Destrehan Plantation during the guided tour, which takes them through the historic home and its expansive grounds. They’ll learn about the French colonial design featuring Greek Revival elements and explore the interiors, including the detailed woodwork, antique furnishings, and period artworks.

Outside, the grounds boast beautifully manicured gardens, an 18th-century blacksmith’s shop, and a 200-year-old live oak tree. Guests have 90 minutes to freely roam the property, allowing them to discover hidden gems and truly soak in the plantation’s captivating atmosphere.

This in-depth exploration provides a comprehensive understanding of the site’s significance and the lives of those who once called it home.

Unique Swamp Wildlife Encounters

After exploring the historic plantation, guests embark on a guided swamp tour to witness the region’s unique wildlife and natural wonders. The tour captains, who are local natives with expertise in swamp ecology, navigate the tranquil waterways, providing insights into the diverse array of flora and fauna.

Some of the incredible sightings include:

1. Alligators basking on the banks or gliding silently through the water.

2. Raccoons scurrying along the shoreline and wild pigs rooting in the mud.

3. A myriad of birds, from herons and egrets to the elusive bald eagle, gracing the skies above.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the captivating and fragile ecosystem of the Barataria Basin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on guided tours. The tour operator typically provides all necessary inclusions, such as lunch and water, as part of the tour package. Bringing outside items may not be permitted.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and video recording are typically allowed during tours, though guests should check with the tour operator beforehand. Some locations may have restrictions or require permits. Guests should be respectful and not disrupt the experience for others.

What Additional Safety Precautions Are in Place for the Swamp Tour?

The swamp tour operator provides hearing protection and rain ponchos for guests. They also ensure children meet the minimum height requirement to safely sit and wear a seatbelt during the tour. Pregnant women and those with back problems are advised not to participate.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Use of Mobility Aids or Devices?

The tour allows guests to bring and use necessary mobility aids and devices. However, the swamp tour portion may not be suitable for those with significant mobility challenges, as the airboat can be difficult to access. Guests should consult with the tour provider for specific accommodations.

How Accessible Is the Plantation House and Grounds for Visitors With Disabilities?

The plantation house and grounds have limited accessibility for visitors with disabilities. Some areas have steps and uneven surfaces, though guided tours can accommodate mobility aids. Visitors should inquire about specific accessibility options when booking the tour.

Recap

The Destrehan Plantation & Swamp Combo tour offers a captivating glimpse into New Orleans’ rich history and natural wonders.

Visitors can enjoy the architectural grandeur of the plantation, then journey into the swamps to witness Louisiana’s diverse wildlife up close.

With convenient transportation and expert guides, this comprehensive excursion provides a well-rounded experience of the region’s cultural and ecological treasures.

You can check if your dates are available here: