From New Orleans: Swamp Airboat, 2 Plantation Tours & Lunch — A Detailed Review
Imagine stepping into a world where mighty oaks stretch over centuries-old grounds, alligators bask in the sun, and the air is filled with the aroma of Creole spices. This 9-hour tour from New Orleans combines the thrill of a small airboat ride through Louisiana’s mysterious swamps with immersive visits to two historic plantations—Laura and Houmas House—and a delicious Creole lunch. Costing around $279 per person, it’s a well-rounded way to experience the diverse culture and natural beauty of Louisiana.
What we love about this tour are two key elements: First, the expert guiding that makes each stop informative and entertaining, and second, the stunning scenery—from the hauntingly quiet bayous teeming with wildlife to the grandeur of antebellum mansions.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves some limited walking, especially around the plantations, which might not suit everyone. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mixture of outdoor adventure and historical exploration, along with good food and storytelling. If you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking to make the most of a day outside the city, this tour offers a compelling blend of all three.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Combines a swamp boat ride with guided mansion tours for a well-rounded exploration.
- Incredible Scenery: Expect lush oak trees, wildlife, and iconic plantation architecture.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and engaging guides enhance every part of the day.
- Delicious Creole Cuisine: A satisfying and authentic lunch at Houmas House.
- Small Group: Limited to 13 people, ensuring personalized attention.
- Convenient Transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off included for a stress-free day.
Planning more time in Vacherie? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Exploring Louisiana’s Natural and Historic Treasures
This tour takes you straight out of New Orleans, with a scenic and narrated drive that sets the tone for a day rich in sights and stories. Starting with a hotel pickup in a comfortable high-roof van, you’ll quickly notice how passionate your guide is about sharing the stories of Louisiana’s past and present. The drive across the Mississippi River on a high bridge offers a glimpse of the vast waterways that define this region.
The Swamp Airboat Adventure
Once you arrive at the swamp, you’ll hop aboard a small airboat operated by a Cajun captain, which promises a more intimate and faster-paced experience than large tour boats. The reviews consistently echo how exciting and close-up this ride is—“the speed of the airboat and the sights and sounds in the swamp” makes it a highlight. Expect to see alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species, all in their natural habitat.
We loved the personalized nature of this ride—your captain will get you close enough to observe wildlife and even feed the gators if the opportunity arises. The feeling of gliding over the marshes, with the wind in your hair and the murmur of the bayou all around, is something to remember.
The Plantation Visits: Laura and Houmas House
Following the swamp adventure, you’ll head upriver through sugar cane fields—an area that hints at Louisiana’s historical importance in agriculture. The first plantation, Laura, dates back to 1804, and the guided tour here offers a blend of personal stories, architecture, and social history. A common theme from reviews is how “each mansion has a different style” and how the guides provide details that bring the past to life.
At Laura, you’ll learn about Laura’s family and the enslaved people who worked the plantation, with an exhibit dedicated to “Slavery on Laura Plantation.” This honest look at the region’s history resonates with many visitors, adding depth to the experience. The plantation’s preserved overseer’s cottage and the stories told by your guide are powerful and educational.
Not far away, the Felicity Plantation, where “12 Years A Slave” was filmed, and St Joseph Plantation, known for its appearance in the TV series Queen Sugar, give you a sense of the variety of plantation architecture and stories that Louisiana offers.
The Oak Alley Plantation, with its rows of towering oak trees, invites a moment of reflection and awe. Many reviewers mention how iconic its canopy is—“You can’t help but stop and admire the grandeur.” It’s a perfect photo stop and an iconic symbol of Southern plantation grandeur.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Houmas House and Lunch
Crossing the Sunshine Bridge, you arrive at the Houmas House Plantation, often called the “Sugar Palace.” Here, you’ll enjoy an elegant Creole lunch in a beautifully appointed dining room. The menu offers regional favorites like shrimp Po’ Boy, grilled chicken Caesar salad, and vegetarian pasta, complemented by classic desserts like white chocolate bread pudding or Creole cheesecake. Many reviews praise the quality and authenticity of the food, making the meal a genuine highlight.
After lunch, a guided tour of the mansion—with guides dressed in Antebellum costumes—adds a theatrical touch. The sprawling gardens and peaceful grounds give you a chance to unwind and imagine life in Louisiana’s plantation era. You’ll have some free time to stroll, which many visitors find relaxing and photogenic.
Deep Dive into the Experience
The value of this tour lies in how efficiently it combines nature, history, and cuisine into one day. The small group size (limited to 13 participants) encourages interaction, and the enthusiastic guides often go beyond the basic scripts, sharing stories that keep you interested.
Transportation is seamless, with hotel pickup and drop-off included—no fuss about navigating unfamiliar roads or parking. The roundtrip drive from New Orleans is scenic, and crossing the Mississippi twice provides lovely moments to observe the landscape change.
The swamp tour is notably fast and exhilarating. The reviews describe it as “awesome” and “so much fun,” noting the captains’ knowledge and friendliness. The views of gators and herons, plus the chance to feed or watch them, give it an authentic wild Louisiana feel.
Plantation tours are detailed and emotionally impactful, especially when discussing both the architecture and the harsh realities of slavery. The balance of these stories matters when understanding the full context of Louisiana’s history. Many reviewers appreciated guides like Rene and Steve, who made the stories engaging without losing sight of the serious subjects.
Lunch at Houmas House offers much more than just a meal—it’s an opportunity to taste regional flavors in a refined setting. The menu is diverse enough to please most tastes, and the portions are generous.
Practical Considerations
This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that covers natural beauty, historical insight, and regional cuisine. The cost of $279 might seem steep, but when you consider the included hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, and meals, the value is quite good.
However, keep in mind that limited walking around the plantations means it’s less ideal for those with mobility issues. Also, children under 5, pregnant women, and people with back problems are advised to consider whether the tour suits their needs.
Weather can impact the experience—rain or shine, the tour runs, and ponchos are provided. If you’re prone to motion sickness, note that the airboat ride is fast and bumpy—a thrilling experience, but perhaps not for everyone.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is a fantastic choice for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and foodies alike. If you enjoy learning about the past through stories and architecture, appreciate wildlife encounters, and love regional food, you’ll find this tour hits many sweet spots. It’s especially appealing if you want a small-group, personalized experience that minimizes waiting and maximizes engagement.
It’s also a great option if you’re arriving in New Orleans and want to venture beyond the city without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. The combination of scenic drives, themed stops, and authentic Louisiana flavors makes it a well-rounded day.
FAQs
How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including hotel pickup, travel, sightseeing, and lunch.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, you will be picked up and dropped off at your hotel in New Orleans, making the experience hassle-free.
What is the group size?
Tour groups are limited to 13 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.
Are the plantation tours guided?
Yes, each plantation is visited with a guided tour, often led by guides dressed in period costumes, offering detailed insights.
Can I take large luggage or strollers?
Large luggage or non-folding wheelchairs are not permitted. Baby strollers are also not allowed, but collapsible wheelchairs are accommodated.
Is there a dress code?
Comfortable casual attire suitable for outdoor activities is recommended. Be prepared for some walking and possibly weather changes.
Is the swamp tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not recommended, and the tour involves fast boat rides, so consider your child’s comfort with outdoor, moving vessels.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
Final Thoughts
This day trip from New Orleans offers a fantastic blend of adventure, history, and regional flavors. Whether you’re captivated by the wildlife in the swamp, intrigued by the stories behind the grand plantations, or simply want a day outside the city with good company and good food, this tour delivers.
The expert guides, stunning scenery, and authentic experiences make it a worthwhile investment, especially for those eager to see the diversity of Louisiana’s cultural landscape. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-organized day that balances excitement with education, this tour ticks all the boxes.
For travelers who enjoy learning while exploring, appreciate beautiful vistas and stories, and want a taste of Louisiana’s past and present, this tour will be a memorable highlight of your trip. Just be ready for some sun, a bit of bumpy boat riding, and a hearty Creole meal at the end—and you’ll leave with a richer appreciation of this unique corner of America.
You can check availability for your dates here: