How to Choose A Swamp Tour in New Orleans

A swamp tour while visiting New Orleans can be the highlight of a trip to Louisiana, especially for those more accustomed to the urban jungle. In addition to the alligators that are the stars of any swamp tour, the flora and fauna of a natural swamp are hard to beat. It is not unusual to see snakes and turtles, raccoons, and dozens of types of birds from herons to owls while enjoying the lush greenery of the swamp. So pack your insect repellent and plan before you go to find the best tour for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
   Birds can be an interesting part of a swamp tour.

   Decide exactly how close you want to be to the wildlife. Some swamp tours are via canoe or kayak, some via pontoon boat and some on larger boats. The website for the tour operator will generally specify the type of boat used on the tour. Alligators can jump several feet out of the water, so a pontoon boat is a good choice for combining up close action and personal safety. If you are feeling more adventurous, opt for the canoe tours.

2. 
   This alligator was injured in a fight.

   Investigate the site for the tour. The location for your tour can make a huge difference to the quality of the tour. Tours operated on a commercial swamp will likely have less wildlife and be more like a zoo. Tours operated on private land will usually be quieter and smaller, allowing more unusual animal encounters. Small tour operators also tend to be more conservation-minded, often cleaning and maintaining the swamp themselves.

3. 
   A water snake sunning himself in the swamp.

   Ask the tour operator what kind of food they use to attract the alligators. Some New Orleans swamp tour operators use marshmallows to attract the gators. While this is cheap way to bring alligators closer to the boat, it is not particularly healthy for the animals. A better operator will use chicken or other product that it healthier for the animals.

4. 
   The greenery on the swamp tour can be almost as beautiful as the animals.

   Compare prices and what is included in the tour. Some swamp tour operators will pick you up at your hotel in the French Quarter and others require that you drive out to the swamp. Find out exactly what is included in your tour price. Other tours will include a drink or snacks while on the water and some require that you bring your own.

5. 
   Alligators are often happy to put on a show.

   Pack a cooler with essentials for the trip. A small cooler with cold drinks, especially water, sunscreen, insect repellent and some small snacks can make the swamp tour more enjoyable. Most swamp tours will last several hours, typically three. A cool drink and snack, especially for children, can make the trip much more enjoyable.

Tips & Warnings

• Smaller swamp tour operators will often offer a more personalized tour than a big tour operator and may offer additional benefits including drinks. Generally, they are also slightly cheaper than the more commercial tours.
• A swamp tour ranges in cost from about $40 to $70 for a three hour trip.
• Sunburn and dehydration are your biggest threats on a swamp tour. Be sure to take extra water to drink and use a good waterproof sunblock.