New Orleans City/Cemetery and Swamp Full-Day Tour

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans and want to experience more than just the usual sights, a full-day tour combining city highlights and swamp adventures might be just what you need. This well-reviewed excursion, offered by Louisiana Tour company, promises a well-rounded look at the vibrant culture, history, and natural beauty that define this unique corner of the South.

What really makes this tour stand out are two key features: the personalized guidance from knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to get up close with the region’s wildlife, especially alligators. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the schedule can be quite full, which might feel a bit rushed for some travelers. Still, for those looking for a comprehensive experience that covers city sights and natural wonders in one day, this tour hits many marks.

This experience is particularly suited for travelers who want an immersive look at New Orleans’ culture and natural environment without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s ideal if you enjoy learning about local history, exploring cemeteries with above-ground tombs, and seeking out wildlife in the bayous. If you’re traveling with family, you’ll find this tour family-friendly, thanks to its relaxed pace and engaging guides.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines city sights, cemeteries, and swamp adventures in one package.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary on history, culture, and wildlife.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a leisurely swamp boat tour or an adrenaline-pumping airboat ride.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for a wide range of ages, with most travelers able to participate comfortably.
• Transportation Included: Comfortable, air-conditioned minibus makes the day easy and relaxing.
• Affordable for the Value: At $110 per person, it offers a lot of variety and insight within a single day.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: City and Cemetery Tour

Your day kicks off with a pickup at 9:30 am, making it easy to start early and maximize your time. The first stop is a guided bus tour of the French Quarter, where you’ll get a glimpse of the historic heart of New Orleans. The guide here is praised for sharing detailed information, making the city’s streets and stories come alive.

Next, you’ll visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 for about 20 minutes. Here, the above-ground tombs are an unusual sight for many visitors and are part of the authentic charm of New Orleans’ burial traditions. One reviewer mentioned, “Tour bus driver made the experience memorable by giving detailed information about New Orleans and cemetery history,” which shows how much guides enhance this part of the experience.

Be aware that the cemetery stop isn’t guaranteed every day—especially on special occasions like All Saints Day—so if cemetery visits are a priority, check ahead to confirm if it’s scheduled.

Exploring Cajun Country and the Barataria Preserve

After a quick bus ride through different neighborhoods, you’ll head out into Cajun Country, an area teeming with stories of survival and resilience. The highlight here is the Barataria Preserve. This lush stretch of wetlands offers a chance to see the swamp’s wildlife and learn about how Cajuns live in harmony with their environment.

The preserve features a relaxing covered swamp tour boat, drifting past ancient Indian Burial Mounds, Cajun cemeteries, and fishing villages. This leisurely trip offers plenty of opportunities to snap photos and observe wildlife. Many reviews rave about this part, with one saying, “We saw lots of gators and other wildlife,” which is a major perk for nature lovers.

The Airboat Option: High-Speed Thrills and Wildlife Close-Ups

If you’re craving a bit more adrenaline, selecting the airboat tour makes for a memorable highlight. These boats zoom across the water at high speeds, providing an exhilarating way to see the swamp. The stadium-style seating ensures unobstructed views for everyone, and the local Captain guides you with personal stories and insights.

Travelers like William and Tammy shared their excitement, noting they saw multiple gators—and even got to hold one! Be aware that the airboat isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back issues, and height restrictions apply (48 inches minimum).

Wildlife Encounters and Expert Guides

One of the tour’s best features, according to many reviews, is the knowledgeable guides. Kim W. called her guide “wonderful” and appreciated the detailed information about the city and swamp. The guides don’t just point out wildlife—they share stories about Cajun culture, alligator behavior, and the environment, making the experience both fun and educational.

Many travelers commented on how fun and informative Rocky and Jason were, with one reviewer saying, “They found gators for us and made the tour lively and engaging.” The guides truly enhance the day, turning what could be a simple boat ride into a captivating journey.

Logistics, Duration, and Group Size

The entire experience lasts about 7.5 hours, with most of that time spent traveling and exploring. The group size is limited to 20 travelers, which keeps things intimate and allows for personalized attention. Transportation is in an air-conditioned minibus, making the long day more comfortable—especially important on hot or rainy days.

Price and Value

At $110 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the range of activities and insights included. You’re getting city sightseeing, cemetery history, wildlife viewing, and an exciting swamp adventure—all in one day. The fact that many reviews mention the guides’ friendliness and knowledge suggests you’re paying for quality guidance along the way.

What Could Be Better?

A few reviews mention that the bus transfer for the swamp tour can be a little confusing, especially if you’re assigned to a different driver without much explanation. Plus, the schedule can feel packed, and some might find it rushed if they want more time at each stop. The cemetery visit isn’t guaranteed every day, which could be disappointing if that’s a key interest.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a broad overview of New Orleans’ culture and environment without spending multiple days. It’s a great choice for those interested in history, wildlife, and Cajun traditions. Families with older children who enjoy wildlife and outdoor activities will find it engaging. If you’re more into museums or nightlife, this might not be your top pick.

The tour balances educational content with fun, making it a memorable day for most visitors. Just keep in mind that the day is busy, so if you prefer a relaxed pace, you might want to pick fewer stops or plan additional free time later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making it convenient to start your day hassle-free.

How long is the swamp tour?
The swamp tour lasts approximately 2 hours, which provides enough time to see wildlife and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Can I choose between a boat ride and an airboat ride?
Yes, when booking, you select your preferred option. The boat ride is more leisurely, whereas the airboat is faster and more adventurous.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally family-friendly, but note that the airboat requires participants to be at least 48 inches tall and is not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

What should I bring with me?
Snacks are allowed, and you can purchase refreshments at the swamp departure point. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera for photos.

What happens if it rains?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled, but many parts, like the enclosed boat or bus tour, still operate in rain. The weather may affect the outdoor activities, like the airboat ride.

Is cemetery visiting guaranteed?
No, cemetery stops depend on scheduling and respect for local customs, especially during special occasions like All Saints Day.

How many people are in each group?
Most groups are limited to 20 travelers, which helps ensure a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

This full-day combined city and swamp tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of what makes New Orleans so special. From wandering through historic cemeteries to spotting gators in the wild, you’ll get plenty of memorable moments—and learn a lot along the way. The knowledgeable guides and the variety of activities make it a solid choice for curious travelers who want a taste of everything.

While the schedule is packed and weather can influence certain parts, most reviews highlight the tour’s value and fun. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, history buff, or just looking for a full immersion experience, this tour is likely to leave you with some stories to tell.

If you’re after a practical, engaging, and sometimes exciting way to explore New Orleans, this tour might just be your best bet.

Enjoy your trip and make the most of your adventures in the Big Easy!