Exciting New Orleans Airboat Ride Through Bayous & Wildlife
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Escape the busy streets of New Orleans and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature with a thrilling airboat ride. Perfect for families and adventure seekers alike, this experience takes you through a vast tidewater cypress swamp near Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.
As you zip across the water, keep an eye out for alligators, turtles, snakes, and a variety of bird species like egrets and herons. The ride offers incredible photo opportunities amidst moss-draped cypress and tupelo-gum trees, making it a memorable outing for wildlife lovers.
Choose from small-group options for a more intimate experience or larger boats for a fun, social adventure. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, chances are you'll spot some fascinating wildlife along the way. Remember, if you opt for the self-drive option, hotel pickup isn’t included, so plan accordingly.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the New Orleans Airboat Ride last?
The tour duration ranges from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the option you choose.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
You might see alligators, turtles, snakes, egrets, herons, and ibis. In cooler months, look for deer, raccoons, and nutria. During warmer months, alligators are more active and often sunning themselves.
Is the tour suitable for all ages and fitness levels?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels and is designed to be family-friendly for ages 5 to 99.
What’s included in the tour?
Your experience includes a local guide, an airboat ride, ear protection, a small storage space under your seat, and roundtrip transportation if you select that option at booking.
Are there any exclusions I should know about?
Gratuities and food or drinks are not included. A gift shop and bar are available on site.
When is the best time to see alligators?
Alligators are more commonly spotted during the summer months and on warmer days in winter.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 2 hours – 4 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Local guide
- Airboat ride
- Small storage space under seat
- Roundtrip transportation (if selected at booking)
- Ear protection
- Unobstructed wildlife views
Not included
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks (available at gift shop and bar on site)
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Travel approximately 30 miles along the Mississippi River to reach the embarkation point for your airboat adventure. Depending on your booking, board either a large airboat (15-25 passengers) or a small, more intimate boat (6-8 passengers).
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Stop 2
Embark on a 1 hour and 45-minute tour across a 20,000-acre tidewater cypress swamp near Jean Lafitte National Historical Park. Feel the wind as you speed through shallow marshes, spotting wildlife like alligators, turtles, snakes, and various bird species. In cooler months, look for deer, raccoons, and nutria. The guide may feed the alligators, creating fantastic photo moments. Don’t forget to check out the indoor alligator exhibits, including an albino alligator.
Meeting point & pickup
Pickup available, or meet at the start point
***Pickups start 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to tour time.*** Please be outside or near the main entrance with a clear view of the designated pickup area. The driver may arrive within a 30-minute window from multiple stops. If not there at first, look for a white shuttle bus with a red logo. Note: Transportation is only included if you select that option during booking.
Open in Google MapsHow to get there
Pickup is available from 35 hotels listed in the area. Exact pickup times are confirmed after booking.
Cancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours of the tour or on the day of the activity
- The tour may be canceled due to bad weather
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after completing your purchase.
From $50.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
