Honey Island Swamp Tour Guide: What to Know Before You Go
I’ve toured the Honey Island Swamp twice with Cajun Encounters, and it is a very interesting experience, because the bayou is such a defining part of southern Louisiana culture.
Honey Island Swamp, located outside the city near the Louisiana-Mississippi border, is one of the last remaining protected wetlands in the state and is known for its untouched landscape, wildlife, and connection to the region’s history and ecosystem. The area is shaped by Cajun culture and spending a few hours out there gives you a different perspective from the energy of the French Quarter.
If you’re someone who enjoys nature, wildlife, photography, or just being outdoors, a swamp tour is certainly a very memorable experience to have in New Orleans.
What the Experience Is Actually Like
Since the Honey Island Swamp is about an hour outside of New Orleans, you should plan to be gone for at least half a day. The actual tour is about two to three hours long and it’s breezy as long as the boat is moving, which also makes this a good opportunity to catch the wind in the hot and humid weather.
You’ll be on a covered boat moving through the bayou, surrounded by cypress trees and gorgeous Spanish moss. Wildlife is a big part of the experience—you will most likely see alligators, raccoons, wild hogs, snakes, and a range of birds. Some of the animals come surprisingly close to the boat, which is exciting for some people like me and then others hate it. To be clear, though, you are never in any actual danger.
Getting There (Learn From My Mistake)
The first time I did this tour, I took an Uber from the French Quarter and didn’t really think twice about it. That turned into a roughly $200 roundtrip mistake.
This was my very first solo trip ever nearly ten years ago, and what I didn’t realize at the time is that most tours, including Cajun Encounters Tour Company, offer a shuttle option from the city. The second time I went, I was with family and we used the shuttle. Unsurprisingly, it made the experience much easier and it’s obviously more cost-effective.
If you’re not renting a car, then take the shuttle. It’s really a no brainer.
What to Bring
You don’t need much, but the few things you do bring will make a difference.
Bug spray
Sunscreen
Water
Sunglasses
A small towel or bandana
My Final Thoughts
For me, this is one of those experiences that I wasn’t sure I would love, but I actually really enjoyed it. It’s such a unique part of New Orleans, and I love that you sort of have to go out of your way to experience it. Those are the moments that make you feel like you’ve really learned something about where you’re visiting.
Would I say you have to do it? No.
Would I recommend it if you have the time and curiosity? Absolutely.
