Walk through centuries of Southern history with Chicora Tours in Charleston. Discover iconic sites like Rainbow Row and the Battery while gaining insider knowledge of the city’s rich heritage on this two-hour journey.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves moderate walking on city streets with some uneven surfaces.
Wildlife
History
Charleston was founded in 1670 and played a central role in colonial America, the Revolutionary War, and Civil War, shaping much of Southern culture.
Conservation
The city actively preserves its historic districts and green spaces, balancing tourism with protecting Charleston’s architectural and natural heritage.
Chicora Tours
Walk through centuries of Southern history with Chicora Tours in Charleston. Discover iconic sites like Rainbow Row and the Battery while gaining insider knowledge of the city’s rich heritage on this two-hour journey.
Chicora Tours is a Charleston-based tour operator specializing in luxury small-group and private driving tours that highlight the city’s history, architecture, gardens, and ghost lore. Using climate-controlled Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans, Chicora Tours keeps groups intimate (most tours capped at 10 guests, with the Original Driving Ghost Tour limited to nine) to ensure comfortable seating, easy access to photo stops, and personalized storytelling by knowledgeable local guides. Signature itineraries include a complete Magnolia Plantation experience with round-trip transportation and three guided components—the Nature Train, the historic House Tour, and the Slavery to Freedom Tour—plus flexible time to explore gardens and the gift shop. Additional experiences range from luxury small-group city tours and historic highlights to private driving excursions and Middleton Place visits that include semi-guided house museum tours and traditional lunches. Pickup logistics are clear and convenient: the Magnolia Plantation Tour departs from the Charleston Visitor Center at 10:30 AM with drop-off by 4:00 PM, and guests are encouraged to arrive by 10:15 AM for parking and restrooms. Vehicles are stocked for comfort with climate control and plush seating; cold beverages are offered on private tours. Group sizes, curated routes, and licensed partner docents provide credibility and depth. Reservations are limited to maintain a high-touch experience. By combining reliable transportation, expert narration, and access to major plantation experiences, Chicora Tours positions itself as a trusted choice for travelers seeking an efficient, comfortable, and historically rich visit to the Holy City. Customer reviews consistently highlight punctuality, knowledgeable narration, and superior vehicle comfort.
Max Group Size
10 guests
Most tours capped at ten guests
Vehicle
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Climate-controlled luxury van
Magnolia Pickup
10:30 AM
Charleston Visitor Center departure
Tours Offered
8 tours
Includes Magnolia, Middleton Place, ghost tours
Book limited-capacity Magnolia Plantation, ghost, or private tours with clear pickup times and luxury Sprinter transportation.
Bring water and sunscreen
Charleston’s summer sun can be intense; staying hydrated and protected is essential during the outdoor portions of the tour.
Wear comfortable shoes
The tour involves walking on cobblestone streets and uneven pavement, so sturdy, broken-in shoes will keep your feet happy.
Use public parking nearby
Multiple off-site parking garages are within walking distance of the Gibbes Museum of Art, close to the tour start.
Consider gratuity for guide
Tour guides appreciate tips for their knowledgeable service; it’s encouraged to show thanks if you enjoyed the experience.
Comfortable walking shoes
Needed for navigating Charleston’s cobblestones and historic sidewalks.
Water bottle
Keeps you hydrated in warm or humid conditions along the route.
summer
Sunscreen
Protects skin during exposed outdoor portions of the tour.
spring|summer
Light jacket or layers
Useful for cooler temperatures or unpredictable weather.
fall|winter|spring