Authentic Voodoo Tour in New Orleans by New Orleans Secrets
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as the walk covers city block distances at an easy pace.
Overview
Join New Orleans Secrets for an intimate 2-hour French Quarter tour that uncovers the true history and practices of voodoo. Small groups and authentic shrines reveal a side of New Orleans often misinterpreted.
Mysteries of Voodoo Tour
2 hours • Educational and Great for History Buffs
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an enlightening journey through New Orleans' rich voodoo culture on this intimate French Quarter tour. With only eight guests, you'll explore authentic shrines, learn about the true history of voodoo, and uncover its fascinating practices. This respectful, in-depth experience promises to deepen your understanding of this unique religion.
Shrouded in mystery and misunderstanding, the religion of voodoo has been an important part of New Orleans' culture since the early 1700s.
Duration
2 hours
About
Forget what you think you know about Voodoo. Grossly misrepresented in the movies, this French Quarter Voodoo Tour will help you discover the true history, culture, and beliefs of New Orleans voodoo and how it remains as an alternative religion in the city today.
Topics include:
- Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau
- Slavery in New Orleans
- Spells, Voodoo Dolls, and Potions
- Voodoo in Hollywood
- Zombies
- Summoning and Possession by Spirits
- Voodoo Rituals
- How New Orleans Voodoo is Unique
Space is extremely limited at just 8 guests per tour, so your questions will be welcomed! You’ll see more than a dozen real voodoo shrines and altars at several locations throughout this French Quarter voodoo tour, including those dedicated to Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This is NOT a glossed-over, superficial, or highly theatrical approach to voodoo. The content of this tour is real – you will learn about a religion’s history, practitioners, and sacred practices, and those taking this tour should be both respectful of such and seeking knowledge. Voodoo is absolutely fascinating and therefore is very entertaining to learn about; there is no need for cheesy antics or fallacies to enhance this experience.
Tickets must purchased in advance. At least two people are needed to run this tour (may be booked separately). This walking tour is mostly outdoors and will be held rain or shine, so please wear comfortable shoes and bring proper gear for the weather.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable footwear
This walking tour covers city streets and cobblestones, so sturdy shoes are essential.
Prepare for weather conditions
The tour runs rain or shine; bring a rain jacket or sun protection depending on the forecast.
Arrive early
Tour groups are limited to 8 people; arriving early ensures prompt departure and seating.
Bring respectful curiosity
This is an educational tour focused on real religious practices; open-mindedness enriches the experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common city pigeons with their distinctively urban presence
- Occasional sightings of migrating songbirds along the Mississippi River nearby
History
New Orleans' voodoo tradition has roots dating back to the early 1700s, blending African, Indigenous, and Catholic influences into a distinctive spiritual practice.
Conservation
Respect for sacred sites and minimizing footprint in the French Quarter preserves these historic locations for future generations.
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Adventure Hotspots in New Orleans
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for navigating historic streets and cobblestones comfortably.
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial in warmer months, especially during outdoor walking tours.
summer specific
Light rain jacket or umbrella
Preparedness for sudden rain showers keeps the tour enjoyable rain or shine.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protect yourself from sun exposure when touring during daylight hours.
summer|spring|fall specific