Wildlife & History Adventure at Whitney Plantation & Swamp Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic mobility required; no strenuous activity
Overview
Combine a powerful historical visit at Whitney Plantation with an adrenaline-filled swamp tour through Louisiana’s wild wetlands. Discover stories of resilience and encounter native wildlife up close.
Whitney Plantation + Swamp Tour • Small Airboat Ride
7.5 Hours • Ages 18+
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience a profound journey at the Whitney Plantation, the only museum in Louisiana dedicated to the lives of enslaved people. Explore historic buildings and memorials on a self-guided tour, followed by an exhilarating airboat adventure through the swamps, where you'll encounter local wildlife and learn about the unique ecosystem.
Small Airboat fits up to 9 passengers
Duration
7.5 Hours
About
The New York Times says, Talking about slavery and race is awkward, but the Whitney Plantation museum stands a chance of becoming this rare place where this discomfort can be embraced. Los Angeles times says the 90 minute tour at Whitney plantation is like no other plantation along the river road.
On your 90 minute tour your Guide will show you Slave cabins A Freedmen’s Church detach kitchen and outbuildings a 1790 owner’s house and a Memorial built to honor the enslaved. Whitney plantation is the only plantation Museum in Louisiana with an exclusive focus on the lives of enslaved people.
Visit Whitney’s memorial and restored buildings to enter the world of Louisiana sugar plantation and to remember those built and worked this property.
What to Expect:
The Whitney plantation is located about 70 miles or about one hour and 10 minutes from the French Quarter. The pick up begins at 8:00 AM AND 8:30 AM The ground transportation service will be done through our sister company, Crescent City Tours & Transportation. The driver goes hotel to hotel for the pick up service. We ask that you allow us up to 30 minutes for the pick up service.
As a result of COVID-19 The Whitney Plantation will be a self guided tour with auto headset until further notice.
Airboat Tour
The Airboat Tour leaves the dock at about 2:00 pm and returns about 3:45 pm. On this tour, you will enjoy a fully narrated swamp tour by one of our local captains in the comfort of an Airboat. You will enjoy close encounters with swamp life as you learn about what it is like to live in the Louisiana swamps. You will return to your hotel around 4:45 pm depending on traffic.
Pick up time for your reservation will be between 8:00 am and 8:30 am from your hotel
Adventure Tips
Wear weather-appropriate clothing
Light layers and rain gear are recommended due to variable swamp weather.
Bring binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing opportunities with binoculars for closer looks at birds and reptiles.
Stay seated on the boat
For safety and to avoid disturbing wildlife, remain seated during the ride.
Photograph wildlife with care
Respect the animals' space and avoid using flash to keep wildlife calm.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Alligators
- Great Blue Herons
History
Whitney Plantation is recognized for its efforts to tell a more complete history of slavery in Louisiana, focusing on the experiences of enslaved people.
Conservation
The swamp's preservation is vital for maintaining Louisiana’s ecological health and supporting biodiversity, and tours promote awareness of conservation efforts.
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Adventure Hotspots in New Orleans
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sun protection
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses help protect against strong sun during the outdoor excursion.
spring|summer|fall specific
Waterproof camera or phone case
Keep your electronics dry while capturing the adventure.
Insect repellent
Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects common in wetlands.
summer|fall specific
Hat with brim
Shield your face from the sun during the swamp tour.