 Our
tour is located about 12 miles southwest of the French Quarter
of New Orleans. It is approximately 40
minutes drive (about 23
miles by car) and is truly a world apart. Step Back in Time and
discover the history of the Cajuns and their way of life. Our tour
ventures into the "CAJUN SWAMPS" of Louisiana where alligators
and Cajuns have coexisted since Bienville founded New Orleans.
We explore the Swamps of Barataria, a fragile ecosystem which has
remained relatively unchanged for centuries.
 Our
tour is located near the 20,000 acre Jean Lafitte National Park,
the largest wetland National Park in the United States.
Wildlife
is not only abundant; it is also commonly seen. The Visitor's
Center is a short 10 minute drive from our Boat Dock. Our two
hour boat tour ventures into the "TREASURE ISLAND
SWAMPS OF BARATARIA". The home of the Pirate Jean
Lafitte and his men, legend has it that Spanish gold bullion and
other treasure is buried here to this day.
The
Barataria swamps are considered to be the "CROWN JEWEL"
of the Louisiana Purchase. Until recently, the only method of
transportation in this region was by boat.
Even today, the waterways are the roads and highways for the people
that live along the edge of the bayous. You will see their camps
and boats. During the alligator hunting season (in September),
we pass the gator dock and see alligators being purchased from
gator hunters. We might even see an alligator being skinned out
for resale. Fishermen commonly pass our tour boat and proudly
display their catch of the day.
 From
the relaxed slow drift of our tour boat, you will see more historical
sites than any other swamp tour in south Louisiana.
You will see a 2,000 year old Indian Burial Mound, a Cajun Cemetery,
the Fleming Plantation home, and the Trading Post of Barataria.
You will see cypress trees, swamps, and wildlife.
As
we travel along, you can reach out and touch the Spanish Moss
hanging from the trees on both sides of the boat. We travel through
a bayou so small that there is no turning around; forward is the
only direction!
Many of our visitors consider a swamp tour as a video and photo
opportunity of a lifetime. In the warmer days of the year, you
will see alligators up close. So close, that you will not hang
your hands and arms over the side of the boat. So close, you can
tell that the gators ARE looking at you! Our swamp tour is so-good
they named our State after us. DON'T FORGET YOUR CAMERA!
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