Bayous And Byways, Oak Alley Plantation And Kayak Swamp Tour

Louisiana’s Bayous and Byways tour offers travelers a unique chance to enjoy the state’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. From exploring the iconic Oak Alley Plantation to gliding through the serene Manchac Bayou by kayak, this comprehensive experience promises an unforgettable journey that showcases the best of what the region has to offer. With expert guidance and ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and scenic photography, the tour is sure to captivate adventure-seekers and history buffs alike.

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Key Points

A comprehensive 7-hour tour priced at $195 per person, combining a visit to the iconic Oak Alley Plantation and a 2.5-hour kayak adventure through the Manchac Bayou.
Includes transportation, a guided tour of Oak Alley Plantation, a local lunch, and all necessary kayaking equipment, with a maximum of 14 participants.
Offers opportunities to immerse in Louisiana’s landscape, cuisine, and wildlife, with scenic photography throughout the tour.
Restrictions include a weight limit of 350 lbs and no participation for individuals with babies under 1 year old.
Emphasizes safety and enjoyment, with recommendations to bring appropriate gear and prohibitions on alcohol, drugs, and touching marine life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Bayous And Byways tour offers a comprehensive experience that showcases the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Louisiana. Priced from $195 per person, the 7-hour tour accommodates a maximum of 14 participants and is conducted in English.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, guests can book now and pay later. The tour includes transportation, a guided visit to Oak Alley Plantation, a local lunch, and a 2.5-hour kayak excursion through the Manchac Bayou.

Along the way, guests will enjoy scenic photography opportunities and enjoy the region’s unique landscape and cuisine.

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Itinerary

Starting from 732 N Rampart St, the tour begins with a van travel to Oak Alley Plantation, which takes approximately 1 hour.

Upon arrival, guests embark on a 30-minute guided tour of the historic estate.

Guests embark on a 30-minute guided tour of the historic Oak Alley Plantation estate upon arrival.

After the plantation visit, the group enjoys a 1-hour lunch at a local restaurant, incurring an additional fee.

The next leg of the journey involves a 30-minute van ride to Manchac Bayou, where participants engage in a 2.5-hour kayak adventure through the swamp.

Finally, the tour concludes with a 1-hour return van trip back to the starting point.

The itinerary includes:

Guided tour of Oak Alley Plantation
Lunch at a local restaurant
Kayaking in the Manchac Bayou

Highlights

Oak Alley Plantation offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s history, with its iconic double row of 300-year-old live oak trees lining the path to the antebellum mansion.

After exploring the plantation, guests can savor local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

The highlight of the tour is the kayak adventure through the serene Manchac Bayou, where participants can spot unique flora and fauna while paddling through the lush swampland.

With ample opportunities for scenic photography, this tour provides a well-rounded experience showcasing the bayous and byways of Louisiana.

Inclusions

This tour includes transportation to and from New Orleans, providing convenient access to the tour’s destinations.

The package also includes the services of a local guide, who’ll provide expert commentary and insights throughout the day.

Plus, all necessary kayaking equipment, such as life jackets, are provided for the swamp portion of the tour.

The tour price covers food and non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring guests can fully enjoy the local cuisine.

Finally, gratuities for the guides are included, allowing guests to focus on the experience without worrying about tipping.

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Important Information

Individuals over 350 lbs (159 kg) or with babies under 1 year old can’t participate in this tour, as it may not be suitable for their needs.

Guests should bring sunglasses, a change of clothes, and biodegradable sunscreen. Alcohol, drugs, touching marine life, explosive substances, alcoholic drinks in the vehicle, and touching animals are strictly prohibited.

Participants should prepare for sun exposure and bring a hat and sunscreen. The tour operator recommends these preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

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Getting to Oak Alley Plantation

The tour begins with a van journey from the starting location in New Orleans, which takes approximately 1 hour to reach Oak Alley Plantation.

The journey offers a chance to:

Admire the scenic Louisiana landscape, learn about the region’s history and culture, and prepare for the plantation tour and swamp kayaking experience.

Admire the scenic Louisiana landscape.
Learn about the history and culture of the region from the knowledgeable guide.
Prepare for the plantation tour and swamp kayaking experience ahead.

Upon arrival, you will embark on a guided tour of the iconic Oak Alley Plantation, seeing the antebellum splendor and captivating stories that have made this landmark a must-see destination.

Exploring the Swamp by Kayak

After exploring the grandeur of Oak Alley Plantation, the tour now ventures into the serene Manchac Bayou for an immersive kayaking experience.

Gliding along the tranquil waters, participants are treated to a unique perspective of the lush, cypress-lined wetlands. Guided by a local expert, they’ll navigate through the maze of waterways, spotting diverse wildlife like herons, egrets, and perhaps even an alligator or two.

The gentle paddling allows ample time to capture the picturesque scenery and appreciate the serene beauty of this protected ecosystem. It’s a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

Capturing Scenic Moments

Numerous opportunities abound for scenic photography during the kayak swamp tour. The tranquil bayou provides a serene backdrop, with:

Towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss.
Curious alligators basking in the sun.
Vibrant bird life, including herons, egrets, and ibises.

Paddling through the narrow waterways, guests can capture the essence of the Louisiana wetlands.

Reflections on the glassy surface create mirror-like images, while the play of light and shadow adds depth and drama to the photographs.

With the guidance of a knowledgeable local, participants can document the natural beauty of this unique ecosystem.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you cannot bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes all food and drinks as part of the package. Bringing outside items is not allowed according to the important information provided.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour allows for photography, but participants are not allowed to touch marine life. It’s recommended to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the scenic photography opportunities throughout the tour.

How Do I Get to the Starting Location at 732 N Rampart St?

Guests can reach the starting location at 732 N Rampart St. via public transportation or rideshare. The tour operator doesn’t provide transportation to the meeting point, so attendees will need to make their own arrangements to get there.

Can I Request a Private Tour or Smaller Group Size?

The tour allows for private tours or smaller group sizes, but they are subject to availability and may incur an additional cost. Customers should contact the tour provider to inquire about these options.

Will There Be Any Stops or Breaks During the 7-Hour Tour?

The tour includes several stops and breaks, such as a guided tour of Oak Alley Plantation, a lunch at a local restaurant, and a 2.5-hour kayaking experience in the swamp. The total duration of the tour is 7 hours.

Final Words

The "Bayous And Byways, Oak Alley Plantation And Kayak Swamp Tour" offers an immersive experience in Louisiana’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. Participants can explore the iconic Oak Alley Plantation, enjoy a local lunch, and embark on a kayaking adventure in the serene Manchac Bayou, all while learning from expert guides and capturing scenic moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: