New Orleans is a city steeped in history, and the Destrehan Plantation & Airboat Combo Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s rich past and captivating natural landscapes. This 5.5-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience, blending the grandeur of a historic plantation with the thrill of an airboat ride through the Louisiana swamps. Whether you’re seeking a glimpse into the plantation’s storied past or an up-close encounter with the area’s diverse wildlife, this tour has something to captivate every traveler.
Key Points
- This combo tour offers a 5.5-hour experience that includes a visit to the historic Destrehan Plantation and a 2-hour airboat ride through the Louisiana swamps.
- The Destrehan Plantation tour features guided explorations of the stately mansion, slave quarters, and other plantation structures, providing insights into the antebellum era.
- The high-speed airboat adventure offers the opportunity to see alligators, wading birds, and diverse plant life, immersing visitors in the region’s unique ecosystem.
- The tour is priced at $179 per person and includes pickup from various locations in New Orleans, with English-speaking guides provided.
- The tour requires a minimum of 4 participants and is not suitable for young children or pregnant women, with flexible reservation and cancellation policies.
Overview of the Tour
The New Orleans: Destrehan Plantation & Airboat Combo Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and natural beauty of Louisiana.
Discover the captivating history and stunning natural landscapes of Louisiana with the Destrehan Plantation & Airboat Combo Tour.
Priced from $179 per person, the 5.5-hour tour includes a visit to the historic Destrehan Plantation and a 2-hour airboat ride through the Louisiana swamps.
Pickup is available from various locations in New Orleans, with English-speaking guides. Guests can explore the plantation grounds, interact with wildlife, and enjoy the flexibility of a pay-later booking and free cancellation policy.
The tour requires a minimum of 4 participants and isn’t suitable for young children or pregnant women.
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Destrehan Plantation: a Glimpse Into History
As the centerpiece of the tour, Destrehan Plantation offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the history of antebellum Louisiana.
This historic estate, dating back to 1787, features guided tours by costumed interpreters who bring the past to life. Guests can explore the stately mansion and uncover the stories of the plantation’s former inhabitants, including its enslaved workers.
The tour also includes access to the plantation grounds, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the daily operations and challenges faced by those who lived and worked on this iconic Southern estate.
Exploring the Plantation Grounds
Visitors to Destrehan Plantation can explore the expansive grounds, which encompass a variety of structures and landscapes that provide insights into the antebellum era.
The guided tour takes guests through the opulent main house, which features period furnishings and decor that showcase the lifestyle of the plantation owners.
Beyond the mansion, visitors can discover the original slave quarters, the blacksmith shop, and the pigeonnier, a unique structure used to house doves.
Visitors can explore the original slave quarters, blacksmith shop, and pigeonnier, a structure used to house doves, beyond the mansion.
Strolling the grounds, guests can appreciate the historic oaks draped in Spanish moss and the tranquil waterways that wind through the property.
Airboat Adventure in the Louisiana Swamps
Following the airboat tour of Destrehan Plantation, visitors embark on an exhilarating 2-hour excursion through the captivating Louisiana swamps.
The high-speed airboat glides over the murky waters, offering a thrilling glimpse into the region’s unique ecosystem. Guests may spot:
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Alligators basking on the banks or lurking beneath the surface
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Wading birds such as herons, egrets, and ibis in their natural habitat
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Lush cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, creating a serene, otherworldly atmosphere
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Diverse plant life, including water lilies, hyacinths, and the iconic Louisiana swamp flowers
This airboat adventure completes the immersive plantation and swamp experience.
More Great Tours NearbyPotential Animal Encounters
During the airboat tour, guests may have the opportunity to interact with some of the swamp’s captivating inhabitants. If conditions allow, visitors could hold a baby alligator or even feed the curious catfish.
These intimate wildlife encounters provide an unforgettable immersion in the Louisiana bayou’s natural wonders. The tour guides are knowledgeable and ensure the interactions are conducted safely and responsibly.
While sightings can’t be guaranteed, the airboat’s stealthy approach often allows for close-up views of alligators, turtles, herons, and other native species in their natural habitat.
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Booking and Reservation Details
Booking the New Orleans: Destrehan Plantation & Airboat Combo Tour is flexible, with no upfront payment required. Customers can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour requires a minimum of 4 participants to operate.
Additionally:
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Flexible reservation: Reserve now & pay later; no upfront payment required.
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Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Minimum participants: Tour requires at least 4 people to operate.
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No payment needed upfront – reserve now, pay later.
Important Considerations for Participants
Although the New Orleans: Destrehan Plantation & Airboat Combo Tour offers a unique and enjoyable experience, there are a few important considerations for participants.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 or pregnant women due to safety concerns. Visitors should dress for the weather, wearing sunglasses, sunscreen, and warm clothing in winter to stay comfortable during the breezy airboat ride.
In case of inclement weather, the airboat portion may be postponed or replaced with a covered boat tour. Tour participants must meet the minimum group size of 4 people.
With these guidelines in mind, travelers can fully enjoy the plantation and swamp adventure.
What Customers Are Saying
According to the reviews, customers have overwhelmingly praised the New Orleans: Destrehan Plantation & Airboat Combo Tour.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 23 reviews, the tour receives specific praise for:
The tour boasts an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 23 reviews, praised for its knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences.
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Knowledgeable and friendly tour guides who bring the history to life through captivating storytelling.
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A well-organized itinerary that allows visitors to fully experience both the plantation and the airboat adventure.
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The overall value of the tour, which customers feel is an excellent way to explore the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
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The enjoyable experiences, from holding a baby alligator to feeding catfish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Transportation to the Tour Locations Included?
The tour includes pickup from various locations in New Orleans, but it’s not available at the airport, New Orleans East, Slidell, or North Shore. Guests are responsible for their own transportation to the designated pickup points.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit?
The best time to visit depends on personal preferences. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, while summer brings warm weather but potentially higher humidity. Winters can be cooler, with a chance of rain or even occasional cold snaps.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour itinerary can’t be customized, as it’s a pre-designed combo tour. However, some flexibility may be possible, like altering pickup locations. It’s best to inquire with the tour provider about any customization options when booking.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t mention any dietary restrictions. However, it’s always a good idea to inform the tour provider of any specific dietary needs or allergies prior to the tour to ensure a comfortable experience.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour’s accessibility varies. Wheelchair-accessible options are available for the plantation, but the airboat ride may be challenging for some individuals with mobility issues. Visitors should contact the tour provider for more details on accommodations.
The Sum Up
The Destrehan Plantation and Airboat Combo Tour in New Orleans offers an immersive experience that blends the region’s captivating history and stunning natural beauty. Exploring the historic plantation and gliding through the serene Louisiana swamps promise an unforgettable adventure. With knowledgeable guides and flexible booking options, this tour is an excellent way to discover the unique charm of the Crescent City.
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