Louisiana boasts some of the most unique natural landscapes in the country. Sandy beaches on Gulf Coast barrier islands, piney forests along meandering rivers, there’s even a few hills. But perhaps the most famous of the Bayou State’s outdoor scenes are… the bayous! Just a short drive from New Orleans can lead you to these otherworldly landscapes. No Louisiana vacation is complete without adding some eco-tours to your itinerary.
Go Wild In New Orleans
You might be planning on getting a little wild in the Big Easy. But we don’t mean just the kind of wild that happens on Bourbon Street. See the real Louisiana outside of the city on an eco-tour in the bayous. The party animals you’ll see out here include alligators, turtles, and raccoons. Nutrias are a tour favorite. They’re the large rodents with orange teeth who make meals of Louisiana’s marshes. Birders will go gaga over the chance to see egrets, herons, and even bald eagles! These characters won’t buy you a drink at Pat O’Brien’s, but they’ll be part of an unforgettable experience in Louisiana’s beautiful outdoors.
Take In The View
Cypress trees, dangling Spanish moss, and palmettos reflected in slow-moving waters. You’ll slowly glide through these stately landscapes. There’s plenty of time to snap some idyllic, enviable Instagram pictures or simply take in the views. Friendly and knowledgeable local guides will tell you the stories of the swamp. They’ll explain the rich ecological and cultural significance. And they can answer whatever questions you throw at them. It’ll be hard to believe you’re only a short drive from the balconies of the French Quarter.
The Ecology of Louisiana
Louisiana’s bayous and swamps play a role in every part of the state’s rich culture. The wildlife it produces became integral to Cajun and Creole cuisine. You can’t have a delicious alligator sauce piquant without the alligator. And what about the famous, sherry-topped turtle soup or a bowl of seafood gumbo? The waterways and flora also play in role in many of the local industries. But modernization, invasive species, and a changing environment have caused this iconic ecosystem to disappear. Eco-tours not only celebrate the area’s beauty and history but also educate visitors about the factors threatening its future.
Eco-Tours That Couldn’t Be Easier
The Adventures of Jean Lafitte offers many bayou tours every day. And we even pick you up from your New Orleans hotel! It’s never been easier to get ecological in the Big Easy. In just a 45-minute drive, you’re transported to another world. Our 90-minute eco-tours are affordable and memorable. Meet tour guides who grew up surrounded by the wildlife of Louisiana. They’re so excited to share their passion with visitors. All of our pontoons are piloted by U.S. Coast Guard-certified captains. Call us at 504-323-0570 if you have some questions or go ahead and book a tour now. We look forward to hosting you.