Ultimate Swamp Adventures
Ultimate Swamp Adventures
4.5
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Full view
About
Just 15 minutes from downtown New Orleans, located in the historic fishing village of Westwego, Louisiana. We also offer pick up locations at many French Quarter hotels. On an Airboat or Tourboat,Discover the beauty of a true Cypress swamp. See Alligators, Turtles,Birds, and other wildlife in its naturally habit. Your tour will depart from Bayou Segnette; a traditional seafood trading center. We are open everyday! (except Christmas and Thanksgiving) and if Weather is not permitting for us to give a tour. *Children must be 48" Tall to ride the Airboat
Westwego, Louisiana
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2023
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
1,142 reviews
Excellent
937
Very good
111
Average
39
Poor
20
Terrible
35
Alex G
5 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
This swamp tour was a great experience. We had a brief scare as we were checking in when we heard that a boat had broken down, but it turned out to be one of the air boats, not the larger covered swamp boat we signed up for. These boats are slower (less cold wind) and much quieter (won’t scare away wildlife) compared to air boats. This experience was more to our liking, and we spotted 7 gators, a variety of birds, and a turtle. We were able to get very close and have an excellent view of the animals. Our swamp captain, Dylan, was entertaining and shared a lot of great info about the swamp, the wildlife, and the lifestyle of swamp hunters and fishermen. We appreciated his respect for the ecosystem and efforts not to disturb it. He also extended our tour slightly to make up for the late start we got off to, caused by the aforementioned air boat breakdown. Overall it was a fantastic tour and we’re glad we chose it!
Written March 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michelle, thank you so very much for taking the time to share your feedback here as well. We are elated that your experience was an exciting one. We hope to have you visit again in the future and are certainly grateful for clients such as yourself that take the time to share your experience with us and others.
Written March 4, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
traveltheworld461
Fort McMurray, Canada1,914 contributions
Oct 2022
We did a lot of research on what tour group to take and decided on Ultimate Swamp Adventures. We were very happy with our choice. We discovered that some of the other outfitters online are like a broker and charge a fee, which make it more expensive than booking directly with the company. Conversely, we found other companies advertised their price without hotel pick up, and then added the fee at the end.
Additionally, some other outfitters only had designated pick-up points around the French Quarter and we would have had to go a few blocks to the specified location. The girl on the phone was very helpful and Ultimate Swamp Adventures was very up front about their pricing and offered direct hotel pick up.
We were picked up from our hotel in a dedicated swamp adventures bus at 15:16. We were quoted to be ready for 14:45, so that was not too bad of a wait. The bus driver was informative.
We checked in at the main building upon arrival. Everything was very well-organized. Danny was our guide on the small airboat. He was awesome and made our day really fun. He tried to find an alligator on land to wrangle and show us up close. We saw tiny frogs, lots of cool birds, a turtle, a snake, alligators in the water, and a giant spider. Danny picked up the spider so we could see it up close.
I am glad we took the small airboat tour because there were only three other people on the boat plus Danny with our group of three. The larger airboat tours were packed. Our trip was educational and exciting. We were in the front row and got wet. I would bring a rain coat and/or quick-dry clothes. They have hearing protection available. It's not required to wear it, but we did because it was a little loud when we were going fast.
The only thing I would maybe suggest to improve on would be to have more time to explore the seafood stands and shops. Perhaps having an extra half hour to explore would drum up more business and add to the experience.
Additionally, some other outfitters only had designated pick-up points around the French Quarter and we would have had to go a few blocks to the specified location. The girl on the phone was very helpful and Ultimate Swamp Adventures was very up front about their pricing and offered direct hotel pick up.
We were picked up from our hotel in a dedicated swamp adventures bus at 15:16. We were quoted to be ready for 14:45, so that was not too bad of a wait. The bus driver was informative.
We checked in at the main building upon arrival. Everything was very well-organized. Danny was our guide on the small airboat. He was awesome and made our day really fun. He tried to find an alligator on land to wrangle and show us up close. We saw tiny frogs, lots of cool birds, a turtle, a snake, alligators in the water, and a giant spider. Danny picked up the spider so we could see it up close.
I am glad we took the small airboat tour because there were only three other people on the boat plus Danny with our group of three. The larger airboat tours were packed. Our trip was educational and exciting. We were in the front row and got wet. I would bring a rain coat and/or quick-dry clothes. They have hearing protection available. It's not required to wear it, but we did because it was a little loud when we were going fast.
The only thing I would maybe suggest to improve on would be to have more time to explore the seafood stands and shops. Perhaps having an extra half hour to explore would drum up more business and add to the experience.
Written November 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Haylee H
1 contribution
Sep 2020 • Couples
From a rough beginning to an amazing end. We did the boat tour on a Sunday at 2pm. I called and made the reservation on Saturday and they told me that the bus would pick us up between 12:45-1:15. Now the bus had not shown so I called and talked to the company directly to see what had happened because the bus hadn’t stopped. Well I called and a gentleman by the name of Nick answered. He had explained to me about the situation and had given a true conclusion that when the woman who booked my tour had booked it she had placed it for the wrong day BUT if I wanted to take an Uber they would reimburse me when I arrived and then they would get us on the bus back to the hotel. So we get there and the tour was AMAZING. our guid was so informative and witty he would stop to feed the gators marshmallows to get them close to the boat. Now we were on the way out once the tour was over and headed to the bus that had once again left without us. We headed back to the check in and amazingly Nick was to our rescue yet again when he called the driver only to find they had left! However without hesitation Nick offered to drive us back to our hotel and apologized again but was incredibly kind. Nick truly saved our trip and our guide made the ride. Thank you guys so so much for such amazing customer care and thank you Nick for going the extra mile. We will definitely be back on our next trip to New Orleans!!!
Written September 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Haylee, have I mentioned how much I adore you! We are truly grateful to guest such as yourself who took your valuable time to cover every review board for us and Nick. You truly are a gem. Thank you so very much.
Written September 7, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ledean P
5 contributions
Apr 2021
Our reservation was moved to another day, no reason from the operator. We started late.
I missed on their web site, “you get to stop at a run down swamp shack where they are shooting guns and smoke pot and party with all the men”. As 2 of the people on the tour said, best tour ever when they give you pot”. Wasted a good 1/2 hour waiting on the airboat for them to get back on board.
7 tourists on the boat, front seats get wet, they provide ear protection as well as ear plugs. We had to idle out for over a mile due to restrictions on noise, then we drove around a bit looking for baby gators. No luck, we passed every bird and spent no time looking at birds.
The whole experience was a big let down, especially at 159.00 for 2 people. The driver was constantly encouraging 3 young women to act out their silliness, his attention was on them. It was to say at the least, very uncomfortable. I don’t recommend their service as they don’t provide what they advertise.
I missed on their web site, “you get to stop at a run down swamp shack where they are shooting guns and smoke pot and party with all the men”. As 2 of the people on the tour said, best tour ever when they give you pot”. Wasted a good 1/2 hour waiting on the airboat for them to get back on board.
7 tourists on the boat, front seats get wet, they provide ear protection as well as ear plugs. We had to idle out for over a mile due to restrictions on noise, then we drove around a bit looking for baby gators. No luck, we passed every bird and spent no time looking at birds.
The whole experience was a big let down, especially at 159.00 for 2 people. The driver was constantly encouraging 3 young women to act out their silliness, his attention was on them. It was to say at the least, very uncomfortable. I don’t recommend their service as they don’t provide what they advertise.
Written April 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nilka O
2 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
The tour was nice, the guide was entertaining and informative. It was suggested to purchase ponchos because it was raining and the possibility of getting wet during the tour were high,so we did. At the end when we were headed to the bus that will take us back to the hotel we were told to take out the ponchos...under the rain, so we ended up soaking wet!!!! These were not given back to us or replaced by dry ones.
In top of that, they made us all wait over 45 minutes. A worker came several times to count how many people were in the bus,we were 17 at the time; bus capacity seems to be 24 so I assumed someone wanted a full bus. Four people got out and took an Uber and I went back to the office to ask why the delay, a rude cashier told me to get in the bus if I didn't want to lose the ride. Definitely not the best customer service in NOLA, what a shame. I do not recommend this company.
In top of that, they made us all wait over 45 minutes. A worker came several times to count how many people were in the bus,we were 17 at the time; bus capacity seems to be 24 so I assumed someone wanted a full bus. Four people got out and took an Uber and I went back to the office to ask why the delay, a rude cashier told me to get in the bus if I didn't want to lose the ride. Definitely not the best customer service in NOLA, what a shame. I do not recommend this company.
Written January 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Travel Lover
Rosemead, CA1 contribution
Feb 2020
The world is on the verge of a pandemic with the coronavirus and racist jokes as such are simply unacceptable. I felt the need to give this review here.
Unfortunately "Captain Dylan" told some really tasteless "jokes" that appeared racist. He asked, how can you tell the difference between a Chinese alligator and an American alligator? Then he said that we used to say their eyes, but that's not politically correct, so now we can tell if it's a Chinese alligator if it tests positive for coronavirus. A bunch of us looked at each other shocked and appalled at the "joke." We didn't find it funny and did not laugh. It was insensitive and absolutely not necessary, especially for a tour to learn more about the swamp and wildlife. I felt very uncomfortable for the rest of the boat ride. And we only saw one small alligator during the nearly two-hour ride. I hope no one else has to experience this. Or that the company will consider not telling these kinds of jokes that don't really add to the experience, but can really be offensive and off-putting.
Unfortunately "Captain Dylan" told some really tasteless "jokes" that appeared racist. He asked, how can you tell the difference between a Chinese alligator and an American alligator? Then he said that we used to say their eyes, but that's not politically correct, so now we can tell if it's a Chinese alligator if it tests positive for coronavirus. A bunch of us looked at each other shocked and appalled at the "joke." We didn't find it funny and did not laugh. It was insensitive and absolutely not necessary, especially for a tour to learn more about the swamp and wildlife. I felt very uncomfortable for the rest of the boat ride. And we only saw one small alligator during the nearly two-hour ride. I hope no one else has to experience this. Or that the company will consider not telling these kinds of jokes that don't really add to the experience, but can really be offensive and off-putting.
Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dearest Amy as we stated on your review on Yelp, "we are truly remorseful for your experience. This is not a condoned or shared feeling of our tour company or our management team. We assure you that we will explain that this type of humor is unacceptable and is not a part of our normal bayou culture tour and will not be tolerated in the future. We appreciate your feedback as it allows us the opportunity to learn and grow for our future visitors." Since the last review posted on the 25th of February then again on the 27th, action was taken and I am not sure what else it is you desire. WE have apologized as well as issued reprimand.
Written March 4, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Natalie H
1 contribution
Feb 2020 • Couples
Be careful the time of year you go, if booked through sightseeing tour company, they didn’t inform us that we may don’t see anything. It was chilly on tour and we saw absolutely nothing... besides some birds and a turtle, gator that was hardly visible to human eye! No refunds! Tour guide got offended when I mentioned us not seeing anything! Would not recommend AT ALL!
Written February 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Unfortunately wildlife is not guaranteed on any Swamp tour whether cold or warm weather, being in their natural habit they hibernate or hide at their will. We are sorry that they were not available for viewing but its their territory and as I jest most times they aren't on payroll. Swamp tours while the wildlife is an awesome part of the tour it in itself is about the environment and the culture on the bayous and swamps of our area.
Written February 27, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
britney1185
13 contributions
Jun 2020 • Family
We arrived 45 minutes early for our tour and we greeted by a friendly staff. Normally any kind of wait causes my kids to get bored but here they were entertained by some of the guides who told them stories about the gators. Our tour started a little late but Dylan and the guys at the dock more than made up for it! My youngest is now talking about moving to South LA to do tours when he grows up. According to him this was the best part of vacation! Highly recommend taking this tour!
Written June 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so very much for joining us and for your great feedback. We appreciate your support and generous review.
Written July 31, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hannah S
1 contribution
Feb 2023
Cannot recommend this business enough! Hunter was our tour guide. While it was "off"-season for gators, the tour did not disappoint! Hunter was very knowledgeable on the local plants, fish, hunting, etc. He gave us a prime example of southern hospitality and was absolutely hilarious. There was a young boy (maybe 5 years old) on the tour, and Hunter was outstanding at keeping him entertained. We used our "go city" passes for the tour and gladly tipped Hunter for the experience. From start to finish, we felt welcomed and well taken care of.
Thanks Hunter!
(Give two-chainz a hug for us.)
Thanks Hunter!
(Give two-chainz a hug for us.)
Written February 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Juliet R
Stoke-on-Trent, UK30 contributions
Sep 2022 • Couples
We booked through the hotel but wanted to leave a review because we had the best time ... The guide was so funny sorry forgot his name but very informative also I would highly recommend this tour even though you are on the slow covered boat he made the Gators go from one side to the other side so everyone could get a view. Just brilliant.
Written September 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KEG17
Madison, WI331 contributions
Is it possible to take an uber/lyft out there? We're staying near the French Quarter and aren't sure yet if we're renting a car.
walter8990
Jonesboro, AR12 contributions
They have pickup at the area hotels by shuttle bus. We were phoned by the driver as he was on the way to the front door of the hotel. Driver was full of information about New Orleans and made the short trip (10 - 15 minute) trip pleasant and informative.
Linda N
Anaheim92 contributions
I will be staying at the Fairfield Inn and Suites near the Airport for the night after a cruise and interested in the swamp tour. Is there pickup from Kenner Hotels or just NOLA?
Theresa J
Dallas, TX37 contributions
I think they will, but when we signed up we requested to be picked up and they agreed to do it, but said it would be cheaper to use Uber.
Will the tour operate in the rain? We booked for next weekend and it’s calling for a thunderstorm.
Joseph Spinato
Westwego, LA
We are a rain or shine tour. Normal rainfall is not enough to stop us. However severe weather including lightning, high winds, and driving rainfall can delay, shorten, or cancel a tour.
tlarson019
Franklin, WI
Will we see any gators end of December. Coming down to New Orleans for XMas break?
Joseph Spinato
Westwego, LA
Alligators are reptiles therefore cold blooded animals. Gators sightings when it is cold are not extremely common. Winter is definitely not the best time of gator sightings are what you are hoping for.
Brian H
Columbus, IN1 contribution
What are the options and costs for transportation from the French Quarter? I assume Uper/Lyft is farily easy but I'm not sure of a typical cost.
Christopher Wood
Blaine, WA81 contributions
They will pick you up at several places in the French Quarter.
Morgan H
Norfolk, VA4 contributions
What is the best way to travel to the tour location from downtown New Orleans?
Hi Morgan. The tour is located approximately 15 minutes from downtown. There are several options. The first option would be to book the tour with round trip transportation included. You could also take an Uber or cab. if you have your own vehicle the drive is short and easy. We are the closest swamp tour to the city. Hope this helps but feel free to call us at (504)566-1290 and we'd be happy to help.
Natalie R
Pittsburgh, PA
Hi We have a groupon, which says we need to make a reservation by phone....but we can't get a hold of anyone do so today. Already have rented a car...How can we contact you in the next hour or so?
Natalie
Joseph Spinato
Westwego, LA
Thanks. We experience very high call volumes. You can also send a message via Facebook. If not you can try me on my cell. 985-237-2660.
Randy
General Manager
How much does this tour cost
Wild904
Castro Valley, CA20 contributions
It depends where you get it. Runs anywhere from $60 - $90
We have six of us coming through on 7/14 and wanting to book on the 9:30 am tour do you have availability and how do we pay?
Lora
gypsy4n0w
Burlington, NJ5 contributions
Make arrangements you won't regret it. Pay on site before your cast off. Knowledgable tour guides.