The 5 Kayak Trips in New Orleans That Earn Their Price

1.Small-Group Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 973 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) Our pick

Leave central New Orleans for a two-and-a-half-hour paddle through Manchac and Maurepas swamps. Your guide teaches basic strokes, then leads a group of up to eight through narrow cypress-lined channels where motorboats cannot go. Guides such as MJ, AJ, Ali, and Nick are known for strong nature knowledge.

“AJ our tour guide was fantastic. We had a very casual kayak trip around the Manchac area. Saw gators, many different birds, including a Barred owl, and had a great time. We booked a 2:00 pm trip so keep in mind if you have dinner reservations back in the city you probably don’t want to book anything until 7:30. We got caught in football traffic on the way back in.”

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2.Small-Group Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour with Local Guide

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 480 reviews · 2 to 3 hours (approx.) · from $93

Leave New Orleans for a 2 to 3 hour guided paddle through Manchac Swamp. Guides such as AJ, Terry, Al, and Gerald share local stories, wildlife facts, and kayaking tips as you look for alligators, owls, herons, turtles, and more. Round-trip transport from St. Roch Market is included.

“The tour guide, Josh, was knowledgable and entertaining. Not only was he a great tour guide, but included information about the area and the Louisiana wetlands. The tour was great. We had great weather and were able to see the area and some wildlife.”

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3.Manchac Magic Kayak Swamp Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 114 reviews · 2 hours · from $90

Paddle calm cypress waterways near New Orleans with guides such as Al, Gerald, or Joshua. This two-hour eco tour covers wildlife, plants, logging history, and the ghost town of Ruddock. Beginners are welcome, but expect steady arm exercise, strong sun, and changing wildlife sightings.

“First time kayaking and went with a group of 5, they all enjoyed it…as for me, NEVER AGAIN! Lol and not because the tour itself was “bad” I just realized I’m not a kayaking type of gal lol The tour guy was super fun and friendly and loved the experience! Thanks again for that Louisiana Hospitality.”

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4.Manchac Swamp Extended 4-Hour Kayak Tour with Pickup

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 29 reviews · 6 hours (approx.)

Set out from New Orleans at 10 a.m. for a four-hour paddle through Maurepas and Manchac Swamp. Guides such as Stephanie, Nick, and AJ bring local wildlife knowledge, while pickup, kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are included.

“This was a great time. Nice long and hot tour of the swamp. We were able to see alligators and other wildlife. Was casually guided so not like typical tours where you are forced into a small group. AJ did point out several interesting areas. Recommend that you are experienced and prepared for 4 hours on the water!”

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5.Manchac Swamp Wildlife Kayaking Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 8 reviews · 4 - 8 hours · from $84Best value

Paddle the Manchac and Maurepas swamps with an English-speaking guide, searching for alligators, turtles, owls, and other wetland life. Choose French Quarter pickup or meet at the launch site. Guides such as MJ and Stephanie add wildlife and local history to this calm, beginner-friendly outing.

“The tour was cancelled at the time of beginning, because of bad weather.”

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