Climb aboard a flat-bottomed airboat and prepare for an exploration of the swamps and bayous just south of New Orleans. Experience some of the most beautiful and secluded areas of Louisiana while catching glimpses of alligators, turtles, and birds.

Your tour departs from the heart of the French Quarter within walking distance to most downtown New Orleans hotels. Once at your conveniently located departure point, board a comfortable air conditioned motor coach for a short drive to the swamps and bayous of Louisiana.

Set out on a 20,000-acre (8,095-ha) track of tidewater cypress swamp close to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. Your boat is powered by an aircraft propeller to allow a fast, fluid trip through the shallow marshes. Feel the wind on your face as you zip into bayous lined with mossy cypress and tupelo-gum trees as your pilot points out a stunning variety of wildlife.

Prepare to see plenty of alligators in the warmer months (and warmer days in winter) and your guide may even feed the gators, affording you amazing photo opportunities. As you zigzag through the soggy wetlands, keep your eyes open for turtles, snakes, egrets, herons, and ibis. You may even catch sight of a hawk, owl, or bald eagle. In the cooler months, look for white-tailed deer, raccoons, and the large rodents known as nutria.

Tour duration is 3.75 hours.