Alligators Up Close: Louisiana Swamp Tours

If you want to add unique wildlife sightings to your Cajun Country excursion, the bayous, swamps, and rivers of south Louisiana's wetlands present a tantalizingly unfamiliar landscape to many visitors, and the best way to get acquainted is by boat. Most tour operators use airboats or pontoon boats, but—depending on the size of the group—a bass boat might be used. Anticipate one to two hours on the water, with prices generally around $20 per person. Expect to see nutria, members of the rodent family that resemble beavers in appearance and size; egrets, white, long-necked herons with flowing feathers; turtles; and the occasional snake. During the warmer months, alligator sightings are common. Many of the guides use either chicken or marshmallows to attract them. In the summer months be prepared for the heat and humidity—and don't forget insect repellent and a hat.

Cajun Country Swamp Tours. Tours are frequently led by guide Walter "Butch" Guchereau, who was born, raised, and still lives on the banks of Bayou Teche in Breaux Bridge. An experienced outdoorsman with a degree in zoology and biology, Guchereau uses Cajun crawfish skiffs for his tours to make them environmentally unobtrusive. His son Shawn also leads tours. 1209 Rookery Rd., Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, 70517. 337/319–0010; www.cajuncountryswamptours.com. $20. Tours daily.

McGee's Louisiana Swamp & Airboat Tours. Boats take passengers out daily for 90-minute tours of the Atchafalaya Basin. Tour times are contingent upon the presence of at least four passengers. McGee's is a 25-minute drive east of Lafayette. The company also organizes canoe and airboat trips, sunset tours, and photography excursions. 1337 Henderson Levee Rd., Henderson, Louisiana, 70517. 337/228–2384; www.mcgeesswamptours.com. From $30. Tours daily at 10, 1, and 3 (additional tour at 5 during daylight saving time); airboat tours 9, 11, 2, and 4 daily.