Boat tour of the Manchac Swamp, including a stretch of cypress forest and ghost trees left by saltwater intrusion.
The Manchac Swamp boat tour is a guided swamp excursion departing from Frenier Landing in LaPlace, Louisiana, about 35 miles (56 km) west of New Orleans and roughly 40 minutes by car. Cajun Pride Swamp Tours operates the two-hour outing across the Manchac wetlands, a large cypress and tupelo swamp lying between Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurepas. The area is known for its eerie ghost forests, stands of dead cypress trees killed when saltwater intrusion and altered water flow changed the swamp's chemistry. These pale, bare trunks rising from still water are among the most photographed sights in southeast Louisiana.
The activity is a seated boat ride, so there are no real fitness or skill prerequisites. Visitors need only be able to board a small vessel and tolerate heat, humidity and insects. Families regularly join, though the operator should be asked about age policies and child life jackets. The boat travels slowly through narrow channels and open water, while the guide narrates the history of the swamp, the logging era that removed original cypress, and the plants and animals living there. Alligators, wading birds such as egrets and herons, turtles and occasionally feral hogs or raccoons may be seen.
No equipment needs to be hired. Visitors typically bring closed-toe shoes, insect repellent and sun protection, plus water and a camera. Life jackets are normally carried on board, and the guide gives a short safety talk before leaving the dock. The route stays within a few miles of the landing, so rescue or return to shore is by boat back to Frenier Landing or by emergency services reaching the nearby landing; details of the operator's emergency plan can be requested when booking.
Prices are roughly US$30-35 per adult without transport, with hotel pickup costing more, and current rates should be confirmed. The tour operates year-round, but spring and autumn are generally the mildest seasons, with comfortable temperatures and active wildlife. Summer is hot, humid and buggy, while winter can be cool and windy on the water. Storms and hurricane season, from June to November, may lead to cancellations, so flexibility in the itinerary is useful.
| Price | Roughly $30-35 (US$30-35) per adult without transport; hotel pickup costs more; confirm current rates |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Season | Year-round; spring and fall are mildest |
| Address | Frenier Landing, LaPlace, LA 70068 |
Activity facts
- Where
- LaPlace
Equipment
- Closed-toe shoes
- Insect repellent
- Sun protection
Location
Frenier Landing, LaPlace, LA 70068
30.0990, -90.4820 View on map
Highlights
- See the ghost forests of dead cypress trees in the Manchac Swamp
- Travel narrow channels between Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurepas
- Watch for alligators, egrets, herons and turtles
- Two-hour guided tour about 40 minutes from New Orleans
Tips for visiting
- Confirm the departure time and weather policy the day before driving out.
- Wear closed-toe shoes and long sleeves or repellent to handle mosquitoes.
- Spring and autumn offer the mildest conditions on the water.
- Pack water, sun protection and a camera for the ghost-tree scenery.
- Hotel pickup costs extra, so self-driving is the cheaper option.
- Allow about three and a half hours total including the drive.
When to visit
Spring and autumn are the mildest seasons. Avoid summer afternoon thunderstorms, and expect cooler wind on winter mornings.
Accessibility
Boarding a small tour boat from a landing involves steps or a gap, which may be hard for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. Visitors should ask the operator about assistance before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the ghost trees at Manchac?
They are dead cypress trees that were killed when saltwater intrusion and changes in water flow altered the swamp. Their bare, pale trunks standing in the water make for dramatic scenery.
How far is Manchac from New Orleans?
Frenier Landing in LaPlace is about 35 miles (56 km) west of New Orleans, roughly 40 minutes by car.
How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts about two hours on the water. Total time away from the city is closer to three and a half hours with driving.
What should visitors bring?
Closed-toe shoes, insect repellent, sun protection, water and a camera are the usual items. Life jackets are normally provided on the boat.