Atchafalaya Swamp, Louisiana, USA – Explore this place known worldwide for its lush beauty and breathtaking wildlife. Among towering trees and dark but bright waters, it is the largest river swamp in North America. So, get ready to live an unparalleled experience sailing through its waters and admiring the amazing nature.
Activity/Places Highlight
Air Boat Tour
In this amazing labyrinth of several connected swamps, you can take an unforgettable boat or airboat ride. It is a fun tour guided by extraordinary guides, who will tell you the story and learn about the great local heritage that is this place. You will have the opportunity to admire the crocodiles from very close.
It’s an incredible experience, from the moment you make the reservation until the end of the trip of approximately 1 hour and a half. The guides are characterized by always being very attentive and pleasant. Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the swamp with your partner, family or friends. Without a doubt, it is worth the time and money to live this amazing journey.
Houseboat Rental
One of the best ways to live a unique experience in this amazing water park is to rent a houseboat. This will be towed in a quiet and beautiful corner of the swamp, but don’t worry, you will still enjoy all the comforts of home. It is impossible that you lose your sight from the porch, while the sun rises and you listen to the thousands of sounds of the swamp.
Biodiversity of Animal and Plant Life
Within this natural wonder, between its dark waters and its dense forests, you can find a great diversity of creatures and plants. Some of these animals and plants are so rare or uncommon that they can only be seen very closely. However, for some species it is better to be careful, only authorized personnel can approach.
The birds are a show; Herons and egrets sway on the water’s edge at dawn. Also, you can admire alligators on the shores in full sunlight.
Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival
This is a great event that takes place in Louisiana in May of each year. It started since Louisiana’s legislation named the Breaux Bridge as the World Capital of the Crab. This festival is now known both in the country and throughout the world. Thousands of people approach each year to enjoy good food, dances and Cajun and Creole music. Several travelers take advantage of this trip to stroll through the Atchafalaya Swamp.
How to get there
The swamp is located in the heart of Cajun Country, near Lafayette, Louisiana, and is 32 kilometers wide and 241 kilometers long. The nearest airport is Harry P. Williams Memorial Airport (PTN), 1 hour and 50 minutes by car. You can reach the swamp on Interstate 10. Most boat trips through the swamp depart from one of the landings on Lake Henderson, just outside the city of Henderson.
When to go
In late spring and early summer, water is high and wildlife is more active, temperatures are moderate and there is the greatest profusion of wildflowers in bloom.
How long
If you go in passing, you can simply take a day trip and admire the unique and beautiful nature of the swamp. However, you can also choose to stay one night and thus enjoy the boathouse experience and wake up among the sounds of nature.
Opening and Closing Hours
The opening hours will depend on the tour you hire. Normally the tours start at 7 am and end at 5 pm.
Planning
First, make sure you have booked your plane ticket. If you plan to spend the night in the swamp, don’t forget to call ahead to rent your boathouse. Rentals are available through Houseboat Adventures; Boat trips through the Atchafalaya are available through McGee’s Landing.
Inside Information
Crocodiles and snakes abound in the swamp, but they are lonely and generally non-aggressive unless provoked. Mosquitoes are relatively rare during the day, but they can be abundant after dark; Bring a strong repellent if you plan night outings. Do not forget your comfortable clothes.
History
The Mississippi River has been changing its path on different occasions in the last 10 thousand years. Currently, the Atchafalaya river mail in the middle of this flood of the Mississippi, in addition, was likely to become the main channel, if not for the control structure of the river. Many years ago, the bottom of the Atchafalaya River became smaller after it joined the Mississippi in the fifteenth century. In the 19th century, this part was blocked by a huge log raft.
Websites
- www.houseboat-adventures.com/index.htm
- www.mcgeeslanding.com
- www.cafedesamis.com
- www.lafayette.travel
Other nearby attractions
French quarter
In New Orleans, Louisiana, you can walk and relax among its streets. One of the most visited places in the French Quarter, a beautiful area full of cheerful nightclubs, restaurants, some antique stores, and good street jazz music. In addition, it is said that the French Quarter has the oldest bar in the country. This area is fun, cheerful, lively and varied. Without a doubt, you should take a look.
Spain Square
If you want a quieter and more relaxing option, you can walk through the Plaza de España in New Orleans, admire the banks inlaid with tiles and representations of each shield of the provinces of Spain. Take a seat and feel the breeze, admire the water currents of the Mississippi River while waiting for the ferry that will give you a ride on the river. This is a natural, open and spacious place.
Alexandria
Right in the heart of Louisiana, Alexandria has a great natural heritage that will keep you attentive to all its beauty. Among its amazing swamps, marshes, and wildlife, like pumas and lizards, this place gives you a unique experience. In addition, you also have the opportunity to visit the beaches, go hiking and camping.
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