March 19, 2022

CAJUN COUNTRY SWAMP TOUR

1209 Rookery Rd, Breaux Bridge, LA 70517

“Tours are conducted thru an area well known for its scenic beauty and wildlife with emphasis on natural history, geology and culture of the swamp.” – TripAdvisor

Having already explored some of Louisiana’s marsh areas and its wildlife on my own, I decided to take this 1.5-hour boat tour of the swamp/bayou area of Lake Martin not far from Lafayette.  There was nothing fancy about this tour.  After purchasing my ticket, I was directed to a public boat ramp and told to look for a canvas sign.  I arrived 15 minutes ahead of time, as directed, and waited near the sign with a few other people who I determined were also waiting for the tour.  Five minutes before the scheduled departure time a jon boat with about a dozen people pulled up to the dock and unloaded.  As soon as the boat was unloaded Captain Shawn welcomed the new group of tourists aboard, and we were off.  While not fancy, the seats on the boat were very comfortable. 

Captain Shawn steered the boat into the swamp area pointing out turtles, alligators, and birds.  He clearly understood what those of us on the tour were looking for and navigated the boat into position for us to get the best views.  I sat right in front of him with my camera and on more than one occasion he put the boat in a position so I could get good shots and then would idle in position until I had taken several photos.  He had a dry sense of humor, but was also quite knowledgeable, giving us a lot of information, and answering all of our questions.

I learned more about why alligators lay with their mouths open (gaping), it has to do with trying to maintain the best body temperature to allow their metabolism to work.  I also learned the difference between a swamp (a forest that floods) and a marsh (wet, grassy areas). 

This tour was worth every penny.  I would like to take it again in late fall or early winter to see more wild birds, but wasn’t disappointed on this trip.