Jean Lafitte Park Adventure
Discover the fascinating wildlife of Jean Lafitte Park. Encounter alligators and other swamp inhabitants in an unforgettable tour with American Butler.
Excursions in the USA
Jean Lafitte Park Adventure
The mysterious world of the Jean Lafitte Park
In the heart of the swamps
In the heart of the swamps
- Embark on a journey to the enigmatic swamps with American Butler and discover the wonders of the Jean Lafitte Preserve. By booking a tour, you will immerse yourself in a unique world of wilderness, where thrilling discoveries await you at every turn.
- Your adventure will begin with a comfortable trip to the heart of the preserve, where you can explore the rich and diverse world of local flora and fauna. You will see majestic alligators swimming among the verdant marshes and hear the unique sounds of wildlife, creating an incomparable atmosphere of this place.
- The Jean Lafitte Preserve tour will not only allow you to observe alligators but also to learn many new and interesting facts about the life of these ancient reptiles. Experienced guides from American Butler will share stories and facts about the swamp ecosystem, its inhabitants, and their role in nature.
- Don't miss the chance to be part of this incredible adventure. Book your excursion with American Butler today and prepare for unforgettable experiences in the Jean Lafitte Preserve!
Traveling around the reserve
Traveling around the reserve
- The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve spans the entire southern part of Louisiana. In Jean Lafitte's time, chests filled with pirate treasures of gold and silver were common, but today's treasures are the memories, places, and people of the region.
- Visitors to the National Historical Park and Preserve have the opportunity to learn about the Cajun traditions from the people for whom they are a part of everyday life. You'll spot alligators along the banks of the bayou, get acquainted with the site of the Battle of New Orleans in 1815, and discover other historical events.
- Experience the timeless beauty of Southern Louisiana aboard a specially designed swamp boat as you navigate through parts of the Jean Lafitte Preserve. Local guides will reveal the mysteries of the swamp and its Cajun inhabitants. They will also unveil the greatest mystery of all — in whose honor the preserve was named.
Baratarian Reserve
Baratarian Reserve
- If you're keen on witnessing wildlife from a walking trail, head to the Barataria Preserve in the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park. An extensive network of pathways allows you to get up close with alligators, herons, turtles, raccoons, snakes, and other animals in their natural habitat.
- The highlight is the airboat tour to see alligators. An airboat is a lightweight fiberglass vessel designed to prevent harm to the swimming gators. Unlike other animals, alligators show the most active interest and will swim right up to your boat. They certainly won't eat anyone as they'll soon realize the boat isn't edible — but you'll be charged with emotions for a year ahead.
- The preserve offers a walk through the wetlands every morning from Wednesday to Sunday. It's a trek along a trail to the boardwalk, winding through the wild swamps of Louisiana. Visitors can find out which trail the walk will take at the visitor center.
Battlefield of Chalmette
Battlefield of Chalmette
- This site marks the location of the Battle of New Orleans on January 8, 1815. The battle was the last of the War of 1812, and many believe it was unnecessary as the treaty to end the war had been signed in late 1811. However, the resounding American victory soon symbolized a new idea – that America's democracy had triumphed over the old ideas of European aristocracy.
- Another feature of the battlefield is the Chalmette Monument, a 100-foot obelisk erected to honor the fallen soldiers. The monument is open to visitors only on Fridays and Saturdays. Ascend the 122 steps, and you reach the observation deck atop the obelisk.
- The visitor center houses exhibits and films detailing the War of 1812. A map showing troop movements during the battle helps visitors orient themselves on their self-guided tours.
History of the park
History of the park
- Jean Lafitte remains an enigmatic figure, with a life shrouded in myths and legends. Was he a pirate or a patriot? History has not provided a clear answer. Even his birthplace and date are uncertain, with speculations ranging from France to the Caribbean in the early 1780s. What's known is that by 1810, Lafitte and his brother found themselves in Louisiana.
- In 1807, when the US imposed an embargo on trade with Britain and France amid the Napoleonic Wars, New Orleans felt a severe shortage of goods. It was then that Jean Lafitte entered the scene, orchestrating the smuggling of slaves from Africa into Louisiana, despite legislative prohibitions. His men were dubbed "Baratarians," after the Barataria region where their smuggling paths lay.
Lafitte's image transformed from a pirate to a patriot during the War of 1812 between Britain and the USA. In 1814, Lafitte received an offer from the British to collaborate against the USA but instead chose to warn the American command and supply them with weapons in exchange for amnesty for his men. Initially referring to Lafitte as a "hellish bandit," General Andrew Jackson eventually accepted his help, contributing to the victory in the Battle of New Orleans.
In 1966, a state park was established in Louisiana on the current site of the Barataria Preserve, named after Jean Lafitte due to his smuggling activities in the area. The park's purpose is to preserve the natural and cultural riches of the Mississippi Delta. In 1978, Congress established the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, highlighting his significance in the region's history.
Cost and Terms
Cost and Terms
- $290 for a group of up to 3 people;
- An additional $60 for each extra participant.
- 3-4 hours, including travel time from New Orleans, considering possible traffic. Each additional hour of the tour is $60.
- Entrance fees for museums and other paid activities for the guide are paid separately.
- Tips are at your discretion and are not obligatory.
