New Orleans: French Quarter Voodoo Tour

When it comes to exploring New Orleans, the French Quarter Voodoo Tour offers a chance to go beyond the Hollywood stereotypes and uncover the real roots of this intriguing faith. For just $45 per person, this 2-hour experience promises a well-structured, informative journey into a tradition that has shaped the city’s identity for centuries. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy stories of history and culture, but also crave authentic, respectful insights rather than spooky clichés.

What we appreciate most about this tour is its focus on truth and education — you’ll learn about Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen, and about how Voodoo practices have survived through adversity. Plus, the small-group setting (with a maximum of 9 guests) ensures a more personal, less touristy experience.

One consideration is that the tour covers around a mile of walking and takes place rain or shine — so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a must. Also, with a dense, two-hour itinerary, it’s a somewhat intense dive into the subject matter, which might be less suitable for very young children or those craving a more relaxed pace.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want a respectful, well-rounded introduction to Voodoo’s history, culture, and symbols—providing insights that go far beyond the Hollywood images.

Key Points

• Authentic Content: Focuses on true history, culture, and beliefs behind Voodoo, not Hollywood stereotypes.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Marie Laveau and the impact of slavery on Voodoo practices.
• Visiting Shrines: Over a dozen authentic Voodoo shrines and altars are visited, giving a glimpse into actual spiritual sites.
• Small Group: Limited to 9 guests, ensuring personal attention and a more engaging experience.
• Educational Focus: The tour emphasizes the religion’s role in city life today, including misconceptions about spells and potions.
• Balanced Approach: Suitable for families and curious adults, with a focus on respectful learning rather than scare tactics.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the French Quarter Voodoo Tour

We’re always on the lookout for tours that offer more than just a superficial glance at local culture. This Voodoo experience in the French Quarter manages to do just that by emphasizing history, respect, and authenticity. It’s created by New Orleans Secrets tours, a provider with a 4.8 rating, which speaks to their commitment to quality and knowledgeable guides.

What to Expect at the Beginning

The tour starts at the New Orleans Playing Card Company at 532 Dumaine Street. Here, your guide, a licensed local with a passion for the subject, will introduce you to the basics of Voodoo, setting the tone for the two hours ahead. Because the tour is in English and small (max nine guests), you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and clarify misconceptions right from the start.

The Itinerary: Visiting Authentic Voodoo Shrines

One of the highlights is visiting more than a dozen shrines and altars scattered throughout the French Quarter. These aren’t tourist traps or kitschy displays; they are actual spiritual sites, some dedicated to Marie Laveau or other Voodoo spirits. These visits allow you to see firsthand how the religion manifests in physical spaces, giving you a tangible connection to the beliefs.

Each shrine has its own story, often intertwined with local legends, and your guide will explain their significance. The tour covers the impact of slavery on these practices, revealing how Voodoo became a form of resistance and spiritual identity for oppressed communities.

Busting Myths: Spells, Dolls, and Zombies

A common expectation is that Voodoo is about curses or zombies. This tour does a commendable job of dispelling those myths. Guides clarify that Voodoo dolls are not tools of harm but symbolic objects for prayer or focus. Similarly, stories of zombies are tied to spiritual possession and cultural lore rather than Hollywood-style mind control.

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Educational and Respectful

Throughout, the tone is respectful and educational. As a reviewer noted, “This isn’t scary — it’s enlightening, funny at times, and always respectful.” The guide’s storytelling makes complex topics accessible, especially as they relate to the survival of Voodoo in a modern city.

The Small Group Advantage

With a maximum of nine people, you’ll find the experience more intimate and tailored. Several reviews mention the personalized guidance and enthusiastic explanations, making complex ideas easier to grasp.

Practicalities and Value

At $45, the tour offers solid value. You get expert guidance, access to authentic sites, and a detailed history lesson — all in just two hours. Since transportation isn’t included, it’s best to meet at the starting point or plan your route accordingly. The tour is wheelchair accessible with advance notice, which is a plus for mobility-challenged travelers.

Weather and Comfort

The tour covers about a mile of walking, with periods of standing up to 15 minutes. Weather can be unpredictable, so bring an umbrella or poncho. The tour runs rain or shine, which means if you’re visiting during a wetter season, extra caution and proper gear will keep the experience enjoyable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re interested in history, religion, and authentic cultural practices, this tour is a winner. Families with older children will find the content appropriate and engaging. It’s especially good for those tired of superficial tours or wanting a deeper understanding of New Orleans’ spiritual landscape.

Who Might Not Enjoy It as Much?

Because of its dense informational content, very young children might find it too long or intense, and those seeking a spooky, theatrical experience may be disappointed. Also, if you prefer a relaxed pace or a focus on entertainment rather than education, this may not be your ideal choice.

Final Thoughts

This French Quarter Voodoo Tour offers a rare opportunity to see the religion in its real context — not as a Hollywood spectacle, but as a living tradition that has shaped New Orleans’ history and culture. It strikes a great balance between educational depth and respectful storytelling, making it a perfect choice for curious travelers who want to understand the true essence of Voodoo.

Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone interested in authentic New Orleans culture, this tour delivers insights that will stay with you long after you leave the city’s lively streets.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour welcomes children, and all information presented is appropriate for a younger audience. However, due to the length and density of content, very young children may not find it as engaging.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering about a mile of walking and several stops at shrines.

Where does the tour meet?
It begins at the New Orleans Playing Card Company, 532 Dumaine Street in the French Quarter.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. You should plan to meet at the starting point or arrange your own transportation.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, with advance notice, the tour is wheelchair friendly.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Bringing an umbrella or poncho is wise in case of rain.

What is the group size?
Limited to a maximum of nine participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Payment is flexible — you can reserve now and pay later.

Are there any hidden costs?
Not usually; the price covers the guided tour and access to the shrines. Gratuities for your guide are not included but appreciated.

What makes this tour different from other New Orleans experiences?
It focuses on authentic history and cultural practices rather than entertainment or ghost stories, offering a respectful, enlightening perspective on Voodoo.

Is the tour in English only?
Yes, the guide provides explanations in English.

You can check availability for your dates here: