Private French Quarter, Voodoo, and Congo Square Walking Tour

The Private French Quarter, Voodoo, and Congo Square Walking Tour invites visitors to enjoy the rich cultural tapestry of New Orleans. Guided by knowledgeable locals, small groups can uncover the city’s fascinating past, from the distinctive architecture of the French Quarter to the legendary Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Explore the significance of Congo Square as a historic gathering place, where the rhythms of the past still echo. With engaging narratives and vibrant visuals, this tour promises a unique and captivating introduction to the city’s cultural heritage. But what secrets and stories might these hallowed streets hold?

Good To Know

• Immersive 2-hour walking tour exploring the history, culture, and architecture of New Orleans’ French Quarter, Voodoo sites, and Congo Square.
• Guided by a professional expert with a focus on the influential figures and traditions that shaped the city’s unique heritage.
• Opportunity to visit Voodoo shops, learn about the significance of Marie Laveau, and discover the cultural impact of Congo Square.
• Suitable for groups of up to 16 travelers with a moderate fitness level, not wheelchair accessible.
• Highly recommended by past participants for its engaging content and ability to provide an authentic New Orleans experience.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Private French Quarter, Voodoo, and Congo Square Walking Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of New Orleans’ rich history and cultural heritage.

This private walking tour guides guests through the French Quarter, revealing the captivating stories of voodoo and the life of Marie Laveau. Travelers will visit renowned voodoo shops and gain insights into the area’s distinctive architecture and past.

The tour also includes a visit to the historic Congo Square, where enslaved Africans once gathered to preserve their cultural traditions.

With highly knowledgeable guides and a 98% traveler recommendation rate, this 2-hour tour provides an immersive and engaging experience for anyone interested in New Orleans’ unique history and voodoo practices.

Tour Details

What makes this tour a private experience is the professional guide who leads groups of up to 16 travelers. The meeting point is at 311 Exchange Pl, New Orleans, LA, and the tour concludes near Jackson Square in the French Quarter. At $350 per group (up to 15 people), this 2-hour walking tour offers excellent value with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Gratuities	Food and drinks
Shopping stops	Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water recommendation

Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour is not suitable for those with serious medical conditions. Weather precautions are advised, especially during the summer months.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This walking tour includes gratuities, scheduled shopping stops, and a bottled water recommendation for participants.

However, it excludes food and drink as well as hotel pickup and drop-off.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Participants should also be aware that no cemetery visits are included in this experience.

• Gratuities are covered.
• Scheduled shopping stops are part of the tour.
• A bottled water recommendation is provided.

Health and Safety Information

Within 48 hours of booking, travelers will receive confirmation of their tour, subject to availability.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour involves walking through the French Quarter. The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with serious medical conditions.

Visitors should plan for potential weather precautions, especially during the hot summer months in New Orleans. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Exploring the French Quarter

Visitors exploring the French Quarter on this private walking tour will discover the neighborhood’s rich history and diverse cultural influences. The guide will lead guests through the charming streets, pointing out architectural details and sharing stories of the area’s storied past.

Key highlights include:

• Admiring the striking cast-iron balconies and colorful buildings that line the picturesque streets
• Learning about the French, Spanish, and Creole influences that have shaped the French Quarter’s unique character
• Strolling through Jackson Square, a vibrant public space surrounded by historic landmarks like St. Louis Cathedral

The tour provides an immersive experience, blending historical insights with visually captivating elements to bring the French Quarter to life.

Discovering Voodoo History

Voodoo’s captivating history takes center stage as the tour winds through the French Quarter. Guests are guided through the life and legacy of Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen of New Orleans.

They’ll explore the city’s Voodoo shops, learning about the rituals and practices that have intrigued visitors for generations. The tour delves into the cultural and spiritual significance of Voodoo, dispelling myths and providing an authentic understanding of this often-misunderstood tradition.

Along the way, the guide shares insights into the French Quarter’s architecture and its role in shaping the city’s unique Voodoo heritage. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the mystical world that has long captivated the imaginations of those drawn to New Orleans.

Visiting Congo Square

As the tour delves deeper into the French Quarter, the group moves towards the historic Congo Square. This famed public plaza holds a special place in New Orleans’ cultural legacy, serving as a gathering place for enslaved Africans during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Visitors can expect to:

• Explore the significance of Congo Square as a hub for traditional African dances, music, and community
• Learn about the lasting influence of these cultural practices on the development of jazz, blues, and other musical genres
• Gain insight into the resilience and ingenuity of the enslaved people who found solace and expression in this sacred space.

The guide’s commentary brings the rich history of Congo Square to life, offering a poignant window into New Orleans’ complex past.

Reviews and Recommendations

A wealth of positive reviews from past participants underscores the tour’s popularity, with an impressive 5.0 rating based on 48 reviews.

Travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides and engaging content, praising the tour’s ability to provide an immersive exploration of New Orleans’ history and voodoo culture.

Whether you’re interested in the French Quarter’s architecture, Marie Laveau’s legacy, or the significance of Congo Square, this private walking tour receives universal acclaim from those who’ve experienced it.

Recommended for anyone seeking an authentic and enlightening introduction to the city’s rich heritage, the tour is a must-do for visitors seeking to explore New Orleans’ captivating past.

Things To Known

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Guests are generally allowed to take photos during the tour, but they should be mindful of any restrictions or guidance provided by the tour guide. It’s best to check with the guide before extensively photographing certain sites or areas.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration, which is fixed at the listed time. However, guests can inquire with the tour provider about the possibility of a private extended tour for an additional fee.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so you’ll need to bring your own water and snacks. However, the guide will provide a recommendation for bottled water during the tour.

Is the Tour Offered in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is offered in English only. Multilingual options are not available for this private walking tour. Guests should plan to have their own water and snacks, as they are not provided as part of the tour.

Can I Request a Customized Tour Itinerary?

Customers can request a customized tour itinerary, though it’s subject to the tour operator’s approval. The tour company aims to accommodate special requests whenever possible to provide a personalized experience for their guests.

Sum Up

The Private French Quarter, Voodoo, and Congo Square Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage and history. Led by knowledgeable guides, travelers can discover the distinctive architecture, learn about the legendary Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, and explore the significance of Congo Square. With engaging narratives and vibrant visuals, this tour provides a unique introduction to the city’s fascinating past.