Explore with Viking—United States

Explore the teeming ecosystems and hear the lore of Louisiana’s bayou country on a boat tour of Manchac Swamp. Your covered swamp boat will set out from Frenier, a Cajun town set on an isthmus between Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurepas. As you cruise with a knowledgeable guide, you will learn about the natural history of the Manchac Swamp and the diverse wildlife that thrives in these dense, beautiful wetlands. Please note that many of the creatures—alligators, turtles, raccoon, wild boar and more—are unafraid of humans and may approach the boat. You will also gain insight into the dramatic history of Frenier, which was devastated by a hurricane in 1915—an incident that expanded the town’s already deep canon of Cajun folk myths and legends.

Sail through the Atchafalaya Swamp by airboat in search of wildlife and native flora. This 1.4-million-acre wilderness of majestic cypress and tupelo-covered swampland is home to hundreds of plant, bird, fish and reptile species. With nutrient-rich water flowing in from the Mississippi, the Atchafalaya supports half of America’s migratory waterfowl and is an important habitat for neotropical migratory birds and other avian species of the Mississippi Flyway. Your captains will navigate to specific places that have a high probability of alligator sightings, and you will also have the chance to see the beavers, otters, owls, bald eagles, egrets, ospreys and turtles who frequent the area.

Savor a meal of Southern-inspired soul food and enjoy an inspiring Privileged Access a cappella gospel performance. Travel to the Dunleith Historic Inn, a National Historic Landmark and Mississippi’s last remaining pre-Civil War mansion. At The Castle Restaurant, located in the estate’s original 18th-century carriage house, indulge in classic Southern dishes, such as fried chicken, black-eye peas, okra, biscuits and more, accompanied by a glass of regional muscadine wine. Appetite sated, board your motor coach for a panoramic tour around Natchez, stopping at the solemn Forks of the Road, a former auction site for enslaved persons. Gain insight into the African American experience through exhibits and sculptures. Afterward, head to the Zion Church to learn about the evolution of African American music in the South, then enjoy an a cappella rendition of gospel music by a local singer.

Stroll the charming streets of historic Vicksburg and explore the city’s stately homes. Begin your tour at Christ Episcopal Church, built in 1846, and admire its towering pinnacles and four Tiffany windows. Inside, a church rector will recount the history of the church and its relation to the Civil War. From here, discover the surrounding neighborhood and learn about its grand architecture during a guided walk. Depending on availability, you will visit the nearby Wahl-Schaffer Cottages—each featuring a distinctive architectural style—and then embark on a short trip to the Martha Vick House, which was built during the 1800s. After gaining valuable insights into Vicksburg’s past, you may stay in town for further exploration or return to your ship.

Gain insights into Cajun culture with Privileged Access to the Rural Life Museum of Louisiana State University. Listen to folktales, sample Cajun cuisine and enjoy music and dance performances, including traditional Cajun dances. With more than 30 historic buildings, the museum complex opens a window into the lifestyle of 18th- and 19th-century rural Louisianans—a blend of French, Spanish, Native American, African, German and British influences. Learn about their history and observe artisan demonstrations as you explore the museum’s three main areas: the Exhibit Barn, filled with artifacts; the Plantation Quarters, featuring a blacksmith shop, sick house, sugarhouse, grist mill and cabins; and the Louisiana Folk Architecture, a collection of various rural houses.