True Voodoo History of NOLA's Congo Square with Local Guide

New Orleans , United States

True Voodoo History of NOLA's Congo Square with Local Guide

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About this experience

Voodoo has long reigned in New Orleans legends, folklore, and history. It is shrouded in mystery and secrecy and often misrepresented in popular culture.

Spirituality was hidden among the enslaved persons of the 1700s, popularized and commercialized by the famous Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau in the 19th century, and still functions as a valid religion in the modern-day city.

Explore the vibrant heart of Congo Square, where enslaved Africans once gathered to practice their cultural rituals and music, laying the foundation for the city’s rich Voodoo traditions.

Discover the life and legends of Marie Laveau, the most famous Voodoo practitioner in history.

Voodoo Dolls, Vevers, and Gris-Gris Bags: Get hands-on with Voodoo artifacts, learning about dolls, vevers, and gris-gris bags, and learn their meanings and uses.

Voodoo Authentica and other modern temples: End the tour outside contemporary Voodoo temples, including Voodoo Authentica, to witness modern practices and rituals.

Available options

True Voodoo History of NOLA's Congo Square with Local Guide

What's included

Walking Tour of Congo Square & French Quarter focused on Voodoo Culture and History

Traditional music and celebration

Professional Tour Guide

A look into the unique Voodoo culture of New Orleans & Southeast Louisiana

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

The tour takes you to Congo Square in Armstrong Park. Guests will visit the traditional location for Voodoo traditions and gatherings for 100's of years.

Stop 2 Pass by

Explore the vibrant heart of New Orleans, where enslaved Africans once gathered to practice their cultural rituals and music, laying the foundation for the city’s rich Voodoo traditions.

Discover the life and legends of Marie Laveau, the most famous Voodoo practitioner in history. Due to new security regulations by the Archdiocese of New Orleans pilgrimages, this tour does not visit St. Louis #1 Cemetery. Offerings to Marie Laveau's tomb are discouraged.

A small and teeming network of laissez-faire living lounged out on the balmy banks of the Mighty Mississippi, the French Quarter has long been a port of call for folks in search of a good time and a great story.

Stop 5

We end outside the Voodoo Authentica of New Orleans Cultural Center and Collections. You will have as much time as you'd like to explore after the tour. This is not only a shop, but also a temple and educational space. Everyone working here is a practitioner of Voodoo, and everything in the shop (save the African and Haitian art pieces) are made by local practitioners.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

11 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

118 reviews

5★

116

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour begins at the Archway to Armstrong Park on Rampart Street.

About New Orleans

New Orleans is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and unique Creole and Cajun cuisine. It's famous for its annual Mardi Gras festival, historic French Quarter, and the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street.

Top Attractions

French Quarter

The heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter is known for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and cultural landmarks.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions vary

Garden District

A picturesque neighborhood known for its antebellum mansions, oak-lined streets, and historic cemeteries.

Historical Half day Free to explore, tours available

National WWII Museum

A world-class museum dedicated to the history of World War II, featuring immersive exhibits and personal stories.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to expensive

City Park

A vast urban park featuring lush gardens, walking paths, and cultural attractions.

Nature Half day Free to enter, attractions vary

Frenchmen Street

A lively street known for its live music venues, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife.

Entertainment Evening Varies by venue

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gumbo

A rich and flavorful stew made with a dark roux, meat or seafood, and the 'holy trinity' of vegetables (onions, bell peppers, and celery).

Main Course Can be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood, and may contain gluten and dairy.

Jambalaya

A one-pot dish made with rice, meat or seafood, and the 'holy trinity' of vegetables, seasoned with a variety of spices.

Main Course Can be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood, and may contain gluten and dairy.

Beignets

A deep-fried pastry dusted with powdered sugar, often served with café au lait.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy.

Po' Boy

A classic New Orleans sandwich made with French bread, filled with fried seafood, meat, or vegetables, and topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo.

Sandwich Can be made with various fillings, and may contain gluten and dairy.

Popular Activities

Swamp tours Kayaking Biking Spa treatments Park picnics Café hopping Museum visits Historic site tours

Best Time to Visit

February to April

This is the best time to visit New Orleans, with pleasant weather and major events like Mardi Gras. The city is lively, but also more crowded and expensive.

15-25°C 60-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: French, Spanish, Vietnamese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

New Orleans is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis and rideshare services
• Be cautious of strangers offering services or assistance

Getting there

By air

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport • 15 miles (24 km) from downtown

By train

New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station, Megabus Stop

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city, but can be slow due to traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

French Quarter Garden District Warehouse District Faubourg Marigny Mid-City

Day trips

Plantation Country

30-40 miles (48-64 km) • Full day

Explore the historic plantations of Louisiana, with tours and exhibits showcasing the region's complex history.

Swamp and Bayou Tours

30-50 miles (48-80 km) • Half day to full day

Take a boat tour through the Louisiana swamps and bayous, with opportunities to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.

Baton Rouge

80 miles (129 km) • Full day

Explore the capital of Louisiana, with its historic sites, museums, and universities.

Festivals

Mardi Gras • February or March (varies by year) Jazz & Heritage Festival • Late April to early May (two weekends) French Quarter Festival • April (four days)

Pro tips

Visit during the off-peak season for fewer crowds and lower prices
Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions
Try local cuisine and support local businesses and restaurants
Use public transportation, such as buses and streetcars, to get around the city and save money
Be cautious of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes