Avery Island Experience- Tabasco & Jungle Gardens Self-guided tour

Louisiana , USA

Avery Island Experience- Tabasco & Jungle Gardens Self-guided tour

Active

(289 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Where is TABASCO® sauce made? With this Avery Island Experience, find out how The McIlhenny family has made TABASCO® Sauce on Avery Island, Louisiana for over 5 generations. Built on a salt dome, it is a mysteriously beautiful place where the red peppers grow, the factory hums, and abundant wildlife can be seen in the Jungle Gardens. Explore the 10 stop tour that takes you from seed to sauce, get a full tasting at the tasting bar in the TABASCO® Country store, light your taste buds up with authentic Cajun dishes and a Bloody Mary in Restaurant 1868, and explore the ancient oaks and admire the wildlife on a 14 stop tour in Jungle Gardens.

Available options

Avery Island Experience- Tabasco & Jungle Gardens Self-guided tour

What's included

complimentary Mini TABASCO Bottle

Detailed itinerary

Where is TABASCO® Sauce made? The McIlhenny family has made TABASCO® Sauce on Avery Island, Louisiana for over 5 generations. Built on a salt dome, it's a mysteriously beautiful place where the red peppers grow, the factory hums, and abundant wildlife can be seen in Jungle Gardens. Spend the day learning about how our famous sauce got its start in 1868, discover the process from seed to sauce, feed your soul with authentic Cajun dishes in Restaurant 1868!, shop for those hard to find sauces and TABASCO gear in our country Store and explore Jungle Gardens, a 170-acre wildlife and botanical garden.

The Tabasco Factory tour is a 10 stop tour that takes you from seed to sauce.

Stop 1: the Museum

Stop 2: Green House replica

Stop3: Barreling and pepper mash warehouse viewing

Stop 4: Blending

Stop5: About Avery Island

Stop6: Salt mine replica

Stop7: Bottling line viewing

Stop 8 : Tabasco today

Stop 9: the Tabasco Country store and sample bar tastings

Stop 10: Restaurant 1868!

Jungle Gardens is a 14 stop tour that makes a 3 mile loop that you may drive, hike, bike, or walk.

Stop 1: Giant oak trees

Stop 2: Bayou petit Anse/Marsh trail

Stop 3: Alligators

Stop 4: Boat House

Stop 5: Venetian Gardens

Stop 6: Cleveland Oak

Stop 7: Holly Hedge

Stop 8: Buddha temple

Stop 9: Wisteria Arch

Stop 10: Palm Gardens

Stop 11: Bird city

Stop 12: timber Bamboo

Stop 13: sunken Gardens

Stop 14: Camellia Nursery

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

EN FR

Written guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

12 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

277 reviews

5★

224

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The audio guide is available only on the Jungle Gardens Tour.

Meeting point

Visitors will check in at the Tabasco Visitor Center ticketing booth located at stop 1, the museum. There Is free parking available.

Important notes

Check in at the Visitor Center

About Louisiana

Louisiana is a vibrant state in the southern region of the United States, known for its unique blend of French, Spanish, and African cultures. From the bustling streets of New Orleans to the serene bayous of the countryside, Louisiana offers a rich tapestry of history, music, and cuisine that captivates visitors from around the world.

Top Attractions

French Quarter

The historic heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter is famous for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and cultural landmarks like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral.

Historical/Cultural Half day to full day Free to Moderate

Garden District

Known for its well-preserved Southern mansions and lush gardens, the Garden District offers a glimpse into the city's wealthy past.

Historical/Architectural Half day Free to Moderate

Louisiana Swamp Tours

Explore the unique ecosystem of the Louisiana bayous on a guided swamp tour. See alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Nature/Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate

National WWII Museum

One of the top-rated museums in the U.S., this museum offers an immersive and comprehensive look at the history and impact of World War II.

Historical/Museum Half day to full day Moderate to Expensive

Plantation Tours

Visit historic plantations like Oak Alley, Laura, and Evergreen to learn about the state's complex history of slavery and plantation life.

Historical/Cultural Half day to full day Moderate to Expensive

Boudreaux's Cajun Swamp Tour

Experience the unique ecosystem of the Louisiana bayous on a guided swamp tour. See alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Nature/Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gumbo

A hearty stew made with a dark roux, okra, and a variety of meats, often served over rice.

Main Course Contains gluten (roux), can be made vegetarian

Jambalaya

A one-pot dish similar to paella, made with rice, vegetables, and a mix of meats, often spiced with Cajun seasonings.

Main Course Contains gluten (often made with andouille sausage), can be made vegetarian

Crawfish Boil

A traditional Cajun dish where crawfish are boiled with spices, corn, potatoes, and sausage.

Main Course Contains shellfish, can be made without sausage for vegetarians

Beignets

Deep-fried doughnuts covered in powdered sugar, a classic New Orleans treat.

Dessert Contains gluten, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Swamp tours Hiking Kayaking Beach visits Spas Garden strolls Museum visits Historical tours

Best Time to Visit

February to April, October to November

These periods offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. The weather is comfortable, and the state hosts numerous events during these months.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

CST (GMT-6) or CDT (GMT-5) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with some areas to be cautious in

Louisiana is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in crowded tourist areas and at night. Petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, so it's important to keep valuables secure.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Avoid walking alone at night

Getting there

By air

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport • 15 miles from New Orleans
Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport • 10 miles from Baton Rouge

By train

New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

By bus

New Orleans Bus Station, Baton Rouge Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The RTA bus system is reliable and affordable, covering most major areas in New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Streetcars are also available in New Orleans for a scenic ride.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

French Quarter Garden District Mid-City Alabama Street

Day trips

Plantation Country

45-60 miles from New Orleans • Full day

Explore the rich history and architecture of Louisiana's plantation country. Visit historic mansions, learn about the state's complex history of slavery, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the River Road.

Swamp Tours

30-45 miles from New Orleans • Half day

Experience the unique ecosystem of the Louisiana bayous on a guided swamp tour. See alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Baton Rouge

80 miles from New Orleans • Full day

Visit Louisiana's capital city, known for its historic sites, museums, and vibrant culture. Explore the state capitol, the USS Kidd Veterans Museum, and the Louisiana Art & Science Museum.

Festivals

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

Pro tips

Visit the French Quarter at night to experience its vibrant atmosphere and live music.
Try a beignet and café au lait at Café du Monde, a New Orleans institution.
Take a guided swamp tour to see alligators and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Explore the historic plantations and learn about the state's complex history of slavery.
Visit the National WWII Museum for an immersive and comprehensive look at the history and impact of World War II.