Barataria Preserve without a car? Uber/Lyft?

Question

Can we get to/from the Barataria Preserve trails without a car? I'm guessing we can uber there but am concerned about getting a ride back!! Please advise.

Answer

Visiting the Barataria Preserve without a car is possible, but it requires some planning. The preserve is about 30 miles southwest of New Orleans, so it’s a bit outside the city and public transit options are extremely limited.

Here are some practical options for getting there and back without a car:

Uber/Lyft: You can definitely take a rideshare to the preserve. The main challenge is ensuring a ride back, as coverage can be sparse in rural areas. It’s recommended to schedule a return trip ahead of time with a local driver if possible, or at least confirm that your app has availability for the area.
Guided Tours: Many local tour companies offer half-day or full-day swamp tours that include transportation from New Orleans. This is a very convenient option if you want to avoid the logistics of rideshares in a rural area.
Rental Car Alternative: If you’re comfortable driving, renting a car for the day is the easiest way to explore at your own pace. This also gives you flexibility to visit multiple trails within the preserve without depending on someone else’s schedule.

Additional tips:

The preserve is open from sunrise to sunset, so plan your timing carefully to ensure you have daylight for both the visit and the return trip.
Check rideshare apps for availability before heading out; sometimes local taxi companies can also provide scheduled pick-ups for rural areas.
Bring water, snacks, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes, as trail services within the preserve are minimal and there are no restaurants.

Overall, while you can get there without a car, relying solely on Uber or Lyft can be risky for the return. Guided tours or a rental car are the most reliable options for visiting Barataria Preserve efficiently.