Wild waters, hidden wonders:
explore atchafalaya’s landscapes & wildlife
Step into a mystical world on a photo tour of Atchafalaya Basin, Louisiana, where ancient cypress trees draped in Spanish moss rise from still, reflective waters. This unique wetland, one of the largest in the southern US, offers endless opportunities to capture moody landscapes, dramatic light, and diverse wildlife, including herons, egrets, and alligators. Glide through hidden waterways by boat, guided by photography experts who will help you frame the perfect shot. Whether you’re drawn to the ethereal beauty of sunrise mist or the rich textures of the swamp, Atchafalaya is a dream destination for nature photographers.
Autumn in Atchafalaya
Dates: November 16-20, 2025
Location: atchafalaya basin - lafayette, Lousiana
Price: $5499 usd*
Fitness Level: LEVEL Four - ADVENTUROUS Spirit (must be comfortable in a kayak)
Group Size: 6 participants + group leader; Minimum 4 to go
*Price per person, based on double occupancy accommodations. Single supplement available for an additional fee, please inquire.
Tour Highlights:
Explore North America’s Largest River Swamp - Navigate the vast, untamed beauty of the Atchafalaya Basin, home to mystical cypress forests, winding bayous, and hidden marshlands.
Sunrise & Sunset Photography - Capture the golden hues of Spanish moss-draped cypress trees reflected in still waters.
Scenic Boat Excursions & Kayak Adventures - Glide through narrow bayous, silent backwaters, and flooded forests for unparalleled access to the wild.
Iconic Wildlife of the Basin - Spot and photograph bald eagles, great blue herons, wood ducks, roseate spoonbills, and barred owls in their natural habitat. Observe Louisiana’s ancient predators, alligators, basking on logs or gliding through the swamp. Keep an eye out for river otters, beavers, bobcats, and the secretive Louisiana black bear.
Cajun Heritage, Local Stories, Historic Villages - Learn about the rich history of the area, including the Cajun and Creole people who have lived in harmony with the swamp for generations.
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the cypress swamps during peak autumn foliage on this unforgettable photography tour. As the seasons change, the swamp transforms into a dreamscape of golden-orange cypress trees, misty waterways, and mesmerizing reflections—offering an unparalleled opportunity to capture the magic of fall in one of nature’s most hauntingly beautiful landscapes. During this tour, we will focus on the beautiful scenery and will work on composing the scenery with some small in frame wildlife. Possible species include Alligators, Great Egrets, Snowy Egrets, Great Blue Herons, Osprey, Bald Eagles, Ibis, Anhingas, Cormorants, and Green Herons. If water conditions are low, we may even see a random Roseate Spoonbill.
Guided by experienced photographers, Traci Sepkovic and Ben Pierce, you'll explore the swamp by kayak, perfecting techniques for capturing rich colors, dramatic light, and the diverse wildlife that thrives in this ecosystem. From early-morning mist rising over still waters to the glowing hues of sunset filtering through Spanish moss, each day will bring new scenes and challenges to enhance your photography skills.
Beyond the swamp, you’ll also have the chance to explore Louisiana’s cultural heritage, visiting historical sites and experiencing the unique blend of nature and history that defines this region. We will enjoy presentations on alligators and the watershed. With guided instruction, hands-on shooting sessions, and personalized critiques, this tour is designed to elevate your photography while immersing you in one of the most visually stunning environments the South has to offer.
Whether you're drawn to landscapes, wildlife, or environmental storytelling, this journey through the cypress swamps in fall will leave you with a stunning portfolio of images and an unforgettable experience.
What’s Included:
Lodging, including the night before the start of the tour (11/15).
Breakfast (complimentary breakfast at hotel)
Transportation to locations during the Tour
Daily kayak rentals that include paddle, life vest, and sponge.
Expert guiding and photographic instruction.
Airboat Tour through the cypress swamps.
Tour through Vermilionville Historic Village.
Lunch in Vermilionville Historic Village.
Alligator Presentation
Watershed Connectivity Presentation
Tips/gratuities for local guides
What’s Not Included:
Airfare/transportation to Lafayette, LA
Lodging prior to November 15 or after check-out on November 20.
Lunch and dinners, except for lunch in Vermilionville Historic Village.
Photographic equipment
Trip Insurance
This tour begins and ends at Lafayette Regional Airport. Our hotel, Homewood Suites by Hilton - Lafayette Airport, LA, provides complimentary transportation to/from the airport. Please make travel arrangements based on the itinerary below, or Contact Us for travel assistance.
All Images Used Courtesy of Ben Pierce
Daily itinerary
Day 0: Arrival & Check-in - November 15
Guests should fly into Lafayette Regional Airport. Our hotel, Homewood Suites by Hilton - Lafayette Airport, provides complimentary transportation to/from Lafayette Regional Airport.
Contact Hotel for Transportation: 1-337-264-6044
Evening: If everyone has arrived and checked in, we will meet for dinner and then return to the hotel to rest up for a busy week.
Day 1: Introduction & Orientation
Welcome & Introduction: Meet your fellow photographers, tour leader, and guide.
Presentation: Orientation and showcase of our guide and photographer, Ben Pierce. Ben will share some of his work which will inspire us as we prepare to head out into the cypress swamps.
Airboat Tour: We will take an airboat tour of the cypress swamps to help you get oriented to the area where we will be spending the upcoming days. Start thinking about your compositions!
Evening Session: Sunset photography session to kick off the adventure.
Day 2: Wildlife & Landscape Photography
Morning Session: Sunrise shoot at a prime location, focusing on capturing the warm, autumn hues, lighting, and reflections.
Lunch: Enjoy a meal and discuss the morning's shoot.
Alligator Program: Swamp Base staff members will get you up close and personal with an American Alligator... baby, that is. This program focuses on breaking the myths associated with these creatures while at the same time providing the photographers an opportunity to hold a baby alligator and get some cool macro images of them as well.
Free Time: Explore the area, relax, or review your photos.
Evening Session: Low-light photography and composition techniques at a scenic spot.
Day 3: Ecosystem & Creative Critique
Morning Session: Golden hour shoot focusing on wildlife behavior and action shots.
Lunch: Midday break and photography discussion.
Watershed Connectivity Program: Who doesn't like playing in a sandbox? This program introduces the photographers to the much larger environmental impacts that affect the swamp wildernesses of South Louisiana, and how what takes place upstream in the Mississippi River Watershed can have a negative impact on the cypress swamps and wildlife. Photographers will be able to manipulate a "landscape" and see how erosion takes place as well as how deltas are formed to restore Louisiana's coast.
Free Time / Open Critique: Time to edit, review, or receive constructive feedback on your work.
Evening Session: We will venture back out into the field for an evening photography session.
Day 4: Culture & History
Morning Session: Capture morning light on landscapes or wildlife.
Special Lunch at Vermilionville & Tour of Historical Village: Located in the heart of Lafayette, LA, is a folklife park focused on how the Cajuns, Creoles, and Native Americans settled this part of the country. The homes date back to the 1700s and 1800s and are very photogenic.
Free Time: Edit, explore, or enjoy a personal photo walk.
Evening: Final evening shoot to refine skills and experiment with different techniques.
Day 5: Farewell & Departure
Morning Session: One last sunrise shoot to capture the essence of the journey.
Check-out of Hotel and Depart for Home: Say goodbye and take home incredible images and memories.
location & accommodations
Tour Leader: traci sepkovic
I have always been captivated by the beauty and serenity of the natural world. My passion for the outdoors and deep respect for wildlife drive me to create images that not only capture the essence of nature but also inspire others to appreciate and protect it. Each photograph tells a story, offering a glimpse into the lives of the incredible creatures that share our planet.
Beyond photography, I find great joy in mentoring and sharing my knowledge with others. I love working with beginners, helping them build a solid foundation in photography, and guiding them to uncover their unique creative voice. For those looking to refine their skills, I’m committed to helping elevate their craft to new heights, whether it’s mastering technical aspects or developing a sharper artistic vision.
My mission is to inspire others—not only to improve their photography but also to see the world through a lens of curiosity, respect, and wonder. Together, we can explore the extraordinary beauty of nature and create images that make a lasting impact.