Cajun Country Louisiana, USA Travel Guide
Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT): Most convenient, offers connections to major hubs (Dallas/Fort Worth, Atlanta, Houston). Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR): Approximately 1 hour's drive east of Lafayette, a wider range of flight options. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY): Approximately 2 hours' drive to the southeast of Lafayette, the largest international airport in Louisiana, offers the widest range of flights.
All three airports offer standard facilities, including dining, retail, car rental desks, and accessible services. MSY provides more extensive options for food, shopping, and passenger amenities. Free Wi-Fi is generally available at all airports.
Booking flights well in advance, just for peak times, secures better rates. Consider Dollar Flight Club for discounts and Skyscanner for comparisons.
When flying into MSY, consider booking your rental car well in advance, particularly in high season, as demand could be high. Check DiscoverCars.com for options.
For domestic flights, arrive at least 2 hours before departure. For international flights from MSY, arrive at least 3 hours. This allows time for check-in and security.
Be aware of wildlife (deer, alligators, armadillos) on country roads, especially at dawn, dusk, or night.
Adhere to posted speed limits, which happen to be strictly enforced.
Louisiana experiences heavy rainfall at times, which can lead to standing water on roads; drive carefully.
No particular exit fees or taxes are levied when departing from Louisiana airports or land borders for U.S. Citizens. For international visitors, any departure taxes are typically included in the airline ticket price.
Standard amenities like restrooms, various dining options (restaurants, cafes), and retail stores (souvenirs, snacks) are available at the airports and larger bus/train stations.
While New Orleans is a significant cruise port on the Mississippi River, these are not direct points of entry for the Cajun Country region itself. Visitors arriving by cruise in New Orleans would typically take land transportation to reach Cajun Country.
Not applicable as Cajun Country is located within the contiguous United States. No special border crossing procedures are necessary when traveling from other U.S. States.
MSY is the largest international airport in Louisiana, offering the widest range of domestic and international flights, often with more competitive pricing. Many international visitors will arrive here. It is a central point for numerous airlines.
Direct flights are available from a lot of principal U.S..S. Cities (e.g., New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami). For international travelers, direct flights from some global cities (e.g., London, Panama City, Toronto) make MSY a common entry stage into Louisiana.
Free Wi-Fi is generally available at all airports. Standard facilities include dining options, retail shops, and car rental desks.
Flight prices tend to be higher during major festivals and the peak spring/fall seasons. Summer, the low season, may offer lower fares.
LFT is the most practical airport for reaching the heart of Cajun Country. Driving to Lafayette's city center from LFT takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
Public transportation systems in Cajun Country are limited, specifically outside of the major city of Lafayette. RENTING a vehicle is the most recommended mode of transportation for exploring the broader region due to the dispersed nature of its attractions.
Taxis and ride-sharing services have convenient on-demand transportation, especially in larger towns. Taxis are available in Lafayette and New Iberia. You can typically find them at airports, major hotels, or by calling a local taxi company. Fares are usually metered.
Car rental is the most flexible and efficient way to explore Cajun Country. It allows you to visit dispersed attractions and one-of-a-kind local eateries.
Valid driver's license (plus AN idp if not English), minimum age usually 21 (surcharge under 25), major credit card.
Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, and Alamo all have a presence at airports and larger towns.
Always book your rental car in advance, especially if you need a specific type of vehicle or are traveling during peak season. Confirm all insurance options.
