Landmarks in Big Bend National Park

Tours Day Trips & Excursions in Big Bend National Park - Things to do in Big Bend National Park

Discover the best experiences and adventures in Big Bend National Park. Explore our curated selection of top-rated tours, activities, and excursions that showcase the beauty and culture of this destination.

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6 Available Tour Excursions in Big Bend National Park

Free Cancellation
(11 reviews)

Join us for a fun day of paddling and hiking on the beautiful Rio Grande through Big Bend National Park! The Rio Grande through Hot Springs Canyon makes for a fun and active way to see and learn about the region and make the most of your visit to Big Bend. Guests can expect professional guides, riverside lunch, a visit to the famous langford hot springs, and local interpretation and information. Most trips are done in Canoes and Kayaks and you will have the ability to paddle your own boat while on this experience. While river levels are low most of the sections may be paddled, but all guests should expect to get out and pull over shoals from time to time.

Price: $199.00

Duration: 7 hours

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(201 reviews)

Descend into the many canyons of the Rio Grande by boat. Float through the spectacular scenery of the international boundary. The water level determines which canyon we float through and whether we float in canoes, kayaks, or rafts. This scenic float is great for all ages. Come explore the Chihuahuan Desert and learn about the geology, plants, and history. This is a full day trip, you will be responsible for bringing your lunch, and we have the coolers to pack your lunch in.

Price: $155.00

Duration: 7 hours

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Free Cancellation
(12 reviews)

Welcome to Big Bend National Park! As your audio tour guide, let me paint a picture of this breathtaking landscape. Imagine rugged canyons, towering cliffs, and the winding Rio Grande River. Listen closely to the calls of diverse wildlife echoing through the desert. Hike the trails, marvel at the stunning vistas, and soak in the serenity of this remote wilderness. From stunning sunsets to star-filled skies, every moment here is a masterpiece of nature. So, sit back, relax, and let's embark on an unforgettable adventure through Big Bend National Park. *Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

Price: $12.79

Duration: 8-9 hours

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Free Cancellation
(14 reviews)

Discover the true American West with this self-guided Big Bend National Park, Texas, driving tour—cruise across vast desert landscapes in the shadow of the Chisos Mountains. Unearth an embattled history of Spanish presidios, raiding parties beneath a Comanche Moon, and cursed silver in the mountains. Take in soaring panoramas from Sotol Vista and Tuff Canyon Overlook and visit the historic town of Castolon. This park is a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered! Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Price: $16.99

Duration: 2-3 hours

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Free Cancellation

Embark on an epic journey through the US West with this self-guided driving and walking audio tour bundle! Explore the wonders of Arches, Bryce Canyon, and Zion, hike the Hidden Valley Trail in Joshua Tree, and marvel at the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone. Each stop offers a unique experience. With bonus highlights like Old Faithful and Delicate Arch, this bundle guides you through the best of America’s western parks. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, you can check your email, then download the Action Tour Guide App, enter your unique password, and access your tour. The preceding steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. Simply follow the audio instructions and the route from there. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This is not an entrance ticket to attractions along the route. Check opening hours before your visit.

Price: $159.99

Duration: 3-4 hours

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Free Cancellation

Why visit one park when you can tour two of West Texas’s rugged icons? This narrated, self-guided driving tour takes you through Big Bend and the Guadalupe Mountains, from the Big Bend entrance to the Chisos Mountains, Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, Hot Springs, and Santa Elena Canyon, then on to McKittrick Canyon, Frijole Ranch, Guadalupe Peak, Devil’s Hall, El Capitan, and the Salt Basin Dunes. Explore both parks with maximum flexibility, safety, and value—stopping whenever you want.

Price: $19.99

Duration: 4-5 hours

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Key Info for Visitors

  • Currency: USD
  • Languages: English, Spanish
  • Climate: Desert
  • Timezone: America/Chicago
  • Population: Big Bend National Park has no permanent population.
  • Best Time to Visit: April to avoid extreme heat.
  • Visa Requirements Visitors to Big Bend National Park must comply with United States visa regulations. US citizens do not require a visa. Citizens of many countries, including those in the EU and UK, may enter the US visa-free under the Visa Waiver Program for tourism up to 90 days with an approved ESTA. Others require a visa obtained in advance. There is no visa on arrival for the US.

About Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is a vast and remote wilderness area located along the Rio Grande in southwestern Texas. It is renowned for its dramatic desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and the winding river that forms the US-Mexico border. The park covers over 800,000 acres, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and solitude. Its isolation makes it a haven for stargazers, hikers, and nature lovers seeking an escape from urban life. The diverse ecosystem includes desert, river, and mountain habitats, supporting a wide variety of wildlife such as black bears, mountain lions, and over 450 bird species. Visitors are drawn to Big Bend for its extensive hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for river rafting and camping. The park’s cultural history, including Native American artifacts and remnants of early settlers, adds depth to the visitor experience. Big Bend’s combination of rugged terrain, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage makes it a compelling destination for adventurous travelers and those looking to connect with nature.

Big Bend National Park Tours & Experiences

  • Top Attractions: Highlights of Texas
  • Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
  • Group Size: Private or shared tours
  • Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
  • Recommended For: Visit between October and April to avoid extreme heat. Pack layered clothing, sun protection, sturdy hiking shoes, and plenty of water. Cell service is limited, so plan accordingly. Respect wildlife and stay on designated trails. Carry cash as some park facilities may not accept cards. Be prepared for remote conditions and limited services. Check weather and park alerts before visiting.

Average Tour Price: $65

Lowest Price Tour: $39

Highest Price Tour: $220

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4. Enjoy Your Experience

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Important Tour Information

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
  • Check tour cancellation and refund policies
  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
  • Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation

Top Attractions

1. Santa Elena Canyon – A stunning river gorge with towering cliffs, perfect for hiking and kayaking. 2. Chisos Mountains – The park’s mountain range offering panoramic views and diverse trails. 3. Rio Grande Village – A scenic area with campgrounds and access to the river. 4. Boquillas Canyon – A picturesque canyon accessible by boat or hiking, showcasing dramatic rock formations. 5. Hot Springs Historic Area – Natural hot springs along the river with historic bathhouse ruins.

Popular Activities

Popular activities include hiking on extensive trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs, river rafting and kayaking on the Rio Grande, wildlife watching, camping under dark skies ideal for stargazing, birdwatching, and photography. Cultural tours exploring Native American sites and historic settlements are also available. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives and ranger-led programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit is from late fall to early spring when temperatures are milder.

Yes, there are campgrounds and a lodge, but reservations are recommended.

Yes, with proper preparation, families can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.

We have tours designed for various age groups and fitness levels. Each tour description includes specific requirements and recommendations.

Local Food & Cuisine

The local cuisine around Big Bend reflects Texan and Mexican influences, featuring dishes like barbecue, chili, tacos, and enchiladas. Campfire cooking is popular in the park. Nearby towns offer restaurants serving hearty Southwestern fare, including locally sourced game and fresh river fish. Noteworthy dining options include the Chisos Mountains Lodge Restaurant, known for its regional dishes, and the Starlight Theatre in Terlingua, famous for its chili and live music.

Getting Around

The park is accessible primarily by car, with the nearest major airports in Midland and El Paso, Texas. Visitors typically rent a car to reach and explore the park due to its remote location and limited public transport. Inside the park, travel is by private vehicle, with paved and gravel roads connecting key sites. Gas stations are limited, so refueling before entering is advised. Shuttle services are generally not available.

Travel Tips

Visit between October and April to avoid extreme heat. Pack layered clothing, sun protection, sturdy hiking shoes, and plenty of water. Cell service is limited, so plan accordingly. Respect wildlife and stay on designated trails. Carry cash as some park facilities may not accept cards. Be prepared for remote conditions and limited services. Check weather and park alerts before visiting.

Culture & Customs

The area reflects a blend of Texan and Mexican heritage, with bilingual signage common. Visitors should respect private property near the park and local customs, including courteous behavior and respecting quiet hours at campgrounds. Local festivals in nearby communities celebrate regional culture, music, and food, such as the Terlingua Chili Cook-off. It is customary to tip service workers in restaurants and guides.

About The Author

Calvin Author

Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.

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Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.

Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..

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