Terlingua, a quaint town nestled in the heart of Texas, offers adventurers a unique opportunity to experience the captivating beauty of the Rio Grande. A full-day guided raft, kayak, or canoe trip promises an unforgettable journey through stunning canyons and majestic landscapes of the Big Bend National Park. With knowledgeable guides by your side, you’ll navigate the river’s gentle currents, taking in the breathtaking vistas that have drawn visitors from around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a newcomer to water sports, this excursion caters to all skill levels, ensuring an exhilarating and safe adventure for everyone.
Key Points
- A full-day guided experience on the Rio Grande in Big Bend National Park, priced at $150 per person, including van transportation and 4 hours of canoeing.
- The itinerary covers a 7-hour schedule with a 1-hour lunch break, led by knowledgeable, English-speaking guides in rafts, canoes, or kayaks.
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers, with scenic views of canyons and the river, and the trip is suitable for ages 3 and up.
- Flexible cancellation policy allows for full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, and reservations can be made without upfront payment.
- The tour route varies based on water levels, offering options such as Santa Elena Canyon, Colorado Canyon, or Hot Springs Canyon with a soak stop.
Trip Overview and Pricing
The Terlingua Guided Raft/Kayak/Canoe Trip offers a full-day guided experience on the Rio Grande, with prices starting from $150.00 per person.
The 7-hour trip includes a van ride to the starting location, 2 hours of canoeing in Big Bend National Park, a lunch break, and another 1.5 hours of canoeing.
Participants can choose from rafts, canoes, or kayaks, and the trip includes necessary river gear and equipment.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can reserve their spot without paying today.
The itinerary is subject to change, and guests should check which canyon will be visited a few days prior to the trip.
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Itinerary
Participants meet at the Big Bend Boating & Hiking Company office for a 1-hour van ride to the starting location. Once there, they’ll enjoy 2 hours of canoeing through the stunning scenery of Big Bend National Park. After a 1-hour lunch break, they’ll return for another 1.5 hours of canoeing before heading back to the starting point with a 1-hour van ride.
| Itinerary | Duration |
|---|---|
| Meet at Big Bend Boating & Hiking Company | 1 hour |
| Canoeing in Big Bend National Park | 2 hours |
| Lunch break | 1 hour |
| Canoeing in Big Bend National Park | 1.5 hours |
| Return to starting location | 1 hour |
Note that itineraries are subject to change.
Guided Experience and Equipment
This guided trip provides a fully immersive experience on the Rio Grande.
Led by knowledgeable, English-speaking guides, participants can choose from rafts, canoes, or kayaks to navigate the class I rapids.
Enjoy scenic views of the canyons and the river as you paddle along.
The necessary river gear, such as life jackets and helmets, as well as dry bags for personal belongings, a cooler for lunch, and ice water, are all included.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, this guided adventure offers an unforgettable way to explore the natural beauty of Big Bend National Park from the water.
Preparation and Requirements
Typically, guests are advised to bring a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, a packed lunch, water shoes, and a reusable water bottle for the trip.
Glass objects aren’t allowed on the excursion. The activity is suitable for participants aged 3 and up, but it’s not recommended for people with back problems or non-swimmers.
Guests must pay their own park entrance fee, which can be covered by an America the Beautiful Pass or a 7-day vehicle pass.
Visitors should call or email a few days prior to the trip to confirm the specific canyon that will be visited, as the route may vary based on water levels.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPark Entrance Fees and Routes
All guests must pay their own park entrance fee; an America the Beautiful Pass or a 7-day vehicle pass covers the group.
Depending on the water levels, the tour may take different routes. High water allows for Santa Elena or Colorado Canyon. Medium water enables kayaking through Hot Springs Canyon with a soak stop. Low water leads to the Upper Canyons downstream or a Santa Elena Canyon boomerang.
The tour operator will confirm the specific canyon a few days prior to the trip based on current conditions. This flexibility ensures guests enjoy an unforgettable experience on the Rio Grande tailored to the water levels on their adventure day.
Customer Reviews
Based on the 3 reviews, the Terlingua Guided Raft/Kayak/Canoe Trip has an overall rating of 5/5 stars.
Customers have praised the knowledgeable guides who provide an informative history lesson during the drive.
They’ve highlighted the beautiful scenery along the Rio Grande and canyons.
One reviewer, Richard from the U.S., noted the guide’s fun demeanor, which added to the overall enjoyable experience.
The feedback suggests the trip offers a well-rounded guided adventure, meeting the expectations of both beginners and experienced paddlers.
With a perfect rating, the Terlingua Guided Raft/Kayak/Canoe Trip seems to deliver an exceptional outdoor experience in the stunning Big Bend region.
Cancellation Policy
The Terlingua Guided Raft/Kayak/Canoe Trip offers guests the flexibility to change their plans. Customers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This policy provides peace of mind and allows for last-minute adjustments.
Additionally:
- Guests can reserve their spot and pay nothing today.
- There’s no need to worry about penalties or fees for cancellations.
- The company understands that plans can change, so they’ve made the process simple and hassle-free.
- Cancellations can be made easily by contacting the Big Bend Boating & Hiking Company.
This flexible cancellation policy is a testament to the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
Booking and Payment
Guests can reserve their spot on the Terlingua Guided Raft/Kayak/Canoe Trip by booking online or contacting the Big Bend Boating & Hiking Company directly.
The price is $150 per person for the full-day adventure. Travelers can opt for the "Reserve now & pay later" option, which lets them secure their spot without paying upfront.
Cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The guided experience includes all necessary river gear, a packed lunch, and water.
Guests should plan to meet at the company’s office for a van ride to the starting point in Big Bend National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Trip?
The minimum group size for this guided rafting, kayaking, or canoeing trip is not specified. The activity can accommodate participants of all ages, though it’s not suitable for those with back problems or non-swimmers.
Do You Provide Transportation to and From the Starting Location?
Yes, the tour operator provides transportation to and from the starting location. The itinerary includes a 1-hour van ride to the starting point, and another 1-hour van ride back to the original meeting spot at the end of the trip.
Can I Bring My Own Personal Floatation Device?
Guests are welcome to bring their own personal floatation devices, but the company provides all necessary river gear, including life jackets, as part of the guided experience. The provided equipment is required for safety and insurance purposes.
Is There a Weight Limit or Age Restriction for Participants?
There are participant age and weight restrictions for this guided river trip. Children must be at least 3 years old, and participants cannot exceed a maximum weight of 300 lbs. Non-swimmers and those with back problems are not allowed on the tour.
What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather During the Trip?
In case of inclement weather, the tour operator will cancel or reschedule the trip as needed. They’ll notify participants in advance and offer full refunds or rebookings for cancelled trips due to unsafe conditions.
Recap
This Rio Grande adventure in Terlingua offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of Big Bend National Park. With its flexible itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive pricing, the trip caters to adventurers of all skill levels, ensuring an unforgettable day on the water. Whether you choose to raft, kayak, or canoe, you’re guaranteed an exhilarating experience amidst the park’s stunning canyons and serene landscapes.
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