Float the Canyons of the Rio Grande

Overview

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.

City: Big Bend National Park

Thu 27 Nov

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $140.00

Make a reservation

Thu 27 Nov

Starting at $140.00

Make a reservation

New York City Tours

Unique Activities (21) Transfers & Transportation (175) Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises (252) Entry Tickets (96) Sporting Events (4) Good for Small Groups (27) Seasonal & Holiday Tours (113) Walking Tours (705) Outdoor Activities (48) Limitied Availability Tours (29) LGBT Friendly Tours (9) Family-friendly Activities (8) Wildlife Activities (6) Solo Travelers' Tours (147) Food & Drinks (96) Travelers recommend (174) Good for Groups (32) Top Activities (75) Guided Audio Tours (10) Art, Culture & History (406) Attractions to explore (43) Sustainable Tours (1) Limousine Transfers (5) Donut Walking Tour (2) Virtual Experiences (1) Additional fees (7) DSA non-compliant (17)

What's Included

Private transportation

All equipment to float the river will be provided: boats, PFD- personal floatation device, paddle, and a dry bag to keep your valuables in

All Fees and Taxes

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What To Expect

Terlingua Ghost Town

The tour starts in Terlingua, TX. As we ride in vans to the river learn about the cultural history, geology, flora and fauna of the Chihuahuan Desert. Once at the river we will get outfitted in PFD's (personal floatation devices) and pack cameras and other valuables into dry bags. We will do a safety briefing and paddling instruction talk. After several hours of floating we will stop on the side of the river for a picnic and swim. You are responsible to pack a lunch and water bottle, we will have water to refill your bottles and coolers for your food. Alcoholic beverages are allowed in cans. We will continue our float down the international boundary.We typically return to Terlingua around 4:30 p.m.

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (159)

Bucketlist098

Jan 2020

We were lucky enough to get to do a boomerang float in Santa Elena Canyon. The water level had risen high enough and we were their first float this season. Erin was fantastic. We never felt rushed and she was super patient with every question we asked. She had amazing knowledge of the geography, history, flora and fauna of the Big Bend area. She allowed us to make the day whatever we wanted it to be. It helped that it was just my husband and myself but I feel she could work wonderfully with any size group. I really feel Erin was prepared for any situation that might arise.

Response from Host

Jan 2020

I had a great time with you both. I definitely enjoyed swapping stories all day long. I'm looking forward to another trip with you guys.

maryhhui

Jan 2020

Did an overnight rafting trip down Santa Elena Canyon with Erin and Katie and a small family of three. The quiet, small group made for an extremely pleasant experience. Erin made rafting look easy (spoiler: its not) while she told us educational and entertaining stories (her knowledge of the park and surrounding area was incredible). The food went way above and beyond your typical camp dishes, we even had perfectly cooked Dutch oven brownies for dessert! Highly recommend!

Response from Host

Jan 2020

I am glad you had as much fun camping and floating the Rio Grande as I did. I will always remember this New Year's Float 🎉🏕️🌊 Erin

S5019WZmaureenc

Dec 2019

We enjoyed our time with Jeff and Erin. They are very knowledgeable and fun guides for our paddle down through Santa Elena Canyon. They had a great sense of humor, storytelling and well planned set up. We also enjoyed the hike (amazing views) and visit to the hot springs. We brought our two teenage girls along and they ended the day with "that was a great day, we had a blast." What more can you ask for? The drivers out to the drop in were so helpful and enjoyed learning some history and the storytelling. This is a very do-able trip and would love to come back for a 2-3 day. Planning now. Thanks Jeff, Erin and crew.

Response from Host

Dec 2019

We are glad you enjoyed floating on the Rio Grande. We think any day on the river is a great day. We would love to pack our drybags and go camping for a few days.