Terlingua’s Rio Grande is a natural wonder that beckons adventure-seekers. A full-day guided raft, kayak, or canoe trip promises an unforgettable experience through the park’s stunning canyons. With knowledgeable guides, necessary gear, and a scenic van ride, this $150 per person excursion offers families and thrill-seekers alike the chance to enjoy the rugged beauty of Big Bend. What awaits on the river is a journey that’ll leave you breathless.

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Key Points

A full-day guided raft, kayak, or canoe trip on the Rio Grande in Terlingua, Texas, priced at $150 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The 7-hour excursion includes a 1-hour van ride to the river access point, 2 hours of canoeing, a 1-hour lunch break, and a 1-hour van ride back.
The trip provides all necessary river gear, such as rafts, canoes, kayaks, dry bags, and a cooler with ice water, and recommends visitors to bring personal items.
The trip is suitable for participants aged 3 and up, with guidelines for comfortable clothing, water shoes, and adherence to safety instructions from guides.
The trip has a customer rating of 4.8/5 based on 5 reviews, highlighting knowledgeable guides, a well-organized itinerary, and high-quality gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

The full-day guided raft, kayak, or canoe trip on the Rio Grande offers visitors an immersive experience in the scenic canyons of Big Bend National Park.

Priced at $150 per person, the trip features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also opt for the reserve now & pay later option.

The 7-hour excursion starts at the Big Bend Boating & Hiking Company office in Terlingua. Participants have the choice of rafts, canoes, or kayaks, with the trip including all necessary river gear.

Itinerary and Activities

Participants meet at the Big Bend Boating & Hiking Company office in Terlingua before embarking on the day’s adventure.

They’ll begin with a 1-hour van ride to the river access point. Once there, they’ll spend 2 hours canoeing through the scenic canyons of Big Bend National Park.

After a 1-hour lunch break, they’ll continue canoeing for another 1.5 hours. Finally, they’ll take a 1-hour van ride back to the starting location.

After the midday meal, they’ll paddle for an additional 1.5 hours before a 1-hour van ride returns them to the starting point.

The trip’s main attractions are the stunning geological formations and landscapes of the Big Bend region.

Equipment and Gear

The full-day guided trip includes all the necessary river gear for participants. Visitors have the option to choose from rafts for beginners, canoes that seat two people for families, or single and tandem kayaks. Participants should bring their personal items in dry bags, and a cooler is provided for the included lunch. Ice water is available for refills throughout the day.

| River Gear Option | Description |

| — | — |

| Rafts | For beginners |

| Canoes | 2-seater for families |

| Kayaks | Single or tandem |

| Dry Bags | For personal items |

| Cooler | Provided for lunch |

Recommendations and Restrictions

Visitors should bring a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, a packed lunch, water shoes, and a reusable water bottle. Glass objects aren’t allowed on the trip.

Additionally:

The experience isn’t suitable for people with back problems or non-swimmers.
The age requirement is 3 and up.
Participants must follow all safety instructions and guidelines provided by the guides.

With the proper gear and preparation, visitors can enjoy a safe and memorable full-day guided raft, kayak, or canoe adventure on the Rio Grande in Terlingua.

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Additional Information

A park entrance fee is required for this trip. Visitors can use an America the Beautiful Pass or purchase a 7-day vehicle pass to cover the group. The route taken will depend on the water level, with high water routes including Santa Elena or Colorado Canyon, medium water routes featuring kayaking through Hot Springs Canyon, and low water routes exploring the Upper Canyons downstream or the Santa Elena Canyon boomerang. Based on 5 reviews, this guided trip has earned a 4.8/5 customer rating.

| Route | Water Level |

| — | — |

| High | Santa Elena or Colorado Canyon |

| Medium | Hot Springs Canyon (kayaking) |

| Low | Upper Canyons downstream or Santa Elena Canyon boomerang |

Customer Reviews

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the guided raft, kayak, and canoe trip on the Rio Grande, awarding it an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 5 reviews.

Reviewers highlight:

The knowledgeable and friendly guides who provide an unforgettable experience navigating the scenic canyons of Big Bend National Park.
The well-organized itinerary that balances adventure and relaxation, with ample time for canoeing, lunch, and sightseeing.
The high-quality gear and attention to safety that puts customers at ease, making the trip suitable for both experienced and first-time river adventurers.

Booking and Reservation

To book this full-day guided raft, kayak, or canoe trip on the Rio Grande, visitors can reserve their spot online or by contacting the Big Bend Boating & Hiking Company directly. The company offers a reserve now and pay later option, and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund. The trip pricing starts at $150 per person, and the duration is approximately 7 hours. The starting location is 53570 TX-118, Terlingua.

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Safety and Considerations

Although the full-day guided raft, kayak, or canoe trip on the Rio Grande offers an exciting adventure, it’s crucial to consider certain safety factors and personal restrictions. The trip may not be suitable for individuals with back problems or non-swimmers.

While the Rio Grande adventure offers excitement, it may not suit those with back issues or who can’t swim.

Plus, glass objects are strictly prohibited for safety reasons. To ensure a memorable and safe experience, it’s recommended to:

Wear appropriate clothing and water shoes
Bring a camera, snacks, and a reusable water bottle
Follow the guide’s instructions and safety protocols throughout the trip

Age requirement for the trip is 3 and up, making it family-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Trip?

The maximum group size is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, the trip is described as a "full-day guided raft, kayak, or canoe trip", suggesting it can accommodate groups of varying sizes based on the chosen watercraft options.

Are Professional Photographers Available to Capture the Experience?

Professional photographers are not included, but guests can bring their own cameras to capture the scenic canyons and river adventure. Photo opportunities abound, allowing visitors to document their experience.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks Instead of the Provided Lunch?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks instead of the provided lunch. The trip includes a cooler for storing personal items, allowing guests to pack a custom meal or snacks.

Is There an Option to Extend the Trip Duration for More Exploration?

Yes, the trip duration can be extended for more exploration. Guests can opt for a longer trip with additional canoeing time, allowing them to cover more of the scenic canyons along the Rio Grande.

Do the Guides Provide Any Training or Instructions for Using the Equipment?

The guides provide thorough instructions and training on using the equipment. They demonstrate proper techniques for operating the rafts, kayaks, and canoes, ensuring participants feel comfortable and confident throughout the guided excursion.

The Sum Up

The Terlingua: Rio Grande Full-Day Guided Raft/Kayak/Canoe Trip offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning canyons of Big Bend National Park. Priced at $150 per person, the 7-hour excursion includes transportation, equipment, and a guided paddle along the Rio Grande. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or seeking a family-friendly activity, this trip promises breathtaking scenery and lasting memories.