Adventures Afoot in Big Bend
Tour Description
Big Bend is known for its hauntingly beautiful landscapes and intriguing wildlife. Big Bend National Park is one of the largest, yet least visited, of America’s national parks. Each day of this alluring tour focuses on different aspects of the region: geology, natural history, cultural history, and current issues. The landscape is one of massive canyons, desert expanses, and the entire Chisos Mountain Range. In the safety of this active adventure, you can explore one of the wildest corners of America—with all its unforgettable sights and solitude.
ParkScapes Highlights
Wildlife & Bird Watching
Pronghorn, deer, javelina, lizards, and mountain sheep are often seen in Big Bend. Other wildlife, like mountain lion, are much more elusive. A wide variety of birds stop at the Rio Grande on their southern migration each autumn. Talk with a wildlife biologist to learn how the park manages the wildlife.
Walking & Hiking
Skirt canyon walls, stroll sandy washes, walk cottonwood-lined riverbanks, hike mountain trails.
Historical Exploration
Discover the rich history and cultural diversity of the area. From Apaches and Mexicans to soldiers and pioneers, many have called this harsh region home.
Night Sky Watching
Venture into the desert at night to star gaze and listen for howling coyotes.
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Tour Map
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Daily Itinerary
October 11: Arrival in Midland, Texas
Meet your guides in the Midland airport mid-day and head out through the wide-open cattle-ranch country of West Texas. We stop to explore wetland areas along the Rio Grande River and watch for some of the many birds migrating toward South America. Get to know your guides and fellow travelers this evening with an orientation meeting and welcome dinner. Hotel Limpia (D)
October 12: Fort Davis National Historic Site & Big Bend National Park
We visit the Fort Davis National Historic Site, with its extensive restoration of a West Texas cavalry post occupied by African-American soldiers. Named “Buffalo Soldiers” by the Cheyenne and Comanche Indians, these soldiers played a critical role in frontier western history. This afternoon we drive through Persimmon Gap into Big Bend National Park, with its hauntingly beautiful topography. One of the park’s finest features is its silence; it’s hard to find a quieter place on the planet. Imagine a prominent landscape where rugged mountains, deep river canyons, and expansive desert vistas are all within view—a mosaic of purples, blues, violets, deep reds, and yellows warmed by the soothing desert air. Chisos Mountain Lodge (B,L,D)
October 13: Big Bend National Park
Venture to Big Bend’s legendary Rio Grande Village to walk amid huge cottonwood trees lining the river corridor. This part of the river is home to the rare desert fish known as Big Bend gambusia, once considered extinct. We also watch for a wide variety of migrating birds making their way south. Break for a picnic lunch amid the cottonwoods. Walk to Boquillas Canyon and gaze up at dramatic limestone cliffs. Explore a pioneer homestead at Dugout Wells and stroll the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail before returning to the lodge. Dine at your leisure tonight after a full day of exploring. Chisos Mountain Lodge (B,L,D)
October 14: Big Bend National Park
Our morning begins with a walk in the Chisos Basin. The Chisos Mountains rising above you are an “island” mountain range, a fascinating forest oasis with unique flora and fauna. Observe wildlife uniquely adapted to the region, including javelina, Big Bend geckos, and Texas horned lizards. This afternoon meet with a park resource specialist to discuss how the National Park Service manages this remote borderland park’s wildlife and resources. After an early dinner, stroll out into the desert night to listen for coyotes and common poorwills. Chisos Mountain Lodge (B,L,D)
October 15: Big Bend National Park
Walk along the massive walls of Santa Elena, the river’s most magnificent limestone canyon. Later meet with a park resource specialist to discuss endangered species, air quality, and other important park issues. Take an optional walk this afternoon along the Burro Mesa Pouroff, a flat, sandy trail up a short canyon where you can learn more about the interesting geology of this region. Enjoy a special dinner at the Starlight Theatre, a restaurant and bar in the small town of Terlingua at the edge of the Park. Savor the subtle colors of the desert at dusk as you return to the hotel. Chisos Mountain Lodge (B,L,D)
October 16: Big Bend National Park to Marfa, Texas
Take a final walk in the Chisos Basin drinking in the panoramic views of the Chihuahuan Desert. This afternoon settle into your historic accommodations; then relax by the pool or explore the eclectic arts community of Marfa. Tonight we reminisce about our days of adventure at a festive farewell dinner. Hotel Paisano (B,L,D)
October 17: Departure from Midland, Texas
After breakfast at the hotel, we make our way back to Midland for early afternoon connections. (B)
Note: The itinerary for the days in the park may vary based on weather conditions and wildlife behavior.
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Tour Details
NPCA Member Price
$2,175 per person double occupancy; $450 single supplement
Price Includes
All accommodations, meals as noted (B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner), ground transportation, entrance fees, and professional guide services.
Price Does Not Include
Airfare, gratuities for naturalist guides, alcoholic beverages, extra equipment rental, or personal expenses.
Payments/Cancellations
Space is confirmed by calling the NPCA at 800.628.7275. A $500 per person deposit is due at registration. Final payment will be invoiced separately and is due 90 days prior to departure. Cancellation notice must be submitted in writing and is effective upon date of receipt. Cancellations up to 90 days prior receive a refund, less the $250 per person handling fee. Cancellations 90-61 days prior to departure, 25% of the tour cost is forfeited; 60-31 days prior to departure, 50% of the tour cost is forfeited; 30 days or fewer prior to departure result in the loss of 100% of your total cost.
Travel Insurance
To protect yourself from the loss of deposit and cancellation fees, you are encouraged to purchase travel insurance.
Arrive/Depart
Midland, Texas
Length of tour
7 days/6 nights
Pace
Moderately active, offering a choice of activities each day to suit different activity levels and interests. Be prepared for a variety of hikes and walks on uneven trails. Fall weather in Big Bend is generally mild with cool evenings, but mid-day temperatures in the lower elevations can reach the 80’s. Sturdy walking shoes, hat with a brim, and large water bottle are highly recommended.
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