cool shore excursions®
Top activities
Top landmarks
Trip ideas
Nearby places
  • Tours by category
  • Tours by accessibility
  • Tours by feature
  • Tours by time
  • Tours by the numbers
  • Top attractions
  • Texas travel guides
  • Texas travel calendar
  • Tours in nearby places
  • Explore USA tours
Language $Currency
Port schedule
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Wallet
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Cool Rewards Rewards
Gift cards
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates
You booked this experience
You're departing on
Google Calendar
Apple Calendar
Microsoft Outlook
Make your trip unforgettable

Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Big Bend National Park

Texas, USA
Book online or call us

from $19.99 per group (up to 8)

Lowest Price Guarantee
Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Big Bend National Park Image 1
Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Big Bend National Park Image 2
Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Big Bend National Park Image 3
Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Big Bend National Park Image 4
Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Big Bend National Park Image 5
20 to 22 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Download GuideAlong’s self-guided audio tour of Big Bend National Park and discover its wild beauty of vast deserts, towering mountains and dramatic canyons. Walk through ancient history at the Fossil Discovery Exhibit, soak in the Hot Springs Canyon’s warm waters, see towering limestone walls carved by the Rio Grande at the Santa Elena Canyon, and take in expansive desert views at Sotol Vista.

Along the way, hear stories of frontier history, lost treasures, and untamed landscapes as you journey through this rugged and unforgettable terrain.

Enjoy the freedom to explore offine at your own pace.

Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location
Travel at your own pace
Tour offline using GPS. No cell service or WiFi is needed
Suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day use
No time limits or expiry, and free updates
Like having a tour guide along for the drive

Purchase one tour per vehicle.

What's Included

  • Support: Toll free phone, chat and email
  • Easy To Use: Pre-download and tour offline
  • Trip Planners: In-app, web and PDF
  • Entry Fees, National Park Passes, Reservations
See 5 moreSee 4 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point
End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Persimmon Gap Visitor Center

Persimmon Gap serves as the northern gateway to Big Bend National Park, welcoming travelers into the vast Chihuahuan Desert. The visitor center provides maps, park information, exhibits, and an introduction to the natural and cultural heritage found along the road ahead.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Dog Canyon (pass by)

Devil’s Den leads visitors toward a striking limestone slot canyon carved by centuries of erosion. The rugged desert approach reveals dramatic rock formations and provides an adventurous introduction to Big Bend’s remote northern wilderness.
Read more

Fossil Discovery Exhibit (pass by)

The Fossil Discovery Exhibit offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient creatures that once inhabited this rugged desert landscape. Fossils, life-size displays, and educational panels reveal more than 130 million years of history, from enormous reptiles and dinosaurs to mammals that appeared much later.
Read more

Panther Junction Visitor Center (pass by)

Panther Junction is the principal visitor center and administrative hub of Big Bend National Park. Its exhibits introduce the park’s geology, wildlife, desert ecology, and human history, while rangers provide maps, permits, and valuable trip-planning guidance.
Read more

Dugout Wells (pass by)

Dugout Wells is a historic desert oasis where early settlers established a small community supported by underground water. A windmill continues to nourish the surrounding vegetation, while the nearby nature trail showcases plants adapted to the harsh Chihuahuan Desert.
Read more

Hot Springs Historic District (pass by)

The Hot Springs Historic District preserves the remains of J.O. Langford’s early twentieth-century health resort beside the Rio Grande. Visitors can explore historic buildings, view ancient rock markings, and experience the naturally heated spring water along the riverbank.
Read more

Ernst Tinaja (pass by)

Ernst Tinaja is a dramatic limestone canyon known for its sculpted rock walls and naturally formed water pools. Reached by the rugged Old Ore Road, this remote destination highlights the powerful role of water in shaping Big Bend’s desert geology.
Read more

Rio Grande Overlook (pass by)

Rio Grande Overlook presents expansive views across the river valley toward the mountains and desert of Mexico. The viewpoint illustrates how the Rio Grande has shaped both the physical landscape and the international boundary running through Big Bend.
Read more

Rio Grande Village (pass by)

Rio Grande Village is a peaceful riverside area surrounded by desert vegetation, cottonwood trees, and abundant birdlife. It serves as an important visitor hub on the park’s eastern side, offering access to trails, scenic viewpoints, camping, and visitor services.
Read more

Rio Grande Village Nature Trail

The Rio Grande Village Nature Trail crosses a wetland before climbing to a low ridge overlooking the river and surrounding mountains. Its changing habitats attract numerous birds and wildlife, making it one of the park’s most rewarding short nature walks. NPS Rio Grande Village information
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Terlingua Ghost Town

Terlingua Ghost Town preserves the weathered remains of a once-prosperous mercury-mining community. Adobe ruins, historic buildings, and the old cemetery tell the story of miners and families who created a settlement in this isolated desert region.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Entrance Station (pass by)

Maverick Entrance Station welcomes travelers arriving from Terlingua and serves as the western gateway to Big Bend National Park. Visitors can purchase their park pass and receive essential information before continuing toward Maverick Junction and the scenic park roads.
Read more

Sam Nail Ranch (pass by)

Sam Nail Ranch preserves the remains of a homestead established during Big Bend’s ranching era. Its working windmill creates a small desert oasis that attracts birds and wildlife, offering visitors a quiet glimpse into life on an isolated frontier ranch.
Read more

Upper Burro Mesa Pour-Off Trailhead

Upper Burro Mesa Pouroff Trail follows a rocky desert drainage through colorful volcanic formations. The route gradually reveals the powerful effects of flash floods, ending above a dramatic dry waterfall carved into the mesa.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Homer Wilson Ranch

The overlook provides a commanding view of Homer Wilson’s historic Blue Creek Ranch, once among the largest ranching operations in the region. A descending trail leads toward the preserved ranch house and connects with longer routes through the surrounding desert.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Sotol Vista Overlook (pass by)

Sotol Vista overlooks the sweeping western desert of Big Bend, with distant views extending toward Santa Elena Canyon. The elevated viewpoint is especially admired for its sunsets, mountain silhouettes, and vast panorama of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Read more

Big Bend National Park (pass by)

The Chimneys Trail crosses open desert toward a pair of prominent volcanic rock formations. Near the formations, visitors can discover evidence of Indigenous presence, including rock art and signs of people who traveled through this landscape centuries ago.
Read more

Goat Mountain Observation Point

Goat Mountain Observation Point highlights the volcanic forces that shaped the western side of Big Bend. Layers of rock, desert ridges, and distant mountains create an impressive natural display of the park’s complex geological history.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Mule Ears Viewpoint (pass by)

Mule Ears Viewpoint is named for two distinctive volcanic peaks rising sharply above the desert. The viewpoint provides a memorable photo stop, while a nearby trail travels through the desert toward a secluded spring.
Read more

Tuff Canyon (pass by)

Tuff Canyon was carved through layers of compressed volcanic ash deposited by ancient eruptions. Visitors can observe its narrow walls from roadside platforms or descend into the canyon for a closer look at its unusual textures and formations.
Read more

Castolon Historic District

The Castolon Historic District preserves buildings connected to military activity, farming, ranching, and border commerce. The area later became the headquarters of the La Harmonia Company, which supplied families living throughout this remote section of Big Bend.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Castolon Store

Castolon Store reflects the district’s history as an important trading and supply center along the United States–Mexico border. It continues the tradition of serving travelers while preserving the character of this historic desert community.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Dorgan Sublett Trail (pass by)

The Dorgan–Sublett Trail explores the remains of early twentieth-century homesteads overlooking the Rio Grande valley. Adobe ruins and desert views reveal the determination of families who attempted to build permanent lives in this demanding environment.
Read more

Santa Elena River Access (pass by)

Santa Elena River Access brings visitors directly to the banks of the Rio Grande beneath towering canyon walls. It offers a striking perspective of the river as it enters one of Big Bend’s most impressive limestone canyons.
Read more

Santa Elena Canyon Overlook

Santa Elena Canyon Overlook presents a sweeping view of the enormous limestone gorge carved by the Rio Grande. Its sheer walls rise approximately 1,500 feet above the river, forming one of the park’s most recognizable landscapes.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Santa Elena Canyon (pass by)

The Santa Elena Canyon Trail follows the Rio Grande before climbing above Terlingua Creek and entering the mouth of the canyon. Towering limestone walls surround the route, creating a dramatic finale to the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
Read more

Lost Mine Trail (pass by)

Lost Mine Trail climbs through forests and rocky slopes to expansive views of the Chisos Mountains and surrounding desert. Its name comes from a local legend involving a hidden mine whose location was supposedly concealed forever.
Read more

Casa Grande Peak (pass by)

Casa Grande Peak rises prominently above the Chisos Basin, forming one of the area’s most recognizable mountain silhouettes. Its massive volcanic slopes dominate the scenery and demonstrate the geological forces that created this isolated mountain range.
Read more

Chisos Basin Visitor Center

The Chisos Basin Visitor Center sits within a natural mountain basin surrounded by towering cliffs and peaks. It introduces visitors to the area’s wildlife, geology, hiking opportunities, and the unique “sky island” environment found high above the desert.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Window View Trail (pass by)

Window View Trail is a short, paved route offering impressive views through the famous opening known as the Window. Mountains frame the distant desert like a natural picture, making this an especially popular location for viewing the sunset.
Read more

The Window Trailhead

The Window Trail descends through the Chisos Basin toward a narrow opening between towering rock walls. At its conclusion, seasonal water has polished the rock into a smooth pour-off overlooking the desert far below.
Read more

5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Chisos Basin Trailhead (pass by)

The Chisos Basin Loop Trail travels through mountain woodland and open slopes surrounding the developed basin. Changing elevations provide excellent views of Casa Grande, the Window, and the contrasting desert landscape beyond the mountains.
Read more

Laguna Meadows Trail (pass by)

Laguna Meadow Trail climbs steadily into the higher elevations of the Chisos Mountains. Forested slopes, mountain wildlife, and broad desert panoramas make it an important access route toward the South Rim and Big Bend’s mountain backcountry. NPS hiking information
Read more
Show 32 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Flexible Travel Date: Tours are a one-time purchase with no expiry or date/time limit. If your plans change to a different day, there’s no need to change your travel date.
  • Tour at Your Leisure: With GuideAlong, you control the pace. Start, stop, and resume the tour any day, anytime, adapting it to your schedule.
  • Driving Tours: Group Savings: One purchase covers everyone in the vehicle, making it a cost-effective way to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Big Bend National Park?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-309754P90

Traveler Photos

Texas Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

Stockyard Shadows: Wicked Fort Worth Ghost Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.3 (128)

Stockyard Shadows: Wicked Fort Worth Ghost Tours

Experience the ghostly side of Fort Worth on our chilling walking tour. Guided by an expert in haunted history, this tour leads you through iconic...

1 hour Free Cancellation
4.3 (128)
from
$26
The San Antonio Shuffle Scavenger Hunt
5.0 (5)

The San Antonio Shuffle Scavenger Hunt

Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to...

2 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (5)
from
$19
Smart Tour: Dallas Mural Fat-Tire Scooter Tour
5.0 (4)

Smart Tour: Dallas Mural Fat-Tire Scooter Tour

Experience the rich cultural and artistic scene of downtown Dallas like never before on electric bikes! Download our app to start your adventure, which includes...

2 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (4)
from
$45
Houston NASA Ticket with Transportation
3.7 (3)

Houston NASA Ticket with Transportation

Upon arrival, get ready to explore the world-famous NASA Johnson Space Center, home of astronaut training and historic space missions. With your included admission ticket,...

5 hours 30 minutes
3.7 (3)
from
$70
Stockyard Shadows: Wicked Fort Worth Ghost Tours

Experience the ghostly side of Fort Worth on our chilling walking tour. Guided by an expert in haunted history, this tour leads you through iconic …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.3 (128)

Stockyard Shadows: Wicked Fort Worth Ghost Tours

4.3 (128)

Experience the ghostly side of Fort Worth on our chilling walking tour. Guided by an expert in haunted history, this tour leads you through iconic...

1 hour Free Cancellation
4.3 (128)
from
$26
The San Antonio Shuffle Scavenger Hunt

Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to …More

5.0 (5)

The San Antonio Shuffle Scavenger Hunt

5.0 (5)

Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to...

2 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (5)
from
$19
Smart Tour: Dallas Mural Fat-Tire Scooter Tour

Experience the rich cultural and artistic scene of downtown Dallas like never before on electric bikes! Download our app to start your adventure, which includes …More

5.0 (4)

Smart Tour: Dallas Mural Fat-Tire Scooter Tour

5.0 (4)

Experience the rich cultural and artistic scene of downtown Dallas like never before on electric bikes! Download our app to start your adventure, which includes...

2 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (4)
from
$45
Houston NASA Ticket with Transportation

Upon arrival, get ready to explore the world-famous NASA Johnson Space Center, home of astronaut training and historic space missions. With your included admission ticket, …More

3.7 (3)

Houston NASA Ticket with Transportation

3.7 (3)

Upon arrival, get ready to explore the world-famous NASA Johnson Space Center, home of astronaut training and historic space missions. With your included admission ticket,...

5 hours 30 minutes
3.7 (3)
from
$70

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Double Decker Austin Single Loop Sightseeing Tour
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (1,211)

Double Decker Austin Single Loop Sightseeing Tour

Learn all about Austin and its rich history while enjoying an awesome view of the city from the top of a double-decker bus. You get...

75 to 90 minutes Free Cancellation
4.8 (1,211)
from
$37
Baywatch Dolphin Tours – Pier 21 Galveston
4.9 (2,709)

Baywatch Dolphin Tours – Pier 21 Galveston

Experienced captains offer you information on the history of Galveston while you spot some of the most beautiful dolphins. Our staff is friendly, and we...

40 to 45 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (2,709)
from
$35
Sunset Dolphin Watch Cruise
4.9 (1,823)

Sunset Dolphin Watch Cruise

Join us on a thrilling expedition where sightings of the magnificent Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are a year-round spectacle! Step aboard and let Isla Tours whisk...

1 hour 30 minutes
4.9 (1,823)
from
$19
1:00 PM Eco Tour and Dolphin Watch
4.9 (1,551)

1:00 PM Eco Tour and Dolphin Watch

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on our 1.5-hour South Padre Island Dolphin Watch & Eco Tour aboard the Murphy’s Law! Cruise into the dolphins’...

1 hour 30 minutes
4.9 (1,551)
from
$19
Double Decker Austin Single Loop Sightseeing Tour

Learn all about Austin and its rich history while enjoying an awesome view of the city from the top of a double-decker bus. You get …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (1,211)

Double Decker Austin Single Loop Sightseeing Tour

4.8 (1,211)

Learn all about Austin and its rich history while enjoying an awesome view of the city from the top of a double-decker bus. You get...

75 to 90 minutes Free Cancellation
4.8 (1,211)
from
$37
Baywatch Dolphin Tours – Pier 21 Galveston

Experienced captains offer you information on the history of Galveston while you spot some of the most beautiful dolphins. Our staff is friendly, and we …More

4.9 (2,709)

Baywatch Dolphin Tours – Pier 21 Galveston

4.9 (2,709)

Experienced captains offer you information on the history of Galveston while you spot some of the most beautiful dolphins. Our staff is friendly, and we...

40 to 45 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (2,709)
from
$35
Sunset Dolphin Watch Cruise

Join us on a thrilling expedition where sightings of the magnificent Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are a year-round spectacle! Step aboard and let Isla Tours whisk …More

4.9 (1,823)

Sunset Dolphin Watch Cruise

4.9 (1,823)

Join us on a thrilling expedition where sightings of the magnificent Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are a year-round spectacle! Step aboard and let Isla Tours whisk...

1 hour 30 minutes
4.9 (1,823)
from
$19
1:00 PM Eco Tour and Dolphin Watch

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on our 1.5-hour South Padre Island Dolphin Watch & Eco Tour aboard the Murphy’s Law! Cruise into the dolphins’ …More

4.9 (1,551)

1:00 PM Eco Tour and Dolphin Watch

4.9 (1,551)

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on our 1.5-hour South Padre Island Dolphin Watch & Eco Tour aboard the Murphy’s Law! Cruise into the dolphins’...

1 hour 30 minutes
4.9 (1,551)
from
$19

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Big Bend National Park?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CST).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Support: Toll free phone, chat and email.
  • Easy To Use: Pre-download and tour offline.
  • Trip Planners: In-app, web and PDF.
  • Location Based: Stories, tips & directions that autoplay.
  • One-Time Purchase: No time or date use limit or expiry.
  • Flexible Routes: Suggested itineraries or create your own.
  • Includes an app based self-guided experience, so you do not need any in-person guide.
  • GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide) Audio Tour: 125+ Points.
The following is NOT included:
  • Entry Fees, National Park Passes, Reservations.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Big Bend National Park is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Big Bend National Park will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Support: Toll free phone, chat and email
  • Easy To Use: Pre-download and tour offline
  • Trip Planners: In-app, web and PDF
  • Location Based: Stories, tips & directions that autoplay
  • One-Time Purchase: No time or date use limit or expiry
  • Flexible Routes: Suggested itineraries or create your own
  • Includes an app based self-guided experience, so you do not need any in-person guide.
  • GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide) Audio Tour: 125+ Points
  • Entry Fees, National Park Passes, Reservations

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • How to Access: After booking you’ll receive an email and text with instructions (search “Download Audio Tour”). Click the link in the email/text to sign in with your preferred Apple or Google account and redeem your voucher code ahead of time.
  • Download The GuideAlong App: Download the free app over WiFi or cellular data and sign in with the same Apple or Google account.
  • Download The Tour: Download the tour in the GuideAlong app under 'My Tours' over WiFi or cellular data.
  • Start The Tour: Open the tour in the GuideAlong app to preview the start locations, tour route and trip planner, or start the tour.
  • Location-Based Stories: Audio commentary plays automatically as you drive using your phone’s GPS chip. Wherever you are and whichever direction you’re going, you’ll hear the best stories and tips.
  • Flexible Travel Date: Tours are a one-time purchase with no expiry or date/time limit. If your plans change to a different day, there’s no need to change your travel date.
  • Tour at Your Leisure: With GuideAlong, you control the pace. Start, stop, and resume the tour any day, anytime, adapting it to your schedule.
  • Driving Tours: Group Savings: One purchase covers everyone in the vehicle, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
  • Works Offline: No internet or cell service is required once the audio tour is downloaded to your phone, so you can relax and tour offline.
  • Bring A Charger: Pack a USB/C car charger for charging and easy sound connectivity, and make sure your device is fully charged.
  • Technical Support: The GuideAlong support team is available daily by toll-free phone, online chat, and email.
  • The app’s audio will play through your car’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto display, while the app’s map will display on your phone. You can connect your phone to the car via Bluetooth to listen to the commentary through the car stereo.

Report Product Issue

Activity name