We love national parks and one of the most unique experiences we’ve had was at Big Bend National Park, which lies right on the Rio Grande River bordering Mexico. In this area, there is a perfectly safe place to cross into Mexico, enjoy a half day, and cross back. The Boquillas Crossing is right in Big Bend, so it is monitored by the park rangers. Our boys loved their little adventure outside the country.
Border Crossing
In order to get through the border checkpoint, you will need a passport or passport identification card. This is necessary for every member of your party, and obviously, there are no exceptions. You’ll also need cash, as there are a few unavoidable fees. We recommend about $60 per person as of 2025. Here were the prices when we visited:
Parking can be a problem, and generally, the Boquillas crossing is crossable from 9 am-4 pm. Arrive early as you may have to wait during busy times. We didn’t see anyone as we crossed the border, though there were a few visitors when we got to Boquillas. Getting though the checkpoint is as simple as showing your passport, and listening to a few instructions.
Crossing the River
From the checkpoint, you make a very short walk down to the river. Some people will wade the river, which you can do for free, but we paid $5 per person to be ferried across. Since the water was around waist deep, this seemed like a bargain. When we arrived on the other side, we were given a ticket for our return trip, so hang on to that.
Getting to Boquillas
On the other side, there is a large corral of horses and donkeys, and several gauchos who will help you on to mount. The ride into Boquillas del Carmen is $15 roundtrip per person, and you’ll get a “guided” tour of the town from the person who accompanies you. Of course, you can walk into town and save a little money as it’s just under a mile, but we wanted the experience of the ride. The walk is also hot, dusty, and in the full heat of the sun. If you decide to hike in, bring hats, sunscreen, water, and good walking shoes.
Natural Area Fee
Boquillas is only about 200 people. Our guide walked behind the donkeys, tied them up for us, and then walked us to border control on the Mexican side. Each person over 12 years old is required to pay a $7 visitor fee to spend time in Mexico. This is payable by cash only, and they get you a little wristband so the businesses can tell if you have paid the tourism fee.
Touring the Town
We continued our tour with the guide through town. Though we didn’t speak much Spanish, and he didn’t speak much English, he showed us the school, the hospital, and the shops. Bring cash if you plan to purchase any souvenirs. Then he guided us to a restaurant called Jose Falcon. We ate, and he chatted with the restaurant owner. The food was really amazing, and, with food, sodas, tip, and dessert (empanadas and sopapillas), we spent around $25 per person. At this restaurant, we did manage to pay with Venmo, though it wasn’t convenient with the Internet connection and the lack of Venmo in Mexico. Cash is the preferred payment method. There are a few other restaurants in town, but we loved everything at Jose Falcon.
Returning to Big Bend
Soon we found ourselves back on the mules and headed for the crossing. Both return trips were already paid for. Our $60 estimate per person includes: $5 for crossing, $7 for tourism fee, $15 for mule ride, $25 for lunch, which leaves $8 per person for a tip. If you want more for souvenirs, plan accordingly. Also, remember this should be in cash!
Once you get back to the Boquillas Crossing port of entry, you will need to show your passport and anything you purchased in Mexico. You also have to do a video call with a border agent in order to be allowed back into the United States. Make sure to plan to be back at least 30 minutes before the crossing closes so that you aren’t stuck in Boquillas for the night.
