• Blanca Wetlands, BLM - Discover the Blanca Wetlands, a revitalized oasis that offers a window into the San Luis Valley’s history before agricultural drainage altered the landscape. This Bureau of Land Management initiative, started in 1965, highlights the crucial role wetlands play in enhancing water quality, soil health, and wildlife migration. Although closed during the nesting season (February through July), this site narrates a significant restoration journey.
• UFO Watchtower - The UFO Watchtower is a place to embrace the unusual, otherworldly, and improbable events that have long fascinated visitors to the San Luis Valley. Enthusiasts gather from all over for a chance to witness interstellar beings or, at the very least, to connect with fellow alien aficionados. Interested in discovering what’s out there? A visit will cost just a few dollars and might change your perspective on our place in the universe.
• Colorado Gators Reptile Park - In an unexpected chapter of Colorado history, what began as a tilapia farm’s waste management solution evolved into a unique wildlife refuge for alligators. After acquiring around a hundred baby gators to manage dead fish, the farm transformed into a public attraction in 1990, attracting visitors eager to see these ancient predators thriving in the desert. Today, the Colorado Gator Farm has expanded beyond its scaly origins to become a sanctuary for various rescued exotic animals, including tortoises, snakes, and even sharks, all finding an unexpected home in the San Luis Valley.
• Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center - The Fort Garland Museum, situated in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, preserves an 1858 military fort that once safeguarded settlers and served as a base for the legendary Buffalo Soldiers. The adobe fort complex includes original buildings with exhibits on frontier military life, the Buffalo Soldiers, and the history of the San Luis Valley.
• Zapata Falls - This hidden waterfall is nestled inside a cave at the end of a short yet adventurous hike, less than a mile round trip. Reaching the 25-foot falls involves splashing through water and scrambling over rocks, so waterproof shoes are recommended for this adventure.
• Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve - Start your visit at the Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center, where you can explore exhibits about the park’s unique geology, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural history. Obtain maps, watch an engaging orientation film, and receive tips from rangers on the best trails or activities for your visit. This is the ideal starting point to plan your adventure in the towering dunes and beyond.
• Montville Nature Trail - The Montville Nature Trail is the shortest and easiest forest hike in the park, passing through the former Montville townsite. It’s a quick half-mile journey through shady Aspen forests. About three-quarters of the way in, you’ll reach the highpoint, offering a sweeping view of the dunes from above the trees. If you choose to do one trail in the park, this one is highly recommended.
• Mosca Pass Trail - The Mosca Pass Trail is a moderately challenging 7-mile trail that extends from the Montville Nature Trail, leading to a pass in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains. It’s pleasantly shady, but not necessarily a top favorite, so it’s recommended for the if-you-have-time category.
• Wellington Ditch Trail - The Wellington Ditch Trail is just under 2 miles of a relatively flat hike through pinon and juniper trees, ending at the Pinon Flats Campground. The trail follows an old hand-dug irrigation ditch created by the Wellington family in 1927 and offers a few vantage points overlooking the dunes. Keep in mind, this hike is one way.
• Medano Pass Primitive Road - The Medano Pass Primitive Road offers a rugged 22-mile backcountry adventure through stunning landscapes, including sandy creek crossings and lush meadows. Along the route, stop at Castle Creek Picnic Area for breathtaking views of the dunes and mountains, and watch for wildlife like deer and elk. Notably, this is where the seasonal floods of Medano Creek create a temporary beach, complete with surging waves. High clearance 4WD vehicles are required, making this bumpy, sandy ride an exciting way to explore the park’s remote beauty.
• Sand Ramp Trail - The Sand Ramp Trail is a moderate 11-mile (one way) trek that winds along the base of the dunes, offering sweeping views of the sand and Sangre de Cristo Mountains. For the first few miles, it follows the Medano Pass Primitive Road. While the views are not as notable as some other trails, it provides a quiet, peaceful experience.
• San Luis State Wildlife Area - The San Luis Wildlife Area is a lesser-known but ecologically rich area in southern Colorado, near the San Luis Valley. Managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, it consists of a mix of wetlands, grasslands, and riparian areas that provide essential habitat for migratory birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife.

• Tours never expire
• Freedom to explore at your own pace
• Offline map (no wifi or data needed)
• Turn-by-turn directions using GPS
• Hours of audio narration with stories, travel tips, and music
• Audio narration plays automatically as you drive

• Private transportation
• Entrance Fees
• Parking Fees
• Meals and Refreshments

Stroll across the highest sand dunes in North America and discover Great Sand Dunes National Park at your leisure. A friendly narrator shares fascinating stories about how the wind and rivers sculpted these massive dunes and the history of the people who once inhabited the area.

Begin your adventure at the Visitor Center, then ascend the dunes, feel the sand between your toes, or slide down as if you’re at a playground. Hike to Zapata Falls, wander along the Montville Nature Trail beneath aspen trees, and take the Dunes Overlook Trail for breathtaking views. If time permits, explore the Mosca Pass Trail.

This tour operates without the need for cell service. It provides step-by-step directions and travel tips as you explore, and it never expires.

Download the tour, enjoy the sand, and share your experiences of dunes, waterfalls, and the stories of Great Sand Dunes National Park with friends. Relish this incredible park in your own way.

Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours

• Additional Starting Points: Moffat and Fort Garland
• Get Started Easily: • Book Your Tour: Receive a confirmation and easy instructions via email. • Download the App: Follow the simple steps in your email. • Redeem the Tour: Use the redeem code in your email to redeem the tour in the app. • Prepare Ahead: Download the tour using strong Wi-Fi.
• Begin Your Journey: • Select Your Tour: Go to the My Stuff tab in the Shaka Guide app to launch the tour. • Start the Tour: Select the tour starting point and follow the GPS instructions. • Follow Shaka Guide: Stick to the suggested route and speed for the best experience.
• Why Choose Our Audio Tour: • Cost-Efficient: One tour for the entire vehicle—no per-person fees! • Ultimate Flexibility: Start, pause, and resume on your schedule. • Convenience: Use the tour any day, over multiple days if needed.
• Top Features: • Hands-Free: The tour works automatically - GPS-activated stories, directions, and music play as you drive for a seamless experience. • Works Offline: No need for continuous wifi or data. • Reliable Support: Get help via call, chat, or email.
• Private and Personalized: • Crowd-Free: Enjoy a private tour with just your group. • Customizable Stops: Pick the stops you want and skip the ones you don’t!
• The Ultimate Guided Tour: • Detailed Itinerary: Includes travel tips and recommendations. • Engaging Narration: Captivating stories and history.
• What Our Users Say: • “A fantastic way to explore! Easy to use and very informative.” • “Loved the flexibility to stop and go as we pleased. Highly recommend!”

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.