White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, Guadalupe Mountains: 5 Day Desert Getaway

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, the world seemed to fall into a peaceful hush. The fine, white gypsum sand beneath my feet felt soft and cool, and everywhere I looked, it was just endless waves of untouched dunes. There was something so pure and serene about that moment—the stillness of the desert, the soft rustle of the wind, and the sky painted in hues of pink and gold—it felt like standing on another planet.

@camillalxy, Your AAdventure Guide

Essential Information

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in El Paso (ELP) -> Alamogordo

Arrive at El Paso International Airport (ELP) and pick up your rental car before heading out on a scenic drive to Alamogordo. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy a quiet evening exploring the local dining scene.

Day 2 - Alkali Flat Trail -> Interdune Boardwalk -> Carlsbad

Start your day at White Sands National Park for an unforgettable morning of sledding down the sparkling gypsum dunes. Afterward, embark on the challenging yet rewarding 5-mile Alkali Flat Trail for stunning desert vistas. Following a short walk on the Interdune Boardwalk, drive to Carlsbad in the afternoon, stopping in Artesia to refuel. Check into your hotel in Carlsbad and unwind after a full day of desert exploration.

Day 3 - Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Tours -> Devil's Hall Trail

Kick off your day with an awe-inspiring journey into Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Hike the Natural Entrance Trail before exploring the cavernous wonder of the Big Room. Afterward, head to Guadalupe Mountains National Park for an afternoon adventure on the 4.2-mile Devil's Hall Trail, where you'll trek through rugged canyons surrounded by towering walls. Return to Carlsbad for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Day 4 - Guadalupe Peak Trail

Conquer the highest point in Texas by hiking the iconic Guadalupe Peak Trail. This 8.4-mile round trip takes you through alpine forests and offers sweeping views of the desert below. After an exhilarating climb, spend the afternoon back in Carlsbad, unwinding or exploring the local sights before a well-deserved dinner.

Day 5 - Departure from ELP

Check out in the morning and drive back to El Paso for your return flight. Return your rental car and fly out of ELP, carrying with you the memories of an extraordinary American Southwest road trip through the desert. Don't forget to share your photos and experiences with us to be featured on Voyagers' social media. We'd love to hear your stories!

This Trip Is Best For

First-time visitors: "I've never been to White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, and Guadalupe Mountains and want to see all the highlights."

Desert lovers: "I thrive in arid, open landscapes and love the vastness of desert horizons."

Experienced hikers: "I'm in good shape and enjoy challenging hikes and packed schedules."

Travel photographers: "I love capturing beautiful landscapes and taking stylish travel photos."

Independent explorers: "I prefer traveling without a guide and am comfortable with basic navigation."

How To Autopilot

1. Pay a deposit to receive the full itinerary and secure your spot if you'd like to join a group.

2. Answer a few questions from us to be matched with compatible group members. 

3. Pay the balance to meet your group and get ready for your self-guided adventure together.

• Once you've met your group, no refunds will be issued for cancellations.
  
• Each additional participant you bring gets 10% off the balance for everyone in the same party, until your party size reaches the max group size of the trip.

For just $10 or less, you'll be ready to go with an actionable itinerary AND travel buddies you'll get along with.

That's like HOURS ⏰ of trip planning and HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS 💰 on travel agency SAVED ✅

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