Step-On Bus Tours
in Joshua Tree National Park
Trying to figure out what to do in Joshua Tree National Park with a big group? We’ve got you! Come out into the field with Desert Institute on a step-on bus tour through Joshua Tree National Park. Experience the park in an entirely new way with our staff and experienced naturalists.
Tour Destinations
Climb aboard to visit some of the park’s most iconic destinations!
While you are welcome to mix and match any destinations that fit into your reservation’s time frame, we recommend pairing locations that are in the same area of the park if you want to spend more time at each one. Choose more destinations to achieve the full step-on, step-off tour experience or fewer destinations to enjoy the hiking, rock scrambling, and scenery of your favorite locations.
Bus tours are only able to stop in approved parking lots. If you have questions about destinations you don’t see here, please contact us.
Tour Pricing
Half-Day Tours
(up to 3 hours, 2 destinations)
Full-Day Tours
(up to 6 hours, 3-4 destinations)
Full-day tours can visit three to four destinations and last up to six hours.
Custom Tours
Starting at
Please Note:
Tours that extend beyond the scheduled duration will incur additional charges. If your tour does not begin at the scheduled start time, you will be billed an additional $100 per hour.
Pricing Reminders
We are unable to provide buses. We recommend that you book with a bus company that has a current Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) permit with Joshua Tree National Park. You are responsible for obtaining applicable permits if you book with another bus company.
Park entry fees are not included. The commercial vehicle entry fee to Joshua Tree National Park is separate from tour pricing.
The number of participants may affect pricing. While we are able to accommodate up to 30 participants per bus, a second staff naturalist is required for any bus with more than 15 participants, at a cost of $150 for a half-day tour and $200 for a full-day tour.
Meals are not included. There are no restaurants or stores inside the park. We recommend packing lunches and setting aside time for a meal break in one of these amazing locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Desert Institute provide buses?
No, Desert Institute is unable to provide buses. We recommend that you book with a bus company that has a current Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) permit with Joshua Tree National Park. You are responsible for obtaining applicable permits if you book with another bus company.
Is entry to the park included?
Can I schedule for a specific day?
Do I have to make a reservation?
How many people can come on the tour?
What should I bring with me?
What else should I do to prepare?
Can I bring alcohol?
What if I have another question?
Please reach out to us! The fastest way to contact us is through the booking form. You can also email us at desertinstitute@joshuatree.org or call us at (760) 820-1103.
