Congaree National Park Self Guided Audio Walking Tour

South Carolina , United States of America

Congaree National Park Self Guided Audio Walking Tour

Active

4h - 5h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Step into one of America’s last old-growth forests and explore Congaree National Park at your own pace. Walk shaded boardwalk trails surrounded by giant trees, hanging vines, and wildlife calls that fill the air. The audio guide shares stories about the park’s history, swamp ecosystem, and the people who once lived and worked here.

Start your tour from the visitor center and follow the boardwalk or take side trails to see Weston Lake, Bluff Trail, and the Harry Hampton Visitor Center area. Stop to listen to frogs, birds, and the flowing Congaree River. Use GPS directions that work offline, follow local tips, and revisit anytime with lifetime access.

Download the tour, bring water, and enjoy a peaceful walk through one of the South’s most beautiful and wild landscapes—your time, your path, your adventure.

*Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours*

Available options

Congaree National Park Self Guided Audio Walking Tour

What's included

Works offline — no WiFi, data, or cell signal needed

Audio stories, local history, and travel tips along the route

Lifetime access — use anytime, no expiration

Explore on your own schedule — go at your own pace

Detailed itinerary

At the Harry Hampton Visitor Center in Congaree National Park, you can chat with rangers, grab maps, and plan your adventure.

Inside, check out interactive exhibits and a short film that brings the park’s wildlife and history to life. There’s also a small bookstore, gift shop, restrooms, and free WiFi.

Be sure to check out the famous "Mosquito Meter", which gauges how bad the mosquitoes in the park are today!

This is where the walking tour takes place. It's a relaxing, 2.4-mile walk that starts right behind the visitor center.

The flat, easy path winds through towering cypress and tupelo trees, giving you a close-up look at the park’s beautiful old-growth forest without getting your feet muddy.

Along the way, you’ll find signs that share cool facts about the ecosystem and a peaceful overlook at Weston Lake.

The Sims Trail at Congaree National Park is an easy, mostly flat hike about 3.2 miles round trip. It follows an old gravel road through the forest, connecting with the Boardwalk Trail and leading toward Cedar Creek.

The path is wide and great for most skill levels, though it can get muddy or flooded after rain. It’s a peaceful walk with plenty of shade—just bring bug spray for the mosquitoes!

Weston Lake is a quiet, scenic oxbow lake that formed thousands of years ago when the Congaree River changed course and left this bend behind. You can reach it by walking the Weston Lake Loop or the Boardwalk Trail, which leads to a lovely overlook.

It’s a great spot to pause and enjoy the still water reflecting the trees above — and if you’re lucky, you might spot turtles, herons, or even an alligator gliding by.

What's not included

Private transportation

Entrance Fees

Parking Fees

Meals & Refreshments

Available languages

Audio guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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!”

Meeting point

Tour starts at the Harry RE Hampton Visitor Center and follows the path of the Boardwalk Loop Trail in a counterclockwise direction.

Important notes

HOW TO REDEEM YOUR TOUR:

Thank you for purchasing the Congaree National Park Tour.

Before you start your adventure, you'll need to redeem and download the tour in the Shaka Guide app. Follow the instructions below:

*Please Note: The redeem code is the 10-digit booking reference number on your ticket (located under the barcode).

1. Download the Shaka Guide App in the App Store or Google Play Store (or use the link at the bottom of this email)
2. Open the app and go to the support tab
3. Click Account Settings
4. Click Retrieve Purchases
5. Select Use Redeem Code (the 10-digit booking reference number on your ticket, located under the barcode)
6. Sign up with your email ID
7. Enter the redeem code shared above in the message.

Once you've redeemed your tour, you'll find it under "My Stuff" in the app.

For a smooth ride, download the tour with wifi before you go.

We can't wait for you to explore with Shaka Guide!

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to aloha@shakaguide.com or call (808) 201-8138

DOWNLOAD THE APP HERE: www.shakaguide.com/download

About South Carolina

South Carolina is a southeastern U.S. state known for its historic coastal cities, charming plantations, and scenic beaches. It offers a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and Southern hospitality, making it a diverse and appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Charleston Historic District

The Charleston Historic District is a National Historic Landmark District that showcases the city's rich history and architecture. Visitors can explore cobblestone streets, historic homes, and significant landmarks.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, guided tours available for a fee

Hunting Island State Park

Hunting Island State Park is a beautiful barrier island offering pristine beaches, hiking trails, and a historic lighthouse. It's a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Nature Half day to full day $8 per vehicle for park entry

Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park is home to the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. It offers hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Nature Half day to full day Free entry

Fort Sumter National Monument

Fort Sumter National Monument is a historic site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and explore its history through exhibits and ranger-led programs.

Historical Half day $24 for adults, $15 for children (ages 6-12), free for children under 6

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and SkyWheel

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and SkyWheel offer a fun and lively atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The SkyWheel provides stunning views of the coastline from its 180-foot-tall Ferris wheel.

Entertainment Half day to full day Free to explore, SkyWheel tickets available for a fee

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp, often served with bacon and a rich, flavorful sauce.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based alternatives.

She-Crab Soup

A creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry, often served with a side of crispy oyster crackers.

Soup Contains shellfish and dairy.

Charleston Red Rice

A traditional Lowcountry dish made with rice, tomatoes, and the holy trinity of vegetables (onions, bell peppers, and celery), often served as a side dish with seafood or poultry.

Side Dish Vegetarian-friendly, but may contain small amounts of meat or poultry stock.

Hoppin' John

A traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon or ham, often served as a side dish with seafood or poultry.

Side Dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based alternatives.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Congaree National Park Kayaking in the ACE Basin Zip-lining at Go Ape Treetop Adventure Beachcombing on Hilton Head Island Spa day in Charleston Wine tasting in the South Carolina Upcountry Exploring the Historic District in Charleston Visiting museums and galleries in Columbia

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm but not excessively hot, and the crowds are manageable.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00), with daylight saving time observed from March to November.

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some exceptions in certain areas and situations

South Carolina is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and credit cards
• Research tour operators and taxi services before using them

Getting there

By air

Charleston International Airport • 12 miles from downtown Charleston
Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport • 15 miles from downtown Greenville

By train

Charleston Amtrak Station, Columbia Amtrak Station

By bus

Charleston Bus Station, Columbia Bus Station, Greenville Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

CARTA offers bus services with routes covering major attractions, downtown areas, and residential neighborhoods. Fares are affordable, and day passes are available.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Charleston Five Points, Columbia Historic District, Greenville

Day trips

Hilton Head Island

About 45 miles from Savannah, GA • Half day to full day

Hilton Head Island is a popular beach destination known for its pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, golfing, and exploring the island's natural beauty.

Savannah, GA

About 105 miles from Charleston, SC • Full day

Savannah is a charming and historic city known for its beautiful architecture, lush parks, and rich history. Visitors can explore the city's historic district, visit museums and galleries, and enjoy a variety of dining and shopping options.

Congaree National Park

About 20 miles from Columbia, SC • Half day to full day

Congaree National Park is home to the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing in this unique and beautiful natural setting.

Festivals

Charleston Wine + Food Festival • Mid-February Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June Columbia's South Carolina State Fair • Mid-October to early November

Pro tips

Visit historic sites and attractions in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat and crowds.
Take advantage of free and low-cost attractions, such as beaches, parks, and historic sites, to save money.
Explore the state's diverse culinary scene, from traditional Lowcountry dishes to modern Southern cuisine.
Be mindful of hurricanes and tropical storms from June to November, and monitor weather forecasts and alerts.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious and historic sites, and be a responsible and sustainable traveler.