18 days tour

Western Usa Highlights

Western Usa Highlights

This tour includes:

Accommodation

NORTH AMERICA CAMPING: The campsites that we use are selected for either their scenic beauty, their convenient location to places of interest and/or the facilities available. We aim to offer you a selection of different types of campsites. If youโ€™ve never camped before - no problem! We provide a complete set of camping and cooking equipment. This includes roomy easy-to-pitch tents, which are shared by only two people and are equipped with thin foam rubber mattresses and vinyl floors. Your leader will show you how to pitch a tent on the first day. On many trips we also spend a few nights in reasonably priced hotels/motels/hostels (as per the itinerary). Remember that sleeping bags are not provided. Check out the Packing section for more information. Youโ€™ll find the necessary facilities - toilets and in most cases showers, washing machines and dryers - at many of our campsites. The showers at some campsites only have cold water available and some may require a payment (usually no more than US$1-$3 for a quick shower). This is payable locally and is a contribution towards the cost of a limited water supply. Some campsites wonโ€™t have any facilities, but this will rarely be for more than one night at a time. This is true of many campsites within Yosemite National Park, so if your trip is visiting this park, please prepare to go without a shower on this night, although it can often be arranged to stop and utilise facilities on our way out of the park. In all campsites there are strict quiet hours when no loud noise is allowed. This means that all music, singing and group gatherings must stop. We request that all our travellers respect these campsite rules. For trips where there are lodges/cabins used, couples travelling together may be separated as our rooming arrangements are based on single gender. Our high-quality camping equipment (including tents) can be affected by bad weather conditions. This can result in some wet and cold conditions inside the tent. Your spirit of adventure and flexibility will help make your adventure trip an exciting and unforgettable experience. On nights where the group is camping, and weather conditions are extreme (such as snow or heavy rain), there may be an opportunity for the group (if everyone agrees) to stay at an alternative location such as a nearby hostel or hotel. When this is the case the upgrade is at your own expense. Camping (with facilities) (9 nights),Hotel (4 nights),Multishare cabin (2 nights),Hogan (1 night),Hostel (1 night)

Others

Included activities Joshua Tree National Park Grand Canyon National Park Zion National Park Bryce Canyon National Park Arches National Park Dead Horse Point State Park Monument Valley - Jeep tour & overnight experience Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Death Valley National Park Yosemite National Park

Transport

Private vehicle NORTH AMERICA VEHICLES: Our large fleet of vans are fully equipped with dual air-conditioning system, V8 engines and any camping or cooking equipment needed for your trip. Most have cloth-upholstered seats and carpeted interior with radio/tape or CD players. Your luggage is transported in a trailer which is towed behind the van. The vans are regularly serviced in our own maintenance facility and continuously checked and serviced by a well-established network of maintenance and service facilities throughout the continent. However, unforeseen maintenance problems can still occur while on the road and we appreciate the patience of our travellers as we make necessary repairs as quickly as possible. While your group will have a van for all included activities on the trip, the services of the van and the driver may not be available for your use during free time, or after you have arrived for the day. If you need a special trip into town you may need to arrange transport or a taxi.

Guide

We have designed our trips to make the most of your time in the States, but please understand that there are certain times during each day that your leader will need to be off duty from work. This includes having meal and rest periods and personal time. Your leader will provide you with all the important information you need to embark on your own explorations.

Meals

1 breakfast, 1 dinner

Not included:

Flights

International flights not included.

Insurance

Insurance is not included. Travel insurance is required for this tour. Please make sure you are adequately covered. If you require travel insurance, TourRadar has partnered up with World Nomads to provide a hassle-free experience. More information can be found here (https://www.tourradar.com/travel-insurance).

Others

Other activities and services not included

Optional

Other activities and services not included

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Western Usa Highlights

  • Day 1 Day 1: Los Angeles
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 1: Los Angeles

      Welcome to the USA! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting in the lobby today at 6 pm. Itโ€™s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. If you do arrive early, perhaps take a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame, or spend some time learning about the lives of the rich and famous on a celebrity homes tour. After the welcome meeting, weโ€™ll head beachside and visit Venice and Santa Monica beach for a stroll and some people watching. Day 1 is all about introductions, so why not spend some time getting to know your fellow travellers with an optional group dinner.

      Accommodation: Hostel

  • Day 2 Day 2: Joshua Tree National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 2: Joshua Tree National Park

      Today, youโ€™ll head away from the coast and drive to Joshua Tree National Park. Sitting between the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, the park is famous for its spectacular desert plants โ€“ including the parkโ€™s namesake Joshua trees โ€“ along with cacti and Mojave yuccas. The area is also home to striking rock formations and mountain ranges, so you might like to head out on a scenic hike around the park or take a refreshing dip in the Colorado River. Youโ€™ll head to Lake Havasu City later on to your accommodation for the night, and check out London Bridge: a 280-metre structure rebuilt in Arizona in 1971 after being transported, piece by piece, from the banks of the Thames in London.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 3 Day 3: Grand Canyon National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 3: Grand Canyon National Park

      Drive for 6 hours to Grand Canyon National Park, along a section of the famous Route 66, stopping in at the eccentric town of Seligman. Once we arrive at the Grand Canyon National Park, be ready to visually delight in the natural beauty for hours. This stunning gorge is 1.5 kilometres deep, formed by over six million years of erosion from the Colorado River. Youโ€™ll spend two nights here, and youโ€™ll need it, to allow for a full day of exploration tomorrow.

      Accommodation: Camping (with facilities)

  • Day 4 Day 4: Grand Canyon National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 4: Grand Canyon National Park

      Today is a free day to explore the Grand Canyon, one of the largest canyon systems in the world. Stroll along the meandering South Rim Trail or hike your way down to Plateau Point. With eagles soaring overhead and chasms extending as far as the eye can see, itโ€™s so important for you to experience its vast gorges from multiple viewpoints. In the early evening, relax at the canyonโ€™s edge and enjoy a spectacular sunset over one of the worldโ€™s natural wonders.

      Accommodation: Camping (with facilities)

  • Day 5 Day 5: Las Vegas
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 5: Las Vegas

      Head out of the Grand Canyon and cross the western deserts of Arizona to Las Vegas, which takes around 4 hours. Las Vegas may be the gambling capital of the world, but thereโ€™s plenty to do if gambling isnโ€™t your thing. Hit the shops, feel your stomach drop on a rooftop roller coaster or simply stroll along the Strip, soaking up the glitz and gaudiness. In the evening, perhaps feast on an โ€™all you can eatโ€™ buffet, check out one of the many shows on offer or party the night away in a Vegas nightclub. This evening, gather together for another meeting at 6 pm where youโ€™ll welcome some new travellers on the next stage of your USA adventure.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 6 Day 6: Zion National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 6: Zion National Park

      Today, leave Nevada and drive to Zion National Park. The park is home to stunning desert landscapes, sculpted sandstone formations, waterfalls and hanging gardens. There will be plenty of time on arrival to stretch your legs and have a good look around the park. The Emerald Pools trail, a two-hour stroll past a lush stream, is a good option for those who donโ€™t want anything too strenuous. If you are feeling adventurous and have a decent level of fitness (plus arenโ€™t afraid of heights), you might want to tackle the trail to Scout Lookout. This isnโ€™t for the faint of heart. However, the views from the top of the rock formation are spectacular. In the evening, set up camp for the night.

      Accommodation: Camping (with facilities)

  • Day 7 Day 7: Zion National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 7: Zion National Park

      Youโ€™ll have a full day to explore what you missed yesterday in Zion. It would be the ideal time to head on a longer hike, potentially to admire the beauty of the flowing streams along The Narrows, or a steep climb to an incredible view at Observation Point. The national park can also be discovered via shuttle or an optional float trip, giving your feet a well-deserved rest. At night, donโ€™t forget to look up at the dazzling night skies while camping and enjoy and try your luck at stargazing โ€“ quite perfectly combined with some sโ€™mores around the campfire.

      Accommodation: Camping (with facilities)

  • Day 8 Day 8: Monument Valley
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 8: Monument Valley

      Drive through southern Utah to Monument Valley, so-named for the giant sandstone formations scattered across the desert. Passing by stunning lookouts and by Forrest Gumpโ€™s desert running scene, make sure to also check out the Navajo roadside stalls for some authentic goods, and if youโ€™re lucky, some fried bread. The backdrop for countless Westerns, the valley is part of a massive Navajo reservation, and thereโ€™s no better way than heading out on an incredible guided jeep tour. Get your camera out and snap some photos of the spectacular landscape, which changes colour with the setting of the sun. Take in the stunning night skies and spend the night in a hogan, a traditional Navajo hut made of logs and earth.

      Accommodation: Hogan

  • Day 9 Day 9: Moab
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 9: Moab

      Continue on your journey this morning through the impressive landscape of Utah. On the way north to Moab, youโ€™re going to see some incredible scenery, including Goosenecks State Park overlook, Muley Point and Moki Dugway. Moab is a small city in Utah that attracts hikers, mountain bikers and nature enthusiasts to the incredible Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. Arches National Park is punctuated with spectacularly eroded sandstone formations and contains the worldโ€™s largest concentration of natural stone arches. Take a group hike at sunset to see famous sights such as Delicate Arch.

      Accommodation: Cabin (multishare)

  • Day 10 Day 10: Moab
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 10: Moab

      Experience Moab for a second day, filled with towering rock formations, winding trails and never-ending horizons. Hopefully there will be time to take a group hike in the Arches in the morning before the day gets too hot, however the afternoon is yours to explore. Perhaps book yourself into a raft float trip down the Colorado River, or test your balance with some stand-up paddleboarding. If you need to give your weary muscles a rest, a Slickrock Hummer tour might be your thing โ€“ though keep in mind itโ€™s not exactly a smooth journey. At nightfall, maybe head into town and hit the local brewery.

      Accommodation: Cabin (multishare)

  • Day 11 Day 11: Bryce Canyon National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 11: Bryce Canyon National Park

      Bryce Canyon National Park is next on the list. On the way, youโ€™ll stop and admire the golden sandstone of Capitol Reef, and refuel at the unique Kiva Koffeehouse, which overlooks the expanse of the Escalante Grand Staircase National Monument. Once arrived, there is a chance to hike a section of Bryce Canyon: from the easy Rim Trail, to the moderate Queenโ€™s Garden Trail or the strenuous Peek-a-boo Loop. The canyon is famous for its โ€™hoodoosโ€™ โ€“ odd-shaped rock spires formed by centuries of erosion. Wherever you walk, there are unique landscapes and a kaleidoscope of desert colours, especially at sunset. If youโ€™re keen to live out a Wild West fantasy, chat to the group leader about a horse-riding optional activity.

      Accommodation: Camping (with facilities)

  • Day 12 Day 12: Las Vegas
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 12: Las Vegas

      Today, drive across the border into Nevada and back to Las Vegas. For some of your travel companions, their time on tour ends on arrival, so say your farewells as you continue on your western adventure and explore more of Las Vegas! If you havenโ€™t already, why not hit the shops, stroll along the Strip or check out the Bellagio.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 13 Day 13: Las Vegas
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 13: Las Vegas

      Enjoy a full free day to bask in the bright lights of Vegas! This evening, gather together for another meeting at 6 pm where youโ€™ll welcome some new travellers on the next stage of your USA adventure, then perhaps party the night away in a Vegas nightclub with your new friends.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 14 Day 14: Sierra Nevada / Keough Hot Springs
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 14: Sierra Nevada / Keough Hot Springs

      Leave the bright lights of Vegas behind and drive into the Eastern Sierra Nevada toward the quaint town of Bishop. On arrival, check out the town or perhaps treat yourself to the crispy cookies or โ€˜bear clawsโ€™ at Erick Schatโ€™s German bakery. Later this afternoon, join the group for a soothing soak in a natural hot spring โ€“ perfect for those wanting to relax before an action-packed few days in Yosemite. Tonight, youโ€™ll camp under the stars in Bishop.

      Accommodation: Camping (with facilities)

  • Day 15 Day 15: Yosemite National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 15: Yosemite National Park

      Prepare for some spectacular mountain scenery as you depart from Bishop and head west to Yosemite National Park. This morning, stop at crystal clear lakes โ€“ including Mono and Tenaya โ€“ before continuing through the Tioga Pass (snow levels permitting) into the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Stop by Olmstead Point to marvel at Yosemiteโ€™s natural wonder, Half Dome, before arriving at one of the most famous parks in the USA. Yosemiteโ€™s colossal granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls (depending on the season) and redwood forests attract visitors from all over the world. Youโ€™ll spend three nights near the park, meaning you have two full days to explore. The total driving time today is approximately 5 hours.

      Accommodation: Camping (with facilities)

  • Day 16 Day 16: Yosemite National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 16: Yosemite National Park

      Start today with an orientation tour of the village before heading out for a free day of exploration. There are plenty of hikes available, each varying in steepness and difficulty. Hike The Mist Trail to Nevada Falls (2โ€“5 hours) or to the serene Mirror Lake (45 minutes). Keep an eye out for squirrels and perhaps even a bear along the way. You might prefer to hire a bike and explore Yosemite Valley, visiting the parkโ€™s museum, photo gallery, shops and restaurants along the way. In the heat of summer, a relaxing float down the Merced River followed by a few drinks at the parkโ€™s cafe is just the trick.

      Accommodation: Camping (with facilities)

  • Day 17 Day 17: Yosemite National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 17: Yosemite National Park

      Today thereโ€™s a chance to explore a different side of the park as you join your leader on a guided hike to Hetch Hetchy Valley. Tucked away in the northwest corner of Yosemite, Hetch Hetchy is a wilderness of cascading waterfalls, towering cliff faces and beautiful wildflowers. Boasting one of the longest hiking seasons in the park, the ecologically diverse valley attracts a fraction of the visitors in comparison to other more well-known hiking spots in Yosemite โ€“ which means itโ€™s an ideal area for those who have extra time to explore the park in depth.

      Accommodation: Camping (with facilities)

  • Day 18 Day 18: San Francisco
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 18: San Francisco

      Leave Yosemite behind today and drive west to San Francisco (approximately 4 hours). The โ€™City by the Bayโ€™ has a beautiful setting and a vibrant, multicultural heart. You might like to check out the vintage stores along funky Haight Street, catch the tram down to the waterfront or take an Adventure Cat Bay Cruise. The trip finishes on arrival into San Francisco after a stop to check out the Golden Gate Bridge, and no accommodation is provided tonight. As thereโ€™s a great deal to do in San Francisco, we recommend you stay a couple of extra days to make the most of the city. If you do wish to spend extra time in San Francisco, weโ€™ll be happy to help you book additional accommodation (subject to availability).

+15
Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but youโ€™re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

Youโ€™ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Average

There are several physical activities that last from 2 to 6 hours in easy terrains, low altitude flats, or water experiences. Please ask if youโ€™re not sure this applies to you.

Age range

Age range

Min: 15 / Max: 99

Age range allowed for this experience.

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