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Mountain sunrise at Antelope Canyon, Arizona - Best of the West - Las Vegas to San Francisco, United States
Mountain sunrise at Antelope Canyon, Arizona  | Nathaniel Wynne
Dusty landscape as we hike through Bryce Canyon - Best of the West - Las Vegas to San Francisco, United States
Dusty landscape as we hike through Bryce Canyon  | Jake Hutchins
Ranch on the edge of Zion National Park, Utah - Best of the West - Las Vegas to San Francisco, United States
Ranch on the edge of Zion National Park, Utah  | Nathaniel Wynne
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona - Best of the West - Las Vegas to San Francisco, United States
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona  | Nathaniel Wynne
The skyline of San Francisco - Best of the West - Las Vegas to San Francisco, United States
The skyline of San Francisco  | Saskia Tolhuis
Sandstone buttes of Monument Valley at the Arizona-Utah state line - Best of the West - Las Vegas to San Francisco, United States
Sandstone buttes of Monument Valley at the Arizona-Utah state line  | Nathaniel Wynne
Travellers on the cable car in San Francisco - Best of the West - Las Vegas to San Francisco, United States
Travellers on the cable car in San Francisco  | Graham H.
Barren landscape of California's Death Valley - Best of the West - Las Vegas to San Francisco, United States
Barren landscape of California's Death Valley  | Lynne Challinor

Best of the West - Las Vegas to San Francisco

Spectacular day hikes and comfortable accommodation

United States
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 1 review

14 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: NPXL
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 14 Days
Activities
  • Day walks
Accommodation
  • 11 nights hotel
  • 2 nights tent cabin
Meals
  • 12 Lunches
  • 13 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
2 / 10

Adventure touring

Carbon Footprint  

35kg of CO2-e PP per day

(450kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Discover San Francisco on a fun city tour
  • Marvel at the larger-than-life views of Grand Canyon National Park
  • Witness the soaring cliffs of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park
  • Enjoy incredible day hikes in Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks
  • Be mesmerized by the red rock pillars of Monument Valley
  • Take in sweeping vistas of Death Valley National Park
  • Walk the trail to Horseshoe Bend
  • Feel dwarfed by the Worlds biggest trees - the Sequoias
  • Revel in the mountain scenery near Mammoth

Overview

It would be hard to improve on this spectacular itinerary combining visits and optional day walks in Arizona, California and Utah’s most spectacular National Parks with some optional walks into and around the Grand Canyon and time in the cities of San Francisco and Las Vegas. This is the best of Western USA visiting 4 States and 6 National Parks. During our 14 day trip we explore the trails of Yosemite to view immense glacier carved walls of soaring granite, such as Lembert Dome (2880m) and the famous Half Dome (2680m). We’ll ogle at the world’s biggest trees, the ancient Sequoias, before continuing to Mammoth with its hot springs. Following a short visit to Death Valley we journey deep into Utah and explore the ancient landscapes at Monument Valley, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park and view the deep blue waters of Lake Powell. This iconic trip is completed with two days at Grand Canyon National Park.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to overcrowding in the National Parks, parking is at times impossible to find. In this case the tour director may decide to leave the group at the entrance and try to find parking. In this case some hikes maybe be self guided.

Itinerary

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Arrival in Las Vegas. Self transfer from the airport to the hotel in Las Vegas via a shuttle or taxi. Relax this evening in preparation for the great adventure ahead. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Tuscany Suites Hotel & Casino, 1 night

Meals: Nil

8 AM: Your tour leader will meet you in the hotel for the orientation meeting. Leaving Las Vegas we soon ascend to the Colorado Plateau through the Virgin River Gorge. Today we enjoy the spectacular scenery of Snow Canyon State Park, where we walk over petrified sand dunes. Then we are on to see the impressive collection of dinosaur footprints (entrance included). _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Ramada by Wyndam - St. George • Drive time: 120 mi / 200 km, or 2 hrs _____________________________________________________________________________ • Lava Tube to Moqui Marbles: 3 mi / 5 km, 2-3 hours, +/-150 m

Meals: B,L

Zion National Park is an 800 m deep sandstone canyon carved by the mighty Virgin River. The scenery is stunning. Zion is famous for its iconic hikes through many slot canyons. We have all day to explore this fabulous park. You have the option to enjoy a hike to Emerald Pools, where water cascades into shaded pools. Or, maybe you are interested in wading through the Narrows? Whatever you choose, you will not be disappointed. If you finish hiking early, there is free time to explore the charming town of Springdale. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Sleep Inn - Hurricane, 1 night • Drive time: 90 mi / 150 km, or 2 hrs _____________________________________________________________________________ • Emerald Pools: 3 mi / 5 km, 2-3 hrs, +/-200 m

Meals: B,L

Leaving our hotel early, we soon reach Bryce Canyon National Park. For many, Bryce is the most beautiful of the American National Parks. Long ago, tectonic forces uplifted an ancient lakebed, exposing the soft sandstone deposit to the elements. Over time, the frost and wind erosion continued to chisel them and created a truly wonderful display of rocks. Marvel at Thor's Hammer, sandstone arches and the expansiveness of the park. Hiking paths wind through radiant red and pink towers of stone, known as Hoodoos, which contrast beautifully with blue skies and green pines. At sundown, be awed by an unforgettable color play on the formations. Hike with the group on the Navajo and Queens Garden Trail. In the summer, opt for a Western Cowboy dinner show back in Bryce Canyon City (not included). _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Best Western Plus - Ruby's Inn, 1 night • Drive time: 140 mi / 220 km, or 2.5 hrs _____________________________________________________________________________ • Queens Garden and Navajo Loop: 3 mi/5 km, 3 hrs, +/-200 m • Rim walk, Bryce Point to Sunset: 2 mi/4 km, 1 hr, +/-50 m

Meals: B,L

We depart this morning for Lake Powell. Once dammed, the Colorado River created a giant lake with 3000 km of shoreline. Deep red sandstone walls reflect in the deep blue waters, offering unforgettable images. The area is famous for its guided tours of Antelope Canyon, which is included in the cost of the trip and is one the most photographed slot canyons in the world. Our tour is followed by a short hike out to Horseshoe Bend. Walk around this natural wonder where the Colorado River meanders in a tight, horseshoe-shaped curve around a sandstone escarpment. This iconic viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the river’s emerald, green waters contrasted against the red rock canyon. Late afternoon we’ll make our way to our accommodations and look forward to another day of exploration after a restful evening. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Clarion Inn Page - Lake Powell, 1 night • Drive time: 140 mi / 220 km, or 2.5 hrs _____________________________________________________________________________ • Horseshoe Bend: 1.5 mi/2.4 km, 45 min, +/-40 m

Meals: B,L

Today we head to the Hollywood famous destination of Monument Valley. Giant red towers of stone rise out of the valley and offer fantastic photographic motifs. For decades, this area has been used as a backdrop for the cameras of Hollywood films, including Forrest Gump. Hit the ground running on an unforgettable Jeep tour through the valley led by the local Navajo Indians, where secluded views of the panoramas of Ear of the Wind and Big Hogan await. This tour is included in the price of your trip. In the afternoon, a 2.5 hr trip returns us to the Grand Canyon via its eastern entrance. With luck, we arrive in time for a stunning sunset. Our hotel is just south of the park entrance. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: The Red Feather Lodge, 2 nights • Drive time: 300 mi / 450 km, or 4.5 hrs

Meals: B,L

A full day to relax and explore at the Grand Canyon. With it being 277 miles long and 18 miles wide, there is no way to see it all in one day. We recommend an easy hike along the West Rim to the beautiful Hermit’s Rest overlook, where you'll be treated to an ever-changing, colorful panorama of the canyon's unique rock formations. If you are looking for a bit more action, there are some recommended hikes that will take you into the canyon itself. Note that you have to come up as far as you went down, so keep that in mind to ensure you have enough food, water and plenty of time. It will take you twice as long to return to the rim as it did for you to descend. *Note: Hikes in Grand Canyon National Park are self-guided due to permit regulations. For those searching for a little excitement, helicopter tours, bike rentals and an IMAX theater (to be paid locally, not included in tour package) are available as well. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: The Red Feather Lodge. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Havasupai Gardens via Bright Angel Trail: ~9 mi/14.4 km, 4-5 hrs, +/-940 m • Cedar Ridge via South Kaibab: ~3 mi/5 km, 3-4 hrs, +/-300 m • Hike along the rim: up to 8 mi/13 km, up to 4 hrs, +/-50 m

Meals: B,L

In the early afternoon, we depart for Las Vegas via the famous Route 66. We'll stop for some photo opportunities on our way to our next hotel that sits just outside of the entrance to Death Valley National Park. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Longstreet Hotel & Casino, 1 night • Drive time: ~270 mi / 440 m, or 4 hrs

Meals: B,L

The environment of Death Valley stands in stark contrast to the red deserts of Utah and the green mountains of Yosemite we will see later this week. More than 3.3 million acres of spectacular desert make up the scenery, along with rare desert wildlife, complex geology, undisturbed wilderness and sites of historical interest abound. This area is known for extreme weather conditions and temperatures, and is one of the hottest places on Earth. In summer, temperatures can reach over 49°C. Additionally, being in a rift valley, Death Valley is also the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere at 86 m below sea level. We have time to explore its golden sand dunes, its myriad of brackish pools and springs, as well as the fascinating rock erosion formations of Zabriskie Point. If temperatures allow, we will even hike to the Badlands. Then we drive up into California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, where peaks soar above 14,000 feet towards our hotel located in the renowned ski resort of Mammoth Lakes. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Mammoth Mountain Inn, 1 night • Drive time: 330 mi / 530 km, or 6 hrs _____________________________________________________________________________ Badlands Loop: 2.6 mi / 4.2 km, 1-2 hrs, +/-120 m _____________________________________________________________________________ **Note: Trips starting before June or past late October may have to detour via Sonora Pass due to snow closure on Tioga Pass Road in Yosemite National Park. Tioga Pass generally opens Memorial Day, which is the last weekend in May. It closes with the first heavy snow of the year. These dates will stay at an alternative hotel.

Meals: B,L

After breakfast, we jump in the car and head towards Mono, Lake, one of North America's oldest lakes, famous for its white Tufa towers formed by hot springs. As we make our way up and over Tioga Pass, heading towards Yosemite Valley, we stop once more to enjoy Tuolumne Meadow. Season and weather permitting, you may hike and scramble to the top of Lembert dome, offering expansive views over the meadows below. The day will conclude at the Yosemite View Lodge, just outside of the entrance into Yosemite Valley, along the Merced River. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Yosemite View Lodge, 2 nights • Drive time: 120 mi / 200 km, or 2 hrs _____________________________________________________________________________ Lembert Dome Loop: 3.8 mi / 6.1 km, 2-3 hrs, +/-200 m

Meals: B,L

Yosemite National Park, which was established in 1890 and encompasses stunning mountain vistas and valleys housing meadows and forests surrounded by high cliffs and waterfalls. Today, we get to discover more of Yosemite. In the morning, our group takes a leisurely drive to Glacier Point (season and weather permitting), the most impressive viewpoint of the national park. Big tour buses cannot access this viewpoint, but our smaller van is allowed. From here, we marvel at the perfect view of the valley and the impressive walls of Half Dome. From Glacier Point, three very different walks are offered that vary in length, difficulty, and views. Two of these walks head down to the valley, and one is a walk along the rim. These are all one-way walks and therefore self-guided. Whether you hike down or take a ride in the van, we'll regroup in the evening after enjoying all the Valley has to offer. In the evening we'll return to our lodge on the river. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Yosemite View Lodge _____________________________________________________________________________ • Panorama Trail: 9.1 mi / 14.6 km, 4-6 hrs, +/-700 m • Four Mile Trail: 9.7 mi / 15.6 km, 5-6 hrs, +/-1000 m • Sentinel Dome & Taft Point Loop: 7.2 mi / 11.5 km, 4-5 hrs, +/-575 m

Meals: B,L

We spend the morning hiking among a hidden grove of Giant Sequoia, at the Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Few tourists are found here and we enjoy solitude among the giant trees. Then we continue to Columbia State Park to enjoy a living history museum dedicated to the ghost town and gold rush area. We leave the trees and head for San Francisco, a city built on coastal cliffs on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. In the afternoon, you have time to enjoy a local wine tasting, shopping in town, or choose to walk the famous Golden Gate Bridge. Our hotel is centrally located in the Fisherman Wharf district. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Hotel Caza Fisherman's Wharf, 2 nights • Drive time: 125 miles / 200 km, or 5.5 hrs

Meals: B,L

We'll spend our final day exploring what the locals call, SF. This vibrant city is known for its iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and breathtaking views. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the bustling waterfront at Fisherman’s Wharf, marvel at the Golden Gate Bridge, and wander through the historic streets of Chinatown. No visit is complete without a ride on the city's famous cable cars, offering a unique way to experience the steep hills and stunning skyline. Cable Car passes are included as part of the trip. From the art-filled alleys of the Mission District to the serene beauty of Golden Gate Park, you’re certain to find many hidden treasures throughout this fabulous metropolis. In the afternoon jump on board a harbor boat for a tour of Alcatraz, which is also included in your trip price. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Hotel Caza Fisherman's Wharf _____________________________________________________________________________ City tour: 3-4 mi / 5-7 km, 3-4 hrs, +/-100 m

Meals: B,L

Today concludes your tour of the American Southwest. Departure is on your own today. You have a few transportation options to San Francisco International Airport (SFO), each option offers a different balance of convenience, cost, and travel time, you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

Meals: B

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Arrival in Las Vegas. Self transfer from the airport to the hotel in Las Vegas via a shuttle or taxi. Relax this evening in preparation for the great adventure ahead. • Overnight: The STRAT Hotel & Casino

Meals: Nil

8 AM: Your tour leader will meet you in the hotel for the orientation meeting. Leaving Las Vegas we soon ascend to the Colorado Plateau through the Virgin River Gorge. Today we enjoy the spectacular scenery of Snow Canyon State Park, where we walk over petrified sand dunes. Then we are on to see the impressive collection of dinosaur footprints (entrance included). • Overnight: Ramada by Wyndam - St. George • Drive time: 120 mi / 200 km, or 2 hrs • Lava Tube to Moqui Marbles: 4 mi / 6 km, 2-3 hours, +/-150 m

Meals: B,L

Zion National Park is an 800 m deep sandstone canyon carved by the mighty Virgin River. The scenery is stunning. Zion is famous for its iconic hikes through many slot canyons. We have all day to explore this fabulous park. You have the option to enjoy a hike to Emerald Pools, where water cascades into shaded pools. Or, maybe you are interested in wading through the Narrows? Whatever you choose, you will not be disappointed. If you finish hiking early, there is free time to explore the charming town of Springdale. • Overnight: Hampton Inn or similar • Drive time: 41 mi / 66 km, or 1 hr • Emerald Pools: 3 mi / 5 km, 2-3 hrs, +/-200 m

Meals: B,L

Leaving our hotel early, we soon reach Bryce Canyon National Park. For many, Bryce is the most beautiful of the American National Parks. Long ago, tectonic forces uplifted an ancient lakebed, exposing the soft sandstone deposit to the elements. Over time, the frost and wind erosion continued to chisel them and created a truly wonderful display of rocks. Marvel at Thor's Hammer, sandstone arches and the expansiveness of the park. Hiking paths wind through radiant red and pink towers of stone, known as Hoodoos, which contrast beautifully with blue skies and green pines. At sundown, be awed by an unforgettable color play on the formations. Hike with the group on the Navajo and Queens Garden Trail. In the summer, opt for a Western Cowboy dinner show back in Bryce Canyon City (not included). • Overnight: Best Western Plus - Ruby's Inn or similar • Drive time: 140 mi / 220 km, or 2.5 hrs • Queens Garden and Navajo Loop: 3 mi/5 km, 3 hrs, +/-200 m • Rim walk, Bryce Point to Sunset: 2 mi/4 km, 1 hr, +/-50 m

Meals: B,L

We depart this morning for Lake Powell. Once dammed, the Colorado River created a giant lake with 3000 km of shoreline. Deep red sandstone walls reflect in the deep blue waters, offering unforgettable images. The area is famous for its guided tours of Antelope Canyon, which is included in the cost of the trip and is one the most photographed slot canyons in the world. Our tour is followed by a short hike out to Horseshoe Bend. Walk around this natural wonder where the Colorado River meanders in a tight, horseshoe-shaped curve around a sandstone escarpment. This iconic viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the river’s emerald, green waters contrasted against the red rock canyon. Late afternoon we’ll make our way to our accommodations and look forward to another day of exploration after a restful evening. • Overnight: Clarion Inn Page or similar - Lake Powell • Drive time: 140 mi / 220 km, or 2.5 hrs • Horseshoe Bend: 1.5 mi/2.4 km, 45 min, +/-40 m

Meals: B,L

Today we head to the Hollywood famous destination of Monument Valley. Giant red towers of stone rise out of the valley and offer fantastic photographic motifs. For decades, this area has been used as a backdrop for the cameras of Hollywood films, including Forrest Gump. Hit the ground running on an unforgettable Jeep tour through the valley led by the local Navajo Indians, where secluded views of the panoramas of Ear of the Wind and Big Hogan await. This tour is included in the price of your trip. In the afternoon, a 2.5 hr trip returns us to the Grand Canyon via its eastern entrance. We take the time to enjoy a few sublime viewpoints before heading to our hotel, just south of the park entrance. • Overnight: The Red Feather Lodge or Maswik Lodge • Drive time: 300 mi / 450 km, or 4.5 hrs

Meals: B,L

A full day for you to explore the Grand Canyon independently and enjoy its unforgettable views at your own pace. Stretching 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep, the canyon is far too vast to experience all at once, but today’s rim walk offers an unforgettable introduction to its scale, color, and ever-changing light. Enjoy the day exploring on your own by taking the shuttle to Hermit’s Rest, the westernmost point along the South Rim’s Hermit Road corridor, then walk back toward Grand Canyon Village along one of the most scenic stretches of the rim. Along the way, the trail reveals sweeping canyon views, dramatic overlooks, layered rock formations, and quiet moments away from the busiest viewpoints. Guests who prefer a shorter walk are welcome to hop on the shuttle earlier along the route, making this a flexible rim experience that can be adjusted for comfort, pace, and energy level. For those searching for a little excitement, helicopter tours, bike rentals and an IMAX theater (to be paid locally, not included in tour package) are available as well. Please note that today is designed as an independent day, so guide services, transportation, optional activities and excursions are not included in the tour package. • Overnight: The Red Feather Lodge Or Maswik Lodge . • Activity: Self-Guided Hike up to 7.9 mi / 12.7 km; Elevation gain: 650 ft / 198 m

Meals: B,L

Today we depart Grand Canyon National Park and begin our journey to Las Vegas along iconic stretches of historic Route 66, one of America’s most legendary highways. Before leaving the canyon area, there may be time for an optional helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon (optional and not included), offering a memorable final perspective on this vast landscape. We then continue west through wide-open desert scenery and classic roadside Americana, with a stop in Seligman to browse for Route 66 memorabilia and soak up the nostalgic atmosphere of this beloved highway. Today concludes with one night in Las Vegas, the city that never sleeps. • Overnight: The STRAT Hotel & Casino s or similar • Drive time: ~270 mi / 440 m, or 4 hrs

Meals: B,L

The environment of Death Valley stands in stark contrast to the red deserts of Utah and the green mountains of Yosemite we will see later this week. More than 3.3 million acres of spectacular desert make up the scenery, along with rare desert wildlife, complex geology, undisturbed wilderness and sites of historical interest abound. This area is known for extreme weather conditions and temperatures, and is one of the hottest places on Earth. In summer, temperatures can reach over 49°C. Additionally, being in a rift valley, Death Valley is also the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere at 86 m below sea level. We have time to explore its golden sand dunes, its myriad of brackish pools and springs, as well as the fascinating rock erosion formations of Zabriskie Point. If temperatures allow, we will even hike to the Badlands. Then we drive up into California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, where peaks soar above 14,000 feet towards our hotel located in the renowned ski resort of Mammoth Lakes. • Overnight: Mammoth Mountain Inn or similar • Drive time: 330 mi / 530 km, or 6 hrs • Badlands Loop: 2.6 mi / 4.2 km, 1-2 hrs, +/-120 m **Note: Trips starting before mid-June or past late October detour via Sonora Pass due to snow closure on Tioga Pass Road in Yosemite National Park. These dates will stay at an alternative hotel and visit more of Yosemite Valley.

Meals: B,L

After breakfast, we jump in the car and head towards Mono, Lake, one of North America's oldest lakes, famous for its white Tufa towers formed by hot springs. As we make our way up and over Tioga Pass, heading towards Yosemite Valley, we stop once more to enjoy Tuolumne Meadow. Season and weather permitting, you may hike and scramble to the top of Lembert dome, offering expansive views over the meadows below. The day will conclude at the Yosemite View Lodge, just outside of the entrance into Yosemite Valley, along the Merced River. • Overnight: Yosemite View Lodge or similar • Drive time: 120 mi / 200 km, or 2 hrs Lembert Dome Loop: 3.8 mi / 6.1 km, 2-3 hrs, +/-200 m

Meals: B,L

Yosemite National Park, established in 1890, encompasses stunning mountain vistas and valleys filled with meadows and forests surrounded by dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. Today, we continue exploring more of Yosemite. In the morning, our group takes a leisurely drive to Glacier Point (season and weather permitting), one of the park’s most spectacular viewpoints, with sweeping views over Yosemite Valley and the iconic face of Half Dome. From here, we set out on a walk to Sentinel Dome and Taft Point, combining panoramic alpine scenery with dramatic overlooks high above the valley floor. Sentinel Dome rewards hikers with one of the finest 360-degree views in the park, while Taft Point’s sheer cliffs and famous fissures offer a breathtaking perspective over Yosemite Valley far below. After a day immersed in Yosemite’s unforgettable scenery, we return to our lodge along the river. • Overnight: Yosemite View Lodge or similar • Sentinel Dome & Taft Point Loop: 7.2 mi / 11.5 km, 4-5 hrs, +/-575 m

Meals: B,L

We spend the morning walking among the towering giants of the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias, where some of the world’s largest and oldest trees rise high above the forest floor. We then continue to Columbia State Historic Park to explore the living history town and Gold Rush heritage of the Sierra foothills. Leaving the mountains behind, we travel west to San Francisco, a city perched on coastal cliffs beside the Pacific Ocean. Arriving in the early evening, you’ll have time to settle into the lively Fisherman’s Wharf district, enjoy dinner along the waterfront, or take an evening stroll by the bay. • Overnight: Hotel Caza Fisherman's Wharf or similar • Drive time: 215 miles / 350 km, or 5.5 hrs

Meals: B,L

We'll spend our final day exploring what the locals call, SF. This vibrant city is known for its iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and breathtaking views. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the bustling waterfront at Fisherman’s Wharf, marvel at the Golden Gate Bridge, and wander through the historic streets of Chinatown. No visit is complete without a ride on the city's famous cable cars, offering a unique way to experience the steep hills and stunning skyline. Cable Car passes are included as part of the trip. From the art-filled alleys of the Mission District to the serene beauty of Golden Gate Park, you’re certain to find many hidden treasures throughout this fabulous metropolis. In the afternoon jump on board a harbor boat for a tour of Alcatraz, which is also included in your trip price. • Overnight: Hotel Caza Fisherman's Wharf City tour: 3-4 mi / 5-7 km, 3-4 hrs, +/-100 m

Meals: B,L

Today concludes your tour of the American Southwest. Departure is on your own today. You have a few transportation options to San Francisco International Airport (SFO), each option offers a different balance of convenience, cost, and travel time, you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

2 scheduled departures between 30 May 2027 and 5 Sep 2027.

  • Departs 30 May 2027 – ends 12 Jun 2027 (14 days)
  • Departs 5 Sep 2027 – ends 18 Sep 2027 (14 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 13 breakfasts, 12 picnic lunches
  • 13 nights accommodation in 3 star hotels with private facilities
  • Private transport
  • Services of an experienced, multi-lingual driver-guide
  • National park entry fees, tours & sightseeing as specified

Not included

  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Flights, airport taxes, and airport transfers
  • Travel Insurance (compulsory)
  • Visas
  • Medical treatment
  • Personal expenses
  • Optional excursions
  • Tour leader tip (USD$15-20 per day)
  • Cost of laundry, soft drinks & alcoholic beverages
  • Half Dome hikes require a permit. Theses permits have to be reserved by the clients well in advance of their trip, via internet at www.recreation.gov. Guides cannot reserve these hikes in advance.

About your guide

All of our USA tour leaders are certified in First Aid and CPR and registered as official guides with the national parks. All of them are trained to guide hikes. Most are bilingual and many of our departures are conducted in English as well as one other language (typically German or Spanish). Your tour leader is from the USA and may have grown up here or may have moved here from another country - As many Americans do!

Reviews (1)

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Amazing hiking, great locations, fantastic tour guide

Stewart Sherrington|Middle Ridge, QLD Australia
4 Sep 2024

Extra trip info

Will My Trip Run?

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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