Grand Tour of the American West

A local guide will greet you at the airport upon your arrival. Take this opportunity to mingle with your fellow travel companions while savouring a complimentary welcome drink.

Additionally, you'll receive a travel kit that includes a reusable water bottle and an insulated bag, both of which will prove useful during your planned picnics.

Accommodation: Hotel June or similar

Embark on a guided tour of Los Angeles starting with Olvera Street, often called "the birthplace of Los Angeles," a charming Mexican Marketplace reminiscent of "Old Los Angeles."

Admire the Art Deco architecture of Union Station. Then, head to Hollywood to see Grauman's Chinese Theatre and the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. Lunch (not included) awaits at the bustling Los Angeles Farmer's Market, offering a variety of culinary delights.

Afterward, discover Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive. In the afternoon, journey to the eclectic mix of Santa Monica, a blend of a beach town, Riviera romance, and Hollywood glam. Enjoy a scenic 2.5-mile walk along the Pacific Ocean to reach Venice Beach, known for its canals, sandy shores, and lively Ocean Front Walk featuring street performers, artists, and vendors.

Take some free time to watch the stunning sunset over the Pacific and have dinner (not included) in Venice Beach. Transfer back to your hotel for the night, allowing you to rest and recharge for the adventures ahead.

Accommodation: Hotel June or similar

Embark on your journey to Joshua Tree National Park, a remarkable destination showcasing some of California's most captivating geological wonders. Here, you'll encounter rugged mountains characterized by twisted rock formations and imposing granite monoliths, serving as a testament to the powerful geological forces that have shaped this unique landscape.

Among the park's prominent residents, the slow-growing Joshua tree stands out as the most iconic. These distinctive trees are named after the Mormon settlers who traversed the Mojave Desert in the mid-1800s. The tree's peculiar appearance, with branches extending skyward, evoked the biblical story of Joshua raising his hands in prayer.

Continue your adventure with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Hidden Valley trail, a one-mile loop that offers stunning scenery. For your picnic lunch here, you'll make a stop prior to entering the park to allow you to purchase picnic provisions (not included). In the afternoon, we'll set out on a drive to the dazzling man-made oasis known as Las Vegas. Upon arrival, you'll check in to your hotel and begin your Las Vegas experience.

Accommodation: Luxor Hotel or similar

Embark on a journey to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, a remarkable geological marvel. Along the way, make a stop in the iconic town of Seligman, situated on the historic Route 66. Enjoy a self-guided lunch break before setting your sights on one of the world's most astonishing natural wonders: the Grand Canyon.

For an unforgettable experience, you have the option to go on a 1.7-mile hike (lasting approximately 1-2 hours) to the Ooh Aah Point, a vantage spot that will leave you in awe. Your overnight stay will be in the Grand Canyon village, ensuring you have ample time to immerse yourself in this natural wonderland.

Accommodation: Yavapai West Lodge at Grand Canyon Village or similar

Leave the Grand Canyon behind as you embark on a scenic drive along Desert View Drive. Your first stop is the Desert View Watchtower, a structure inspired by ancient Puebloan watchtowers and adorned with murals by Hopi artist Frank Kabotie. If time allows, consider ascending the tower's stairs to its summit, where you'll be rewarded with a magnificent vista of the Canyon and its surroundings.

Continue your journey to Monument Valley, a landscape dominated by towering crimson monoliths. This expansive desert plain stretches 25 miles in length and 16 miles in width and has played a prominent role as the backdrop for numerous western films.

Savour a lunch that includes Navajo specialties, followed by an exhilarating jeep tour of the valley, led by a knowledgeable Navajo guide. As the day unfolds, you'll arrive in Page in the afternoon. Take some time to freshen up at your hotel before indulging in a refreshing swim in Lake Powell, weather permitting. Your overnight stay will be in Page, allowing you to recharge for the adventures ahead.

Accommodation: Best Western Plus at Lake Powell or Best Western View or similar

To kick start your day, you will set out to explore Horseshoe Bend, a geologic marvel intricately shaped by the Colorado River. Horseshoe Bend serves as a prime example of the natural course water takes when it follows the path of least resistance. Guided by gravity, the Colorado River has meticulously carved through layers of rock with remarkable speed, resulting in the creation of a stunning 270° bend in the river.

This exceptional geological feature was first stumbled upon by Mormon settlers in the late 19th century.

Bryce Canyon, often regarded as one of the crown jewels within the National Parks system, awaits your discovery. The stone formations, adorned with an array of colours and shades, including the renowned Pink Cliffs, undergo a mesmerizing transformation from dawn until dusk.

For a more immersive experience, consider descending into the canyon to get up close to the slender rock spires known as hoodoos. Lunch break within the park (not provided; a stop will be scheduled before reaching the park for you to acquire lunch items).

The remainder of the day allows you the freedom to explore the park at your own pace, taking in the natural wonders and scenic views at your leisure. Your overnight stay will be in the region, ensuring you have ample time to revel in the beauty of this extraordinary landscape.

(Note: Please be aware that the hike to get closer to the hoodoos involves a significant elevation change and may not be suitable for individuals with heart conditions.)

Accommodation: Best Western Plus at Lake Powell or Best Western View or similar

Embark on your journey to Zion National Park, where you'll tread the same paths as ancient native people and pioneers. Marvel at the towering sandstone cliffs, painted in shades of cream, pink, and red, reaching high into the vibrant blue sky. Immerse yourself in the wilderness of a narrow slot canyon, and let Zion's unique collection of plants and animals captivate you, all while absorbing the rich history of the past and relishing in the thrills of present-day adventures.

You can enjoy a picnic lunch within the park (lunch cost not included; a stop will be scheduled before entering the park for you to purchase picnic items). In the afternoon, you will make your way back to Las Vegas, where you'll have the rest of the day to indulge in leisure activities such as testing your luck in the casinos, shopping, or savouring the city's numerous world-class entertainment offerings. Optionally, you can join your guide for a night tour of Las Vegas. 

Accommodation: Luxor Hotel or similar

Your journey takes you on a drive through the vast Nevada Desert, leading you to California, where you'll descend into the renowned Death Valley. Situated a staggering 282 feet below sea level, Death Valley ranks among the hottest spots on the planet. The terrain is so barren that the early cowboys who ventured across it famously remarked, "Not a stream to drink from, not a tree to hang on."

Your exploration will unveil Furnace Creek and the striking sand dunes of Stovepipe Wells. Lunch is on your own. In the afternoon, we'll ascend into the high Sierra Nevada range on our way to the charming resort town of Mammoth Lakes for an overnight stay.

*Please note that if the Tioga Pass is closed, your group will be redirected to Bakersfield.

In the event of extreme heat, reaching 41 degrees Celsius (105 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher, the visit to Death Valley may not be possible. In such cases, it will be substituted with a visit to either the Calico Ghost Town or the Tonopah Historic Mining Park.

Accommodation: Mammoth Mountain Inn or similar

Embark on a picturesque journey via the Tioga Pass, granting us entry into the breath taking Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite promises to enchant you with its alpine scenery, featuring lush pine forests, cascading waterfalls, and meandering rivers, all set against the backdrop of towering white monolithic formations. Take in the awe-inspiring sights of the colossal redwoods, Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and iconic waterfalls like Bridalveil Falls and Yosemite Falls (which are often less voluminous in the summer months).

You'll have the opportunity to enjoy a picnic of your own (lunch not included; a designated stop will be arranged before entering the park for you to purchase picnic items). Your journey then continues towards San Francisco, where we'll enjoy a three-night stay.

Accommodation: Hotel Caza or similar

Commence your day with a guided exploration of San Francisco, a city renowned for being one of the world's most photographed, filmed, and meticulously documented metropolises. This city is an enticing blend of historical significance, contemporary sophistication, and breath taking natural allure.

Weather permitting, your day begins with a panoramic vista from the summit of Twin Peaks, providing an unparalleled viewpoint that stretches from the bay to the Golden Gate strait. Next, your expedition proceeds to Golden Gate Park. Your exploration continues with a visit to Alamo Square, where you'll have the opportunity to admire some of San Francisco's most iconic Victorian homes, affectionately referred to as the "Painted Ladies." Your tour will of course include a visit to the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge.

Lunchtime offers a chance for personal exploration at Fisherman's Wharf. Concluding the day's itinerary, you'll visit Chinatown, Union Square, and the Civic Center, home to the grand Beaux-Arts City Hall.

Accommodation: Hotel Caza or similar

Begin the day with a brief hike to Muir Beach. From the Muir Beach Overlook, you can savour sweeping vistas of the Pacific Coast, including the Point Reyes Peninsula. Take a moment to unwind on the beach or explore the historic base-end stations, which served as observation posts in the San Francisco Bay coastal defence system.

Following that, your next stop is Sausalito, renowned for its charming waterfront cafés, art galleries, and picturesque houseboats. You'll have free time to relish a lunch of your choice.

Return to San Francisco via a scenic ferry ride across the bay. In the afternoon, you're free to indulge in leisure activities, whether it's shopping, visiting one of the city's world-class museums, or even renting a bike for a waterfront ride.

Accommodation: Hotel Caza or similar

Depart for the Monterey Peninsula. Begin with a guided tour of Monterey, focusing on the fishing port and the renowned Cannery Row, made famous by the author John Steinbeck. Continue to the nearby Carmel, one of California's most charming coastal towns, known for its pristine beaches and trendy boutiques. You'll have free time for lunch at your leisure.

Next, embark on a scenic drive along the stunning Big Sur coastline. As the majestic Santa Lucia mountain range yields to dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, make stops along the way for photo opportunities and brief hikes to immerse ourselves in the breathtaking scenery. Your day concludes as you arrive in Santa Maria for an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Santa Maria Inn or similar

In the morning, embark on a scenic drive to the charming city of Santa Barbara, celebrated for its sun-kissed beaches, palm-lined bay, distinctive red-tiled roofs, and enchanting Spanish architecture. Our first destination is the exquisite Santa Barbara Mission, the largest Franciscan convent in California and often referred to as the crown jewel among California missions.

Afterward, you'll have some free time for lunch at your leisure before continuing your journey towards Los Angeles.

You'll pause for a visit to the opulent Adamson House in the luxurious enclave of Malibu, a National Historic Site and California Historic Landmark. Nestled on one of Southern California's most picturesque oceanfront locations near the Malibu Lagoon, this Spanish Colonial Revival-style residence showcases a captivating blend of Spanish and Moorish influences. Inside, you'll discover breathtaking displays of decorative tiles and exceptional craftsmanship, including hand-carved doors, hand-painted frescoes, intricately moulded ceilings, unique cast ironwork, and lead-framed bottle glass windows.

Your day concludes with a stop at the Griffith Observatory, offering some of the most breathtaking views of Downtown Los Angeles and the iconic Hollywood Sign, a cherished American cultural symbol.

Accommodation: Hotel June or similar

Spend the day at your leisure and transfer to the airport as per your flight schedule.