Southwest Road Trip: Zion, the Grand Canyon & Santa Monica Sunsets
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the "Southwest Road Trip: Zion, the Grand Canyon & Santa Monica Sunsets" tour. This journey takes you through four iconic U.S. National Parks, starting in Las Vegas and ending in Los Angeles. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Zion and Bryce Canyon, marvel at the Grand Canyon's grandeur, and explore the unique landscapes of Joshua Tree. Travel along the historic Route 66, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica. With a mix of camping and hostel stays, this small group tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and camaraderie. Enjoy hiking, storytelling under the stars, and the soothing sounds of the Pacific Ocean, all while traveling in an air-conditioned private vehicle. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National Park
Location: Las Vegas, Cedar City, Bryce Canyon National Park
Accommodation: Zion Ponderosa Ranch
Accommodation Name: Ruby's Inn RV Park & Campground
Meals Included: Dinner
Meet your group at 8:00 AM for a quick Welcome Meeting, then hop in the van for about 3 hours and head to Bryce Canyon National Park. Around 1:00 pm (we lose 1 hour at the Utah border-but don't worry, we'll get it back soon), stop in Cedar City where you'll have time to grab lunch on your own. Arrive to Bryce Canyon in the early afternoon and spend a few hours hiking, exploring and gazing at the crazy rock formations known as hoodoos. Hike the Navajo Loop & Queens Garden trail to get more up close with these cool geological features. Pitch your tent and make dinner at camp with your fellow Roamies. ...more ...less
Additional Information: Please note your arrival flight should land no later than 6:00 AM in order for you to be on time to your 8:00 AM Welcome Meeting.
ACTIVITY: MORNING Today, the adventure begins. Be sure to arrive in time to meet your group. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your trip. The group will meet at 8:30 AM on day 1 before beginning the journey to Zion National Park via Bryce Canyon.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Stop in Cedar City to break up the drive. Stretch those legs and opt to grab some lunch at a place of your choosing.
ACTIVITY: See a sight like no other at this giant forest of stone made up of collection of massive natural amphitheaters. This park contains hundreds of thousands of eroded spires, pinnacles, and other shapes as far as the eye can see.
ACTIVITY: Trek through the most popular trail in Bryce Canyon to see its famous hoodoos - tall, thin spires of rock that seem to magically balance upon their dusty, red rock base. Begin your hike at Sunrise Point and make your way toward Queen Victoria, the trail's namesake rock formation. Continue through the amphitheater on Navajo Loop past Wall Street or Thor's Hammer, depending on trail conditions. Exit at Sunset Point before walking the Rim Trail back to our starting point. Soak in the views one last time - you'll want to take it all in.
Hiking distance: 4.6km (2.9 mi) Elevation change: 183m (600 ft).
Day 2: Bryce Canyon National Park to Zion National Park
Location: Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park
Accommodation: Zion Ponderosa Ranch
Accommodation Name: Ruby's Inn RV Park & Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Wake up with the birds chirping and make breakfast at camp. Pack a lunch for the day then drive to Zion National Park. Once there it's time to explore! You'll board the national park shuttle to take you into the park and explore your heart out. There are a couple different trail options, the main ones being The Emerald Pools, The Narrows, Scouts Lookout and Watchman Trail. Grab your hiking books, your new best buddy and get out there! Enjoy your packed lunch whenever you choose! Later, travel back to East Zion for a chill evening with your fellow Roamies at the camp site. Once it gets dark, get ready to sit around the campfire, roast some marshmallows and stare up at the stars. First one to see a shooting star wins an extra s'more!
Additional Information: Please note that while the trail to Angels Landing is not included in this itinerary, it is available to be done independently. If you’re interested in continuing to the top, you must apply ahead of time for a permit via the National Park’s lottery system at this website: https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/angels-landing-hiking-permits.htm.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Admire monumental sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that tower into the sky. Experience diverse plant and animal life, and wade through water in a narrow slot canyon as the park transitions from desert to forest. Gaze at the awe-inspiring beauty of the high plateaus, striking towers, temples, mesas, and the earth's tallest-known sheer sandstone walls.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Spend a full day exploring the wonders of Zion. Sit down and enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, and then opt to check out various trails like, the Emerald Pools, the famous Narrows, Scouts Lookout, or Watchman Trails.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle on the drive back to camp in East Zion. Dinner will be on your own this evening, and there are serval meal choices available at the campground restaurant.
Day 3: Zion National Park/Grand Canyon National Park
Location: Horseshoe Bend, Grand Canyon National Park
Accommodation: Mather Campground
Accommodation Name: Mather Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
If you stayed up late with your new friends, you can sleep in the van. Today we wake up early to drive to Grand Canyon National Park, with a couple awesome pit stops along the way. The first stop is at Horseshoe Bend. This geological masterpiece was sculpted by the Colorado River. Go on and walk to the overlook, hike along the rim and stare down into the flowing river far below. Snap some photos with your friends and just enjoy the moment. Continue onwards to our next national park of the trip. En route, stop for lunch at a Navajo-inspired restaurant and trading post. Arrive at the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon—one of the world's Natural Wonders— and set up camp for the next two nights just in time for a spectacular sunset.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Take a short hike to this spectacular horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River. Stand atop steep orange-coloured sandstone cliffs and look out at Horseshoe Bend. Peer down more than 300m (1,000 ft) at the emerald river below.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 4: Grand Canyon National Park
Location: Grand Canyon National Park
Accommodation: Mather Campground
Accommodation Name: Mather Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After having breakfast and packing a lunch, get those water bottles ready because today is dedicated to the Grand Canyon. Starting from the South Rim, there are so many hikes to choose from that will take you deeper into the canyon where you can really appreciate the size and depth of this national park. Choose whichever trail you wish or do short bursts of multiple hikes, just make sure you bring plenty of water and take your time. You got this! Sit down for a picnic lunch in the park then maybe choose to rent a bike, or if you're feeling really adventurous, opt to take a legendary helicopter ride over the canyon. The choice is yours! After a full day in the park, sit down for an unforgettable pizza dinner along the rim of the Grand Canyon as the setting sun lights the sky.
ACTIVITY: Visit the south rim of the canyon for a great first impression. Marvel as the Grand Canyon unfolds before you. Don't get too close. The land drops almost straight down for more than 1,000m (3,280 ft) into the serpentine canyons below! The gorge is filled with rocky buttes, sheer limestone cliffs, and deep canyons all arrayed in a rainbow of colors. Words defy. This is truly one of the most magnificent sights on earth.
ACTIVITY: Opt to hike along the rim or down into the canyon. Experience breathtaking scenery with spectacular views. Bring lots of water, a hat and plenty of energy. Remember -- hiking down is optional, hiking back up is mandatory!
ACTIVITY: Find a spot to sit and dig in to the most scenic dinner you've ver had! Enjoy some pizza as the sun sets over the Grand Canyon offering breathtaking views while the canyon walls glow red and orange in the fading light. This is truly one of the great wonders. Enjoy the moment.
Day 5: Grand Canyon National Park/Joshua Tree National Park
Location: Grand Canyon National Park, Seligman, Kingman, Joshua Tree National Park
Accommodation: Joshua Tree Lake Rv & Campground
Accommodation Name: Joshua Tree Lake Rv & Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast
Road trip! Get your kicks, because its time to drive along one of the most famous roads in history: Route 66. After you eat breakfast and break down camp, we head out and cruise south west toward Joshua Tree National Park. We'll stop in Seligman along Route 66 and then continue to Kingman, where you will have free time to grab lunch on your own. Throughout the drive, we will take short stops to admire the Mojave Desert, and the funky dessert trees that gave Joshua Tree it's name. Arrive to the camp site in the early evening and after setting up, you will have the night free to explore Pioneer Town. Watch the sky light up in flames during an incredible desert sunset and maybe throw down a blanket to watch for shooting stars tonight in one of California's clearest skies.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Travel the historic Route 66 through the southwest.
ACTIVITY: Discover the rugged rock formations and iconic Joshua trees that gave this National Park it's name. Go for a hike, keep a sharp eye out for desert wildlife, and take in the incredible scenery.
Day 6: Joshua Tree National Park/Santa Monica
Location: Joshua Tree National Park, Santa Monica
Accommodation: HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel
Accommodation Name: HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After another night under the stars, pack away your camping gear, have some breakfast at camp, and drive to one of the LA's most famous beaches for a day of fun. You'll have the entire afternoon free to explore Santa Monica and do whatever you please with your fellow Roamies. Opt to lounge on the beach, have some of the worlds best ice cream, take a ride on the pier, or just people watch with a spicy margarita at an open air bar. Whatever you choose, make it count! Tonight we'll stay at an awesome, hip hostel in Santa Monica.
ACTIVITY: Make a stop at Santa Monica where you can choose to lounge in the sand, rollerblade on the sidewalks, bicycle along the waterfront, or take a walk down the pier. The choice is yours during your afternoon here.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 7: Santa Monica/Los Angeles
Location: Santa Monica
Say goodbye to your Roamies and depart at any time.
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Camping (5 nts) & hostel (1 nt). -
Welcome Moment
Meet Your CEO and Group for a welcome moment.
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Bryce Canyon National Park Visit
Visit Bryce Canyon National Park.
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Zion National Park Visit
Visit Zion National Park.
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Horseshoe Bend Hike
Hike at Horseshoe Bend.
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Grand Canyon South Rim Visit
Visit the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
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Visit Route 66
Drive along the historic Route 66.
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Joshua Tree National Park Visit
Visit Joshua Tree National Park.
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Free time in Santa Monica
Enjoy free time in Santa Monica.
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Transport
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is provided.
What's Not Included
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Meals not specified
Meals not included in the itinerary are not provided.
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional activities, and tips are not included.
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Sleeping bag and pillow
Sleeping bag and pillow are not provided and must be brought by the traveler.
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Angels Landing Permit
Permit for Angels Landing hike is not included and must be applied for independently.
Accommodation
Experience the great outdoors with 5 nights of camping and 1 night in a hostel, offering a blend of adventure and comfort during your journey through iconic U.S. National Parks.
Transport
Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking.
Meals Included
5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
Group Size
Max 13
Meals
All included meals will be prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. If a meal is not included your CEO will provide suggested options to the group. ...more ...less
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with an air-conditioned private vehicle, perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes. Enjoy hiking and walking through breathtaking national parks, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.
Important Notes
1. An essential part of your trip is participation - from putting up your tent (while camping) or packing it away in the morning, to helping with meal preparation and cleaning up - it is all part of your adventure and when everyone puts in a little effort the trip will run smoothly. Your CEO will do all the meal planning, but we do ask the clients to help with the preparation and washing up. Team spirit is part of the fun! All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied. We supply dome tents and assembly/disassembly takes only 5 minutes. All tents have built-in insect nets. Comfortable, self-inflating mattresses are also provided, which are approximately 4cm thick.
2. Proper sleeping bags are necessary for this tour. Evening temperatures can reach -9°C - 0°C. Please ensure that your sleeping bag is rated to (-17°C for spring and fall trips and 0°C for trips June - Sept). If you prefer you can purchase a proper sleeping bag on the first day of the trip. Prices range from $60-$150USD.
3. In order to cover the vast distance in North America to be able to visit several different parks and cities along our trip, we will have a couple of long driving days.
4. All walks and hikes proposed by our CEO will be easy to moderate level. You may choose to participate or not, but exploring our national parks on foot is part of our way of travelling. It’s a healthy way to discover North America’s beauty and landscape.
5. Please note that some trips could be a combination of multiple G Adventure tours. You should expect some group members to join or leave the tour between tour segments.
6. The American West is generally known for warm weather, but temperatures do vary significantly in the mountain and desert areas especially. The day time temperature could exceed 30 C, while the night time temperatures do regularly decrease to single digits, or even possible below freezing. Please be prepared for such extreme conditions.
7. Please note that the legal drinking age in the United States is 21 and in Canada, 19 (with Alberta and Quebec at 18). Many bars and clubs will ask for ID at the door, therefore listening to live music in certain bars or spending a night out in Las Vegas or New Orleans is not possible when you are under the legal age, even if you don't plan on consuming alcohol. Drinking laws in both countries are strictly enforced and our CEOs are unable to help those under age obtain alcohol of any kind.
While this should not stop those under legal drinking age from booking a tour, it is important to note that if a traveller is under-age there are certain optional nighttime activities that they may not legally be able to participate in. When trying to book the right trip, we recommend that travellers under legal drinking age take this into consideration when booking a tour that visits several big cities.
8.ANGELS LANDING
Please note that while the trail to Angels Landing is not included in this itinerary, it is available to be done independently. If you’re interested in continuing to the top, you must apply ahead of time for a permit via the National Park’s lottery system at this website.
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Group Leader
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and sometimes the driver - this person is knowledgeable in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.
As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.
While our CEOs are trained and have resources to assist them along the way, the United States is the fourth largest country on the planet, and it is impossible for them to know everything about this massive country. We recommend local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
Please note that specific tour guide licenses are required to guide in certain cities and regions, and as such, our CEOs will oftentimes provide brief orientation walks or drives to point out useful places like supermarkets, main squares and ATMs but for more specific or in depth destination information, an official guided tour is recommended.
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About Accommodation
Accommodation will be varied throughout your adventure. We use a combination of hotels and hostels, but most of the nights on tour are spent camping in tents in public and private campgrounds.
Multi-share accommodation, on a single-sex basis (typically 4-6 people per room), is common in the U.S. and is the way you will be spending your hostel night. We have specifically chosen unique accommodations to give local flavor to your trip.
Couples: Please note that due to the types of accommodation used in the U.S., couples will likely be split into separate rooms where we use multi-share hostels. Pending availability, couples may be able to pay extra while on tour to have their own room in some destinations.
Please be aware that American campgrounds have various sites available and because of this there will likely be RVs, camper-trailers, popups and tent camping all on one property.
All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied, including comfortable camp mattresses. We supply dome tents that take only 5 minutes to assemble/disassemble. They are good quality, durable, industry-standard, oversized 2-person tents, each with 2 separate and convenient zip-up doors, so that each person has his/her own entrance.
We use 2 types of campgrounds in North America:
1. Private campgrounds: These are privately run sites, usually with all services such as fire pits, picnic tables, drinking water, toilets & shower buildings. Some have small outdoor swimming pools and laundry facilities. These campgrounds are typically located near national park entrances or towns.
2. Public campgrounds: These are park-run sites, usually with basic facilities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and drinking water. In some cases, this type of campground doesn’t have showers, only pit toilets and a lake! In other locations, toilet and shower facilities may be located outside the campground, or at times in another location a drive away. Some may have shower fees for onsite facilities ($2-6/shower).
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What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible.
For days in the outdoors, we recommend the use of lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics made of wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton is not recommended for days spent hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the CEO, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle.
The American west is generally known for warm weather, but temperatures do vary significantly in the mountain and desert areas especially. The day time temperature could exceed 30 C, while the night time temperatures do regularly decrease to single digits, or even possible below freezing. It is therefore important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings - a light jacket is necessary.
Seasonal temperature ranges:
March - May ; September to December: -7 C to +30 C
June – August: 0 C to + 35 C
Additionally, a set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
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Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses an air-conditioned private vehicle for transportation between destinations and to/from included activities. Hiking and walking are also part of the tour experience.
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What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?
The tour includes camping for 5 nights and a stay in a hostel for 1 night. All camping equipment, except for a sleeping bag and pillow, is supplied.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners. Meals are prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops, and markets.
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What activities are included in the Grand Canyon visit?
During the Grand Canyon visit, you can choose from various hikes starting from the South Rim, rent a bike, or opt for a helicopter ride over the canyon. The day ends with a pizza dinner along the rim as the sun sets.
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Is there any free time during the tour?
Yes, there is free time in Santa Monica where you can explore the beach, enjoy ice cream, or take a ride on the pier. There is also free time in Kingman during the drive to Joshua Tree National Park.
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What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on this tour?
The CEO acts as the group manager, leader, and sometimes the driver. They organize and lead meal preparations, provide general knowledge about the places visited, and offer suggestions for activities and dining.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 13 people.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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Southwest Road Trip: Zion, the Grand Canyon & Santa Monica Sunsets
7 Days Starting in Las Vegas, USA and ending in Los Angeles, USA
Visiting: Las Vegas, Cedar City, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Horseshoe Bend, Grand Canyon National Park, Seligman, Kingman, Joshua Tree National Park, Santa Monica ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26005
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 13
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans