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Is it possible to capture the complex, diverse flavour of a country and its 300-million-strong people in a single trip? Short answer: Yup. This epic sojourn across America from sea to shining sea (and back again) is, quite possibly, the most ambitious road trip you'll ever take. Wide-open spaces, iconic monuments, sprawling national parks, quirky local slang, regional delicacies and the incredible cities you've always wanted to visit. It's all here. Welcome to the US of A, where the "A" stands for "Amazing."
It is customary in North America to tip service providers such as waiters, bartenders and taxi drivers, at approximately 18-20%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip any local guides used. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from $2-8 USD per activity depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.
Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures Chief Experience Officer did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline $5-10 USD per person, per day can be used as a guide. If your CEO(s) exceeded your expectations, feel free to tip more.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customerservice@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.
22
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
The United States currency is the US Dollar (USD).
Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in the US and can be used to purchase small and large items. When purchasing products or services with a foreign credit card in the USA, you may be charged additional fees by your credit card company for foreign purchases.
Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept 4-digit PINs). Both Cirrus and Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. Both Visa and Master Cards are the most widely accepted credit cards. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work check with your bank before you travel. A visit to an ATM can be arranged on Day 1 and other days of the trip.
Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US Dollars as cash (preferably smaller bills, 5's, 10's and 20's), traveller's cheques and credit cards is best. Currency exchange is best obtained prior to travel or at the airport, currency exchange is very difficult to find in the USA and most banks do not accommodate.
Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
San Francisco
- Alcatraz Visit (33USD per person)
- Bike Rental San Francisco (8-32USD per person)
- Fisherman's Wharf Visit (Free)
- Golden Gate Bridge Visit (Free)
- Haight-Ashbury Visit (Free)
- Cable Car Ride San Francisco (7USD per person)
- Sunset Sailing San Francisco
Yosemite National Park
- Yosemite National Park Hike (Free)
- Yosemite Bike Rental (12USD per person)
Las Vegas
- VIP Party Bus Experience (45USD per person)
- Las Vegas Show (60-200USD per person)
- Gambling at Vegas Casino
Hoover Dam
- Hoover Dam Visit (65USD per person)
Grand Canyon National Park
- Grand Canyon IMAX Movie (14USD per person)
Grand Canyon
- Grand Canyon Hiking (Free)
- Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour (284-309USD per person)
Monument Valley
- Monument Valley Overnight (150USD per person)
Austin
- Tubing on the Guadalupe River
- SoCo Vintage and Thrift Shopping
- Barton Springs Pool (8USD per person)
- BBQ Dinner
- Country Dancing
New Orleans
- French Quarter and Bourbon St Visit (Free)
- Mississippi River Steam Boat Ride (31-42USD per person)
- Creole Cooking Class (25USD per person)
- Historical Tours (25-30USD per person)
- Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos
- Café du Monde Visit (10USD per person)
- Ghost Tour (25USD per person)
Memphis
- Rock & Soul Museum Visit (12USD per person)
- National Civil Rights Museum (15USD per person)
- Graceland Visit (41-61USD per person)
- Sun Studio Visit (14USD per person)
Nashville
- Cowboy Bar Visit (Free-20USD per person)
- Country Music Hall of Fame (25USD per person)
- Johnny Cash Museum (18USD per person)
Shenandoah National Park
- Hike through Shenandoah National Park (Free)
Arlington National Cemetery
- Arlington Cemetery Visit (Free)
Washington DC
- National Mall Visit
- White House Visit (Outside) (Free)
Reflecting Pool
- Reflecting Pool and National Mall Visit (Free)
Lincoln Memorial
- Lincoln Memorial Visit
Washington Monument
- Washington Monument Visit (Free)
New York City
- Central Park Visit (Free)
- Times Square Visit (Free)
- Empire State Building Visit (32USD per person)
- Staten Island Ferry (5USD per person)
New York
- 9/11 Memorial Visit and One World Trade Center Observation Deck (24-58USD per person)
- Chinatown Visit (Free)
- Statue of Liberty Visit (18USD per person)
Finger Lakes
- Kayak/SUP Rental (34-38USD per person)
- Canoe Rental (23-38USD per person)
Niagara Falls
- Cave of the Winds Visit (14USD per person)
- Casino Visit (Free)
Sandusky
- Cedar Point Amusement Park (52USD per person)
Chicago
- Millennium Park Visit (Free)
- Navy Pier Boardwalk (Free)
- Willis Tower (22-40USD per person)
Shipshewana
- Amish Buggy Ride (6-8USD per person)
Sioux Falls
- Sioux Falls Visit (Free)
Jackson County
- Original South Dakota 1880's Town Visit (12-19USD per person)
Custer State Park
- Custer State Park Hike (Free)
Badlands National Park
- Horseback Riding (37-90USD per person)
Grand Teton National Park
- Jenny Lake Boat Ride (19USD per person)
Jackson
- Million Dollar Bar Visit (Free-20USD per person)
- Whitewater Rafting on Snake River
- Jackson Horseback Riding (35-85USD per person)
1 or 2 Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) throughout, depending on group size.
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
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. Self-inflating mattresses are also provided, which are approximately 4cm thick, warm and comfortable.
2. Sleeping bags are a necessary for this tour, and can be purchased upon arrival if required.
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. Tioga Pass is a route through the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California on the eastern edge of Yosemite National Park, and we travel through the pass en route. In the spring and autumn seasons, there's a chance that the pass will be closed due to poor weather conditions or even snow. In such a case, we use an alternate route. The status of the road is monitored daily, and our travel plan for the area will be confirmed during the trip.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. Regarding our wi-fi equipped vehicles: we have limited bandwidth, and in the interests of allowing all travellers to access the wi-fi, travellers should limit their access to reasonable levels. Please note that wi-fi is not always available due to areas with limited or no cell phone service (e.g. in parts of national parks).
8. 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.
9. A NOTE ON HOMELESSNESS:
San Francisco hosts a considerable population of homeless. Homelessness is a crisis in America, and nowhere is it more evident than here; with as many as 10,000 people without permanent homes, San Francisco has become the homeless capital of America.
As you explore San Francisco with your G Adventures group, you will likely encounter the city's homeless. While we understand the urge to help those in need, we recommend that you not donate directly to people you meet on the street. The best response is to smile, say that you do not have any money and continue on your way.
San Francisco is a beautiful and safe city, and our hotel is ideally situated for further exploring on your own. That said, when exploring independently, we suggest you avoid the area to the southwest of the hotel.
We completely understand that stifling the urge to help out can make you uncomfortable. There are dozens of shelters, food banks and aid organizations dedicated to helping the city's needy, and your CEO will be more than happy to help you make a donation. It really is the best way to make a change.
Air-conditioned private vehicle, boat, walking
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room/Tent" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room/tent for all nights, except for the below.
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
The international airport in San Francisco is located 14 miles (22 km) from downtown San Francisco. When arriving at the International Airport in San Francisco, proceed to the Arrivals Hall, where you have three transport options; public Taxi, door-to-door shuttle or the public Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART).
Taxi
On the Arrivals/Baggage Claim Level continue to the designed taxi zones located at the roadway center islands right outside the Arrivals Hall. Uniformed taxi coordinators will help you with any questions you may have but it should be fairly easy to find a taxi. The approximate fare to downtown San Francisco is $40 (depending on traffic) plus gratuity.
Door-to-Door Shuttle also knows as “Shared-ride Vans”
This is probably the most convenient way to get to your hotel and definitely cheaper than a taxi ride from the Airport. From the Arrivals Hall make your way up one floor (Level 3) to the Departures/Ticketing Level. Proceed to the Center Island Transportation Zone located outside. Again, there will be uniformed coordinators to help you just in case you have any questions. You will see quite a few shuttle companies but wait for the Vans that say either “Go Lorries Shuttle” or “Super Shuttle”. The fare to your hotel is between $15 and $17 plus gratuity. This shuttle service is on a walk-up basis so it might take a few minutes until you see the right shuttle that will take you to the heart of San Francisco!
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) public transportation
The cheapest and definitely the most adventurous way to get to your hotel is by BART. The fare to downtown San Francisco is $8.10 (approximately 25 min). The BART station is located on the Departures/Ticketing Level of the International Terminal (Boarding Area G side). From any Terminal you can reach BART by taking the AirTrain to Garage G/Bart (no fare). Once at the station you need to get a ticket at the vending machine that accepts cash or credit card. Then you need to enter your ticket into the fare gate. The ticket will be returned to you since you will use the same ticket again when you exit BART at Civic Center/UN Plaza SF. From here you have approximately a ten minute walk. Enjoy the first glimpse of beautiful San Francisco!
Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned for that day other then your welcome meeting in the evening, so you can arrive at any time.
Your CEO will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. A welcome note will be left for you in the hotel so you have all the necessary information regarding the meeting time. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning.
Laundry can be done at least once a week while on tour. Some private campgrounds and most cities have laundromats where you can buy soap and wash your laundry in coin-operated machines. Your CEO will advise you along the trip where you will be able to do your laundry.
Hotels/hostels (9 nts, some multi-share), participation camping (33 nts).
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.
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Discover Moment: Yosemite National Park
Your Discover Moment: New Orleans
Your Discover Moment: Washington DC
Your Discover Moment: Chicago
Your Foodie Moment: Miller Brewery Tour and Tasting, Milwaukee. Entrance fees to all national parks with hiking and walking excursions. Death Valley visit. Sunset at the Grand Canyon rim. Carlsbad Caverns visit. Maid of the Mist boat tour (Niagara Falls). Amish community visit. Wall Drug visit. Mt Rushmore visit. Deadwood visit. Self-inflating mattresses and dome tents during camping. Orientation to Las Vegas and Washington DC. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
We use 25-passenger vehicles perfect for cross-country road trips on our 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours in the United States. Our new fleet of more cushy vehicles give travellers all the comfort of a big coach bus, but with a small-group experience. They put rider wellbeing first and foremost, with high-backed bucket seats and built-in headrests for all seats on board, huge 92cm-tall (36 in) windows that make every seat a window seat, an aisle way with enough headroom for most of stand upright, sliding seats that free up more shoulder room while on the road, A/C, charging stations, wi-fi, and loads of other features. We use a trailer to carry luggage and camping equipment. These are durable vehicles that allow us to drive on most types of roads in North America.
This is not a physically demanding journey. However, please take note of the travel times and distances in the itinerary. Despite some of the long days, most clients feel that the diversity of the North American landscape, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience! A typical day of driving will include about six hours driving by one of the CEOs and two to five hours of stops along the way. Keep in mind that North America is a really big place - New York to New Orleans alone is the equivalent of driving across most of Europe, and we cover that much ground in a single week. Driving time is the perfect opportunity to catch up on sleep, relax, and swap stories with your fellow travellers.
While we try to travel into and out of cities during non-rush hour times, heavy traffic is a reality of some of the places we visit. As a result, some drives may be a bit longer than listed in the day-to-day itineraries. Bring your patience and a smile, and we'll get through it!
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call the G Adventures Local Representative. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS?
G Adventures Local Representative (Las Vegas) ?
From outside the USA: 1-412-423-8143
From within the USA: 412-423-8143
If you are unable for any reason to contact our local representative, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
Camping:
• Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
• Sleeping bag and liner, 4 season
• Socks
• Thermal base layer
• Travel pillow
• Windproof rain gear
Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
Essentials:
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Health & Safety:
• Face masks (required)
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Rubber gloves
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear
Note: For evenings out in some cities there will be a dress code. If you wish to participate, please bring a nicer outfit for these occasions. We recommend a nicer pair of shoes and a collared shirt or blouse.
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements.
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.
We believe single 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 single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
35 breakfasts, 26 lunches, 23 dinners
Look for wildlife in Yellowstone and Yosemite, learn about Navajo culture in the Southwest, rock out in Memphis, follow the trail of independence from Philadelphia to Washington DC, get a taste of cowboy culture.
Max 22, avg 16.
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.
Days 1, 15, 16, 27, 28
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.
If a group exceeds 16 travellers, there will be a second CEO/CEO Driver co-leading the group to allow for a better overall experience.
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.
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 nights. 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.
All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied, including camp mattresses, which are warm and comfortable. We supply dome tents that take only 5 minutes to assemble/disassemble. They are good quality, durable, industry-standard 2-person pop-up tents, each with 2 separate and convenient zip-up doors and vestibules, 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).
Arrive at any time. We highly recommend booking pre-tour accommodation to enjoy more of the city.
There's a lot to see and do in San Francisco, and we recommend spending extra time here if you'd like to explore the city; speak to your sales agent to book extra accommodation. Haight-Ashbury, Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, and the city's famous cable cars await you.
Catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge on the way out of one of America's most popular cities. Drive into the Sierra Nevada Mountains and set up camp.
Travel through California's Sierra Nevada Mountains on the way to Yosemite National Park. Set up camp for the night and get ready for a full day of exploring the next day.
Enjoy a free day in Yosemite National Park.
Admire spectacular views of Yosemite National Park's magnificent peaks and granite domes. Yosemite has many trails to offer. Be inspired by this beautiful and amazing landscape and opt to rent a bike to better explore the Yosemite Valley.
Awe at the spectacular scenery along the Tioga Pass. Marvel at tufa rock towers at Mono Lake.
Marvel at the spectacular views of Yosemite National Park's magnificent peaks and granite domes while enjoying one of most scenic areas in California.
Note: we intend on using the Tioga Pass, a scenic route through the Sierra Nevada mountain range that connects Yosemite NP with Bishop. In the spring and autumn seasons, there's a chance that the pass will be closed due to poor weather conditions or even snow. In such a case, we use an alternate route south, and will spend the night in Lake Isabella instead of Bishop. The status of the road is monitored daily, and our travel plan for the area will be confirmed during the trip.
Visit a land of extremes in Death Valley National Park. Explore Las Vegas and stroll along the famous Vegas Strip. Take an optional VIP party limo.
Visit one of the country's most rugged landscapes, legendary Death Valley, the hottest and driest spot on earth and home to the lowest point in North America.
For the nights in Las Vegas, we stay close to the action in a hotel either at the end of or just a few blocks off the Strip.
Free time in Las Vegas.
Full day to explore Las Vegas. Walk the strip and try your luck at the tables or slot machines. Or spend the day shopping, dining or poolside. In the evening, opt to see one of the wildly entertaining shows Vegas is known for.
Travel Route 66, then arrive at the beautiful Grand Canyon and take in the sunset from the canyon's edge.
Considered among nature's most spectacular offerings, the Grand Canyon provides spectacular opportunities for exploration. Return to the campsite and recapture the experiences from this memorable day!
Enjoy free time in Grand Canyon NP.
Enjoy a free day to discover the Grand Canyon. Opt to wander throughout the park and take a hike. Hire a bike, check out a museum or see the canyon from the sky by helicopter.
Note: If you have pre-booked the Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride you will enjoy your 45-50min ride over the canyon today.
Drive along the southern rim of the canyon, then opt to discover one of the most majestic places on earth, Monument Valley, on an optional overnight excursion.
Take an optional jeep tour led by a Navajo guide through Monument Valley and be inspired by a night under the stars while camping in this magnificent atmosphere.
Wind up the side of a mountain through Mesa Verde National Park's rocky slopes and inspiring vistas. Hike to ancient cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde.
Hike through history exploring Mesa Verde National Park, which offers a spectacular look into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans.
Travel to Santa Fe and dive into the Southwest culture in this historic city.
Continue the journey back in time and explore one of America's oldest and most beautiful cities, Santa Fe. Take a stroll downtown and visit art galleries, or enjoy some world-famous roasted green chilies.
Look for aliens at infamous Roswell en route to exploring the Carlsbad Caverns, dodging the 400,000 bats heading out to hunt at sunset.
Cross into the state of Texas, the birthplace of Tex-Mex food, 10-gallon hats, and Western movies.
Sit back and gaze at the scenery while travelling through the southern United States. Upon arrival in the 'Lonestar' state, settle in at the campsite for a night under the stars.
Spend a free day in Austin. Opt to visit the SoCo area for thrift shopping, take a dip in the Barton natural pool, or let loose at a local country bar in the evening.
Crank up the jazz and drive into the home of Mardi Gras. Explore the French Quarter, and join the revellers on Bourbon Street 'til the early hours.
The CEO will point out a few things on the drive in, then get out and experience the city at its best.
Enjoy a free day to explore New Orleans.
New travellers may join you today for the rest of the adventure. You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening, followed by an optional dinner.
Explore the vibrant cultural and musical melting pot of Memphis. Take an optional tour of Graceland, opt to relive history at the National Civil Rights Museum, or tour the Rock ‘n' Soul Museum. Head to Beale Street at night for great food and live music.
Explore the birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll, the Home of Blues, and the starting point of soul. Music legends, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and B.B. King, made their marks on Memphis. Optional activities include visiting the National Civil Rights Museum (located where the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr took place in 1968) or visiting the Rock ‘n' Soul Museum.
Take an optional tour of Graceland. Travel to the country music capital of the world and become immersed in local music in downtown Nashville.
In the morning, opt to walk in the footsteps of the King of Rock ‘n' Roll at Elvis Presley's home, Graceland. If Graceland is not for you, enjoy the time to explore more of Memphis on your own. Travel to Nashville in time to check out the nightlife and visit a real country cowboy bar.
Travel the beautiful winding roads through the Appalachian Mountains and absorb their undisturbed natural beauty.
Experience the Appalachian Mountains on the drive. The mountains are a perfect place to relax and to enjoy the fresh, clean air and see the true beauty of North America.
Pass through Shenandoah National Park, and opt to take a short hike. Arrive in the US capital in time to wander the monuments by moonlight.
Continue on the Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park, a truly beautiful, historic national treasure. Standing on top of the peaks of Shenandoah National Park, gaze across the silent mountains. It's hard to believe Washington DC is just a short distance away.
Enjoy free time to explore.
There is so much to see and do in Washington DC that you can't see it all in one day. Take your time and spend a full day exploring this fascinating city.
Dive into the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple. Opt to visit Times Square or stroll through Central Park. Check out the famous nightlife in NYC.
For our night in NYC, we stay close to the action in a hostel in Manhattan close to the subway line. Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure. You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening, followed by an optional dinner.
Spend the morning exploring the Big Apple before heading to Newburgh.
Dive into the hustle and bustle of NYC on a brief orientation to the city with the CEO, then trade in the big city for a campfire.
This tour departs New York City mid-day on Day 2.
Enjoy a day out in nature taking in the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region. Visit towering Taughannock Falls, cool off in the lake, or sample wine from a local winery.
Discover one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, Taughannock Falls. Take a hike to explore this beautiful area on foot, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or just relax by the lake. Opt to taste wine from one of the local vineyards.
Get wet on the Maid of the Mist boat tour, and be sure to check out the falls illuminated in the evening.
An exciting adventure awaits in Niagara Falls. Feel the rushing waters of the falls taking the famous "Maid of the Mist Boat Tour." Return after darkness settles over the Niagara region and witness the Falls illuminated in a rainbow of colour!
Travel to Sandusky and opt to catch some thrills at a local amusement park.
Stop for lunch in the Amish community of Shipshewana before continuing on to Chicago.
There's tons to do in the Windy City - walk along the river to Millennium Park, enjoy dazzling music, and stroll the boardwalk of the Navy Pier. Opt to ride to the top of the Willis (formerly Sears) Tower, or hit the town for a night out with the group.
Free time to explore Chicago.
Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure. You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening, followed by an optional dinner.
Tour the Miller Brewing Company in Milwaukee and enjoy a beer tasting, then camp on the banks of the Mississippi River.
Enjoy a free morning at the largest shopping mall in America - the Mall of America. Afterwards, venture into South Dakota and head into the Great Plains and lands of the Sioux.
Travel through the Badlands before reaching the Black Hills.
Discover moon-like landscapes on the trails of the Badlands, then drive to Custer SP. Dodge free-roaming bison herds while exploring Custer's diverse lands.
Explore the spectacular, bizarre, and moon-like landscape at Badlands National Park. Discover Wall Drug, an American roadside wonder before reaching the famous Black Hills in the heart of South Dakota. Then take the scenic route to Custer State Park.
Check out the larger than life ex-presidents of Mount Rushmore, tour around Crazy Horse Memorial, and stop off at Deadwood en route to Devils Tower in Wyoming.
Check out the the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument en route to the university town of Bozeman, Montana.
Travel to Yellowstone, the world's first national park, and be in awe of the colourful geysers, powerful waterfalls, exciting wildlife, and contrasting scenic beauty around every corner.
Yellowstone is beyond special. Geysers, waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic beauty are around every corner just waiting to be explored. In fact, Yellowstone National Park is a super volcano with the world's largest active geyser field, boasting more than 10,000 geysers. The Park is also home to more wild animals than almost anywhere else in the U.S., including roaming bison, gray wolves, elk, black bears, and, of course, the famous grizzly bear.
Spend the day exploring the highlights of the Southern Loop.
Travel through some of the most famous landmarks of Yellowstone, including Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, West Thumb, and Yellowstone Lake.
Cross the Continental Divide en route to Grand Teton National Park. Enjoy the view of more than 12 peaks that make up this beautiful drive. Opt to visit a cowboy bar for Western line dancing and live music.
Stop at Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park and take in the tranquil surroundings.
In the late afternoon, reach Jackson and marvel at the town square's elk antler arches. In the evening, enjoy a night out with a true wild western atmosphere at the One Million Dollar Bar.
Choose to go whitewater rafting or horseback riding during a free morning, then cross the border into Idaho. Stop off at Shoshone Falls en route.
Sit back and relax during a road trip day, crossing into Nevada. Enjoy the bright lights both in and outside the casinos in "The Biggest Little City in the World."
Arrive to Lake Tahoe after a short drive. Enjoy a free afternoon for hiking, lake activities or relaxing.
Marvel at the spectacular views of Yosemite National Park's magnificent peaks and granite domes while enjoying one of most scenic drives in California: Tioga Pass!
With a keen eye and a little luck, spot black bears, deer or coyotes.
Enjoy free time in Yosemite National Park.
Full day to explore Yosemite National Park. Hike the many trails Yosemite has to offer and be inspired by this beautiful and amazing landscape. Option to rent bikes in Yosemite Valley.
Catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge on the way into one of America's most popular cities. Trip ends upon arrival to San Francisco. Take an optional cable car ride over the steep hills or explore the city by bicycle.
Arrive at one of the most iconic cities in the world: San Francisco. The CEO will point out some popular sites on the drive into town.
There's a lot to see and do in San Francisco. We recommend spending extra time here if you'd like to explore the city; speak to your sales agent to book extra accommodation, or pre book a sunset sail off the coast of the city.
If you are departing on arrival to San Francisco, you will not have enough time to participate in the Sunset Sailing extra. Post-tour accommodation is required to purchase this extra.
Details
Duration: 43 Days
Trip Type: Small Group
Travel Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings
Service Level: Camping
Physical Grading: 3 - Average
Merchandising: Vans with Wifi
43 day 18-to-Thirtysomethings tour
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