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Adventure Tours   >   North America Adventure Tours   >  National Parks & Bright Lights

National Parks & Bright Lights Adventure Tour

North America

  • United States

From the Golden Gate Bridge to glowing canyon walls at sunset, this trip captures the beauty of the cities and wilderness of the western US. It's perfect for the traveller looking to breathe in the scent of the sequoias of Yosemite by day but wanting the comforts of a hotel at night. Prepare yourself for otherworldly hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park and desert scenery in Death Valley - the lowest spot on the continent - before taking an optional helicopter ride above the incomparable Grand Canyon. You won't just visit the west coast, you'll live it.


What's Included  

Your G for Good Moment: Native Grill Food Truck Experience
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Discover Moment: Las Vegas. Golden Gate Bridge Visit. California Produce Tasting. Yosemite National Park Visit. Yosemite National Park Hike. Death Valley National Park Visit. Zion National Park Visit. Bryce Canyon National Park Visit. Glen Canyon Dam Visit. Horseshoe Bend Hike. Monument Valley 4x4 Tour. Grand Canyon South Rim Visit. Grand Canyon Sunset. Sedona Visit. Route 66 Visit. London Bridge Visit. Joshua Tree National Park Visit. Orientation Drive, Los Angeles. Entrance fees to all national parks with hiking and walking excursions. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


Group Leader Description  

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 driver - this person is experienced 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 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.


Feedback  

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.


Emergency Fund  

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!


A Couple of Rules  

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.


Visas and Entry Requirements  

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.


Money Exchange  

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


Group Leader  

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout.


My Own Room  

Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops


Joining Hotel  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.


Highlights  

Meet the Navajo in stunning Monument Valley, marvel at the Grand Canyon, hike in beautiful Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks, roll the dice in Las Vegas, search for stars in Los Angeles


Dossier Disclaimer  

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.


Important Notes  

1.TRAVEL DAYS
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.

2. WALKS AND HIKES - OPTIONAL
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.

3. COMBO TRIP
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.

4. LEGAL DRINKING AGE
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.

5. LAS VEGAS HOTELS
Las Vegas is known for glitz and glamour, and is an adult's playground for the senses. However, hotel standards are different than in many other cities. Most hotels have an onsite casino, and smoking is permitted indoors. Although we only use non-smoking rooms on our tours and do our best to offer a smoke free environment, please be aware that standards may result in smoke permeating non-smoking areas of hotels.

COMBO TRIP
Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludeFO


Transport  

Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking


Laundry  

Laundry can be done at least once a week while on tour. Some hotels 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.


Optional Activities  

Yosemite National Park
- Yosemite Bike Rental (12USD per person)
- Yosemite National Park Hike (Free)

Las Vegas
- VIP Party Bus Experience (45USD per person)
- Gambling at Vegas Casino
- Vegas Strip Visit (Free)
- Las Vegas Show (60-200USD per person)

Hoover Dam
- Hoover Dam Visit (65USD per person)

Zion National Park
- Hiking (Free)

Lake Powell
- Powell Horseback Riding (75-135USD per person)

Bryce Canyon National Park
- Horseback Riding Bryce Canyon (65-90USD per person)

Antelope Canyon
- Antelope Canyon Tour (50USD per person)

Grand Canyon National Park
- Grand Canyon IMAX Movie (14USD per person)

Grand Canyon
- Grand Canyon Hike (Free)
- Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour (284-309USD per person)

San Diego
- Gaslamp Quarter District Visit (Free)
- Surf and Boogie Board Rental (8-20USD per person)
- Old Town San Diego Visit (Free)
- Bike Rental

Coronado
- Coronado Island Visit (Free)

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
- Surfing Lesson (60USD per person)

Los Angeles
- Santa Monica Pier Visit (Free)
- Venice Beach Visit (Free)
- Universal Studios Hollywood (90-150USD per person)


Travel Insurance  

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.


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.

It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a light jacket. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.


Tipping  

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.


International Flights  

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.


Group Size Notes  

Max 13, avg 10


About our Transportation  

For this trip we use 15-passenger vans for up to 14 people plus the CEO/Driver. These vans are durable vehicles that allow us to drive on most types of roads in North America.

Each van has a front passenger seat and 4 benches that will accommodate 3 people each with mandatory seat belts to keep us secure and safe. No standing is permitted in these vehicles.

This is not a physically demanding journey. There is air conditioning to cool things down on warm days to keep everyone more comfortable. Travelling can be difficult, with long drives and limited space in the van. Please take note of the travel times and distances in the above itinerary. Despite some of the long days, most travellers feel that the diversity of the North American landscape, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience!


Solo Travellers  

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.


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.


Accommodation  

Hotels (14 nts).


About Accommodation  

This trip uses 2-3 star hotels and motels in cities and near park entrances. Our chosen hotels vary in size, character, and amenities, but are of a good standard, and the rooms are double occupancy with a private bathroom.


Minimum Age  

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.


Joining Instructions  

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 cost effective way to get to your hotel and definitely cheaper than a taxi ride from the Airport. You will see quite a few shuttle companies, but you can save money and receive detailed joining locations by pre-booking at www.supershuttle.com. The fare to your hotel is around $15-20 plus gratuity.

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 transfer to the 19 Bus headed towards Fisherman's Wharf. Exit at the Polk Street and Lombard Street stop. The Hotel is a 2 minute walked from here.

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.


Itinerary Disclaimer  

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.


Meals Included  

1 lunch, 1 dinner


Packing List  

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (required)
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Rubber gloves

Day 1 San Francisco

Arrive at any time.

There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.

We highly recommend booking pre-tour accommodation to fully experience this fascinating city.

Day 2 San Francisco/Yosemite National Park

On the way out of San Francisco, take in some final sights. Stop at the Golden Gate Bridge, where on a clear day you can see the San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz and the Bay Bridge to one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other.

Drive past some iconic attractions of the city as we head the towards the Sierra Nevadas. Stop to try some of the region's best produce en route to Yosemite National Park.

Head out on an orientation of one of the greatest cities in the world, San Francisco.

Discover some of the city's most iconic attractions such as bustling Fisherman's Wharf or the stately Golden Gate Bridge.

Day 3 Yosemite National Park

Discover Yosemite's peaks, granite domes, and giant sequoias. Marvel at majestic waterfalls, lakes, and meadows.

Head to the Yosemite Valley. Take short hikes to majestic waterfalls, clear lakes, beautiful meadows or walk amongst giant sequoias in Yosemite National Park.

If lucky, spot black bears, deer or coyotes with a keen eye.

Day 4 Yosemite National Park/Sierra Nevada

Enjoy the morning to explore Yosemite's iconic features before travelling along the Sierra Nevadas southeast to our stop for the night.

Head to the Yosemite Valley. Take short hikes to majestic waterfalls, clear lakes, beautiful meadows or walk amongst giant sequoias in Yosemite National Park. With a keen eye, you may be lucky enough to spot black bears, deer or coyotes.

During the months of July through mid October, we intend to use the Tioga Pass, a scenic a route through the Sierra Nevada mountain range that connects Yosemite NP with the east side of the mountain range. In the remaining months, the pass is often closed due to poor weather conditions or even snow. During these months, we use an alternate route that travels across California, south of the mountain range. The status of the road is monitored daily, and our travel plan for the area will be confirmed during the trip.

Day 5 Sierra Nevada to Las Vegas

Visit a land of extremes in Death Valley NP. Explore Las Vegas and stroll along the famous Vegas Strip. Opt to take a VIP party limo experience or take in a show.

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.

Day 6 Las Vegas

Enjoy a full free day to explore Las Vegas. Wander the strip, do some shopping, and refuel at one of the many bars or restaurants. Opt to take in a glitzy Las Vegas show or to head out on a day trip to the Hoover Dam.

Day 7 Las Vegas/Bryce Canyon National Park

Visit Zion, Utah's oldest national park. Explore towering cliffs and massive canyon walls. Hike diverse and exciting trails. Head to Bryce Canyon.

Arrive in Bryce Canyon just in time to witness one of the most spectacular sunsets in the Southwest.

Zion National Park/Bryce Canyon National Park

Day 8 Bryce Canyon National Park/Lake Powell

Explore Bryce Canyon National Park on trails among the amphitheatres and multi-coloured rock pinnacles called hoodoos before heading to Lake Powell. Opt for a barbecue dinner and a sunset horseback ride (seasonal).

Day 9 Monument Valley

Visit the Glen Canyon Dam and take a short hike to Horseshoe Bend, shaped by the Colorado River. Discover one of the most majestic places on earth, Monument Valley. Explore on a 4x4 tour led by a Navajo guide.

Take an optional tour to Antelope Canyon, the second largest of its kind in North America.

Day 10 Grand Canyon National Park

Depart in the morning and stop for lunch at a G Adventures supported Navajo food truck project. Enter the park and drive along the south rim, stopping at Desert View to take in the grandeur of the canyon. Continue into the park and opt to take a short hike into the canyon (weather permitting) or wander along rim trail to admire the views. Enjoy sunset at the edge of the Grand Canyon watching the way the light changes the colours.

Wander along a trail and feel the sunshine and wind on your face while admiring awe-inspiring views. Or sit and watch the changing play of light and shadows.

In the afternoon, opt to watch the most spectacular IMAX Adventure of all, the Grand Canyon Movie.

Day 11 Grand Canyon National Park/Lake Havasu City

Travel to Sedona for lunch and check out the stunning landscape with a short hike overlooking the red and orange cliffs. Continue on and stop for dinner and to get some kicks on historic Route 66. After dinner, arrive to Lake Havasu City for the night.

Note: If you have pre-booked the Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride you will enjoy your 45-50min ride over the canyon today.

Day 12 Joshua Tree National Park/San Diego

Make a quick stop to see a bit of London spanning across the Colorado River. Then head to Joshua Tree National Park, for a hike amongst the boulders and yuccas. Continue to San Diego, where sun, sand, food, and fun all await in this beautiful beach city.

When the sun sets, experience the Gaslamp Quarter District with numerous pubs and nightclubs.

Day 13 San Diego

Enjoy free time to explore or just sit back and relax in the sun and sand.

San Diego is a great city to experience where life is lived outdoors.

Day 14 San Diego/Los Angeles

Cruise through Orange County and along the incredible Pacific coastline to Los Angeles. See the stars on the most famous sidewalk in Hollywood on an orientation to the area. Drive through Beverly Hills and check out Rodeo Drive.

Discover why Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach are highlights of Los Angeles. Opt to rent a bike.

Day 15 Los Angeles

Depart at any time.

We highly recommend booking post-accommodation to fully experience this famous city.

Details

Duration: 15 Days

Trip Type: Small Group

Travel Style: Classic

Service Level: Standard

Merchandising: Planeterra Project

Merchandising: Vans with Wifi

Physical Grading: 2 - Light



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