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Adventure Tours   >   North America Adventure Tours   >  USA Road Trip: Pacific Coast to Las Vegas

USA Road Trip: Pacific Coast to Las Vegas Adventure Tour

North America

  • United States

Now's the time to explore the United States on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Take 21 days, 20(ish) new travel mates and a terrific itinerary through the Pacific Coast and you've got your next dream adventure. Do everything from catching a glimpse of San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Bridge, hiking around the idyllic Lake Tahoe region, and spotting wildlife in Yosemite National Park. With all the little details taken care of by us and your CEO (Chief Experience Officer), you can focus on soaking in the best sights and sharing like-worthy snaps.


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.


Tipping  

It is customary in North America to tip service providers such as waiters, bartenders and taxi drivers, at approximately 15-18%, 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 exceeded your expectations, feel free to tip more.


Optional Activities  

Seattle
- Pike Place Market
- Space Needle
- Chihuly Garden and Glass

Portland
- Portland's Food Trucks
- Portland Walking Tour
- Drink Up Portland's Craft-beer Scene

Bend
- Canoe by Moonlight (90USD per person)
- Bend Brewery Tour (80USD per person)
- Bend Kayaking (20USD per person)

San Francisco
- Cable Car Ride San Francisco (7USD per person)
- Sunset Sailing San Francisco
- Fisherman's Wharf Visit (Free)
- Haight-Ashbury Visit (Free)
- Alcatraz Visit (33USD per person)
- Bike Rental San Francisco (8-32USD per person)

Emerald Bay State Park
- Emerald Bay Hiking

Lake Tahoe
- Lake Tahoe Paddleboard Excursion (25-105USD per person)
- Lake Tahoe Casinos

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

Los Angeles
- Universal Studios Hollywood (90-150USD per person)
- Venice Beach Visit (Free)
- Santa Monica Pier Visit (Free)
- Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos

San Diego
- Surf and Boogie Board Rental (8-20USD per person)
- Old Town San Diego Visit (Free)
- Surf Lesson (69USD per person)

Coronado
- Coronado Island Visit (Free)

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

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

Monument Valley
- Monument Valley 4x4 Overnight Excursion

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


Transport  

Air-conditioned private vehicle, walking.


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 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.

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 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.


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.


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 people in the sex trade 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 utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.


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.


Group Size Notes  

Max 13, avg 12.


My Own Room Exceptions  

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 days 1, 3, 7, 8, 14 and 15.


Meals  

Most of the meals on this tour are included in the tour price. When a meal is not included, this is because there are often many options available - we would like to give you the opportunity to explore a bit and taste the local cuisine yourself. In these cases, your CEO will be able to suggest some good local restaurants or options for you to choose from.

All included meals will be prepared from fresh local produce. The majority of the shopping for food will be done before the trip departs, and fresh goods, such as meats, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, will be bought en route during the trip 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.

Our CEO will organize the meal preparation and lead the way here, but will prepare a duty schedule for ensuring a fair, rotating participation from you and your group members in the meal preparation and dish washing duties.

Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival.


Accommodation  

Hostels (6 nts, multi-share with 4-6 people), participation camping (14 nts).


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!


Highlights  

Experience Portland's quirky arts and culture, Spot black bears in Yosemite National Park, Explore the coastal city of Santa Cruz, Enjoy a night out in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter District, Marvel at the massive rock formations in Joshua Tree National Park


About our Transportation  

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 make the most of it!


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.


Joining Instructions  

TAXI
Yellow Cabs are available on the third floor parking garage. A cab from Sea-Tac airport to downtown Seattle ranges from $50-55 USD.

Rideshare Apps
After requesting a ride, follow the parking garage signs and meet your driver at the Rideshare/TNC pickup zone on the 3rd floor of the Sea-Tac Airport parking garage. Fare estimates are $40-$45.

LINK LIGHT RAIL
Upon arrival, follow the signs to Link Light Rail by way of the fourth floor of the parking garage (and not Public Transit). Take the Link: University Of Washington Station to University Street Station. Transfer to the E Line: Aurora Village Transit Center and take it 4 stops to Aurora Ave N & Denny Way. Your hotel is a 5 minute walk from here. The fare is about $5 USD.

Link is a separate entity from Metro transit that serves downtown Seattle. If you buy a ticket for the train and you wish to transfer to a city bus that would be another fare. You can buy an Orca card from the ticket machine that does allow for transfers. This will cost $5 and you can 'load' it with any amount of money that you wish.

SHUTTLE EXPRESS
The Shuttle Express is a shared van service that can be pre-booked online (www.shuttleexpress.com). The fare is $40 USD per person in a shared van and goes from the airport to most downtown hotels.

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 for this evening, 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.


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.


Packing List  

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.


Laundry  

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.


Meals Included  

18 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 10 dinners


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.


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


Safety and Security  

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).

Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.


What's Included  

Your G for Good Moment: Native Grill Food Truck Experience
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Your Discover Moment: Portland
Your Big Night Out Moment: Americana Redwoods , Redwood National Park
Your Discover Moment: San Francisco
Your Discover Moment: Yosemite National Park
Your Big Night Out Moment: Surf Party , Santa Cruz
Your Discover Moment: Los Angeles
Your Big Night Out Moment: Spring Break , Lake Havasu. Mt Rainier NP Visit. Crater Lake NP Visit. Redwood NP Visit. Yosemite NP Visit. Joshua Tree NP Visit. Grand Canyon NP Visit. Golden Gate Bridge Visit. Pacific Coast Highway Drive. Mission Beach Visit. Gaslamp Quarter District Visit. Sunset at the rim of the Grand Canyon. Route 66 Visit. Horseshoe Bend Hike. Fremont Street Experience, Las Vegas. Free time in Portland, Bend, San Francisco, Lake Tahoe, Santa Cruz, and Los Angeles. Entrance fees to all national parks with hiking and walking excursions. Self-inflating mattresses and dome tents. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


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. 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).

9. 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.

10. 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.


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 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 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).


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.


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.


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 leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. 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.


Minimum Age  

Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.


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.

Day 1 Seattle

Arrive at any time.

Welcome to Seattle! Spend your first night out on the town with your CEO and group as you explore this free-spirited Pacific Northwest city. From mini golf to gum walls, and made-up games there's plenty to choose from. So grab your fellow adventurers and get ready to make some memories.

There's a lot to see and do in Seattle, and we recommend spending extra time here if you'd like to explore; speak to your sales agent to book extra accommodation.

Day 2 Seattle/Mount Rainier National Park

No trip to Washington is quite complete without a visit to Mt Rainier National Park. Zoom here with your travel tribe from Seattle and enjoy a picnic lunch in the park. Then it's time to get some hiking done amidst the snowy mountain peaks. Keep your eyes peeled from some of the diverse wildlife that calls this place home. As the light begins to fade and your feet feel heavier from all of that exploring the group will head just outside the park to camp under the stars.

Day 3 Mount Rainier National Park/Portland

Let's get weird in Portland! Being one of the most popular cities to visit on the West Coast north of California Portland is artsy, funky, full of great food/drink options and not to mention extremely easy to fall in love with. Between the lush green forest, mountains shrouded in mist, and endless craft breweries sprinkled all over the city, you'll have no problem finding a creative way to get to know this wacky place.

Day 4 Portland/Bend

It's time to leave the bizarre behind as you make your way to Bend, Oregon, consistently voted one of the best places to live in the U.S. Arrive just in time to find yourself the perfect place to eat lunch. Then grab your buddies and explore town a bit. Maybe you'll head to another craft brewery, or maybe you'll try kayaking and canoeing through the beautiful water of Cascade lake. Or even better? Maybe you'll do both!

Day 5 Bend/Redwood National Park

Rise and shine and hit the road early to take full advantage of the sights at gorgeous Crater Lake National Park. Grab some selfies or just sit and stare in awe at the crystal blue waters of one of the most pristine lakes on earth. Afterwards, head further south to California and Redwood National Park-home to the tallest trees in the world. Spend the evening gazing up at these gigantic coastal redwoods. To get a true sense of the enormity of these trees, try taking a picture of you hugging one of them.

Day 6 Redwood National Park

Wake up to the sounds of the forest before going on a morning hike through these old mystical trees. Don't worry, it's not all about the redwoods, even though they are really something. After craning your neck for hours you'll be excited for a chance to look down as you head to the rocky California coast, to enjoy tide pooling and small beach communities as you continue towards San Francisco.

Day 7 Redwood National Park/San Francisco

Catch yourself daydreaming as you cruise along the coast and then watch as vineyards pass by in California's famous wine region en route to San Francisco. Scoot over to the city on the Golden Gate Bridge and stop for pictures at this iconic site. We're thinking group selfie?

Day 8 San Francisco

Get ready to explore this city by the bay with your adventure pals! Walk up winding Lombard Street, hop on a historic cable car and see the hills of the city, or get sprayed by the ocean at Lands End.

Day 9 San Francisco/Lake Tahoe

Continue on to idyllic Lake Tahoe, a jewel of the Sierra Nevadas. Known for its crystal clear waters and sweeping mountain views, it is truly a nature-lover's paradise. Enjoy a free afternoon for hiking, lake activities or relaxing. In the evening, hit up the Nevada side of the Lake and try your hand at the Casinos. Who knows, maybe luck will be on your side!

Day 10 Lake Tahoe/Yosemite National Park

Say, "see you later" to Lake Tahoe and travel south through National Forests and the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range on the way to Yosemite National Park. Tip your head back and relax or try to spot some wildlife. Once you arrive, hike amongst giant sequoias and past powerful waterfalls before setting up camp. Spend the night telling stories around the fire with your newest travel family.

Day 11 Yosemite National Park

Let your mind wander as you hike through this breathtaking park. Gaze in wonder at Yosemite's magnificent peaks and granite domes before turning your attention to the tranquil nature of the valley floor. Snap photos or simply take in the beauty of one of the country's most beautiful national parks. Keep an eye out for rock climbers and diverse wildlife within the park and consider renting bikes with some friends to better explore Yosemite Valley.

Day 12 Yosemite National Park/Santa Cruz

Leave the mountains behind and head to the coastal paradise of Santa Cruz. Conveniently located between San Francisco and Monterey this beach town is full of great surf, pristine waterfront, redwood-covered mountains, laid-back surfer towns, organic farms, and a growing beer and wine scene. Spend your free afternoon exploring the wharf, vintage shops, and beach coves with a friend or on your own. Either way you'll be getting a true taste of what the laid back life on the West Coast is all about.

Day 13 Santa Cruz/Morro Bay

Travel down the famous Pacific Coast Highway and marvel at the beautiful coastline and mountain ranges of Big Sur. Have your cameras handy as you will be making multiple stops along the way at places you won't want to miss having a photo of. Take in the crashing waves, rolling fog, and sheer rocky cliffs that make this journey down California's coastal Highway 1 an unforgettable experience. Arrive in time to enjoy sunset on Morro Bay.

Day 14 Morro Bay/Los Angeles

Journey along the stunning Pacific coast to the City of Angels. Stop in Santa Barbara for lunch in this famous coastal city as we make our way to LA (maybe sneak in a volleyball game on the beach if you have time). Your CEO will point out a few famous neighbourhoods and landmarks on the drive. And even though the trip ends upon arrival to Los Angeles you ca certainly book some post accommodation and continue enjoying one of most geographically diverse states in America.

Day 15 Los Angeles

Enjoy a free day in LA. Opt to explore Hollywood, Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica, Venice Beach and other hot spots around the city.

Day 16 Los Angeles/San Diego

Be on celebrity-watch while passing by a few popular sites on the way out of LA, California's most glamorous city. Cruise through Orange County and along the incredible Pacific coastline to the truly remarkable San Diego. Sun, sand, food, and fun await us in this beautiful beach city.

Once we have arrived you are free to adventure as you please. Soak up the sun on Mission Beach, hike along the sandstone cliffs of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, spend the day at the city's cultural hub - Balboa Park, or immerse yourself in the military and maritime history of one of the happiest cities in the U.S. In the evening, head to the Gaslamp Quarter District for dinner and live music. As the sun sets, watch the area come alive with numerous pubs and nightclubs and get ready for a night of fun!

Day 17 San Diego/Lake Havasu City

Travel to the desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park - a place that attracts everyone from stargazers to rock climbers. Stop, stare, and enjoy the scenery of the Mojave and Colorado deserts, and of course the famous Joshua trees, with their gnarled branches. The group will take a short hike amongst the boulders of this park before zooming off to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the Colorado River at Lake Havasu.

Day 18 Lake Havasu City/Grand Canyon

Hit the road to get some kicks on Route 66. Dive into historic Americana and enjoy lunch at a famous joint and see if you can spot all the movie memorabilia. Afterwards, it's off to the Grand Canyon to explore the massive gorges, ridges, and rock formations that make even the most skeptical of travellers become awestruck. Dive into a delicious pizza dinner as you sit with your newest adventures buddies and watch the sun dip below the canyon's south rim.

Day 19 Grand Canyon

Another day, another adventure! Not feeling a hike this morning? That's cool, you have the option to splurge on an unforgettable helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon. Get ready to feel incredibly small as the world opens up at your feet. For a quieter experience rent a bike to check out the south rim or go see the IMAX Grand Canyon movie. No matter what you decide, the epic views will be there.

Opt to pre-book a bird's eye view of the canyon by helicopter on the checkout page ahead of time to include this optional on your tour.

Day 20 Grand Canyon/Monument Valley

Wave goodbye to this grand park as we take one last drive along the southern rim of the canyon. Then it's time to eat some grub at a local Navajo food truck supported by Planeterra.

With a full stomach and a happy attitude drive through the desert to discover one of the most majestic places on earth, Monument Valley. You have the option of getting deep into the valley with a 4x4 excursion with a local Navajo guide, or simply walk around yourself and admire this vast, colourful landscape and cool rock formations.

Opt to pre-book a jeep tour led by a Navajo guide through Monument Valley on the checkout page of this tour.

Day 21 Monument Valley/Las Vegas

Grab your buddies and break a sweat with a quick hike to iconic Horseshoe Bend. Stand overlooking this cool natural shape of the Colorado River and snap a few zen photos. Then, discover ghost towns, funky roadside attractions, and bask in the fading sun as you head into “Sin City”.

Please note this trip ends on arrival to Las Vegas. If you wish to spend the night in the city, speak to your sales agent about booking post-accommodation.

Details

Duration: 21 Days

Service Level: Camping

Merchandising: Vans with Wifi

Trip Type: Small Group

Merchandising: Planeterra Project

Travel Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

Physical Grading: 3 - Average



Call Us: 01 2311889



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