Natural Highlights of California Adventure Tour

See a side (or two or three) of California that many travellers never uncover on this nine-day quest through some of the state's greatest national parks. Go from one kind of sensory-overload to another as you venture from the glitz of Las Vegas on to the glorious sights of Death Valley, Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, and the world-famous Yosemite National Park. You'll do so much more than just take in the sights, with ample time to explore the other-worldly landscapes of Death Valley and Yosemite, as well as the chance to gaze upon the stars in Sequoia ' the very thing that made the first full-time editor of National Geographic realize the importance of preserving national parks. The conclusion of your adventure will find you taking in iconic sights and sounds of the urban variety in San Francisco.

Highlights

Immerse yourself in the stark beauty of Death Valley, cross the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, explore world
famous Yosemite National Park, marvel at ancient trees in Sequoia National Park, visit the world renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium.

What's Included

Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Sequoia National Park Naturalist Hike, Sequoia National Park Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Sequoia Parks Conservancy Stargazing, Sequoia National Park Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Monterey Aquarium Exclusive, Monterey. All national park fees. Yosemite NP excursion. Death Valley NP visit. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Accommodation

Hotels (8 nts).

Meals Included

8 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Transport

Air
conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking.

About our Transportation

Please note on this tour, your CEO is also a licensed driver. This is not a physically demanding journey. However, 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 clients feel that the diversity of the North American landscape, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience!

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. As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While our CEOs are trained and have resources to assist them along the way, the United States is the fourth largest country on the planet, and it is impossible for them to know everything about this massive country. We recommend local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting
we think it's the best of both worlds. Please note that specific tour guide licenses are required to guide in certain cities and regions, and as such, our CEOs will oftentimes provide brief orientation walks or drives to point out useful places like supermarkets, main squares and ATMs but for more specific or in depth destination information, an official guided tour is recommended.

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!

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.

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.

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.