Never mind the minivans and cheesy tourist attractions - our 12-day trip across the western United States puts a whole new spin on ol' America the Beautiful. Your family will breathe free in famous national parks (Zion & Bryce among them), stand in wonder at the Grand Canyon, and bunk at a cowboy camp. With a great mix of culture and activities, this is an ideal trip for families looking to see the USA in a new light.
Highlights
Hike in the natural splendour of Zion and Bryce national parks, learn horseback riding at a cowboy ranch, visit Canyonlands National Park for sunset, marvel at the sight of the Grand Canyon.
Accommodation
Standard hotel (2nts), camping (7nts), basic cabins (2nts, shared facilities).
Meals Included
9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners
Transport
Air conditioned private touring van.
About our Transportation
We use 15 passenger vans for up to 13 people plus the CEO/Driver for all our of our trips in North America. For groups of 8 and more travellers, we also use a trailer to carry luggage and camping equipment.
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. No standing is permitted in these vehicles, but there is air conditioning to cool things down on warm days and mandatory seat belts to us secure and safe.
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
Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout.
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 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.
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 to spend hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. We recommend the use of a duffel bag, soft bag or backpack (whichever you find easiest to carry). 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.
Day 1 Las Vegas
Arrive at any time.
Day 2 Las Vegas/Grand Canyon National Park
Arrive at any time.
Day 3 Grand Canyon National Park
Arrive at any time.
Day 4 Grand Canyon National Park/Monument Valley
Arrive at any time.
Day 5 Monument Valley/Moab
Arrive at any time.
Day 6 Moab
Arrive at any time.
Day 7 Moab/Antimony
Arrive at any time.
Day 8 Antimony
Arrive at any time.
Day 9 Antimony/Bryce Canyon National Park
Arrive at any time.
Day 10 Bryce Canyon National Park/Zion National Park
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