Description
Say g'day to the USA, and combine national parks, stunning coastlines and bustling cities on our brand new 17 Day USA Wild West Discovery tour with airfares, now on sale for a range of travel dates in 2025.
Embarking on the ultimate Western USA road trip, the journey begins in vibrant Los Angeles, where you can explore iconic landmarks such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, and the sun-soaked beaches of Santa Monica and Venice. After enjoying the urban energy of LA, head south to San Diego. Known for its laid-back vibe, pristine beaches, and world-class attractions, San Diego offers highlights like Balboa Park, the historic Gaslamp Quarter, and the famous San Diego Zoo. Spend some time relaxing at La Jolla Cove before setting out east toward Phoenix, the heart of the Arizona desert. Here, you can experience its art scene, hike Camelback Mountain, and appreciate the arid landscape before venturing north.
From Phoenix, a scenic drive leads you to the striking red rock formations of Sedona, where the natural beauty invites you to hike, enjoy vortex spots, or explore local art galleries. The journey continues to the breathtaking Grand Canyon, a highlight of the tour. Marvel at the sheer size and depth of this natural wonder, with opportunities to hike along the rim or take in panoramic views from various lookout points. Next, you’ll explore Monument Valley, known for its towering sandstone formations that have been featured in countless films. Located within the Navajo Nation, Monument Valley offers a chance to delve into Native American history and culture through guided tours.
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Next up, we continue into Utah to visit the surreal landscapes of Bryce Canyon, where unique hoodoo rock formations rise dramatically from the valley floor. Explore the rim trails or descend into the canyon to fully appreciate the towering spires. A short drive brings you to Zion National Park, where the towering cliffs and slot canyons offer unparalleled hiking opportunities, like the famous Angels Landing or The Narrows. After soaking in the natural beauty of Zion, the journey shifts gears with a stop in Las Vegas. Known for its glittering lights and high-energy atmosphere, Las Vegas offers an entirely different experience, from lavish entertainment shows to buzzing casinos.
The final stretch of the tour takes you through a variety of striking landscapes. Visit Death Valley, the hottest and lowest place in North America, where stark desert vistas create an almost otherworldly experience. Then, transition to the cooler climes of Mammoth Lakes, a mountain paradise perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. The trip continues into Yosemite National Park, home to awe-inspiring granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and ancient sequoias. Afterwards, head west to San Francisco to explore the city’s cultural gems, like the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf. Finally, wind your way down the Pacific Coast Highway, passing through charming coastal towns like Monterey, before returning to Los Angeles, completing a tour filled with diverse landscapes, natural wonders, and unforgettable experiences.
Itinerary Downloadable Itinerary
Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 Day 9 Day 10 Day 11 Day 12 Day 13 Day 14 Day 15 Day 16 Day 17
Australia United States of America
Welcome to California! Arriving at Los Angeles International Airport, make to your hotel. You're welcome to make the most of the facilities, before meeting your group and tour leader in the evening for an informal welcome at around 6:30pm to 7:00pm.
Meals: Inflight Menu
Accommodation: 4-Star Hilton Los Angeles Airport or similar
Los Angeles Orange County San Diego Los Angeles
Kick off our adventure with a trip south, following the coastline. Pass through Orange County, also known as the OC, including San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente to San Diego - welcomed by its lovely mild weather year-round. Find your bearings on a city tour with your expert guide upon arrival, as we visit the picturesque Seaport Village and the tranquil marketplace at the bay. Take some time to explore the town, enjoy its plentiful attractions, shops and restaurants before we return to Los Angeles for the evening.
Accommodation: 4-Star Hilton Los Angeles Airport or similar
Los Angeles Palm Springs Phoenix
Ride through an ocean of wind turbines, and enter the desert oasis of Palm Springs at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains. This lively town and its famously well manicured golf courses make it the ideal winter retreat for the Hollywood elite. We continue through Indio, where the International Date Festival in Coachella Valley is held, to reach our hotel in Phoenix for a good night’s rest in Arizona.
Accommodation: 3-Star Best Western Plus Executive Residency Phoenix North Happy Valley or similar
Phoenix Sedona Grand Canyon
Start the day with a panoramic ride through the Sonoran Desert, the most biologically-diverse desert ecosystem in America. Continuing towards Sedona, witness fascinating views of unique geological formations and spot famed red-rock monoliths such as the Cathedral or Coffee Pot along the way. We then drive through the breathtaking Oak Creek Canyon, setting up the scene for the world-famous Grand Canyon National Park - one of the seven great natural wonders, and most impressive sceneries of the world! Pause at the rim of the Canyon to fully experience the plunging gorges and rising spires, all formed by the powerful Colorado River.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 4-Star Squire Resort Grand Canyon, BW Signature Collection or similar
Grand Canyon Monument Valley Page / Lake Powell
Delving further into the wondrous lands of the American South West, ride inland to the Navajo Indian Reservation passing via Cameron, a trading post en route. Making our way to Monument Valley through the magical Painted Desert, soak in this most iconic display of the American West, characterised by clusters of sandstone buttes reaching up to 300 metres dotting the vast landscape. Late in the afternoon, we arrive in the town of Page, located by a beautiful mesa over the Colorado River.
Accommodation: 3-Star Hyatt Place Page / Lake Powell or similar
Page / Lake Powell Kanab Bryce Canyon National Park
We resume our adventure with a visit to the colossal Glen Canyon Dam, the second highest concrete-arch dam in the United States. Marvel at fascinating views of Lake Powell, where canyon walls of red-rock tower over crystal blue waters. Riding forward to the Mormon state of Utah, cruising through the town of Kanab before arriving the amazing Bryce Canyon National Park. Take a tour through a multicoloured world of sandstone spires and pinnacles, also known as “hoodoos”. This evening, make sure to gaze upon the enchanting night-sky with sparkling stars and breathtaking constellations.
Accommodation: 3-Star Bryce View Lodge or similar
Bryce Canyon National Park Zion National Park Las Vegas
Our first stop today will be the famous Zion National Park, where you can view the gorgeous massive rock formations shaped over millions of year by winds and the Virgin River. Once we've had our fill of the great outdoors, our motto for the remainder of the day is ''Viva Las Vegas''! In the afternoon, experience the contrast of buzzing Las Vegas in Nevada, the dazzling “Entertainment Capital of the World”. Enjoy round-the-clock shopping, nightly shows and the countless attractions available in town.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 4-Star Luxor Hotel & Casino Las Vegas - Pyramid Room or similar
Las Vegas
The day is all yours to spend at leisure! Shop at designer outlet stores along Fremont Street, try your luck at one of the casinos, attend a top-notch show or musical, visit one of the many museums, or simply stroll the world-renowned Las Vegas Strip at your own pace. Although known as ‘Sin City’, Las Vegas boasts plenty of attractions for all tastes, ages and budgets.
Accommodation: 4-Star Luxor Hotel & Casino Las Vegas - Pyramid Room or similar
Las Vegas Death Valley Mammoth Lakes / Fresno
Our journey takes a turn from the bustling and glamorous Las Vegas, to the silence and extreme nature of Death Valley. After making a quick stop at the iconic Las Vegas Sign for a photo, we continue on to Zabriskie Point and Furnace Creek Ranch & Visitor Centre. Crossing the valley, we ascend the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the beautiful ski resort town of Mammoth Lakes*. Renowned as a gold-mining town during the gold rush in the 19th century, Mammoth Lakes is now acclaimed for its skiing-friendly terrain and incredible mountain scenery.
*Please note that this is the Winter Route for departures between October and May under normal snow conditions. In case Tioga Pass is closed due to weather or road conditions, we will not be able to visit Mammoth Lakes and stay in Fresno or Visalia.
Accommodation: 3-Star Mammoth Mountain Inn or 3-Star Hampton Inn Fresno Airport or similar
Mammoth Lakes / Fresno Yosemite National Park Modesto
Weather permitting, we start the day with a scenic ride via Tioga Pass and into the pristine natural wonderland of Yosemite National Park. Upon arrival, tag along your expert guide to experience the valley floor and its countless gems including giant ancient sequoia trees, the glacial-like granite formations of Half Dome and El Capitan, plus the astounding Bridal Falls and Yosemite Falls. You'll certainly sleep well tonight, as we check in to our accommodation for the evening in the nearby town of Modesto.
Accommodation: 3-Star DoubleTree By Hilton Modesto or similar
Modesto San Francisco
Departing early in the morning, we're on our way back to the big smoke - the ‘Golden City’, San Francisco! Before entering the hotel, embark on a comprehensive sightseeing tour of unique landmarks with your tour leader. Get your bearings and learn more about this fantastic city, before spending the afternoon at your leisure or go exploring independently.
Accommodation: 4-Star Hilton San Francisco Union Square or similar
San Francisco
The day is yours to shape to your wish, and San Francisco has it all! Feel free to ask your Tour Leader for recommendations or assistance in making plans. Take a cable car ride to Fisherman’s Wharf while gazing upon the famous Alcatraz Island prison, or have a true taste of San Francisco, feasting on local seafood and the unique sourdough breads. Roam Union Square, filled with many shops and restaurants. Alternatively, you may instead take an optional tour to Napa Valley, world-renowned for its premium wineries and fascinating scenery.
Accommodation: 4-Star Hilton San Francisco Union Square or similar
San Francisco Monteray Peninsula Central Coast
Departing San Francisco in the morning, we drive along the stunning coast to the Monterey Peninsula, known for its charming homes lined along its beaches. Here we visit Fisherman’s Wharf and the famous Cannery Row, followed by a tour of the fairy tale-like community of Carmel (or Carmel-by-the-Sea). This small beach town is noted for its unique architecture, exclusive art galleries and stores. In the afternoon, we ride on south through Paso Robles, a quaint town on the Central Coast for our overnight stay.
Accommodation: 3-Star Historic Santa Maria Inn or similar
Central Coast Santa Barbara Santa Monica Los Angeles
Cruising the highway further south through the Santa Ynez valley into Santa Barbara, enjoy views of palm-lined streets bordering vast white sandy beaches. Our next stop will be Santa Monica - the final stop of historic Route 66 - where you may enjoy an optional lunch on the pier. Upon arrival in Los Angeles, tag along with your guide for an orientation tour, including famed highlights such as Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Century City before heading to the hotel. Spend the evening freely in the City of Angels, and celebrate the end of a memorable adventure through the USA's Wild West.
Accommodation: 4-Star Hilton Los Angeles Airport or similar
Los Angeles Australia
Our trip will end in Los Angeles after we say goodbye to our new friends and check-out of the hotel by 12:00pm. Depending on the timing of your flight home, guests are welcome to utilise the luggage storage facilities onsite, and squeeze in one more day of exploring LA.
Meals: Inflight Menu
In Transit
Expect to spend today in the sky, crossing multiple timezones on your way home.
Meals: Inflight Menu
Australia
Welcome back to Australian soil! Your flight will likely land at around 6:00am to 7:00am. We hope you enjoyed your time in the United States, and safe travels until your next adventure.
Meals: Inflight Menu
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Return economy class airfare to Los Angeles from Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane
- 14 nights in 3 & 4-Star hotel accommodation on twin share basis
- 3 Breakfasts included
- Modern air-conditioned private minibus or coach transport
- Fully guided experience with tour leader and driver throughout the program
Optional Tours: Designed to be flexible, there are a range of optional day tours and activities available on this package - please refer to the itinerary for further details
Age Requirement: Please note that to join this tour, guests must be 21+ in age
Health & Fitness: This tour is available for travellers from 21 to 80 years, providing that all guests are reasonably fit and active to be able to keep up with the group
Visas: Australians travelling to the United States for tourism or business purposes for a stay of fewer than 90 days can travel without obtaining a visa. Instead of applying for a visa, travellers must have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA)
Exclusions
- Visa fees
- Some entrance fees (please refer to itinerary)
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Any meals and drinks not mentioned
- Any additional requests
- Tipping (strongly recommended)
Group Size: The typical group size on this program is between 30-40 guests, with a maximum of 55
Weather Conditions: We recommend that our guests do their research on weather conditions before selecting a travel date, as temperatures can be extremely high in the desert for travel between June and August
Single Supplement: Travelling solo? The solo supplement price for this package is $3899.00 to have your own room, and is available via checkout
Pre & Post Accommodation: Want to arrive earlier or stay later in Los Angeles? Please get in touch with us via [email protected]
Travel Insurance: We recommend Covermore travel insurance. To quote and book, please click HERE