Day 1
San Francisco
Welcome to San Francisco! Once a quiet village, the California Gold Rush of 1849 transformed it into a vibrant port city, earning the nickname "City by the Bay." Today, San Francisco’s cosmopolitan charm, paired with stunning bay views, attracts travellers from around the globe. Fly into San Francisco International airport and make your way independently to your downtown hotel and enjoy your day at leisure. Your tour director will be available to help you plan your activities in the city.
Overnight: Hotel Spero or similar
Day 2
San Francisco
Discover why so many people leave their hearts in San Francisco! A half-day city tour will give you a taste of the city’s unique character. Hear the calls of ships departing the Bay, watch shoppers bustle through Union Square, and listen for the iconic clang of the cable car bells. The afternoon is free for you to cruise the bay, shop, ride the cable cars, or simply wander and explore.
Overnight: Hotel Spero or similar
Day 3
San Francisco – Yosemite – Fresno (275 miles)
Leave the city behind and head to Yosemite National Park. As you pass through California’s Central Valley, you'll see how large-scale irrigation has transformed the area into an agricultural powerhouse, producing over 240 different crops, from almonds to grapes. Upon arriving in Yosemite, you’ll witness the park’s stunning waterfalls, towering granite formations like El Capitan and Half Dome, and diverse wildlife. You’ll explore the park by motorcoach, but you’ll also have time to take in the views on the valley floor. Overnight in Fresno.
Overnight: Comfort Suites Fresno River Park or similar. Breakfast included
Day 4
Fresno – Las Vegas (395 miles)
Today, we journey south through the Central Valley and into the rugged Mojave Desert. As we enter Nevada, you'll be greeted by the flashing lights of casinos at the state line. A little further, and the desert landscape gives way to the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, a city that evolved from a small farming settlement to one of the world’s most famous entertainment hubs. The city’s rich history dates back to the silver rush of the 1860s, and today it’s known for its thrilling casinos and world-renowned shows.
Overnight: The STRAT or similar
Day 5
Las Vegas
Enjoy a full day in Las Vegas! Spend the day shopping, lounging by the pool, or exploring the famous Las Vegas Strip. If you're up for an adventure, ask your Tour Director about an optional excursion to the breathtaking Death Valley National Park.
Overnight: The STRAT or similar
Day 6
Las Vegas – Cedar City – Bryce Canyon (250 miles)
We head north from Las Vegas, traveling through the Mojave Desert and crossing into Utah. As we enter the state known as the Beehive State, the landscape transforms into rugged mountain plateaus. The next two days will take us through the Colorado Plateau, home to stunning national parks. Our first stop: Bryce Canyon National Park. Don’t miss the incredible views from Bryce and Inspiration Points, where you’ll see the iconic rock formations known as hoodoos – towering pillars of rock that create a breathtaking landscape.
Overnight: Bryce View Lodge or similar. Breakfast included
Day 7
Bryce Canyon – Grand Canyon – Wiliams (345 miles)
After departing Bryce Canyon, we pass through Kanab, a town once famous for its Western movie shoots featuring stars like Roy Rogers and John Wayne, earning it the nickname “Little Hollywood.” After traveling through Page, Arizona, we enter the Navajo Nation, where you’ll see traditional Navajo homes (hogans), vast desert landscapes, and the colourful Painted Desert. Later, we reach the Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Optional helicopter rides are available to experience the Canyon from above. Our day ends in Williams, a historic stop on Route 66.
Overnight: Ramada by Wyndham Williams or Grand Canyon Area or similar
Day 8
Williams – Route 66 – Laughlin (145 miles)
Today, we hit the legendary Route 66, with stops in the charming town of Seligman, a Route 66 relic full of nostalgic souvenirs and quirky roadside attractions. Then, we continue to Kingman, the region’s largest town, before crossing the Colorado River into Nevada. Our overnight stop is Laughlin, a town founded by entrepreneur Don Laughlin along the Colorado River. You’ll have time to explore the local casinos or enjoy a relaxing stroll along the river.
Overnight: Days Inn by Wyndham Bullhead City or similar. Breakfast included.
Day 9
Laughlin – Palm Springs – Los Angeles (325 miles)
We start the day with a journey back into California, heading to the desert oasis of Palm Springs. This stylish city has been a retreat for Hollywood stars since the 1940s and boasts classic Spanish Revival and Mid-Century Modern architecture. After exploring Palm Springs, we continue to Los Angeles for an orientation tour. You’ll see iconic neighbourhoods like downtown LA, Hollywood, and Beverly Hills before settling into our overnight hotel.
Overnight: Renaissance Los Angeles Airport or similar
Day 10
Los Angeles
Your tour comes to an end as you make your way to the airport for your flight home.
