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Compare Walking & Hiking in Idyllic Tuscany and Mystical Umbria by Road Scholar vs Western USA National Parks Explorer by Explore!

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Duration 12 days 14 days
Price From $ 3,999 $ 5,240
Price Per Day $ 333 $ 374
Highlights
  • I enjoy getting my heart going on my bike or on trails
  • Nothing beats the thrill of taking on a rewarding climb or ride on varied terrain with inclines
  • Let’s keep moving — occasional stops only, please
  • Journey through some of the most dramatic scenery on the planet
  • Discover vibrant San Francisco and the desert city of Las Vegas
  • Enjoy walking in Yosemite, Zion, Bryce and Grand Canyon national parks
Trip Style Small group tour Small group tour
Lodging Level Standard Premium
Physical Level
  • 3- Moderate
  • 4- Strenuous
Travel Themes
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • Culinary & Wine
  • Family Friendly
  • 50 plus
  • Cycling & Biking
  • Hiking & Walking
  • Birding
  • Education / Learning
  • National Parks
  • High Adventure
  • Golf
  • Cultural
  • Cycling & Biking
  • Hiking & Walking
  • Trekking & Expeditions
Countries Visited
Cities and Attractions
  • Virginia
  • Arches National Park
  • Bryce Canyon
  • California
  • Capitol Reef National Park
  • Colorado
  • Death Valley
  • Golden Gate Bridge
  • Grand Canyon
  • Lake Powell
  • Las Vegas
  • Mesa Verde
  • Moab
  • Monument Valley
  • New York
  • San Francisco
  • Sierra Nevada
  • Utah
  • Venice
  • York
  • Yosemite National Park
  • Zion National Park
Flights & Transport Ground transport included Ground transport included
Activities
  • Bird watching
  • Cycling
  • Golfing
  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Hiking
  • Trekking
Meals Included
  • Number of Breakfast: 10
  • Number of Lunch: 7
  • Number of Dinner: 9
N/A
Description Embark on a fun and informative walking exploration of Italy’s rolling hills as you discover timeless villages, famed vineyards, friendly locals and world-class cuisine. The American dream comes alive in this southwest corner of the USA, as epic landscapes follow one after the other. From staring down into the depths of the Grand Canyon to being on top of the world looking over Yosemite National Park, each day on this trip brings mindblowing scenery. If two-weeks aren't enough, longer itineraries are available that include the ancient cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde, and watching the sun set over Arches National Park.

San Francisco - Explore the Golden Gate Bridge and the hippy Haight Ashbury district

National Parks - Hike in Bryce, Zion and the Grand Canyon; explore the unique landscapes of Capitol Reef and Yosemite

Las Vegas - End the trip in America's surreal and extravagant playground
Itinerary: Walking & Hiking in Idyllic Tuscany and Mystical Umbria

Day 1 In Transit to Program In Flight

Day 2 Arrive Rome, Transfer to Pienza, Orientation, Welcome Dinner Pienza

Transfer from airport to hotel in Pienza is about 136 miles (219 km); approximately 2.5 hours. Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m. Walking up to 1/2 mile; approximately 1.5 hours; cobblestones, city streets, and uneven pavement.

After meeting the group, we will transfer to the hotel Pienza for check-in and some time to settle in. Leaving our bags at the hotel, those who would like to may join the Group Leader for an introductory walk around the neighborhood in Pienza before returning to the hotel for Orientation. Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Breakfasts will typically be European-style buffets with cold cuts, cheeses, cereals, yogurt, fruit, breads, milk, juice, coffee, tea, water. Water is included in the program cost at all meals. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

At the hotel, we’ll have plated welcome dinner with water included; other beverages available for purchase. Please note that dinners in Italy are typically later and last longer than American dinners.

Day 3 Pienza & Its Products, Monticchello, Montepulciano Pienza

Walking up to 4.5 miles; approximately 3 hours; natural trails, cobblestones, and uneven pavement. Elective afternoon walk of about 4.5 miles; approximately 2 hours; trails, cobblestones, uneven paths; roughly 600 feet of elevation change. Getting on/off motorcoach; driving about 9 miles (15 km) back to Pienza; less than 1/2 hour.

We’ll set out with our Group Leader and a local expert on a walk from the hotel through beautiful Tuscany to reach Monticchiello, a small, renovated village known for its Teatro Povera (Poor Theatre). During our walk, we will see the Italian countryside, hike, and learn about the region through educational commentary.

You might like to take an elective walk through the beautiful landscape to Montepulciano. The last part of this walk can be a bit of a climb with an altitude difference of roughly 600 feet. Montepulciano is a medieval village perched on the crest of a hill of volcanic rock. Its buildings represent the iconic style of the Florentine Renaissance. Those who would rather not walk can choose to board the motorcoach and make a driving transfer to Montepulciano instead. The entire group will rendezvous in the town square and, after a walk through the town to a local winery, we’ll enjoy a wine tasting of Nobile di Montepulciano as we take in a lecture on local wines given by a local expert. We’ll then board the motorcoach and make the short transfer back to the hotel.

At leisure.

At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers choices such as cold cuts, cheeses, cereals, yogurt, fruit, and breads, plus milk, juice, coffee, tea, water.

At a local establishment in Monticchiello, we will have a cheese tasting lunch with water, which will be accompanied by a lecture given by the cheese monger. It will focus on regional cheese making practices and produce that is prevalent in Tuscany.

Hotel plated meal.

Day 4 Siena & Its History, Free Time Pienza

Getting on/off motorcoach; driving about 33 miles one way; approximately 1 hour each way. Walking up to 2 miles; approximately 3 hours; cobblestones, city streets.

Transferring by motorcoach to Siena, we’ll set out on an in-depth walking field trip through this beautiful city that is draped onto hills and noted for its flamboyant ensemble of medieval buildings in honest brown (sienna-colored) brick. On the lower slopes, we will find gardens and olive groves that fill half of the space within the old city wall. Above, we’ll see Tuscany’s tallest tower and dazzling cathedral. During our walking field trip, we’ll learn from a local expert about the history of Siena.

Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. We’ll meet at a predetermined point and return to the hotel via motorcoach.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Hotel plated meal.

Day 5 Monte Amiata & The Tuscan Mountains Pienza

Getting on/off motorcoach; driving about 29 miles one way; approximately 1 hour each way. Walking up to 5 miles; approximately 4.5 hours; natural trails; elevation change of roughly 1,300 feet.

Boarding the motorcoach, we’ll ride to Monte Amiata at 5,700 feet, the highest point and only “real” mountain in southern Tuscany. The mountainous landscape is covered with thick chestnut and beech forests, crisscrossed with brooks and streams. A broad-based mountain, Monte Amiata is visible for miles from the low hills with a well-maintained trail system in a gorgeous countryside. A circle of towns rings its lower slopes. The delightful spring-fed pools here belong to a geometrical system that more or less encircles Monte Amiata as well, producing an abundance of natural springs. This morning’s walk will include a bit of a climb; however, the scenery is well worth the effort. During the field trip, we’ll take in commentary about the Apennine nature and volcanic origins of the area.

We’ll then continue our walk on Monte Amiata with commentary, learning about the history of the area including cultural details, as well as information regarding the local flora and fauna. Then take a coach to the medieval hamlet of Bagno Vignoni for the chance to dip your feet in the warm, soothing water of its natural hot springs. People have been enjoying these famous "spas" since the Renaissance. Walk back to the hotel.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

At a mountain hut known for serving some of the best food in southern Tuscany, we will enjoy delicious plated meals with water included; wine available for purchase.

Hotel plated meal.

Day 6 Montalcino Walk, Bagno Vignoni Hot Springs Pienza

Getting on/off motorcoach; driving about 14 miles one way; approximately 1/2 hour each way. Walking up to 4 miles; approximately 5 hours; cobblestones, city streets, and natural trails.

Traveling by motorcoach, we’ll journey to Montalcino, home of the famous Brunello wine. After a short walking field trip through Montalcino with our Group Leader, during which we will learn about the region and this quintessential Italian town, we’ll walk through vineyards towards the Abbey of St. Antimo in the center of this charming valley.

After lunch, enjoy a short walk to a local winery for a wine tasting.

At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

Hotel buffet.

At the local restaurant, or osteria, we’ll taste some of their offered specialties, with wine and water included.

On your own to explore more of the local fare.

Day 7 Transfer to Montefalco via Perugia Montefalco

Getting on/off motorcoach; driving about 80 miles total throughout the day; approximately 2 hours; stops for field trips. Walking up to 2 miles; approximately 3 hours; cobblestones, city streets, and uneven pavement.

Once checked out of the hotel, we will board the motorcoach for transfer along the banks of Lake Trasimeno to Perugia where we will make a stop for a city walk led by our Group Leader. Perugia is one of the 12 Etruscan city-states and is the regional capital. It also has one of the largest state universities in the country.

We’ll complete our transfer to Montefalco and check into the hotel. Upon arrival, we’ll set out for an introductory walk in the neighborhood. With our Group Leader, we’ll learn about the history of the town as we see where the nearest points of interest are including ATMs, pharmacies, etc.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

On your own sample the regional fare.

At the hotel, we’ll have plated meals with water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 8 Sagrantino Wine Country, Montefalco Montefalco

Walking up to 6 miles; approximately 4.5 hours; natural trails and city streets.

On a walking field trip led by our Group Leader through Montefalco and the famous Sagrantino wine country, we’ll make our way along a river with vineyards as we listen to commentary about local wines. The origins of these wines go back to Etruscan times and are among the most important Italian red wines today. Continuing, we’ll traverse the slopes of Montepennino overlooking the entire Umbrian vale.

After some to explore the wine estate independently, we will then walk back to Montefalco and take some time for independent exploration.

At leisure.

At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers choices such as cold cuts, cheeses, cereals, yogurt, fruit, and breads, plus milk, juice, coffee, tea, water.

At a local winery, we’ll have a meal together with wine and water included.

Hotel plated meal.

Day 9 St. Francis’ Hermitage, Assisi Walk, Basilica St. Francis Montefalco

Getting on/off motorcoach; driving about 20 miles one way; approximately 1.5 hours roundtrip. Walking up to 3.5 miles; approximately 2 hours; cobblestones, uneven pavement, and natural trails.

Transferring by mtorcoach, we’ll make our way to St. Francis’ Hermitage for a field trip, during which we will learn from a local expert about the life and impact of St. Francis of Assisi. Afterwards, we will walk down to Assisi for a stroll through this famous town as we enjoy the tranquil back streets and homes with geranium-filled window boxes. Assisi is visible for miles around, tucked under the ridge of Monte Subasio. Depending on our group pace, we may get to see most of the sights of Assisi in one day.

Next, we’ll walk to the Basilica St. Francis for a field trip led by a monk who lives in the monastery. St. Francis was born in Assisi in 1182 and died in 1226 at the age of 44. Construction began on the basilica when he was canonized as a saint a mere two years after his death; it was completed in 1253. As founder of the mendicant Franciscan order of Catholic monks, St. Francis is depicted in the church’s abundant Early Renaissance fresco paintings by many artists such as Giotto and Cimabue. We’ll then return to the hotel via private motorcoach.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

At a local establishment in Assisi.

Hotel plated meal.

Day 10 Monte Patrico & Valnerina Mountains, Truffle Walk, Spoleto Montefalco

Getting on/off motorcoach; driving about 43 miles total throughout the day; approximately 1.5 hours total; stops for field trips. Walking up to 4 miles total; approximately 3.5 hours; natural trails, cobblestones, and uneven pavement; elevation decrease of roughly 1,260 feet from Monteluco to Spoleto.

Upon arrival by motorcoach to Monte Patrico at about 3,340 feet, we’ll go a farm estate in the mountains where we will go on a truffle hunt with the farm owner and his truffle dogs. Monte Patrico is located above the town of Spoleto on the summit of the Valnerina Mountains, which are known for their rugged beauty. Before setting out on the truffle hunt, we will gather with the farm owner and listen to a field lecture all about truffles.

This afternoon, we’ll transfer to the woods of Monteluco and walk down to Spoleto, one of Umbria’s loveliest hill towns. In Spoleto, we will view the Ponte delle Torri, a bridge and aqueduct of 10 towering arches that links Spoleto with the slopes of Monteluco and is arguably one of the greatest engineering works of The Trecento (14th century Italy). We’ll walk to the upper part of the town center and take the motorcoach back to Montefalco.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

At the farm with our host farmers.

Hotel plated meal.

Day 11 Gualdo Cattaneo, Olive Mill, Bevagna Walk, Medieval House Montefalco

Getting on/off motorcoach; driving about 19 miles total throughout the day; less than 1 hour total; stops for field trips. Walking up to 4.5 miles; approximately 3.5 hours; cobblestones, city streets, and natural trails.

Transferring to Gualdo Cattaneo, we’ll go for a short visit to this medieval fortified village where we’ll learn about Umbrian history from our Group Leader during the walk through the hamlet. Afterwards, we’ll walk through the farmland and woods to an olive mill where we will learn about olive oil production.

Next, we’ll travel to the serene and handsome medieval town of Bevagna, a city older than Rome that has two of Umbria's finest Romanesque churches. While here with a local expert, we’ll visit the permanent exhibition of the Medieval House while listening to commentary about local life in the Middle Ages compared to the Roman Age. We’ll then return to the hotel.

At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.

Hotel buffet.

At the family-run mill.

At the hotel, we’ll have a farewell meal together. Share some of your favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends.

Day 12 Transfer to Rome, Program Concludes In Flight

Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s “Transportation Information” regarding transfers. Getting on/off motorcoach; driving about 115 miles (185 km) to Rome airport; approximately 2.5 hours.

Once checked out of the hotel, we will board the motorcoach for transfer back to the airport in Rome. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Hotel buffet.

Itinerary: Western USA National Parks Explorer

Day 1 Join tour in San Francisco

Arrive in San Francisco. Hugging the shores of San Francisco Bay, the city has a fascinating mix of culture, commerce and character that cannot fail to charm. Due to the number of evening flights into San Francisco, your Leader plans to do the welcome meeting on the morning of day two, and will leave a message in reception with details on timings and everything else that you'll need for the day. We don't provide arrival transfers on this tour, but information on how to reach the hotel will be provided in your final documentation. If your flight arrives earlier in the day, why not explore Fisherman's Wharf with its views over Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Meals Provided : None

Day 2 Sightseeing tour including the Golden Gate Bridge, free afternoon

Today is spent exploring some of the city's highlights as we wander its famous streets, taking in the delightful Victorian architecture of Alamo Square and the colourful eccentricity of Haight Ashbury, San Francisco's once thriving 'hippie district' of the 1960s. We'll also drive up into the elegant Twin Peaks district of the city to enjoy some of the stunning views across the city and the bay (weather dependant), before moving on to the Golden Gate Bridge and finally the eclectic bustle and resident sea lions of Fisherman's Wharf. The afternoon has then been left free to continue exploring at your own leisure, perhaps paying a visit to Lombard Street and Coit Tower, before returning by the city's famous cable cars back to Union Square and Market Street. This evening there is the option to walk to Chinatown, discovering the labyrinthine chaos of the largest Chinatown outside of Asia.

Meals Provided : None

Day 3 Transfer to Yosemite National Park, walks in the park

This morning we leave San Francisco behind and drive east, heading through the fertile landscapes of Stanislaus County towards Yosemite National Park, passing the highly productive agricultural region of the Central Valley, where numerous orchards and vineyards line the roads. As we climb into the Sierra Nevada, we begin to witness the fabulous natural beauty of Yosemite National Park, a region which in 1864 became the first protected land in the world, a landscape which caused one of the first white men to see it to gasp in admiration. As we arrive in the valley, the towering presence of the two most demanding peaks of the park will be visible - Half Dome (the sheerest cliff in North America) and the vast granite bulk of El Capitan (twice the size of the Rock of Gibraltar) - both of which attract serious rock climbers from all over the world. The central valley is a mere 20km long by 5km wide but is hemmed in on either side by dramatic 2km-high sheer cliffs, its cascading waterfalls and skyline of jagged pinnacles and smooth domed granite presenting an awe-inspiring backdrop. We spend some time visiting various viewpoints in the valley this afternoon, depending on the seasonality and which roads are open. We may take a walk to the bases of Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Falls, before continuing to follow the course of the Merced river to our final destination in Mariposa, just outside the park boundaries.

Meals Provided : None

Day 4 Explore Yosemite National Park on foot

More than 90% of Yosemite is designated wilderness area and today we will take the opportunity to explore it in a little more depth. Away from the main tourist areas of the Yosemite Valley the park is filled with a myriad of options to make the most of its spectacular natural charms. One possibility is a drive up to Glacier Point then hike along the Panorama and Mist Trail back down into the valley (a challenging walk of some 4-6 hours). The hike takes in an ever-changing tableau that includes the impressive cascades of Nevada and Vernal Falls, as well as some breathtaking views of Half Dome and the High Sierras. There are a number of other possibilities available, some scenic cycling options or a relaxing day along the riverbanks. As well as some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on earth, the park is filled with a variety of wildlife too, including hummingbirds, deer and of course the ever present black bears, ensuring you a captivating encounter whatever you choose to do. It is not possible to do all the options, so your Tour Leader will explain the possibilities and you can choose the ones that interest you most. Options may also be affected by the weather.

Meals Provided : None

Day 5 Travel to Mammoth via Tenaya and Mono Lakes

Leaving the park this morning we plan to drive across the scenic Tioga Pass (3032m), taking in the sub-alpine meadows of the Toulumne Meadows, an area that has been christened America's very own Switzerland. We continue through the dramatic mountain vistas down towards the alkaline waters and surreal volcanic 'tufa' rock formations of Mono Lake at the base of the High Sierras. This incredible body of water is two and a half times as salty and eighty times as alkaline as seawater and whilst its waters can sustain no fish life it does abound in brine shrimp and flies, which provide food for millions of migratory birds and waterfowl. At the height of summer the shrimp population alone is believed to number some 4 trillion! Continuing south from here our journey lies in the shadow of a range of towering peaks that rise to over 4200m as we make our way towards our overnight stop in the small settlement of Mammoth. On early season departures, if the passes over the Sierra Nevada are closed we may have to amend our itinerary and re-route the tour.

Meals Provided : None

Day 6 Journey through Death Valley to Las Vegas

Starting early to avoid the heat, we descend into Death Valley today, one of the lowest and hottest places on earth. We then journey into the heart of one of the most remarkable settings on earth, where the marbled rocks, salt pans and black mountains provide us with an incredible backdrop. In marked contrast we end our day in Las Vegas, America's extraordinary desert playground, where exploding volcanoes share centre stage with Venetian canals and ancient pyramids. This evening we have some free time to explore this unique city.

Meals Provided : None

Day 7 Head to Zion National Park, afternoon to explore

This morning we will head to Zion National Park to get there just after lunch. Zion itself was established as a national park in 1919 and can boast an impressive array of natural credentials, encompassing some 8 geological formations, 4 major vegetation zones and a landscape that has been carved and honed by the Virgin River over a million years. This afternoon we will perhaps take a walk along the Watchman's Trail or one of the park's other trails. The position of the park, at the meeting of the Colorado Plateau, the Great Basin and the Mohave Desert means the region is rich in a vast diversity of flora and fauna that range from desert bush to Ponderosa Pine, cottonwood to red birch. Wildlife includes elk and mule deer, coyotes and black bear and turkey vultures and majestic golden eagles. We will be staying overnight in nearby Hurricane.

Meals Provided : None

Day 8 Walk on the trails of Zion National Park

Today, we will continue to explore this magnificent creation, first paying a visit to the impressive visitor centre before taking the park's shuttle bus to the start of the walks. There are so many possibilities to explore here that it is not possible to do them all - your Tour Leader will outline the options to you taking into account the conditions on the day. Walks range from approximately 5-13km in length, and some are predominantly flat while others have elevation gains of up to 600m. You may wish to walk up to Scout's Lookout, a meandering hike that begins with 21 steep switchbacks, known as Walter's Wiggles, and culminates in one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Zion, a challenging journey of some four hours that affords us some quite breath-taking views down across the valley. There are also plenty of easier options for people to enjoy.

Meals Provided : None

Day 9 Drive to Bryce Canyon; time to discover this natural wonder

This morning, we drive to Bryce Canyon, travelling via Buffalo and Mt Carmel Junction. We enter a world of surreal formations of multi-coloured sandstone that are steeped in the legend of the Paiute. Legend has it that the sandstone 'hoodoo's' of Bryce are in fact the petrified followers of the Coyote God, turned to stone as they stood listening to his angry tirade. The reality is somewhat less dramatic, with water playing the main part in the creation of these remarkable landscapes; the constant freezing and thawing and the violent summer storms causing the soft rocks to erode and split into the towering pillars that litter the floor of its great amphitheatre.

Meals Provided : None

Day 10 Early morning at Sunrise Point, Bryce Canyon; drive to Moab via Capitol Reef National Park

We have the option to see Bryce at its most radiant this morning, in the golden hues of sunrise. For those interested in an early start, we'll drive up to Sunrise Point to watch the dawn break across the landscape. This afternoon we will explore something of the myriad colours and shapes of this fairytale realm, hiking along the Navajo Loop, or taking in the grandeur of the Queen's Garden. Bryce was created as a national park in 1928 and is actually a part of the Grand Staircase that follows the rim along the Paunsaugunt Plateau. As you look out across the pink, orange and red spires it is easy to sympathise with Ebenezer Bryce, a Mormon farmer who is best remembered for the profound words. 'Well it's a hell of a place to lose a cow!' Later in the morning we drive to Capitol Reef National Park, where we can stop and take a short hike. Capitol Reef encompasses a landscape of coloured sandstone cliffs, twisting canyons, monoliths and spires. From here we then drive to Moab, the largest town in south-eastern Utah, where the rest of the evening is free to relax and enjoy at our own pace. Time permitting we may visit Dead Horse point.

Meals Provided : None

Day 11 Hikes in Arches National Park

Located a short distance from Moab is Arches National Park, home to the world's largest concentration of natural sandstone arches. With over 2000 arches, giant sandstone fins, balancing rocks and towering spires, the park provides a unique setting for today's hike. We take in the Devil's Garden, a four-hour hike that takes us through a landscape littered with arches. We also enjoy a more gentle walk around The Windows Loop (approximately 1.5 hours), before returning to Moab for a free afternoon. We then head back to Arches to walk to Delicate Arch for sunset (2 hours). Probably one of the most photographed arches in the American southwest, Delicate Arch, with its backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of La Sal, provides the perfect setting for our late afternoon hike. After our walk we then head back to Moab for the evening.

Meals Provided : None

Day 12 Drive to Mesa Verde National Park; afternoon guided tour, continue to Cortez

After breakfast, and a quick visit to the News Paper Rock, we continue on to Mesa Verde National Park this morning. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mesa Verde is home to some of the best preserved cliff dwellings in the world. After viewing the Native American exhibits at the Visitors Centre, we then take a guided tour of the site and pay a visit to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum. After our visit we continue to the city of Cortez.

Meals Provided : None

Day 13 Travel to Monument Valley; optional jeep tour with a Navajo guide

Today we drive to the town of Page, via the Navajo Reservation, the biggest in the country, founded in 1888 to provide a protected region for the Navajo people. The Navajo Nation constitutes the largest tribe left in the United States, the last survivors of a people who were decimated by the arrival of the white man and his rapacious quest for land and gold. Monument Valley, our highlight destination today, lies within the heart of this vast tribal area and in spite of its familiarity through the exposure by Hollywood, nothing can truly prepare you for the sheer grandeur and spectacle of this incredible setting. Isolated monoliths, sandstone pinnacles and towering spires rocket skywards, as much as 1000m above the desert floor. As the only way to experience Monument Valley's dramatic backcountry, we offer you the chance to take an optional guided jeep tour of the valley with a Navajo guide, affording a closer exploration of this compelling land before we head on to our night stop in Page. As we continue through Native lands towards Page, the warm embrace of the late afternoon colours alters the landscape's appearance as the sun dips towards the horizon.

Meals Provided : None

Day 14 Optional visit to Antelope Canyon; drive to Grand Canyon

This morning we have the option to visit the famous Antelope Canyon, a beautiful peach-gold coloured canyon formed by the force of flash floods coming from the plains above, or otherwise spend time at the enormous Lake Powell, with its scenic azure waters. Later on we take a short walk to Horseshoe Bend, with its lookout point over the eponymous river bend, before continuing our journey towards the southern rim of the Grand Canyon, arriving this afternoon. Once described by Theodore Roosevelt as 'the one great sight every American should see', the canyon extends some 277 miles from east to west, from the western edge of the Navajo Reservation, to the Nevada border around Lake Mead. Reaching a depth of 1600m the canyon's floor is littered with some of the oldest rocks on the planet and as we take in the views from Yavapai Point, we gaze out across a land that has taken over 2 billion years to create.

Meals Provided : None

Day 15 Walks at the Grand Canyon; optional helicopter flight

Today has been left free to make the most of this natural wonder at your own pace. You may want to follow the path down from the South Rim into the canyon itself, walking down to Indian Gardens and maybe even heading out to Plateau Point for some incredible views down onto the Colorado River below. Those not wishing to undertake the walk in and out of the canyon might prefer to take a helicopter flight over the canyon, or make use of the park's shuttle service to explore something of the rim, enjoying the vast panoramas from the crest of this remarkable setting. Sunsets at the Grand Canyon present an altogether unforgettable experience, with the possibility of condors circling on the thermals above to add to the majesty of the moment.

Meals Provided : None

Day 16 Return to las Vegas via Route 66

This morning we drive along one of the most historic highways in America, the famous Route 66. A shadow of its former self, the road is nonetheless still rich in the Americana of its glory days, when it used to be known as the 'Main Street' of America. Our drive back to Las Vegas takes us through the towns of Kingman and Seligman, home to the wonderfully eccentric 'Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-in'. On arrival in Vegas we then have a final free evening to make the most of one of America's most notorious cities.

Meals Provided : None

Day 16 Return to las Vegas via Route 66

This morning we drive along one of the most historic highways in America, the famous Route 66. A shadow of its former self, the road is nonetheless still rich in the Americana of its glory days, when it used to be known as the 'Main Street' of America. Our drive back to Las Vegas takes us through the towns of Kingman and Seligman, home to the wonderfully eccentric 'Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-in'. On arrival in Vegas we then have a final free evening to make the most of one of America's most notorious cities.

Meals Provided : None

Day 17 Tour ends Las Vegas

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Las Vegas. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Las Vegas at any time. If you would like an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Las Vegas International Airport (LAS), which is a 15 minute drive away.

Meals Provided : None

Day 17 Tour ends Las Vegas

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Las Vegas. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Las Vegas at any time. If you would like an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Las Vegas International Airport (LAS), which is a 15 minute drive away.

Meals Provided : None

Day 1 Join tour in San Francisco

Arrive in San Francisco. Hugging the shores of San Francisco Bay, the city has a fascinating mix of culture, commerce and character that cannot fail to charm. Due to the number of evening flights into San Francisco, your Leader plans to do the welcome meeting on the morning of day two, and will leave a message in reception with details on timings and everything else that you'll need for the day. We don't provide arrival transfers on this tour, but information on how to reach the hotel will be provided in your final documentation. If your flight arrives earlier in the day, why not explore Fisherman's Wharf with its views over Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Meals Provided : None

Day 2 Sightseeing tour including the Golden Gate Bridge, free afternoon

Today is spent exploring some of the city's highlights as we wander its famous streets, taking in the delightful Victorian architecture of Alamo Square and the colourful eccentricity of Haight Ashbury, San Francisco's once thriving 'hippie district' of the 1960s. We'll also drive up into the elegant Twin Peaks district of the city to enjoy some of the stunning views across the city and the bay (weather dependant), before moving on to the Golden Gate Bridge and finally the eclectic bustle and resident sea lions of Fisherman's Wharf. The afternoon has then been left free to continue exploring at your own leisure, perhaps paying a visit to Lombard Street and Coit Tower, before returning by the city's famous cable cars back to Market Street. This evening there is the option to walk to Chinatown, discovering the labyrinthine chaos of the largest Chinatown outside of Asia.

Meals Provided : None

Day 3 Transfer to Yosemite National Park, walks in the park

This morning we leave San Francisco behind and drive east, heading through the fertile landscapes of Stanislaus County towards Yosemite National Park, passing the highly productive agricultural region of the Central Valley, where numerous orchards and vineyards line the roads. As we climb into the Sierra Nevada, we begin to witness the fabulous natural beauty of Yosemite National Park, a region which in 1864 became the first protected land in the world. As we arrive in the valley, the towering presence of the two most demanding peaks of the park will be visible - Half Dome (the sheerest cliff in North America) and the vast granite bulk of El Capitan (twice the size of the Rock of Gibraltar) - both of which attract serious rock climbers from all over the world. The central valley is a mere 20km long by 5km wide but is hemmed in on either side by dramatic 2km-high sheer cliffs, its cascading waterfalls and skyline of jagged pinnacles and smooth domed granite presenting an awe-inspiring backdrop. We spend some time visiting various viewpoints in the valley this afternoon, depending on the seasonality and which roads are open. We may take a walk to the bases of Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Falls, before continuing to follow the course of the Merced river to our final destination in Mariposa, just outside the park boundaries.

Meals Provided : None

Day 4 Explore Yosemite National Park on foot

Covering over 3000 sq km, more than 90% of Yosemite is designated wilderness area and today we will take the opportunity to explore it in a little more depth. Away from the main tourist areas of the Yosemite Valley the park is filled with a wide variety of options to make the most of its natural charms. Trails lead from the valley floor to a range of spectacular viewpoints, passing breath-taking views of Half Dome and the High Sierras or taking in impressive cascades en route. As well as some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on earth, the park is filled with a variety of wildlife too, including hummingbirds, deer and of course the ever present black bears, ensuring you a captivating encounter whatever you choose to do. There are a number of possibilities available, and your Tour Leader will recommend a range of challenging to easy hikes so that you can choose the option that interests you the most. If you're not a hiker, a relaxing day along the riverbanks of the valley floor is also a beautiful way to enjoy the national park, and there are shuttles running through the valley to various different trailheads, allowing all levels of hikers to access the difficulty of trail that they wish. As always, these can be affected by the weather but with such a wide variety of beautiful experiences on offer, our visit is sure to be memorable.

Meals Provided : None

Day 5 Travel to Bakersfield via Mariposa Grove

Leaving the park this morning we plan to drive to Bakersfield via Mariposa Grove, a grove of giant Sequoia trees with some excellent walking trails. One of the most famous trees in the park has a hollowed out base over the route of the path, allowing us to literally walk right through the tree. After enjoying our time here, we head off to the town of Bakersfield at the base of the Southern Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Meals Provided : None

Day 6 Journey through Death Valley to Las Vegas

Starting early to avoid the heat, we descend into Death Valley today, one of the lowest and hottest places on earth. We then journey into the heart of one of the most remarkable settings on earth, where the marbled rocks, salt pans and black mountains provide us with an incredible backdrop. In marked contrast we end our day in Las Vegas, America's extraordinary desert playground, where exploding volcanoes share centre stage with Venetian canals and ancient pyramids. This evening we have some free time to explore this unique city.

Meals Provided : None

Day 7 Head to Zion National Park, afternoon to explore

This morning we will head to Zion National Park to get there just after lunch. Zion itself was established as a national park in 1919 and can boast an impressive array of natural credentials, encompassing some 8 geological formations, 4 major vegetation zones and a landscape that has been carved and honed by the Virgin River over a million years. This afternoon we will perhaps take a walk along the Watchman's Trail or one of the park's other trails. The position of the park, at the meeting of the Colorado Plateau, the Great Basin and the Mohave Desert means the region is rich in a vast diversity of flora and fauna that range from desert bush to Ponderosa Pine, cottonwood to red birch. Wildlife includes elk and mule deer, coyotes and black bear and turkey vultures and majestic golden eagles. We will be staying overnight in nearby Hurricane.

Meals Provided : None

Day 8 Walk on the trails of Zion National Park

This morning we will continue to explore this magnificent creation, first paying a visit to the impressive visitor centre before taking the park's shuttle bus to the start of the walks. There are so many possibilities to explore here that it is not possible to do them all - your Tour Leader will outline the options to you taking into account the conditions on the day. Walks range from approximately 5-13km in length, and some are predominantly flat while others have elevation gains of up to 600m. You may wish to walk up to Scout's Lookout, a meandering hike that begins with 21 steep switchbacks, known as Walter's Wiggles, and culminates in one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Zion, a challenging journey of some four hours that affords us some quite breath-taking views down across the valley. There are also plenty of easier options for people to enjoy. Later, we drive to Bryce Canyon, travelling via Buffalo and Mt Carmel Junction.

Meals Provided : None

Day 9 Early morning at Sunrise Point; continue to Capitol Reef National Park

Bryce is without doubt one of the natural highlights of the journey, as we enter a world of surreal formations of multi-coloured sandstone that are steeped in the legend of the Paiute. Legend has it that the sandstone 'hoodoo's' of Bryce are in fact the petrified followers of the Coyote God, turned to stone as they stood listening to his angry tirade. The reality is somewhat less dramatic, with water playing the main part in the creation of these remarkable landscapes; the constant freezing and thawing and the violent summer storms causing the soft rocks to erode and split into the towering pillars that litter the floor of its great amphitheatre. This morning we see Bryce at its most radiant, in the golden hues of sunrise as we drive up to Sunrise Point to watch the dawn break across the landscape. This afternoon we will explore something of the myriad colours and shapes of this fairytale realm, hiking along the Navajo Loop, or taking in the grandeur of the Queen's Garden. As you look out across the pink, orange and red spires it is easy to sympathise with Ebenezer Bryce, a Mormon farmer who is best remembered for the profound words. 'Well it's a hell of a place to lose a cow!' In the afternoon we drive to Capitol Reef National Park, where we can stop and take a short hike. Capitol Reef encompasses a landscape of coloured sandstone cliffs, twisting canyons, monoliths and spires. From here we then drive to Moab, the largest town in south-eastern Utah.

Meals Provided : None

Day 10 Hikes in Arches National Park

Located a short distance from Moab is Arches National Park, home to the world's largest concentration of natural sandstone arches. With over 2000 arches, giant sandstone fins, balancing rocks and towering spires, the park provides a unique setting for today's hike. We take in the Devil's Garden, a strenuous four-hour trek that takes us through a landscape littered with arches. We also enjoy a more gentle walk around The Windows Loop (approximately 1.5 hours), and we'll walk to Delicate Arch for sunset (2 hours). Probably one of the most photographed arches in the American southwest, Delicate Arch, with its backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of La Sal, provides the perfect setting for our late afternoon hike. There will be some flexibility in the itinerary today, with some time free in Moab either in the morning or afternoon before the sunset hike. After our walk we then head back to Moab for the evening.

Meals Provided : None

Day 11 Drive to Monument Valley, optional jeep tour with the Navajo

Today we drive to the town of Page, via the Navajo Reservation, the biggest in the country, founded in 1888 to provide a protected region for the Navajo people. The Navajo Nation constitutes the largest tribe left in the United States, the last survivors of a people who were decimated by the arrival of the white man and his rapacious quest for land and gold. Monument Valley, our highlight destination today, lies within the heart of this vast tribal area and in spite of its familiarity through the exposure by Hollywood, nothing can truly prepare you for the sheer grandeur and spectacle of this incredible setting. Isolated monoliths, sandstone pinnacles and towering spires rocket skywards, as much as 1000m above the desert floor. As the only way to experience Monument Valley's dramatic backcountry, we offer you the chance to take an optional guided jeep tour of the valley with a Navajo guide, affording a closer exploration of this compelling land before we head on to our night stop in Page. As we continue through Native lands towards Page, the warm embrace of the late afternoon colours alters the landscape's appearance as the sun dips towards the horizon.

Meals Provided : None

Day 12 Head to the Grand Canyon with sunset at Yavapai Point

This morning we have the option to visit the famous Antelope Canyon, a beautiful peach-gold coloured canyon formed by the force of flash floods coming from the plains above, or otherwise spend time at the enormous Lake Powell, with its scenic azure waters. Later on we take a short walk to Horseshoe Bend, with its lookout point over the eponymous river bend, before continuing our journey towards the southern rim of the Grand Canyon, arriving this afternoon. Once described by Theodore Roosevelt as 'the one great sight every American should see', the canyon extends some 277 miles from east to west, from the western edge of the Navajo Reservation, to the Nevada border around Lake Mead. Reaching a depth of 1600m the canyon's floor is littered with some of the oldest rocks on the planet and as we take in the views from Yavapai Point, we gaze out across a land that has taken over 2 billion years to create.

Meals Provided : None

Day 13 Free day at the Grand Canyon

Today has been left free to make the most of this natural wonder at your own pace. You may want to follow the path down from the South Rim into the canyon itself, walking down to Indian Gardens and maybe even heading out to Plateau Point for some incredible views down onto the Colorado River below. Those not wishing to undertake the walk in and out of the canyon might prefer to take a helicopter flight over the canyon, or make use of the park's shuttle service to explore something of the rim, enjoying the vast panoramas from the crest of this remarkable setting. Sunsets at the Grand Canyon present an altogether unforgettable experience, with the possibility of condors circling on the thermals above to add to the majesty of the moment.

Meals Provided : None

Day 14 Drive to Las Vegas via Route 66

Today we drive along one of the most historic highway in America, the famous Route 66, a road that during its lifetime has been called the 'Main Street of America' and the 'Mother Road'. Over 200,000 people travelled this route during the 1930s to escape the Dust Bowl of the Depression years and hopefully find a new life in California. A shadow of its former self, the road nonetheless is rich in Americana and its architecture still affords us a rare insight into a time long past and we will travel via the town of Williams before reaching our final destination amidst the bright lights of Las Vegas. Vegas presents us with America in all its flamboyant excess, a desert city that is surely one of the most surreal and extravagant destinations anywhere on earth, let alone the United States. The rest of the afternoon and evening is free to explore this unique location, where you can watch exploding volcanoes and pirate battles, cruise the canals of Venice and take a rollercoaster ride across the New York skyline. Still the most breathtaking view over the city is to be had from the top of the 1149ft Stratosphere Tower, the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States and you can follow this up with an evening in the gaming rooms and slots of the world famous Caesar's Palace.

Meals Provided : None

Day 15 Trip ends Las Vegas

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Las Vegas. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Las Vegas at any time. If you would like an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Las Vegas International Airport (LAS), which is a 15 minute drive away.

Meals Provided : None

Day 1 Join tour in San Francisco

Arrive in San Francisco. Hugging the shores of San Francisco Bay, the city has a fascinating mix of culture, commerce and character that cannot fail to charm. Due to the number of evening flights into San Francisco, your Leader plans to do the welcome meeting on the morning of day two, and will leave a message in reception with details on timings and everything else that you'll need for the day. We don't provide arrival transfers on this tour, but information on how to reach the hotel will be provided in your final documentation. If your flight arrives earlier in the day, why not explore Fisherman's Wharf with its views over Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Meals Provided : None

Day 2 Sightseeing tour including the Golden Gate Bridge, free afternoon

Today is spent exploring some of the city's highlights as we wander its famous streets, taking in the delightful Victorian architecture of Alamo Square and the colourful eccentricity of Haight Ashbury, San Francisco's once thriving 'hippie district' of the 1960s. We'll also drive up into the elegant Twin Peaks district of the city to enjoy some of the stunning views across the city and the bay (weather dependant), before moving on to the Golden Gate Bridge and finally the eclectic bustle and resident sea lions of Fisherman's Wharf. The afternoon has then been left free to continue exploring at your own leisure, perhaps paying a visit to Lombard Street and Coit Tower, before returning by the city's famous cable cars back to Union Square and Market Street. This evening there is the option to walk to Chinatown, discovering the labyrinthine chaos of the largest Chinatown outside of Asia.

Meals Provided : None

Day 3 Transfer to Yosemite National Park, walks in the park

This morning we leave San Francisco behind and drive east, heading through the fertile landscapes of Stanislaus County towards Yosemite National Park, passing the highly productive agricultural region of the Central Valley, where numerous orchards and vineyards line the roads. As we climb into the Sierra Nevada, we begin to witness the fabulous natural beauty of Yosemite National Park, a region which in 1864 became the first protected land in the world. As we arrive in the valley, the towering presence of the two most demanding peaks of the park will be visible - Half Dome (the sheerest cliff in North America) and the vast granite bulk of El Capitan (twice the size of the Rock of Gibraltar) - both of which attract serious rock climbers from all over the world. The central valley is a mere 20km long by 5km wide but is hemmed in on either side by dramatic 2km-high sheer cliffs, its cascading waterfalls and skyline of jagged pinnacles and smooth domed granite presenting an awe-inspiring backdrop. We spend some time visiting various viewpoints in the valley this afternoon, perhaps taking a walk to the bases of Yosemite Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, before continuing to follow the course of the Merced river to our final destination in Mariposa, just outside the park boundaries.

Meals Provided : None

Day 4 Explore Yosemite National Park on foot

Covering over 3000 sq km, more than 90% of Yosemite is designated wilderness area and today we will take the opportunity to explore it in a little more depth. Away from the main tourist areas of the Yosemite Valley the park is filled with a wide variety of options to make the most of its natural charms. Trails lead from the valley floor to a range of spectacular viewpoints, passing breath-taking views of Half Dome and the High Sierras or taking in impressive cascades en route. As well as some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on earth, the park is filled with a variety of wildlife too, including hummingbirds, deer and of course the ever present black bears, ensuring you a captivating encounter whatever you choose to do. There are a number of possibilities available, and your Tour Leader will recommend a range of challenging to easy hikes so that you can choose the option that interests you the most. If you're not a hiker, a relaxing day along the riverbanks of the valley floor is also a beautiful way to enjoy the national park, and there are shuttles running through the valley to various different trailheads, allowing all levels of hikers to access the difficulty of trail that they wish. As always, these can be affected by the weather but with such a wide variety of beautiful experiences on offer, our visit is sure to be memorable.

Meals Provided : None

Day 5 Travel via Mono Lake to Mammoth

Leaving the park this morning we plan to drive across the scenic Tioga Pass (3032m), taking in the sub-alpine meadows of the Toulumne Meadows, an area that has been christened America's very own Switzerland. We continue through the dramatic mountain vistas down towards the alkaline waters and surreal volcanic 'tufa' rock formations of Mono Lake at the base of the High Sierras. This incredible body of water is two and a half times as salty and eighty times as alkaline as seawater and whilst its waters can sustain no fish life it does abound in brine shrimp and flies, which provide food for millions of migratory birds and waterfowl. At the height of summer the shrimp population alone is believed to number some 4 trillion! Continuing south from here our journey lies in the shadow of a range of towering peaks that rise to over 4200m as we make our way towards our overnight stop in the small settlement of Mammoth. On early season departures, if the passes over the Sierra Nevada are closed we may have to amend our itinerary and re-route the tour.

Meals Provided : None

Day 6 Journey through Death Valley to Las Vegas

Today we have an early start to drive through Death Valley before it gets really hot. En route we will stop for breakfast and for a short visit to Furnace Creek. After lunch we will stop at Pahrump before continuing onto Las Vegas for the night. You will have some free time tonight to visit the strip or you may wish to do this on an optional limousine ride.

Meals Provided : None

Day 7 Head to Zion National Park, afternoon to explore

This morning we will head to Zion National Park to get there just after lunch. Zion itself was established as a national park in 1919 and can boast an impressive array of natural credentials, encompassing some 8 geological formations, 4 major vegetation zones and a landscape that has been carved and honed by the Virgin River over a million years. This afternoon we will perhaps take a walk along the Watchman's Trail or one of the park's other trails. The position of the park, at the meeting of the Colorado Plateau, the Great Basin and the Mohave Desert means the region is rich in a vast diversity of flora and fauna that range from desert bush to Ponderosa Pine, cottonwood to red birch. Wildlife includes elk and mule deer, coyotes and black bear and turkey vultures and majestic golden eagles. We will be staying overnight in nearby Hurricane.

Meals Provided : None

Day 8 Walk on the trails of Zion National Park

This morning we will continue to explore this magnificent creation, first paying a visit to the impressive visitor centre before taking the park's shuttle bus to the start of the walks. There are so many possibilities to explore here that it is not possible to do them all - your Tour Leader will outline the options to you taking into account the conditions on the day. Walks range from approximately 5-13km in length, and some are predominantly flat while others have elevation gains of up to 600m. You may wish to walk up to Scout's Lookout, a meandering hike that begins with 21 steep switchbacks, known as Walter's Wiggles, and culminates in one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Zion, a challenging journey of some four hours that affords us some quite breath-taking views down across the valley. There are also plenty of easier options for people to enjoy. Later, we drive to Bryce Canyon, travelling via Buffalo and Mt Carmel Junction.

Meals Provided : None

Day 9 Drive to Bryce Canyon; time to discover this natural wonder

This morning, we drive to Bryce Canyon, travelling via Buffalo and Mt Carmel Junction. We enter a world of surreal formations of multi-coloured sandstone that are steeped in the legend of the Paiute. Legend has it that the sandstone 'hoodoo's' of Bryce are in fact the petrified followers of the Coyote God, turned to stone as they stood listening to his angry tirade. The reality is somewhat less dramatic, with water playing the main part in the creation of these remarkable landscapes; the constant freezing and thawing and the violent summer storms causing the soft rocks to erode and split into the towering pillars that litter the floor of its great amphitheatre.

Meals Provided : None

Day 10 Early morning at Sunrise Point, Bryce Canyon; drive to Monument Valley via Horseshoe bend

We have the option to see Bryce at its most radiant this morning, in the golden hues of sunrise. For those interested in an early start, we'll drive up to Sunrise Point to watch the dawn break across the landscape. This afternoon we will explore something of the myriad colours and shapes of this fairytale realm, hiking along the Navajo Loop, or taking in the grandeur of the Queen's Garden. Bryce was created as a national park in 1928 and is actually a part of the Grand Staircase that follows the rim along the Paunsaugunt Plateau. As you look out across the pink, orange and red spires it is easy to sympathise with Ebenezer Bryce, a Mormon farmer who is best remembered for the profound words. 'Well it's a hell of a place to lose a cow!' Later in the morning we drive to Monument Valley via the town of Page, situated near the Glen Canyon Dam and backing onto the azure waters of Lake Powell. We can opt to spend time at the lake and take a short walk to Horseshoe Bend with its lookout point over the eponymous river bend. In the afternoon we drive on to the Navajo Reservation, the biggest in the country, founded in 1888 to provide a protected region for the Navajo people. The Navajo Nation constitutes the largest tribe left in the United States, the last survivors of a people who were decimated by the arrival of the white man and his rapacious quest for land and gold. Monument Valley, our destination for this afternoon, lies within the heart of this vast tribal area and in spite of its familiarity through the exposure by Hollywood, nothing can truly prepare you for the sheer grandeur and spectacle of this incredible setting. We offer you the chance to take an optional guided jeep tour of the valley with a Navajo guide, affording a closer exploration of this compelling land before we must depart for our nightstop at Kayenta.

Meals Provided : None

Day 11 Drive to Grand Canyon via Tuba City

This morning we continue our remarkable journey, heading next towards the southern rim of the Grand Canyon. Travelling via the Navajo community of Tuba City we arrive at the canyon this afternoon. Once described by Theodore Roosevelt as 'the one great sight every American should see', the canyon extends some 277 miles from east to west, from the western edge of the Navajo Reservation, to the Nevada border around Lake Mead. Reaching a depth of 1600m the canyon's floor is littered with some of the oldest rocks on the planet and as we take in the views from Yavapai Point, we gaze out across a land that has taken over 2 billion years to create. This evening there should be (weather permitting) the option to take a stunning flight across the canyon by plane or helicopter.

Meals Provided : None

Day 12 Free day at Grand Canyon

Today has been left free to make the most of this natural wonder at your own pace. You may want to follow the path down from the South Rim into the canyon itself, walking down to Indian Gardens and maybe even heading out to Plateau Point for some incredible views down onto the Colorado River below. Those not wishing to undertake the walk in and out of the canyon might prefer to make use of the park's shuttle service to explore something of the rim, enjoying the vast panoramas from the crest of this remarkable setting. Sunsets at the Grand Canyon present an altogether unforgettable experience, with the possibility of condors circling on the thermals above to add to the majesty of the moment.

Meals Provided : None

Day 13 Drive to Las Vegas via Route 66

Today we drive along one of the most historic highway in America, the famous Route 66, a road that during its lifetime has been called the 'Main Street of America' and the 'Mother Road'. Over 200,000 people travelled this route during the 1930s to escape the Dust Bowl of the Depression years and hopefully find a new life in California. A shadow of its former self, the road nonetheless is rich in Americana and its architecture still affords us a rare insight into a time long past and we will travel via the town of Williams before reaching our final destination amidst the bright lights of Las Vegas. Vegas presents us with America in all its flamboyant excess, a desert city that is surely one of the most surreal and extravagant destinations anywhere on earth, let alone the United States. The rest of the afternoon and evening is free to explore this unique location, where you can watch exploding volcanoes and pirate battles, cruise the canals of Venice and take a rollercoaster ride across the New York skyline. Still the most breathtaking view over the city is to be had from the top of the 1149ft Stratosphere Tower, the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States and you can follow this up with an evening in the gaming rooms and slots of the world famous Caesar's Palace.

Meals Provided : None

Day 14 Trip ends Las Vegas

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Las Vegas. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Las Vegas at any time. If you would like an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Las Vegas International Airport (LAS), which is a 15 minute drive away.

Meals Provided : None

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"I'm bored' is a useless thing to say. You live in a great, big, vast world that you've seen none percent of."
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