From the steep streets of San Francisco to the unbelievable buzz of Las Vegas, this exhilarating West Coast journey takes the excitement of some of America's best cities, adds a great dollop of outdoor adventure and allows plenty of free time to soak it all up. Stroll the sands of Santa Barbara, stare down into the depths of the Grand Canyon and visit the largest Indian reservation in the United States. For memories that will last a lifetime, jump on board this Gold Rush jaunt.
Day 1 San Francisco
Discover the steep streets of San Francisco - perfect for photos but sometimes a little hard on the legs.
Day 2 Santa Cruz
Take a sunset stroll along the boardwalk or soak up the hippie vibe of the city's downtown streets.
Day 3 Santa Barbara
Situated between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the sea, the city is often referred to as the American Riviera due to its balmy Mediterranean climate.
Day 4 Los Angeles
City of Angels and repository of dreams, Los Angeles is a sprawl of American life and cinematic landmarks.
Days 5-6 San Diego
Spend the morning lapping up a little more of the LA vibe. Later, opt to laze on famed Mission Beach, spend time strolling through the city's Old Town, or relax in scenic Balboa Park.
Day 7 Lake Havasu
Travel along the Mexican border through the desert landscapes of California and Arizona. Spend time on the blue waters of Lake Havasu, a reservoir on the Colorado River.
Days 8-9 Grand Canyon
Snaking for 450 km through the Arizona landscape and plunging 1,600 m deep, this Wonder of the Natural World is truly awe-inspiring.
Day 10 Lake Powell/ Western Ranch Camp
With a dramatic backdrop of blood-red rock, Lake Powell's canyons and waterways offer stunning vistas and idyllic hidden wonders.
Day 11 Monument Valley
The biggest Native American reservation in the USA, Monument Valley is a marvel of giant sandstone formations strewn across the desert. Experience Navajo culture, watch as the sun paints the landscape with golden hues, and sleep under the vast desert sky.
Days 12-13 Moab
Discover the vast stretches of Canyonlands National Park, Dead Horse Point State Park and Arches National Park. Choose an optional adventure and head out to hike fascinating nature trails, raft on the Colorado River or tour the region in a 4WD
Day 14 Bryce Canyon National Park
Discover prehistoric cliffs capped by white sandstone in the Capitol Reef National Park then travel on to Bryce Canyon. Known for its stunning sculpted rock formations, the region is best explored on foot.
Days 15-16 Las Vegas
Grab a window seat for the drive past the pink, white and red rocks of Zion National Park en route to Vegas. Why not bet a dollar on black and end the adventure with a casino cocktail.
meals included:
The kitty covers some breakfasts & dinners while camping on this trip. The kitty is an optional payment of US$50 per week of your trip and is used to pay for some group meals.
important notes:
Please bring your own sleeping bag. Recommended earliest possible flight departure time is any time on day 16.