Western Discovery
Western Discovery
Western Discovery
15 Days Starting and ending in Los Angeles
Visiting: USA
Tour operator:
Tour code:
UWD
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
25 - 55
Age range:
18-59
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Spend 15 days exploring the national parks and well-known trails of California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona, making pit stops in soulful towns and historic points on your way, and finishing each day at your full-fledged accommodation. The Western Discovery trip is tailored to introduce you to the adventurous landscape of the western USA while making sure you have all the fun you deserve in the glamorous cities of the Golden State. Revel in the balmy weather of San Diego on a day trip. Hop on your coach, absorb the changing views on the road, and head inland from Los Angeles, where Arizona’s boundless desert will get you warmed up for the adventures ahead. Immerse yourself in the exquisite nature of the canyons and valleys shaped by the Colorado River, in Zion, Monument Valley, and Bryce Canyon. Californian beach cities will make the perfect final touches to your trip.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Los Angeles
Welcome to Los Angeles! Meet your group and tour leader in the evening for an informal welcome at the hotel.
Until then, feel free to roam the streets of L.
A like a local or rest up for our great adventure ahead!
Accommodation
Hilton Los Angeles Airport - 4 Star
Day 2: Los Angeles - The O.C. - San Diego - Los Angeles
Kick off our epic journey with a trip further into the 'Golden State' via the Orange County.
We ride south through San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente to San Diego to be 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
Hilton Los Angeles Airport - 4 Star
Included Activities
Sightseeing of San Diego
Sightseeing of Seaport Village
Day 3: Los Angeles - Palm Springs - Phoenix
Our journey begins in the morning as we 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 famous perfectly-kept 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.
Accommodation
Best Western Plus Executive Residency Phoenix North Happy Valley - 3 Star
Included Activities
Sightseeing of Palm Springs
Day 4: Phoenix/Scottsdale - Sedona - Grand Canyon
We 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.
Then we 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 and appreciate this colourful mile-deep canyon and all its plunging gorges and rising spires formed by the powerful Colorado River.
Accommodation
Squire Resort, BW Signature Collection - 3 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Panoramic Sightseeing of Sonoran Desert
Panoramic Sightseeing of Sedona
Grand Canyon NP visit
Day 5: Grand Canyon - Monument Valley - Page/Lake Powell
Delving further into the wondrous lands of the Soutwest, ride inlands 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, characterized by clusters of sandstone buttes reaching up to 300-metres dotting the vast landscape.
Late in the afternoon, we arrive in the town Page, located by a beautiful mesa over the Colorado River.
Accommodation
Hyatt Place Page / Lake Powell - 3 Star
Included Activities
Panoramic Sightseeing of Navajo Indian Reservation
Sightseeing of Monument Valley
Day 6: Page/Lake Powell - Kanab - Bryce Canyon
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, cruise past the town of Kanab before arriving the amazing Bryce Canyon.
Take a tour through a multi-coloured world of sandstone spires and pinnacles, also known as “hoodoos”, that dazzle the eye! This evening, weather permitting, make sure to gaze upon the enchanting night-sky with sparkling stars & breath-taking constellations.
Accommodation
Bryce View Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Glen Canyon Dam Visit
Panoramic Sightseeing of Lake Powell
Sightseeing of Bryce Canyon
Day 7: Bryce Canyon - Zion - 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.
Our motto for the remainder of the day is Viva Las Vegas! In the afternoon, experience the contrast of buzzing Las Vegas, Nevada, the dazzling “Entertainment Capital of the World”.
Enjoy round-the-clock shopping, nightly shows and some of the countless attractions available in town!
Accommodation
Luxor Las Vegas - Pyramid Rooms - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Panoramic Sightseeing of Zion NP
Day 8: Las Vegas
The day is all yours to spend at leisure! Shop at designer outlet stores, try your luck at the wonder-like casinos, attend a top-notch show or musical, and stroll the world-renowned Las Vegas Strip at your own pace.
Though also known as 'Sin City', Las Vegas boasts plentiful attractions for all ages!
Accommodation
Luxor Las Vegas - Pyramid Rooms - 4 Star
Day 9: 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.
First making a stop at the iconic Las Vegas Sign for a quick photo, we continue to Zabriskie Point and Furnace Creek Ranch/Visitors Center.
Crossing the valley we ascend the Sierra Nevada Mountains for the beautiful ski resort town of Mammoth Lakes*.
Renowned as a gold-mining town during the gold rush in 19th century, Mammoth Lakes is now acclaimed for its skiing-friendly terrain and incredible mountain scenery.
*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
Mammoth Mountain Inn or Hampton Inn Fresno Airport - 3 Star
Included Activities
Panoramic Sightseeing of Las Vegas Sign
Panoramic Sightseeing of Death Valley
Zabriskie Point Visit
Furnace Creek Ranch Visit
Day 10: Mammoth/Fresno - Yosemite - Modesto
We start the day with a scenic ride via Tioga Pass, weather permitting, 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, the astounding Bridal Falls and Yosemite Falls, and more! We will have a refreshing rest tonight in the nearby town of Modesto.
Accommodation
Doubletree by Hilton Modesto - 3 Star
Included Activities
Sightseeing of Yosemite National Park
Day 11: Modesto - San Francisco
Departing early in the morning, make your way to the 'Golden City', San Francisco! Before entering the hotel, embark on a comprehensive sightseeing tour of unique landmarks with your tour leader and catch your bearing.
Spend the afternoon at your leisure exloring the famed city inside out.
Accommodation
Hilton San Francisco Union Square - 4 Star
Included Activities
Sightseeing of San Francisco
Optional Activities
San Francisco City Tour by Night
Day 12: San Francisco, Napa Valley Optional
The day is yours to shape to your wish, 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, and 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 take an optional tour to Napa Valley, world-renowned for its premium wineries and fascinating scenery.
Accommodation
Hilton San Francisco Union Square - 4 Star
Optional Activities
Wine tasting tour to Napa Valley
Day 13: San Francisco - Monterey/Carmel - Central Coast
Departing San Francisco in the morning, drive along the coast to the Monterey Peninsula, known for its charming homes lined along lovely beaches.
Here we visit Fisherman's Wharf and the famous Cannery Row, followed by a tour of the fairytale-like community of 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 southward through Paso Robles, a quaint town on the Central Coast for our overnight stay.
Accommodation
Historic Santa Maria Inn - 3 Star
Included Activities
Sightseeing of Fisherman's Wharf
Sightseeing of Cannery Row
Sightseeing of Carmel-by-the-Sea
Panoramic Sightseeing of Paso Robles
Day 14: 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 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!
Accommodation
Hilton Los Angeles Airport – 4 Star
Included Activities
Sightseeing of Hollywood
Sightseeing of Beverley Hills
Sightseeing of Century City
Day 15: Los Angeles
Our trip will end in Los Angeles after we say goodbye to our new friends and check-out of the hotel by 12:00pm.
What's Included
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Accommodation
4 and 3 star hotels & inns, superior lodges
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Meals
3 Breakfasts
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Transportation
A/C coach or mini-bus
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Tour Guiding
Services of experienced tour leaders
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Orientation Walks
Organised orientation walks at some of the towns visited
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Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary hotel and coach Wi-Fi ( where available )
What's Not Included
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Any flights not mentioned above
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Travel Insurance
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Meals not stated above
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Items of a personal nature
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Tips and gestures
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Entrance fees to the sights and museums
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Optional activities
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Other services not stated in the itinerary
Add Ons
Local Payment: £0
Check out our Q&As
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
No passenger under the age of 21
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
Yes
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What is the maximum group size?
Maximum group size is 55
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Are flights included in this tour?
No
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Over 20 years
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Free Date Changes
Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.