Splendors of the West

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!

(All tours operate with a minimum of 20 participants. For groups below 20, tours may operate with guiding in 2-3 languages)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

Our trip will end in San Francisco after we say goodbye to our new friends and check-out of the hotel by 11:00am.