California Dreaming: Yosemite, Death Valley & Coastal Camping
Tour Overview
Embark on the "California Dreaming: Yosemite, Death Valley & Coastal Camping" tour for an unforgettable adventure through some of the USA's most iconic landscapes. Begin your journey in the vibrant neighborhoods of Los Angeles, then head up the stunning Pacific Coast Highway to witness the majestic Elephant Seals in San Simeon. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Yosemite National Park, where you'll camp under the stars and hike among giant Sequoia trees. Traverse the dramatic landscapes of Death Valley before arriving in the dazzling city of Las Vegas, where you can explore the famous Strip. This tour offers a perfect blend of camping and comfort, with a mix of guided activities and free time to explore at your own pace. Travel in style with an air-conditioned private vehicle, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow adventurers as you discover the natural wonders and vibrant cities of California and Nevada. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Los Angeles/Santa Margarita
Location: Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Santa Margarita, San Luis Obispo
Accommodation: Avila Hot Springs
Accommodation Name: Santa Margarita KOA
Welcome to sunny Southern California! Your day starts early, taking in all the must-see sites of The City of Angels, before driving along the Pacific Coast Highway. On your morning tour of Los Angeles, you'll check-off all the places you've seen in the movies: Beverly Hills' Rodeo Drive, the famous Hollywood sign, and of course Sunset Boulevard. You'll leave the sprawling metropolis to drive up the coast, with a stop in Santa Barbara for lunch. Set up camp in Santa Margarita before zipping over to San Luis Obispo for dinner on your own.Additional Information: Please note your arrival flight should land no later than 6:00 AM in order for you to be on time to your 8:00 AM Welcome Meeting.ACTIVITY: Right after the welcome meeting hop in the van and begin the adventure! Drive through the city with your CEO as the lead and see the infamous Rodeo Drive and the glitz of Hollywood, Sunset Blvd, and Beverly Hills. The orientation tour will last about an hour and a half. Then, the group will continue driving north up the coast to Santa Barbara where there will be free time for lunch on your own in this charming coastal city.ACTIVITY: MORNING Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. The group will meet early on day 1 before beginning the journey along the coast.TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. ...more ...less
Day 2: Santa Margarita
Location: San Simeon, Ragged Point, Santa Margarita
Accommodation: Avila Hot Springs
Accommodation Name: Santa Margarita KOA
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
On the road again....okay, so technically its only Day 2, but we wanted to get you singing along. Explore the coast of California today on a drive up Highway 1 to San Simeon to watch the Elephant Seals sunbathe on the beach. Oh, to be an elephant seal lounging on the Cali beach all day, every day. Alas, you are not an elephant seal, so head just a bit further north to Ragged Point for an epic view and killer hike to the beach. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or renting a bike to find the perfect spot to watch a sunset over the Pacific. Life is your oyster.ACTIVITY: Think epic views and winding roads with the ocean's surf pounding on one side and rising cliffs walling you in on the other. Today's drive is all about Highway 1! See some of the best spots along this famous route with a stop in San Simeon to watch the resident Elephant Seals basking in the sun. Stretch those legs with a hike to the beach near Ragged point, where you will enjoy a picnic lunch before heading back towards Santa Margarita.FREE TIME: Spend a free afternoon on the coast. Opt to relax on the beach or rent a bike to pedal through town and along the water.
Day 3: Santa Margarita/Yosemite National Park
Location: Santa Margarita, Fresno, Yosemite National Park
Accommodation: Indian Flats Campground
Accommodation Name: Indian Flats Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast
We hate to drag you away from the beach, but it's time to strap on a bum bag and the sun cream, it's hiking time. Yosemite is waiting for you, so pack up camp after breakfast and hit the road. Road trip inland towards one of the most popular National Parks in the USA. Once you arrive in El Portal to set up camp, you'll get your first introduction to the park through Yosemite's Arch Rock entrance and along the Merced River.ACTIVITY: Picturesque valleys, vast wilderness, powerful waterfalls, elusive wildlife, ancient sequoias and more than 16 types of granite make up this internationally recognized national park. Hike the trails, get up close to ancient rock formations and take panoramic photos of this gorgeous landscape. Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and coyotes.TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Along the way to Yosemite the group will make a stop in Fresno. There will be time for you to grab lunch on your own before finishing the drive west.
Day 4: Yosemite National Park
Location: Yosemite National Park
Accommodation: Indian Flats Campground
Accommodation Name: Indian Flats Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Ready for more? Of course you are. Everywhere you look in Yosemite National Park is picture perfect. Snap shots of it's famous waterfalls and giant sequoia trees, and catch a glimpse of climbers scaling El Capitan. Explore its landscapes however you want, with several hikes to choose from: The Mist Trail, Yosemite Falls, or Nevada Falls just to name a few. What will you find as you explore the trails of one of the U.S.'s most famous parks? Want to cover more ground? Opt to rent a bike and cruise the valley floor.
ACTIVITY: FULL DAY Spend a full day in this magnificent park. There are several hikes to choose from like, The Mist Trail, Yosemite Falls, and Nevada Falls to name a few. Immerse yourself in the landscape and soak in all of the sites, sounds, and smells of one of the oldest national parks in the U.S.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Spend the day as you please and take advantage of free time to further explore this magnificent park with its granite rock formations and many waterfalls. Opt to hike the many trails or rent a bike and pedal through the valley floor of Yosemite. Your CEO will be available to help you decide which activities are best for you.
Day 5: Yosemite National Park/Bishop
Location: Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne Grove, Lembert Dome, Bishop
Accommodation: Brownstown Campground
Accommodation Name: Brownstown Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Another day, another epic adventure in the U S of A. Pack up your campsite in Yosemite and hit the road. Today you'll get glimpses of some of the most stunning natural views in the Southeastern US. The drive from Yosemite National Park to Bishop is full of insta-perfect shots. Today you'll drive across Yosemite, through El Portal to Tuolumne Grove, with a hike to see the famous giant Sequoia trees. After lunch, you'll hike the Lembert Dome Trail then travel over Tioga Pass landing in Bishop in the early evening to prep your camp site for a night under the stars.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Tuolumne Grove trail is a 2 hour round-trip hike down to see a couple dozen mature Giant Sequoias, including one you can walk through. These are some of the oldest and largest living entities on the planet. It’s an experience you are sure to remember.
Elevation at trailhead: 6,200 feet (1,860 meters)
ACTIVITY: Dig in for this challenging hike to the dome's summit and be rewarded with excellent views of the Tuolumne Meadows and the surrounding area. The effort’s all worth it!
Day 6: Bishop/Las Vegas
Location: Death Valley, Las Vegas
Accommodation: Golden Nugget Las Vegas - Carson Tower
Accommodation Name: Golden Nugget Las Vegas - Carson Tower
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Get low before you roll high! Drive through the infamous Death Valley, the hottest, driest, and lowest park in North America, before making your way to Las Vegas for the evening. Death Valley is a bucket-list place to visit when you're in the Southeastern United States. Known for it's salt flats, colorful rocks, and high temps, you'll spend a morning seeing these spots (plus Furnace Creek, Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point) then head off to Las Vegas. Walk The Strip, take in a show, or roll the dice — or do it all! Just remember: what happens on a Roamies trip, stays on a Roamies trip.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Death Valley is one of America’s most extreme locations – from sand dunes and desert, to badlands, towering peaks, and a basin that actually registers below sea-level, this is sure to be an unforgettable stop. Hottest. Driest. Lowest. There’s a bit of everything here on the border of California and Nevada.
FREE TIME: EVENING Enjoy yourselves on a free evening in the lights and glitz of Las Vegas! Opt to explore The Strip, grab a bite to eat, or search for a fun place to toast your adventures with your newest Roamies!
Day 7: Las Vegas
Location: Las Vegas
Parting is such sweet sorrow. Say farewell to your fellow Roamies after what would have been an epic final night. Depart at any time, but be sure to stay in touch with your new friends.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Camping (5 nts), hotel (1 nt). -
Welcome Moment
Meet Your CEO and Group.
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Discover Moment
Yosemite National Park.
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National Park Fees
All national park fees are included.
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Los Angeles Sightseeing
Guided sightseeing tour with CEO in Los Angeles.
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Coastal Free Time
Free time to explore the coast in Avila.
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Yosemite National Park
Guided visit and hikes in Yosemite National Park.
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Sightseeing in Yosemite
Sightseeing through Tioga Pass, Tuolumne Meadows, Lembert Dome, Tenaya Lake, and Mono Lake.
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Death Valley National Park
Visit to Death Valley National Park.
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Free Time in Las Vegas
Free time to explore Las Vegas.
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Transport
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
What's Not Included
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Arrival Flight
Arrival flight should land no later than 6:00 AM on Day 1.
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Dinner on Day 1
Dinner on your own in San Luis Obispo on Day 1.
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Lunch in Santa Barbara
Lunch on your own in Santa Barbara on Day 1.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as bike rentals in Yosemite and Avila.
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Evening Meals
Evening meals not included unless specified.
Accommodation
Enjoy a mix of camping and comfort with 5 nights under the stars at various campgrounds and 1 night in a hotel, providing a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Transport
Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking.
Meals Included
5 breakfasts, 4 lunches
Group Size
Max 13
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Meals
All included meals will be prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. If a meal is not included your CEO will provide suggested options to the group. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort with an air-conditioned private vehicle, complemented by hiking and walking to explore the stunning landscapes and attractions.
Important Notes
1. Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may continue after this tour ends.
2. An essential part of your trip is participation - from putting up your tent (while camping) or packing it away in the morning, to helping with meal preparation and cleaning up - it is all part of your adventure and when everyone puts in a little effort the trip will run smoothly. Your CEO will do all the meal planning, but we do ask the clients to help with the preparation and washing up. Team spirit is part of the fun! All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied. We supply dome tents and assembly/disassembly takes only 5 minutes. All tents have built-in insect nets. Comfortable, self-inflating mattresses are also provided, which are approximately 4cm thick.
2. Proper sleeping bags are necessary for this tour. Evening temperatures can reach -9°C - 0°C. Please ensure that your sleeping bag is rated to (-17°C for spring and fall trips and 0°C for trips June - Sept). If you prefer, you can purchase a proper sleeping bag on the first day of the trip. Prices range from $60-$150USD.
3. In order to cover the vast distance in North America to be able to visit several different parks and cities along our trip, we will have a couple of long driving days.
4. All walks and hikes proposed in this itinerary are moderate to strenuous level. You may choose to participate or not, but exploring our national parks on foot is part of our way of travelling. It’s a healthy way to discover North America’s beauty and landscape.
5. The American West is generally known for warm weather, but temperatures do vary significantly in the mountain and desert areas especially. The day time temperature could exceed 30 C, while the night time temperatures do regularly decrease to single digits, or even possible below freezing. Please be prepared for such extreme conditions.
6. Please note that the legal drinking age in the United States is 21. Many bars and clubs will ask for ID at the door, therefore listening to live music in certain bars or spending a night out in Las Vegas is not possible when you are under the legal age, even if you don't plan on consuming alcohol. Drinking laws are strictly enforced and our CEOs are unable to help those under age obtain alcohol of any kind.
While this should not stop those under legal drinking age from booking a tour, it is important to note that if a traveller is under-age there are certain optional nighttime activities that they may not legally be able to participate in. When trying to book the right trip, we recommend that travellers under legal drinking age take this into consideration when booking a tour that visits several big cities.
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Group Leader
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and sometimes the driver - this person is knowledgeable in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.
As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.
While our CEOs are trained and have resources to assist them along the way, the United States is the fourth largest country on the planet, and it is impossible for them to know everything about this massive country. We recommend local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
Please note that specific tour guide licenses are required to guide in certain cities and regions, and as such, our CEOs will oftentimes provide brief orientation walks or drives to point out useful places like supermarkets, main squares and ATMs but for more specific or in depth destination information, an official guided tour is recommended.
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About Accommodation
Accommodation will be varied throughout your adventure. Most of the nights on tour are spent camping in tents in public and private campgrounds, but we will also use permanent canvas tents, twin-share rooms in hostels, and simple motels.
Please be aware that American campgrounds have various sites available and because of this there will likely be RVs, camper-trailers, popups and tent camping all on one property.
All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied, including comfortable camp mattresses. We supply dome tents that take only 5 minutes to assemble/disassemble. They are good quality, durable, industry-standard, oversized 2-person tents, each with 2 separate and convenient zip-up doors, so that each person has his/her own entrance.
We use 2 types of campgrounds in North America:
1. Private campgrounds: These are privately run sites, usually with all services such as fire pits, picnic tables, drinking water, toilets & shower buildings. Some have small outdoor swimming pools and laundry facilities. These campgrounds are typically located near national park entrances or towns.
2. Public campgrounds: These are park-run sites, usually with basic facilities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and drinking water. In some cases, this type of campground doesn’t have showers, only pit toilets and a lake! In other locations, toilet and shower facilities may be located outside the campground, or at times in another location a drive away. Some may have shower fees for onsite facilities ($2-6/shower).
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What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible.
For days in the outdoors, we recommend the use of lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics made of wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton is not recommended for days spent hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the CEO, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle.
The American west is generally known for warm weather, but temperatures do vary significantly in the mountain and desert areas especially. The day time temperature could exceed 30 C, while the night time temperatures do regularly decrease to single digits, or even possible below freezing. It is therefore important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings - a light jacket is necessary.
Seasonal temperature ranges:
March - May ; September to December: -7 C to +30 C
June – August: 0 C to + 35 C
Additionally, a set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
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Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses an air-conditioned private vehicle for transportation between destinations and to/from included activities.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
The tour offers a mix of camping and comfort with 5 nights spent camping at various campgrounds and 1 night in a hotel.
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Are there any meals included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes 5 breakfasts and 4 lunches. Evening meals are not included unless specified.
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What activities are included in Yosemite National Park?
In Yosemite National Park, you will have guided visits and hikes, with opportunities to explore trails like The Mist Trail, Yosemite Falls, and Nevada Falls. You can also opt to rent a bike to explore the valley floor.
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What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on this tour?
The CEO acts as the group manager, leader, and sometimes the driver. They organize and lead meal preparations, provide general knowledge about the areas visited, and offer suggestions for activities and dining.
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What is the legal drinking age in the United States, and how does it affect the tour?
The legal drinking age in the United States is 21. This means that travelers under this age may not be able to participate in certain optional nighttime activities, such as visiting bars or clubs in Las Vegas.
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What kind of weather should I prepare for during the tour?
The American West is known for warm weather, but temperatures can vary significantly, especially in mountain and desert areas. Daytime temperatures can exceed 30°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to single digits or below freezing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD 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 g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
California Dreaming: Yosemite, Death Valley & Coastal Camping
7 Days Starting in Los Angeles, USA and ending in Las Vegas, USA
Visiting: Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Santa Margarita, San Luis Obispo, San Simeon, Ragged Point, Fresno, Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne Grove, Lembert Dome, Bishop, Death Valley, Las Vegas ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26004
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 13
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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