Journeys: Discover American Canyonlands
Journeys: Discover American Canyonlands
Flagstaff, USA
Las Vegas Skyline and Cityscape at Night.
$3599
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with "Journeys: Discover American Canyonlands," a National Geographic Journey that takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the USA's iconic national parks. Begin your journey in Las Vegas and explore the majestic Zion National Park, where you'll hike through stunning sandstone canyons. Discover the unique rock formations of Bryce Canyon and marvel at the beauty of Antelope Canyon with a Navajo guide. Experience the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon with an expert from the Grand Canyon Association Field Institute, and enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of Lowell Observatory. Travel in a small group, staying in comfortable hotels, and enjoy the convenience of air-conditioned private transport. This tour promises an enriching experience filled with natural wonders and cultural insights. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Las Vegas
Location: Las Vegas
Accommodation Name: hotel
Arrive at any time.
There are no planned activities today until the evening welcome meeting, so check out the strip or get tickets to a show for this evening.
ACTIVITY: The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
Day 2: Las Vegas/Zion National Park
Location: Las Vegas, Zion National Park
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart for the sandstone slot canyons of Zion, Utah's oldest national park, where monumental cliffs of cream, pink, and red pierce the sky. In the afternoon we get our first glimpse of the park as we hike along The Watchman Trail. This unpaved trail climbs 368 ft (112 m) to a magnificent viewpoint of the Watchman, Temples and Towers, lower Zion Canyon, and the Town of Springdale.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Admire monumental sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that tower into the sky. Experience diverse plant and animal life, and wade through water in a narrow slot canyon as the park transitions from desert to forest. Gaze at the awe-inspiring beauty of the high plateaus, striking towers, temples, mesas, and the earth's tallest-known sheer sandstone walls.
Day 3: Zion National Park
Location: Zion National Park
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Set out on an unforgettable guided hike to the famed Narrows. Splash, wade, and swim in the cool water of the river that cuts through this stunning slot canyon. Soak up the beauty of the high plateaus, towers, temples, mesas, and some of the planet’s tallest sheer sandstone walls.
The canyon is narrow, and the river covers the bottom in many places, which means you will have to wade or swim to proceed. Prepare to get wet but the cool water makes this hike particularly pleasant during the hot summer months. During the cooler months, there are available gear rentals including Gore-Tex dry pants, canyon shoes, and neoprene socks. Hiking poles are available for rent year-round.
Hiking is not permitted when the river is high from runoff or flash flooding. Runoff mostly occurs in April and early May. Late summer thunderstorms can occasionally produce flooding. If the hike is not possible due to weather, it will be replaced with another activity.
Additional Information: This is a moderate level hike of 4 to 5 hours, during which you are wading through water which could be ankle or waist deep, depending on local conditions. As well, the terrain is often rocky and uneven. We recommend bringing water shoes with a hiking tread.
Should you choose to not do the hike, you can stay and relax at the lodge or discuss with your CEO other optional activities that may be available (at additional cost).
ACTIVITY: Take a guided hike to the Narrows in Zion National Park. Splash and wade through the cool river which cuts though this stunning slot canyon. You'll mostly be in up to your ankles and in some spots get waist-deep. The Narrows is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park, and is considered one of the world's best slot canyon hikes.
Day 4: Zion National Park/Page
Location: Bryce Canyon National Park, Page
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, hike through Bryce Canyon National Park, famed for its maze of multi-coloured rock pinnacles called hoodoo. Keep your camera at the ready to snap shots of these spectacular natural towers that cover the canyon floor. Continue on to Page, Arizona, the gateway to Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the beautiful Lake Powell.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: See a sight like no other at this giant forest of stone made up of collection of massive natural amphitheaters. This park contains hundreds of thousands of eroded spires, pinnacles, and other shapes as far as the eye can see.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 5: Page/Grand Canyon National Park
Location: Page, Grand Canyon National Park
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Join a local Navajo guide for a thrilling exploration of Antelope Canyon, a stunning natural sandstone cathedral located on Navajo land and accessible only with an authorized guide. Later, go on a short hike to Horseshoe Bend, and stand on steep vermillion cliffs overlooking a spectacular natural bend in the Colorado River. Enjoy lunch at a Navajo-inspired restaurant and trading post, before continuing on to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon.
Marvel as the Grand Canyon unfolds before you but don't get too close. The land drops almost straight down for more than 1,000m (3,280 ft) into the serpentine canyons below! The gorge is filled with rocky buttes, sheer limestone cliffs, and deep canyons all arrayed in a rainbow of colors. Words defy. This is truly one of the most magnificent sights on earth.
ACTIVITY: Named for the pronghorn that used to roam the land, Antelope Canyon is a natural sandstone cathedral created by years of flash flooding, wind, and rain. Tour this breathtaking canyon to discover beams of light, flowing rock walls, and spiral arches and soak in the natural beauty of this surreal place.
ACTIVITY: Take a short hike to this spectacular horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River. Stand atop steep orange-coloured sandstone cliffs and look out at Horseshoe Bend. Peer down more than 300m (1,000 ft) at the emerald river below.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 6: Grand Canyon National Park
Location: Grand Canyon National Park
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend the day exploring this ancient gorge with an expert from the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute. Set out on foot along the South Rim and gain insights on the unique geology and botany of this geological phenomenon, as well as the local human history. After, view iconic park structures at the Historic Village District, then descend below the canyon rim along the Bright Angel Trail to see 2,000-year-old rock art and 250-million-year-old fossils.
ACTIVITY: As part of a specially designed experience for National Geographic Journeys travellers, spend a day with a researcher from the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute. Begin with a walk with our expert along the South Rim to hear about the unique geology of the canyon and history of Native Americans here. Then visit the Historic Village District for a stroll past a number of iconic park structures including Hopi House, El Tovar Hotel, and Lookout Studio. Continue down the historic Bright Angel Trail to get a real sense of the feel of the canyon below the rim, viewing 2000-year-old rock art and 250-million-year-old fossils. Then, visit Kolb Studio, home to photography pioneers Emery and Ellsworth Kolb, who shared with the world some of the first pictures of the epic canyon in the August 1914 issue of National Geographic Magazine.
Day 7: Grand Canyon National Park/Las Vegas
Location: Flagstaff, Seligman, Las Vegas
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Go on a behind-the-scenes tour of Lowell Observatory to see the giant telescopes and learn about the study of astronomy, as well as enjoy a lecture on Mars. Return to Las Vegas, by way of Seligman, Arizona—the birthplace of Route 66. Check out the historic general store and original motels as you discover the legacy of the U.S.’s early transcontinental highway system.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Visit the highly renowned Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona for a behind-the-scenes tour of the facility alongside an educator. Established in 1894 (making it one of the oldest observatories in the United States), this centre focuses on educating the general public in astronomical research. Learn about the Clark and Pluto telescopes and enjoy an educational presentation. National Geographic has long supported space research and featured impressive images of our solar system in the pages of National Geographic magazine. As far back as the 1950s, National Geographic has provided funding to astronomers based at the Lowell Observatory to gather important photographic data of Mars.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Take a trip back in time to the birthplace of Route 66. Established in the early 1900s as the first transcontinental highways in the U.S, Route 66 has a lot of history on it's original length of almost 2,500 miles. Starting in Chicago, Illinois and travelling through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona, before ending at the ocean in Santa Monica California. The creation of the Interstate system bypassed the majority of Route 66, creating ghost towns along it's original route, though there are a few iconic Americana towns still delivering experiences from the past. Check out the historic general store, original motels, and don't forget to get your kicks!
Day 8: Las Vegas
Location: Las Vegas
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
Want to spend more time in Sin City? Ask your GCO or Travel Agent about booking post-tour accommodation in the 'Entertainment Capital of the World'.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (7 nts). -
Meals
7 breakfasts, 2 lunches -
Grand Canyon Exclusive
Experience a special highlight moment at the Grand Canyon National Park.
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Lowell Observatory Experience
Enjoy a highlight moment at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff.
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National Park Fees
All national park fees are included.
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Zion National Park Visit
Visit and enjoy a guided hike in Zion National Park.
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Bryce Canyon National Park Visit
Explore Bryce Canyon National Park.
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Antelope Canyon Guided Visit
Experience a guided visit to Antelope Canyon.
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Horseshoe Bend Hike
Participate in a hike to Horseshoe Bend.
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Grand Canyon National Park Visit
Visit the Grand Canyon National Park.
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Route 66 Stop
Make a stop at Route 66.
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Transport
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is provided.
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping and gratuities are not included.
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International Travel
International travel is not included.
Transport
Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking.
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 2 lunches
Accommodation
Enjoy a comfortable stay in 3-star hotels for 7 nights, conveniently located in cities and near National Parks. These well-appointed accommodations offer double occupancy rooms with private bathrooms, ensuring a pleasant and restful experience throughout your journey.
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
Group Size
Max 13, Avg 11.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with air-conditioned private vehicles, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views. The tour also includes hiking and walking, providing an immersive experience in the stunning landscapes of the American Canyonlands.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Important Notes
1.TRAVEL DAYS
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.
2. WALKS AND HIKES - OPTIONAL
All walks and hikes proposed by our CEO will be easy to moderate 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.
3. COMBO TRIP
Please note that some trips could be a combination of multiple G Adventure tours. You should expect some group members to join or leave the tour between tour segments.
4. LEGAL DRINKING AGE
Please note that the legal drinking age in the United States is 21 and in Canada, 19 (with Alberta and Quebec at 18). 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 or New Orleans is not possible when you are under the legal age, even if you don't plan on consuming alcohol. Drinking laws in both countries 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.
5. LAS VEGAS HOTELS
Las Vegas is known for glitz and glamour, and is an adult’s playground for the senses. However, hotel standards are different than in many other cities. Most hotels have thousands of rooms and an onsite casino open 24 hours a day, which can cause large crowds and excessive noise. Smoking is also permitted indoors in casinos. Although we only use non-smoking rooms on our tours and do our best to offer a smoke free environment, please be aware that standards may result in smoke permeating non-smoking areas of hotels.
6. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
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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 driver - this person is experienced in the routes travelled.
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
This trip uses comfortable 3 star hotels, well located in cities and close to National Parks. Our chosen hotels vary in size, character, and amenities, but are of a very good standard, and the rooms are double occupancy with a private bathroom.
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.
It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a light jacket. 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 kind 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 type of accommodation is provided on this tour?
The tour provides accommodation in comfortable 3-star hotels, well located in cities and close to National Parks. The rooms are double occupancy with a private bathroom.
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What is the highlight of the visit to Antelope Canyon?
The highlight of the visit to Antelope Canyon is a guided exploration with a local Navajo guide, where you can discover the stunning natural sandstone cathedral created by years of flash flooding, wind, and rain.
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What activities are included at the Grand Canyon National Park?
At the Grand Canyon National Park, you will spend the day with an expert from the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute, exploring the South Rim, learning about the unique geology and botany, and visiting the Historic Village District. You will also descend below the canyon rim along the Bright Angel Trail to see 2,000-year-old rock art and 250-million-year-old fossils. ...more ...less
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Is there a guided hike included in Zion National Park?
Yes, there is a guided hike to the Narrows in Zion National Park, where you will splash, wade, and swim in the cool water of the river that cuts through this stunning slot canyon.
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What is the group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 13, with an average of 11 participants.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 7 breakfasts and 2 lunches.
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What is the minimum age requirement for this tour?
The minimum age to travel unaccompanied on this tour is 18. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
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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/
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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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
Journeys: Discover American Canyonlands
8 Days Starting and ending in Las Vegas, USA
Visiting: Las Vegas, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Page, Grand Canyon National Park, Flagstaff, Seligman ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
24481
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 13
Age range:
12-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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