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Best of the West

14 days, Los Angeles to Los Angeles

Map of the route for Best of the West
Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Itinerary

Day 1Los Angeles

Arrive at any time.

There's a lot to see and do in LA, and we recommend spending extra time here if you'd like to explore Hollywood, Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica, Venice Beach and other hot spots around the city; speak to your sales agent to book extra accommodation.

Enjoy free time today in Santa Monica, where the hostel is located, and check out the famous pier or hit the beach.

Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
19:00

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

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Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow

Universal Studios Hollywood
Los Angeles2h-4h
90-150USD per person

Get ready for the ultimate Hollywood experience at Universal Studios, home to thrilling theme park rides, live shows, and a real working movie studio. In the evening, check out some of Los Angeles’ best shops, restaurants, and cinemas at CityWalk.

Santa Monica Pier Visit
Los Angeles
Free

Check out the pier, boardwalk, and some of the city's best shopping at 3rd St Promenade in this beachfront city.

Venice Beach Visit
Los Angeles
Free

Explore this hangout for the creative and the artistic. Venice is known for its circus-like Ocean Front Walk, and pedestrian promenade highlighting street performers, fortune tellers, artists, and vendors.

Day 2Los Angeles/San Diego

Be on celebrity-watch while passing by a few popular sites on the way out of LA, California's most glamorous city. In San Diego, visit Coronado Island or soak up the sun on Mission Beach. Opt to check out the Gaslamp Quarter District in the evening.

Your CEO will point out a few famous neighbourhoods and landmarks on the drive out of town.

Cruise through Orange County and along the incredible Pacific coastline to the truly remarkable city San Diego. Sun, sand, food and fun awaits us in this beautiful beach city. When the sun sets, experience the Gaslamp Quarter District with numerous pubs and nightclubs.

Private Vehicle
Los Angeles – San Diego3h-4h220km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Coronado Island Visit
Coronado1h

Coronado Island’s white-sand beach, mild surf and postcard worthy sunsets, is consistently rated one of the best beaches in the world. If the acclaimed beaches aren’t enough, check out the charming bayside district with breathtaking views of the San Diego skyline. Walk, ride, motor in a golf cart; there are many options to get around that don't involve a car.

Mission Beach Visit
San Diego3h

Yearn for a classic California beach experience complete with boardwalks, beach cruisers and even a historic roller coaster? Built on a sandbar between the Pacific Ocean and Mission Bay, this beach is perfect for swimmers, surfers, paddle boarders and kayakers alike.

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Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow

Surf and Boogie Board Rental
San Diego
8-20USD per person

Boardwalk, bay, beach or surf, rent whatever you need to soak up the sun. Hire a surf board, paddle board, boogie board or kayak to catch the waves your way. Don't forget your sunscreen.

Surf Lesson
San Diego15m-30m
69USD per person

Grab your swimsuit and get ready to hang ten! Learn how to find and ride the waves with surfing lessons from local experts. Enjoy the fresh sea air, and try to spot local marine life while enjoying the waters.

Gaslamp Quarter District Visit
San Diego
Free

After the sun sets, historic Gaslamp Quarter District comes to life. Rich history mixed with modern flair, Gaslamp is booming with restaurants, bars, speakeasies, live music and dancing.

Old Town San Diego Visit
San Diego1h-2h
Free

Learn about San Diego while visiting its many historic sites. Enjoy local food and drinks in the heart of Old Town.

Meals included:

Dinner

Day 3San Diego/Lake Havasu City

Travel to Joshua Tree National Park, taking in the desert scenery and hundreds of Joshua trees, then cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the Colorado River at Lake Havasu.

Private Vehicle
San Diego – Joshua Tree National Park3h-4h250km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Joshua Tree National Park Visit
Joshua Tree National Park

Discover the rugged rock formations and iconic Joshua trees that gave this National Park it's name. Go for a hike, keep a sharp eye out for desert wildlife, and take in the incredible scenery.

Private Vehicle
Joshua Tree National Park – Lake Havasu City2h30m-3h240km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

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Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow

London Bridge Visit
Lake Havasu City

From spanning the Thames to crossing the Colorado River, check out the 1800s London Bridge shipped from England and rebuilt in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 4Lake Havasu City/Grand Canyon

Continue to the Grand Canyon and explore this natural wonder. Enjoy sunset at the canyon rim.

Charge up your camera batteries in time for this next breathtaking experience as we take Arizona's famous scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon en route to the Grand Canyon.

Private Vehicle
Lake Havasu City – Grand Canyon6h-7h450km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Grand Canyon Sunset
Grand Canyon National Park

Head to the rim of the Grand Canyon at sunset. Point your camera in any direction and capture memorable shots as the shifting light plays off the layers of red, yellow, and brown rock. This is truly one of the great wonders. Enjoy the moment.

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 5Grand Canyon

Enjoy a free day to discover the Grand Canyon. Opt to hike throughout the park, rent a bike, check out a museum or see the canyon from the sky by helicopter.

Free Time
Grand Canyon Full Day

Enjoy a full day in this Wonder of the World to explore your own way.

Grand Canyon South Rim Visit
Grand Canyon National Park – Grand Canyon

Visit the south rim of the canyon for a great first impression. Marvel as the Grand Canyon unfolds before you. 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.

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Optional Activities - Day 5 HideShow

Grand Canyon IMAX Movie
Grand Canyon National Park
14USD per person

On a giant six-story movie screen, watch the most viewed IMAX film of all time, "Grand Canyon: The Hidden Secrets". Escape, fly, and discover the history and beauty of this awe-inspiring landscape.

Grand Canyon Hike
Grand Canyon1h-4h 1-10km
Free

Opt to hike along the rim or down into the canyon. Experience breathtaking scenery with spectacular views. Bring lots of water, a hat and plenty of energy. Remember -- hiking down is optional, hiking back up is mandatory!

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour
Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon helicopter ride is a must! Enjoy a bird's-eye view for 45 to 50 minutes as you fly over the canyon, taking in the stark contrast of the blue-green Colorado River against the thousand shades of red rock found in the canyon. From above, you can fully appreciate the greatness of the gorge and see why it is one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 6Grand Canyon/Las Vegas

Journey along famous Route 66, and explore the Las Vegas Strip in the evening. Take an optional VIP party limo ride.

Private Vehicle
Grand Canyon – Las Vegas6h-7h480km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Vegas Strip Visit
Las Vegas1h

Walk along Las Vegas Boulevard and soak in the lights, energy and pulse of the Strip. With an ever-evolving architecture and multitude of hotels, casinos, restaurants, and entertainment, there's so much to see and do.

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Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow

VIP Party Bus Experience
Las Vegas
45USD per person

Channel your inner celebrity and set off in this party on wheels. Luxuriate in the leather seats, and feel like a star with the neon lights, flat screen TV and booming stereo system. Tour the highlights of Vegas and love the limo life.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 7Las Vegas

Take in the sites, sounds, and atmosphere of Las Vegas on a free day with your travel buds. Explore the strip, try your luck at a casino, view a glitzy show, or simply people watch in one of the liveliest cities in the U.S.

Full day to explore Las Vegas. Walk the strip and try your luck at the tables or slot machines. Or spend the day shopping, dining or poolside. In the evening opt to see one of the wildly entertaining shows Vegas is known for.

Your Discover Moment
Las Vegas Full Day

There's plenty to see and do in Las Vegas, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like watching a Vegas show, exploring the Vegas Strip, and going on a VIP party limo ride. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

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Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow

Las Vegas Show
Las Vegas3h-4h
60-200USD per person

Leave the world behind, give in to your senses and prepare to be amazed. Take in one of the many shows available in this entertainment mecca. Live music, burlesque, comedy, magic, Cirque Du Soleil, and more. Whatever your passion, no other city can compete with the range and scale of shows on offer 24 hours a day.

Gambling at Vegas Casino
Las Vegas

Hold some cards, toss some dice, place a bet or sit at the slots. Try your luck at gambling in one of the many casinos along the Strip. (The legal age for gambling is 21 years of age.)

Vegas Strip Visit
Las Vegas
Free

Walk along Las Vegas Boulevard and soak in the lights, energy and pulse of the Strip. With an ever-evolving architecture and multitude of hotels, casinos, restaurants, and entertainment, there's so much to see and do.

Hoover Dam Visit
Hoover Dam
65USD per person

Take a day trip to the Hoover Dam to learn more about this marvel of engineering.

Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos

You may be a seasoned pro at group travel by now, but there will likely be some new travellers joining the group. Sit in on the welcome meeting to meet the newest members of your group and learn about the next leg of your tour.

Day 8Las Vegas/Sierra Nevadas

Experience a land of extremes in Death Valley National Park. Visit the driest, hottest, and the lowest places in the U.S. From Badwater Basin to Zabriskie Point and Dante's View to Furnace Creek – it is easy to fall in love with this desolate landscape. The adventure doesn't stop here! Continue past Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes as the group heads to Panamint Valley. Finish your night together around a campfire and gaze at the night sky in the Sierra Nevadas.

Summer itinerary: Travel to Bishop via Tioga Pass viewing Mono Lake and the tufa towers on the way.

Winter itinerary: Continue on to Lake Isabella, where we stay the night.

Note that on Day 3, we intend to use the Tioga Pass, a scenic a route through the Sierra Nevada mountain range that connects Bishop with Yosemite NP. October through May, there's a chance the pass will be closed due to poor weather conditions or even snow. In this case, we use an alternate route, and spend the night in Lake Isabella (instead of Bishop). The status of the road is monitored daily, and our travel plans for the area will be confirmed during the trip.

Private Vehicle
Las Vegas – Bishop7h430km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Death Valley National Park Visit
Death Valley National Park

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.

Your Big Night Out Moment: Americana Party

Immerse yourselves in all things U.S.A. at an Americana themed party tonight at camp with your travel tribe. Throw on some costumes, have some laughs, and dance around the fire together. With the Sierra Mountains as your backdrop cheers to new friends and adventures as you live in the moment.

Meals included:

Lunch | Dinner

Day 9Sierra Nevadas/Yosemite National Park

Get ready to feel like you are on Mars as the group arrives at Mono Lake for a morning walk among the tufa tours. The strange towers are created by underground springs in the lake. Just be aware that this visit is seasonal. Then, let your mind wander as you hike past roaring waterfalls and giant sequoias. Gaze in wonder at Yosemite's magnificent peaks and granite domes before turning your attention to the tranquil nature of the valley floor. Snap photos or simply take in the splendour of one of the country's most beautiful national parks.

Private Vehicle
Bishop – Yosemite National Park7h322km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Mono Lake Visit
Mono Lake30m

Unusual rock towers created by underwater springs line the shore of this stunning lake. Walk along the shore and imagine what existed here nearly a million years ago. The salt waters are home to trillions of brine shrimp and alkali flies. Mono Lake also attracts nearly 100 species of migratory birds each year.

Tioga Pass Drive
Tioga Pass – Yosemite National Park

Take this scenic route through the Sierra Nevada mountain range connecting Bishop with the Yosemite Valley floor. Pass by lakes, meadows, and groves, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way. (Seasonal July through mid October.)

Yosemite National Park Visit
Yosemite National Park

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.

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 10Yosemite National Park

Wake up surrounded by nature and fresh air! Breathe it in, maybe do some meditation, write in your travel journal, or talk a walk alone. This free day is a wonderful way to start things slow and really immerse yourself in Yosemite’s atmosphere. Keep an eye out for rock climbers and diverse wildlife within the park and consider renting bikes with some friends to better explore Yosemite Valley.

There are plenty of hiking trails that will take you loads of cool places from rushing waterfalls to the tops of sheer granite cliffs you’ll find yourself stopping often to simply admire the beauty. Just a tip: some of the best views in the park are at Glacier and Taft Points!

Yosemite National Park Visit
Yosemite National Park

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.

Your Discover Moment
Yosemite National Park Full Day

Located in California's Sierra Nevadas, Yosemite is home to a variety of habitats and wildlife, including spotted owls, mule deer, bobcats and American black bears. Valley visitors come to hike, rock climb, raft, around the spectacular granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias.

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Optional Activities - Day 10 HideShow

Yosemite National Park Hike
Yosemite National Park1h-6h 1-15km
Free

Panoramic vistas, gushing waterfalls, and elusive wildlife await. Bring water, wear a hat and sunscreen, and hike Yosemite NP. Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and coyotes.

Yosemite Bike Rental
Yosemite National Park
30-40USD per person

Set your wheels in motion with tandem, hand crank or mountain bikes, and opt to cycle some of the 20km (12mi) of paved trails throughout the valley floor. Bring a water bottle, stop to shoot photos, and enjoy some of the most picturesque spots in Yosemite NP.

Choose between a half-day rental or a full-day, and be aware that this activity is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note the price for a half-day bike rental is $30 USD and the price for a full-day bike rental is $40USD.

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 11Yosemite National Park/San Francisco

Catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge on the way into one of America's most popular cities. Ride a cable car, walk down winding Lombard Street, indulge in some erotic shaped treats in the Castro District, get lost at the botanical garden, chill out at Baker's Beach and simply enjoy being in the moment.

For our nights in San Francisco, we stay close to the action in a hotel in the city centre. Opt to pre-book the "Sunset Sailing – San Francisco" activity on the checkout page ahead of time to include this optional on your tour.

Private Vehicle
Yosemite National Park – San Francisco6h230km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Orientation With CEO
30m-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Free Time
San Francisco Afternoon

Get out and explore San Francisco.

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Optional Activities - Day 11 HideShow

Fisherman's Wharf Visit
San Francisco
Free

Visit San Francisco's famous Fishermen's Wharf, walk the piers, check out the marine life, shop and sample the fresh seafood.

Cable Car Ride San Francisco
San Francisco1h-3h
7USD per person

Iconic to San Francisco, travel back in time and hop on the world's last manually operated cable car system.

Sunset Sailing San Francisco (Mon-Wed)
San Francisco

Depart from Fisherman's Wharf and catch a glimpse of marine life as we sail around San Francisco Bay. Admire the city's remarkable skyline, get up close and personal with the infamous Alcatraz Island, and sail underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. Enjoy the sunset and make a mental note to return.

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch

Day 12San Francisco

Explore San Francisco the way you always dreamed—any way you want! After finding your bearings the day before, try completely different things today. Maybe hike up to Coit Tower via the secret steps, or try your luck at finding the most scenic swing in the city.

If Alcatraz is on your bucket-list we suggest pre-booking to make sure you get to go. For more of a relaxing day stroll along the waterfront and grab oysters along Fisherman’s Wharf. From beaches to crazy hills and eclectic neighbourhoods, you’re bound to come across something interesting.

Your Discover Moment
San Francisco Full Day

There's plenty to see and do in San Francisco, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like a cable car ride, sunset sailing around the San Francisco Bay, and a visit to Alcatraz. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

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Optional Activities - Day 12 HideShow

Haight-Ashbury Visit
San Francisco
Free

Check out this neighbourhood known as the centre of counterculture ideals, drugs, and music during the hippie movement in the 60s. Today, find locally-owned restaurants and bars, boutiques, booksellers, head shops and record stores.

Bike Rental San Francisco
San Francisco1h-5h 1-15km
8-32USD per person

Rent a bike to peddle across the Golden Gate Bridge, through the scenic Marina district or perhaps to Golden Gate park.

Golden Gate Bridge Visit
San Francisco
Free

What trip to San Fran would be complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge? Depending on time, step foot on this famous red suspension bridge or find a great viewing point to take some photos.

Day 13Santa Cruz/Morro Bay

Hang out for a bit at the ultra-mellow beach town of Santa Cruz; stroll along the boardwalk or enjoy the trendy shops of downtown. Then, travel down the famous Pacific Coast Highway and marvel at the beautiful coastline and mountain ranges of Big Sur. Have your cameras handy as you will be making multiple stops along the way in places you'll want to capture forever in a photo.

Take in the crashing waves, rolling fog, and sheer rocky cliffs that make this journey down California's coast Highway 1 an unforgettable experience. Arrive in time to enjoy sunset on Morro Bay.

Private Vehicle
San Francisco – Morro Bay6h30m390km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Santa Cruz Visit
Santa Cruz

Known for it's boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and California surf culture. Explore this charming coastal town for a great introduction to laid back west coast vibes.

Elephant Seal Rookery
San Simeon30m

Marvel at this coastline consistently overflowing with marine-life. Once hunted for their blubber to the point close to extinction, elephant seals are now back in droves. Throughout the year, more than 17,000 elephant seals show up on this stretch of beach to give birth, breed, and moult. Bring your camera and capture some memorable moments.

Meals included:

Dinner

Day 14Morro Bay/Los Angeles

Journey along the stunning Pacific coast to the City of Angels. Stop in Santa Barbara for lunch in this famous coastal city on our way to LA. Maybe sneak in a volleyball game on the beach if you have time. Your CEO will point out a few famous neighbourhoods and landmarks on the drive. And even though the trip ends upon arrival to Los Angeles you can certainly book some post accommodation and continue enjoying one of the most geographically diverse states in America.

Please note this trip ends on arrival to Los Angeles. There's a lot to see and do in LA, and we recommend spending extra time here if you'd like to explore Hollywood, Rodeo Drive and other hot spots around the city; speak to your sales agent to book extra accommodation.

Private Vehicle
Morro Bay – Los Angeles5h30m-6h350km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Departure Day

Depart on arrival to Los Angeles. Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.

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Optional Activities - Day 14 HideShow

Santa Monica Pier Visit
Los Angeles
Free

Check out the pier, boardwalk, and some of the city's best shopping at 3rd St Promenade in this beachfront city.

Venice Beach Visit
Los Angeles
Free

Explore this hangout for the creative and the artistic. Venice is known for its circus-like Ocean Front Walk, and pedestrian promenade highlighting street performers, fortune tellers, artists, and vendors.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Best of the West

| 14 days - Los Angeles to Los Angeles - Sold Out