Sorry! There are no remaining departures for "USA Road Trip: Best of the West" (NUBW), but here are some similar trips.
Arrive at any time.
Tonight head out in La La Land and party like the stars. Get to know your fellow travel tribe in a place where the buzzing nightlife is just begging to be explored. Your only goal this evening is to sit back, relax, eat some grub, down a margarita, and get to know your newest friends as the adventure begins.
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 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.
Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
Check out the pier, boardwalk, and some of the city's best shopping at 3rd St Promenade in this beachfront city.
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.
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.
Be on celebrity-watch while passing by a few popular sites on the way out of LA, California's most glamorous city. Cruise through Orange County and along the incredible Pacific coastline to the truly remarkable San Diego. Sun, sand, food, and fun await us in this beautiful beach city.
Once we have arrived you are free to adventure as you please. Soak up the sun on Mission Beach, hike along the sandstone cliffs of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, spend the day at the city’s cultural hub – Balboa Park, or immerse yourself in the military and maritime history of one of the happiest cities in the U.S. In the evening, head to the Gaslamp Quarter District for dinner and live music. As the sun sets, watch the area come alive with numerous pubs and nightclubs and get ready for a night of fun!
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
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.
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.
Learn about San Diego while visiting its many historic sites. Enjoy local food and drinks in the heart of Old Town.
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.
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.
Travel to the desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park – a place that attracts everyone from stargazers to rock climbers. Stop, stare, and enjoy the scenery of the Mojave and Colorado deserts, and of course the famous Joshua trees, with their gnarled branches. The group will take a short hike amongst the boulders of this park before zooming off to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the Colorado River at Lake Havasu.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Release your inner “spring breaker” and let loose with your group at a spring break themed party at camp in Lake Havasu. Share some throwback stories of your younger party days, play some games, and laugh around the fire together as the milky way joins you in the night sky.
Hit the road to get some kicks on Route 66. Dive into historic Americana and enjoy lunch at a famous joint and see if you can spot all the movie memorabilia. Afterwards, it’s off to the Grand Canyon to explore the massive gorges, ridges, and rock formations that make even the most skeptical of travellers become awestruck. Dive into a delicious pizza dinner as you sit with your newest adventures buddies and watch the sun dip below the canyon’s south rim.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
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!
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.
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.
Another day, another adventure! Not feeling a hike this morning? That's cool, you have the option to splurge on an unforgettable helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon. Get ready to feel incredibly small as the world opens up at your feet. For a quieter experience rent a bike to check out the south rim or go see the IMAX Grand Canyon movie. No matter what you decide, the epic views will be there.
Opt to pre-book a bird's eye view of the canyon by helicopter on the checkout page ahead of time to include this optional on your tour.
Enjoy a full day in this Wonder of the World to explore your own way.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Wave goodbye to this grand park as we take one last drive along the southern rim of the canyon. Then it’s time to eat some grub at a local Navajo food truck supported by Planeterra.
With a full stomach and a happy attitude drive through the desert to discover one of the most majestic places on earth, Monument Valley. You have the option of getting deep into the valley with a 4x4 excursion with a local Navajo guide, or simply walk around yourself and admire this vast, colourful landscape and cool rock formations.
Opt to pre-book a jeep tour led by a Navajo guide through Monument Valley on the checkout page of this tour.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Get off the beaten track for an authentic Navajo meal that gives back to the community at the Native Grill Food Truck. Although the Grand Canyon is one of the most popular destinations to visit in the USA, the Indigenous community living on Navajo land captures less than 7% of the $1.5 billion that this region sees annually. Your meal stop at this family-owned enterprise benefits 50 community members directly, with ripple effects throughout Navajo Nation.
Discover the stunning landscape and history of the Navajo people in Monument Valley. Head out in a 4x4 with a local Navajo guide to explore the desert and see the gigantic rock formations that have made this area world famous. Enjoy a typical local dinner and entertainment before sleeping in a traditional Navajo hogan. The next day, wake up for a breathtaking sunrise and delicious breakfast. An experience of a lifetime? You betcha.
Grab your camera and break a sweat with a quick hike to iconic Horseshoe Bend. Stand overlooking this cool natural shape of the Colorado River and snap a few zen photos. Then, discover ghost towns, funky roadside attractions, and bask in the fading sun as you head into “Sin City”.
Explore the Las Vegas strip in style on an optional VIP party limo ride with some fellow trip mates.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.)
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.
Take a day trip to the Hoover Dam to learn more about this marvel of engineering.
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.
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.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
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.
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.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
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.)
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
Get out and explore San Francisco.
Visit San Francisco's famous Fishermen's Wharf, walk the piers, check out the marine life, shop and sample the fresh seafood.
Iconic to San Francisco, travel back in time and hop on the world's last manually operated cable car system.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Rent a bike to peddle across the Golden Gate Bridge, through the scenic Marina district or perhaps to Golden Gate park.
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.
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.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
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.
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.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Depart on arrival to Los Angeles. Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
Check out the pier, boardwalk, and some of the city's best shopping at 3rd St Promenade in this beachfront city.
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.