Sorry! There are no remaining departures for "Southern Cross Country Westbound" (NUCW), but here are some similar trips.
Arrive at any time. Consider arriving a few days early to see more of this famous city.
Arrive to the joining hostel at any time. Welcome meeting at 7:00pm.
From the Statue of Liberty to Ground Zero to Chinatown, New York City is full of things to do and see. We recommend spending extra time here; please speak to your sales agent to book pre-trip accommodation.
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.
One of the most iconic structures in New York City, cross the East River from Manhattan to Brooklyn as you stroll along the Brooklyn Bridge. Make sure to bring your camera to snap shots of the iconic New York skyline and the bridge itself.
Soak in stunning views of New York and beyond from the top of one of the most famous landmarks in the world. The Empire State Building's Observatory is a main attraction of New York's skyline, stretching 1,250 ft (381m) high.
Pay a visit to “Lady Liberty”, dedicated in 1886 and a gift from the people France. Cruise through New York Harbor and stop off at Liberty Island to get a closer look at this iconic woman meant to welcome new immigrants to the United States. Opt to ride to the top and take in stunning views of the city.
Discover Central Park, an 843-acre masterpiece of landscape architecture. Much of the park appears natural, but it is almost entirely landscaped. Designed in the 19th century, it is one of America's greatest works of art and the nation's first public park. Explore its walkways and gardens, and, like many other visitors, fall in love with this spectacular green space. Central Park has become the most famous and beloved urban park in the world, featuring extensive walking tracks, bridle paths, an ice-skating rink, a swimming pool, the Central Park Zoo, the Central Park Conservatory Garden, a wildlife sanctuary, a large area of natural woods, and an outdoor amphitheater.
Come experience the hub of the city that never sleeps. Head to Midtown Manhattan at Broadway and Seventh Avenue – the heart of all the action. Covered in illuminated billboards and advertisements, Times Square is one of the world's busiest pedestrian intersections and a major centre of the world's entertainment industry.
Remember 9/11 on a visit to Ground Zero. A Memorial and Museum have been created to commemorate those lost on 9/11.
Hop on the Staten Island Ferry, "one of the world's greatest (and shortest) water voyages" (according to guidebooks), and enjoy a stunning view of New York Harbour for free! See the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, in perfect view, and get a unique viewpoint of Lower Manhattan’s skyline and its skyscrapers and bridges. Long before any bridges were built, the ferry transported people between Manhattan and its boroughs; ferry service is offered between Whitehall Street in lower Manhattan and St. George on Staten Island.
The Rockefeller Center is a complex of commercial buildings, home to Radio City and Rockefeller plaza. Head up to the 70th floor of this New York City landmark for unobstructed views of this magical city.
Spend the morning exploring one of the Big Apple, then arrive to the US capital in time to wander the monuments by moonlight.
Dive into the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple on a brief orientation to the city with the CEO. Arrive at the capital of the USA, Washington DC, in the late afternoon.
This tour departs New York City mid-day on Day 2.
Let the CEO point you in the right direction of must-see destinations during your free time.
Immerse yourself in this a one-of-a-kind destination.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
See a different side of the city by moonlight. Take a tour after the sun sets to see some of Washington DC's most popular monuments and memorials all lit up.
Lively and diverse, New York City's Chinatown has so much to see and do for urban adventurers. This growing community is considered to have the largest Asian population in a city outside of Asia.
One of the most iconic structures in New York City, cross the East River from Manhattan to Brooklyn as you stroll along the Brooklyn Bridge. Make sure to bring your camera to snap shots of the iconic New York skyline and the bridge itself.
Enjoy a free day to explore.
Today is all about the capital of the United States. There is so much to see and do in Washington DC that you can't see it all in one day. Take your time spending a full day exploring this fascinating city.
Use free time to explore some of the monuments and museums this city has to offer.
Visit the monument dedicated to the 16th US president, Abraham Lincoln, who was instrumental in the abolition of slavery.
Visit the National Mall, a park in downtown Washington DC, that occupies the area between the Lincoln Memorial and the United States Capitol. Wear comfy shoes – there’s lots to explore in this spectacular green space. The National Mall includes the Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Constitution Gardens, World War II Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the District of Columbia War Memorial, National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of American History, National Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian, and much more.
Visit 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue and learn more about where the president of the US lives and works.
Visit the massive obelisk built to honour George Washington, the United States' first president. The Washington Monument is the world's tallest structure made entirely of stone and the world's tallest obelisk. Reopened after suffering damage from an earthquake and hurricane, visitors can opt to travel to the top for a gorgeous view of the city.
Visit the National Mall to see the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, a stunning 2,029 ft (618m) long pool lined with trees and walking paths, which reflects the Lincoln Memorial and/or the Washington Monument, depending on your vantage point.
Continue through Shenandoah National Park, a truly beautiful, historic national treasure.
Standing on top of the peaks of Shenandoah National Park while gazing across the silent mountains, it's hard to believe Washington DC is just a short distance away.
Opt to take a short hike on the many trails throughout the park.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Enjoy a hike on one of the many trails and paths in Shenandoah National Park. Take in the tranquil natural beauty of its rolling green hills against a backdrop of mountains.
Visit Arlington National Cemetery, a military cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. Wander through the tombs, see the eternal flame at John F Kennedy's grave, and visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which represents the thousands lost in war. Spend some time at the memorial amphitheater or witness the changing of the guard.
Drive through the Appalachian Mountains. Travel to the country music capital of the world.
Continue through the Appalachian Mountains, a perfect place to relax. Enjoy the fresh, clean air and see the true beauty of North America. Travel to the country music capital of the world, and be immersed in the local music scene in downtown Nashville at night.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Hit the town and live it up in the country music capital of the world. This "Music City" will get you up and dancing and keep your toes tapping late into the night.
Spend some time exploring the largest collection of country music memorabilia on the planet. The Country Music Hall of Fame is the epicenter of country music research and history, and a must visit for fans around the world.
Country music's favourite bad boy, Johnny Cash. Visit this museum dedicated to the famous musician, and learn more about the life of the Man in Black.
Explore the vibrant cultural and musical melting pot of Memphis. Take an optional tour of Graceland, opt to relive history at the National Civil Rights Museum, or tour the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Head to Beale Street at night for great food and live music.
In the afternoon, opt to walk in the footsteps of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll at Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland. See how the legend lived and discover videos, pictures, stage costumes, and much more. Then hear the music in Memphis, Tennessee! Explore the birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll, Home of Blues, and the starting point of soul. Music legends, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King, made their marks on Memphis.
Opt to check out the National Civil Rights Museum, located where Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Learn all about the birth of rock and soul music at the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. Discover the stories of this genre's musical pioneers, who blazed a path and created a cultural revolution.
Visit the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel, the assassination site of Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Tour exhibits and collections to learn about key episodes of the American civil rights movement and its legacy in inspiring global civil and human rights efforts.
See how the legend lived and discover Elvis Presley videos, pictures, stage costumes, and much more. All tickets include an interactive media tour of Graceland Mansion and grounds as well as a self-guided tour of Elvis' Tupelo. Want to see more? Opt to include the Graceland Archives Experience, and a self-guided tour of Elvis' Automobile Museum, Elvis: Live from Vegas, and Elvis' Hawaii: Concerts, Movies and More!
Visit the reputed birthplace of rock and roll and see where it all began. First opened in January of 1950, this historic recording studio will deepen your understanding of the origins of rock music in Memphis.
Crank up the jazz and drive into the home of Mardi Gras. Explore the French Quarter, and join the revellers on Bourbon Street 'til the early hours.
The CEO will point out a few things on the drive in, then get out and experience the city at its best. Enjoy a night out with the group.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Climb aboard an iconic steamboat and gain a new perspective on the Mississippi River.
Learn to cook authentic Creole food and savour the fruits of your labour.
Discover the charm of New Orleans’ oldest neighbourhood. Admire the Spanish colonial architecture of this historic district—many of the buildings date back to the late 18th century. Visit Jackson Square, Bourbon St (known for its many bars), Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop and Pat O’Brien’s (known for inventing the hurricane cocktail) as you explore this lively area, a National Historic Landmark.
Learn more about this fascinating city by discovering its past. New Orleans has all kinds of tour options for all kinds of tastes. Opt for a voodoo tour, ghost tour, cemetery tour or vampire tour — you name it, there’s probably a tour for it. All the tours bring a different historical side of New Orleans to life, with a little bit of creepy thrown in.
After the sun goes down, embark on a tour of mysterious and (possibly!) haunted spots around New Orleans. From century-old cemeteries to historical voodoo sites, see if you'll experience any paranormal activity.
Grab a coffee and try a delicious beignet at Café du Monde – a New Orleans institution. The original stand was established in 1862 and is just as popular today.
Enjoy a free day to explore New Orleans.
New travellers may join you today for the rest of the adventure. You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening, followed by an optional dinner.
There's plenty to see and do in New Orleans, 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 swamp and bayou tour, historical tours, and a creole cooking class. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Discover the charm of New Orleans’ oldest neighbourhood. Admire the Spanish colonial architecture of this historic district—many of the buildings date back to the late 18th century. Visit Jackson Square, Bourbon St (known for its many bars), Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop and Pat O’Brien’s (known for inventing the hurricane cocktail) as you explore this lively area, a National Historic Landmark.
Climb aboard an iconic steamboat and gain a new perspective on the Mississippi River.
Learn to cook authentic Creole food and savour the fruits of your labour.
Learn more about this fascinating city by discovering its past. New Orleans has all kinds of tour options for all kinds of tastes. Opt for a voodoo tour, ghost tour, cemetery tour or vampire tour — you name it, there’s probably a tour for it. All the tours bring a different historical side of New Orleans to life, with a little bit of creepy thrown in.
Grab a coffee and try a delicious beignet at Café du Monde – a New Orleans institution. The original stand was established in 1862 and is just as popular today.
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.
After the sun goes down, embark on a tour of mysterious and (possibly!) haunted spots around New Orleans. From century-old cemeteries to historical voodoo sites, see if you'll experience any paranormal activity.
Drive across Louisiana into Texas and take in the scenery on the way to Austin.
Travel day from New Orleans to Austin. Sit back and gaze at the scenery while travelling through the southern United States. Upon arrival in the 'Lonestar' state, settle in at the campsite for a night under the stars.
Approximate distance to Austin: 820km (510 mi)
Spend a free day in Austin. Opt to visit the SoCo area for thrift shopping, take a dip in the Barton natural pool, or let loose at a local country bar in the evening.
Get out and explore Austin!
Spend a few hours checking out the SoCo (South Congress) shopping area of Austin. This is a great area to people watch, grab a bite to eat, and search through the vintage stores to find that hidden gem. Check this out for some real local flavour!
Take some time to relax in the sun and go for a swim in to what locals call "nature's pool". Barton Springs is a natural reservoir that has created a crystal clear swimming hole inside Zilker Park. Hop into the pool to cool off before relaxing on the grassy knoll right at the water's edge.
You can't visit the Southwest without trying some good ol', finger lickin BBQ. Texans like to brag that they have some of the best BBQ in the world - try for yourself and find out.
Bring out your inner cowboy or cowgirl as you hit the town at an authentic country bar. Mosey up to the bar and grab a pint before heading to the dance floor (cowboy boots not required!). You'll be two-stepping like a local in no time.
Explore Carlsbad Caverns, dodging the 400,000 bats heading out to hunt at sunset.
Travel to one of the oldest and most famous cave systems in the world. Explore a cave on self-guided trails and be fascinated by the largest underground chambers and countless formations. In the evening, witness a stunning spectacle as nearly 400,000 Mexican free-tail bats exit Carlsbad Cavern.
Trek underground into the Carlsbad Caverns, one of the oldest and most famous cave systems in the world. Explore the caves and be fascinated by the underground chambers formed by sulfuric acid, which dissolved the surrounding limestone. Witness a stunning spectacle in the evening when nearly 400,000 Mexican free-tail bats exit Carlsbad Cavern.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Stop by infamous Roswell before taking in Southwest culture in Santa Fe.
On the night of July 2nd in 1947 something (or someone) crashed into the desert outside of Roswell, New Mexico. Was it a balloon, or really extra-terrestrial life? Find out what all the hype is about when passing through this funky town.
Continue the journey back in time and explore one of America's oldest and most beautiful cities, Santa Fe.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Explore the mystery-steeped Roswell. On the night of July 2, 1947, something (or someone) crashed into the desert outside of town. Was it a balloon, military craft, or really extra-terrestrial life? Find out what all the hype is about while passing through this funky town.
Take time to explore, shop, and eat in this cultural city.
Explore Santa Fe in the morning before travelling towards Mesa Verde National Park for the night.
Free morning to explore Santa Fe's downtown and enjoy some world-famous roasted green chilies before travelling to Mesa Verde National Park.
Use free time to explore or just sit back and relax.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Wind up the side of a mountain through Mesa Verde National Park's rocky slopes and inspiring vistas. Hike to ancient cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde. Opt to discover one of the most majestic places on earth, Monument Valley.
Hike through history while exploring Mesa Verde National Park – it offers a spectacular look into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans.
In Monument Valley, opt to explore on a 4x4 tour led by a Navajo guide. Stay overnight in the Tribal Park to see the sun rise from a perspective very few ever experience!
Take a guided hike through history while exploring the cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde, some of the most notable and best preserved sites in North America.
Approximate Distance to Mesa Verde NP: 315 km
Explore this magical and sacred place by 4x4. Tour the Tribal Park to see the magnificent colours, miles of mesas, buttes, and pinnacles that make Monument Valley a truly wondrous experience. Stay overnight in a traditional Navajo Hogan or sleep under the endless shooting stars. Wake for a breathtaking monumental sunrise.
Hike the trails of the Grand Canyon before enjoying a sunset at the rim.
Considered among nature's most spectacular offerings, the Grand Canyon provides spectacular opportunities for exploration. Return to the campsite and recapture the experiences from this memorable day!
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
Free time in Grand Canyon NP.
Enjoy a free day to discover the Grand Canyon. Opt to wander throughout the park and take a hike. Hire a bike, check out a museum or see the canyon from the sky by helicopter.
Note: If you have pre-booked the Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride you will enjoy your 45-50min ride over the canyon today.
Enjoy a full day in this Wonder of the World to explore your own way.
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.
Travel Route 66 and stop at a wacky burger joint. Explore Las Vegas and stroll along the famous Vegas Strip. Take an optional VIP party limo.
For the two nights in Las Vegas, we stay close to the action in a hotel in the city centre.
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.
Free time in Las Vegas.
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 chilling poolside. In the evening, opt to see one of the wildly entertaining shows Vegas is known for.
Indulge in Sin City your own way.
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.)
Take a day trip to the Hoover Dam to learn more about this marvel of engineering.
Visit a land of extremes in Death Valley National Park.
Visit one of the country's most rugged landscapes, the legendary Death Valley – the hottest and driest spot on earth and home to the lowest point in North America.
Surrounded by peaks which soar more than 14,000 ft (4,267m) in elevation, Bishop, one of "America's Coolest Mountain Towns" sits directly in the centre of an incredible area of natural beauty.
Note: we intend on using the Tioga Pass tomorrow; it's a scenic route through the Sierra Nevada mountain range that connects Bishop with Yosemite NP. In the spring and autumn seasons, there's a chance that the pass will be closed due to poor weather conditions or even snow. In such a case, we use an alternate route, and will spend the night in Lake Isabella instead of Bishop. The status of the road is monitored daily, and our travel plan 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.
Morning trip to Mono Lake; walk among the tufa towers. Discover Yosemite's peaks, granite domes, and giant sequoias. Marvel at majestic waterfalls, lakes, and meadows.
In the morning, visit ancient Mono Lake and walk among dramatic and fascinating tufa towers.
Be in awe of the spectacular views of Yosemite National Park's magnificent peaks and granite domes while enjoying one of the most scenic drives in California: the Tioga Pass!
Hike one of the many trails Yosemite has to offer and be inspired by this beautiful and amazing landscape.
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.
Enjoy free time in Yosemite NP for hiking and exploring.
Admire spectacular views of Yosemite National Park's magnificent peaks and granite domes. Yosemite has many trails to offer. Be inspired by this beautiful and amazing landscape and opt to rent a bike to better explore the Yosemite Valley.
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.
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. Trip ends upon arrival to San Francisco. Take an optional cable car ride over the steep hills or set sail into the setting sun.
There's a lot to see and do in San Francisco, and we recommend spending extra time here if you'd like to explore the city. Speak to your sales agent to book extra accommodation. Haight-Ashbury, Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf and the city's famous cable cars await you.
Please note this trip ends on arrival to San Francisco. If you are departing on arrival to San Francisco, you will not have enough time to participate in the Sunset Sailing extra. Post-tour accommodation is required to purchase this extra.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Depart on arrival to San Francisco. Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
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.
Iconic to San Francisco, travel back in time and hop on the world's last manually operated cable car system.
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.
Rent a bike to peddle across the Golden Gate Bridge, through the scenic Marina district or perhaps to Golden Gate park.
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.