Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 9 Day Best of California. Desert heat, pine forests, and coastal breezes are the main features of this trip through some of the best scenery that the American West has to offer. Travel to a land of extremes in Death Valley, tip your head back to see the tops of the tallest trees in the world in Sequoia National Park, witness the majesty of Yosemite from the famous Tunnel View, and hit the coast of California from San Francisco to Los Angeles. It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss, so pack a bag, lace up those hiking boots, and hit the road.
Sold Out
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either the season has ended and new dates will be released soon, or the itinerary has been updated and isn’t operating this season.
Operator
G Adventures
Trip Style
Classic
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
6-99 Years
Max. Group Size
13
Pace
Moderate
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
NUDL
Itinerary
In the morning, after a brief orientation with your CEO the group will depart Las Vegas and head to Death Valley. You’ll visit the country's hottest, driest, and lowest national park. Death Valley is a land of extremes and you’ll get a sense of the striking contrast of this park’s landscapes with visits to Furnace Creek, Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point. Learn about Borax mining and if there's time, stop at the sand dunes. In the evening, settle into your hotel in Bakersfield and get some rest for tomorrow’s adventure.
Accommodation:
Four Points Sheraton Bakersfield
Included Experiences
- Meet Your CEO and Group: Today, the adventure begins. Be sure to arrive in time to meet your group. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your trip.
- Death Valley National Park Visit: 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.
Spend the day travelling to Sequoia National Park, home to granite cliffs and ancient giant trees. Once you arrive, set out on a short afternoon hike to explore and stare up in wonder at the tallest trees in the world. Walk the half mile down to General Sherman to see the world’s largest tree at 83 meters (275 feet) high. Trek through the Giant Forest on Congress Trail to see more of these colossal trees. Later, we head to the hotel in Visalia
Accommodation:
Wyndham Visalia
Included Experiences
- Sequoia National Park Visit: Walk amongst giants - giant sequoia trees, that is - in Sequoia National Park, where more than 8,000 colossal sequoias have lived for thousands of years. Visit the largest tree on earth, General Sherman, and gaze as far as you can up into the canopy. At the heart of the park, find the Giant Forest, home to half of the earth's largest and oldest trees.
- General Sherman Giant Forest Hike: Hike amongst some of the most impressive living things on Earth, giant Sequoias. This trip through the misty heights of the Sierras will take you through the home of General Sherman, the largest tree alive. Tour the other enormous trees and catch some amazing views of the mountains through the forest on this epic hike. Hiking distance: 12km (7.5 mi) Elevation change: 549m (1800 ft)
Immerse yourself in Sequoia with a full day to hike in the park. Visit Grant Grove for more opportunities to marvel at these rare giants among the forest. If you’re looking for 360-degree views head up the 2 mile round-trip Buena Vista Peak trailhead to see the High Sierra and the valley below.
Accommodation:
Wyndham Visalia
Included Meals:
Lunch
Included Experiences
- Sequoia National Park Visit: Walk amongst giants - giant sequoia trees, that is - in Sequoia National Park, where more than 8,000 colossal sequoias have lived for thousands of years. Visit the largest tree on earth, General Sherman, and gaze as far as you can up into the canopy. At the heart of the park, find the Giant Forest, home to half of the earth's largest and oldest trees.
- Buena Vista Peak Hike: Take a quick hike up to Buena Vista Peak, and experience some of the best views in the entire park. With minimal elevation change, you'll have plenty of time and energy to explore and take pictures along the mountain top. Hiking distance: 3.2km (2 mi) Elevation change: 125m (413 ft).
Hit the road again and travel north through the Sierras to the south entrance of Yosemite National Park. Head straight into the park to take in iconic sights like Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall.
Accommodation:
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oakhurst
Included Experiences
- Yosemite National Park Visit: 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.
It’s all about getting active and exploring the landscapes of Yosemite today. From the valley floor, take the park shuttle system to one of the most iconic trails in the park. Hike alongside the Merced River to climb the Mist Trail, getting sprayed by the waters of Vernal Fall. See the water rushing over the edge before crossing the river and climbing the steps to Nevada Fall. From the top enjoy views of the High Sierra including Half Dome, Liberty Cap, and Mount Broderick. Later, enjoy free time to walk the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, Bridalveil Fall Trail, relax under the towering granite monoliths of Half Dome or El Capitan, or opt to rent bikes and cruise around the valley.
Accommodation:
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oakhurst
Included Meals:
Lunch
Included Experiences
- Yosemite National Park Visit: 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.
- Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls Hike: Take the storied Mist Trail as it traverses up the valley, with visits to Vernal and Nevada Falls. Return along the John Muir Trail. Be prepared for a long hike, and incredible scenery! Distance: 11.2km (7 mi), Elevation Change: 610m (2000 ft)
Optional Experiences
- Yosemite National Park Hike: 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: 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. (30-40 USD per person)
Leave Yosemite in the morning and drive across the Central Valley with the group to San Francisco. Join your CEO for a driving tour through some of San Francisco's most iconic highlights. We will drive to the bohemian neighborhood of Haight Ashbury for lunch, followed by a drive through the 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. There is free time in the evening to explore the colorful Fisherman's wharf.
Accommodation:
Stanford Court Hotel
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Take advantage of free time to see all that the Bay City has to offer. Opt to visit the Golden Gate Bridge, chill out on Baker's Beach, take pictures of The Painted Ladies, go to a book or record store in the Haight-Ashbury neighbourhood, or grab some seafood at Fisherman's Wharf.
Optional Experiences
- Cable Car Ride San Francisco: 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): 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.
Wake up in San Francisco and spend the morning as you wish. Grab a coffee at a local cafe, take a walk, or hop on a cable car and coast up and down the city's many hills. Then the group will drive to the coastal town of Monterey where you'll have free time. Head to the Monterey Aquarium, walk down by the water to visit Old Fisherman's Wharf, or visit Cannery Row to check out art galleries and other boutique shops.
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Check out all of the beauty that Monterey has to offer. From art galleries to delicious seafood restaurants and wine tastings, there is plenty for you to do during your time here.
Optional Experiences
- Cable Car Ride San Francisco: Iconic to San Francisco, travel back in time and hop on the world's last manually operated cable car system.
Drive from Monterey to Santa Maria, along the way take in the stunning coastal scenery of Monterey along the 17-Mile Drive. Then, continue on to the largest city of Santa Barbara County, known for its wineries and barbecue. Opt to window shop, sip a glass of wine maybe two, or simply hangout in the sunny climate of this Southern California city.
Included Experiences
- 17-Mile Drive Monterey: Drive along this 17-mile dramatic stretch of coastline on the Monterey Peninsula. Encounter wind-sculpted cypress tree forests and rock strewn beaches winding up along the Pacific. Along the way enjoy great views of some of the most envy-inducing homes in the world and the celebrated golf courses of Pebble Beach. You'll be planning how to live here before you're through with the drive.
- Free Time: There are plenty of outdoor activity options in Santa Maria. Choose to visit some of the city’s vineyards or wineries. Try the famous barbecue at a local spot, have a picnic in the park, or shop for souvenirs. The choice is yours.
Leave the hills and vineyards of Santa Maria behind and continue driving south to Los Angeles where the tour ends on arrival.
Trip Inclusions
- Hike in Death Valley; the U.S. national park with the lowest elevation.
- Wrap your arms around the biggest trees in the world in Sequoia National Park.
- Witness breathtaking views of Yosemite National Park.
- Cruise along 17-mile drive and enjoy the coastline of the Monterey Peninsula before travelling south towards Los Angeles.
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Death Valley National Park visit
- Sequoia National Park visit
- Yosemite National Park visit
- Stops in Monterey and Santa Maria en route to Los Angeles
- Entrance fees to all national parks and monuments with hiking and walking excursions
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking
- 1 CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout
- Hotel (8 Nights)
- This trip uses 2-3 star hotels and motels in cities and near park entrances. Our chosen hotels vary in size, character, and amenities, but are of a good standard, and the rooms are double occupancy with a private bathroom.
- 2 lunches
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: Classic
Get the best of both worlds with G's Classic trips as your knowledgeable CEO (Chief Experience Officer) leads you to iconic highlights and hidden gems, while ample free time lets you discover what excites you most. Enjoy included meals showcasing local flavours, plus opportunities to dive deeper into the food scene independently. Stay in comfortable hotels, authentic homestays, and unique accommodations that capture the spirit of each destination.
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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