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U.S. National Parks...
 

U.S. National Parks Adventure: A Week in the Southwest

9 days |  11 days with Las Vegas extension
9 days |  11 days with Las Vegas extension
Group size1222 travelers
Reviews

4.4 star rating

20
Physical activity
Bryce Canyon National Park with horizon
Agave plants in Sedona Arizona
Neon Museum in Las Vegas Boulevard North Las Vegas Nevada USA
Desert Big Horn Ram Standing On The Edge Of Grand Canyon
OverviewItineraryDates & pricesReviewsTraveler photosHotels, flights & FAQ
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Immerse yourself in landscapes carved by centuries of wind and water.

How do you describe the American Southwest in one word? “Kaleidoscopic” is a start. Whether it’s in the sun-soaked colors of Zion and Sedona, or the unique tapestry of cultures and traditions that define the region, there’s a certain vibrancy that’s hard to describe. As you hike through iconic national parks, visit Navajo homesteads, and try your luck on the Vegas Strip, one thing’s for sure: This small group Adventure Tour will leave you in awe.

Your tour package includes

  • 8 nights in handpicked hotels
  • 8 breakfasts
  • 1 lunch with beer or wine
  • 2 dinners with beer or wine
  • 6 sightseeing tours
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Included highlights

  • Sedona region hike
  • Cathedral Rock
  • The Grand Canyon
  • Lake Powell
  • Navajo Red Heritage center
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Start planning today

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Talk to a Tour Consultant

Day-by-day itinerary

Print itinerary
Phoenix Region, Arizona1 night
Day 1: Arrival in the Phoenix Region
Included meal: Welcome dinner

Welcome to Arizona! Settle in to your hotel, and meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at a welcome dinner.

Grand Canyon, Arizona2 nights
Day 2: Grand Canyon via Sedona Region Hike
Included meal: Breakfast

Start your exploration of the Southwest among the landscapes of Arizona.

  • Set off on a hike in the Sedona region, and marvel at the views of Red Rock Country
  • Make photo stops at the majestic rock formations surrounding Sedona, including Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Courthouse Butte
  • Visit Sedona, a city known for its festive art scene, and enjoy free time to shop, eat, and explore the many galleries
  • Continue on to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon for your first glimpse at the legendary fissure
  • Admire the canyon’s colorful rock walls at sunset
Day 3: Grand Canyon hike
Included meal: Breakfast

Set out to explore the Grand Canyon, one of the most-visited national parks in the U.S.

  • Join your Tour Director for a three mile hike along the South Rim
  • Walk through a ponderosa pine forest and admire panoramic views of the sandstone landscape from a plateau at the end of the trail

Enjoy free time to hike other trails, explore the various museums and shops along the rim, or add an excursion.

Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride

From $309 per person

Lake Powell, Arizona2 nights
Day 4: Transfer to Lake Powell & Navajo Red Heritage center
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Continue on to Lake Powell, a man-made reservoir that is an otherworldly paradise.

Spend a free afternoon in Lake Powell or add an excursion.

Tonight, head to the Navajo Red Heritage center for an evening featuring authentic Native American dancing, flute playing, drumming and singing while enjoying a culturally inspired dinner.

Please note: On some departures the Navajo Red Heritage center dinner may take place on day 5 depending on the day of the week.

Upper Antelope Canyon & Navajo Nation

From $165 per person

Day 5: Free day in the Lake Powell Region
Included meal: Breakfast

Enjoy a free day in the Lake Powell region or add an excursion.

Monument Valley Jeep Ride

From $205 per person

Zion National Park, Utah2 nights
Day 6: Zion via Bryce Canyon National Park hike
Included meal: Breakfast

Make your way through scenic, southwestern Utah to tour Bryce Canyon National Park by bus and on foot.

  • Take in up-close views of the distinctive pink limestone and sandstone formations on an immersive hike with your Tour Director
  • See the awe-inspiring arches, bridges, and pinnacles known as hoodoos

Then, continue on to your hotel near Zion National Park and enjoy a free evening.

Day 7: Zion National Park hike
Included meal: Breakfast

Start your day with a hike along a Zion National Park classic, the Emerald Pools trail.

  • Hear expert commentary about the surrounding landscape from your Tour Director
  • Make your way along the trail to the desert oasis, which features waterfalls and natural pools
  • Enjoy free time to continue hiking through the park, grab a drink at the park’s brewery, or explore the visitor center

Enjoy a free evening in Zion National Park, or add a stargazing excursion directly through your Tour Director. Please note: This excursion is weather dependent.)

Las Vegas, Nevada1 night
Day 8: Transfer to Las Vegas & sightseeing tour
Included meals: Breakfast, Farewell lunch

Transfer to the Las Vegas Strip and celebrate your trip during a farewell lunch with your group.

Tonight, join your Tour Director on an evening walk along the Las Vegas Strip.

  • Snap a photo of the famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign
  • Walk past iconic hotels and casinos like Mandalay Bay and Caesar’s Palace
  • Watch the famous Bellagio Fountains water show
Flight Home
Day 9: Departure
Included meal: Breakfast (excluding early morning departures)

Transfer to the airport for your flight home or extend your stay in Las Vegas.

Extension to Las Vegas
Continue your trip to try your luck in Las Vegas, and see a whole new side of Sin City as you explore the Red Rocks and surrounding desert.
Las Vegas2 nights
Day 9: Red Rock Canyon hike
Included meal: Breakfast

Join your Tour Director and head outside the city to Red Rock Canyon, where you’ll choose to hike along one of two popular trails.

  • Opt to set off on the Moenkopi Loop, an easy, flat hike along a limestone ridge, and see Mojave yucca plants, Joshua Trees, and Triassic fossils
  • Choose to hike the more challenging Calico 1 trail, where you’ll go downhill and weave your way through the canyon before summiting the red rocks and admiring the area’s iconic scenery
Day 10: Free day in Las Vegas
Included meal: Breakfast

Spend a free day in Las Vegas or add an excursion.

This evening, enjoy a farewell drink as you celebrate your trip with your fellow group members.

Food of Las Vegas Walking Tour

From $239 per person

Flight home
Day 11: Departure
Included meal: Breakfast (excluding early morning departures)

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

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Reviews

4.4 star rating

Overall rating 4.4 out of 5

Based on 20 authentic traveler reviews
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    5.0 star rating

    Fabulous Adventure!
    5/5/23 by 2nd-time traveler Camille

    A Week in the Southwest is a spectacular tour! Our tour director was outstanding and excelled in communications and planning. The itinerary was well thought out and paced perfectly. The hotels were all quite nice. I highly recommend signing up for the excursions as both Antelope Canyon and Monument ...

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    5.0 star rating

    GREAT TOUR
    5/5/23 by 1st-time traveler Paul

    This tour had it all! Exceeded my expectations from the time we arrived until the moment we were finished. More then enough time to explore in your own and a tour director that knew the area inside and out made this a wonderfully enjoyable trip. If you’ve never been to this part of the country th...

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    4.0 star rating

    Southwest National Parks
    5/5/23 by 1st-time traveler Patricia

    Lots of walking and exploring. Great fun but there is no way to prepare for the altitude which is hard to breathe in. Just pace yourself and enjoy. Probably 1st vaca I have been on one doesn’t have to worry about gaining weight. So beautiful to see and the whole trip is worth it

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    Traveler photos

    Hotels, flights & FAQ

    Here's the nitty-gritty—where you’ll stay, how you’ll get there, and what to know about your destination before you go.

    Hotels

    We handpick every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used hotels for this tour and we're confident you'll be satisfied.
    Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix Downtown
    Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix Downtown

    This comfortable hotel is located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Nearby you’ll fi...

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    Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Canyon
    Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Canyon

    This comfortable hotel is located just 15 minutes from the Grand Canyon National Park entrance. Guests enjoy the indoor swimming pool, a full breakfas...

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    Courtyard Page at Lake Powell
    Courtyard Page at Lake Powell

    This convenient hotel is located in Page overlooking Glen Canyon. Guests enjoy the pool, fitness center, on-site gift shop. Nearby you’ll find the Lak...

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    Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale
    Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale

    Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale/Zion National Park is set amidst the towering red rock cliffs of Zion National Park, adjacent to the Virgin River. Dis...

    Read more +
    DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Las Vegas Airport
    DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Las Vegas Airport

    This comfortable hotel is located in Paradise, Nevada. Guests enjoy a fitness center, pool, and free internet access. Nearby, you’ll find Sunset Park,...

    Read more +

    Flights

    Round-trip flights are one more thing we handle to make your journey as smooth as possible. Our team of travel experts will find the best flight itinerary for you at a competitive rate, thanks to our partnerships with top airlines.
    Add our airfare package and you'll get:
    • Round-trip flight for your tour
    • Airport transfers at your destination
    • A great price locked in today
    • 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
    • Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
    • Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
    • Find out more about flights

    FAQ

    Print FAQ
    Passport, visa & entry requirements
    • U.S. citizens need valid government-issued identification for air travel within the United States. If you plan to use a state-issued ID or driver's license on or after May 7, 2025, it will need to meet Real ID requirements. Real ID compliant versions of these IDs will have either a yellow or black star, white star inside a yellow or black circle, or a white star inside a bear in the top righthand corner. Please visit dhs.gov for more information.
    • In order to enter the United States, Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
    • If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
    • You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code NSW.
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    Tour pacing & mobility
    • You will walk for at least 2 hours daily across mostly flat terrain, including paved trails and dirt paths, with some hills. Some activities will take place at high altitudes.
    • Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
    • You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times.
    • Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveler.
    • If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
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    Walks & hikes on this tour

    Depending on local weather conditions, seasons and trail closures, the activities and sequence of your included walks may change.

    • Grand Canyon Rim Trail Hike — 3 miles/varied duration. A moderately difficult hike on a paved walkway.
    • Bryce Canyon National Park Hike — Varied distance/2 hours. An easy to moderately difficult walk over pathways and trailways through the park. Some of this is paved at the lookout point. You can also choose to take a guided walk, which will include inclines, rocky paths, and uneven terrain.
    • Zion National Park Hike — 2 miles/2 hours. An easy hike along rocky paths, and sometimes-steep inclines. You’ll gain 200 feet of elevation.
    • Las Vegas Strip Walk — 4 miles/3 hours. An easy, mostly flat walk with some inclines and stairs for pedestrian walkways.
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    Transportation & arrival information
    • Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Phoenix, Arizona and depart from Las Vegas, Nevada. A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
    • Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
    • All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
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    Baggage allowance
    • Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
    • Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
    • Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
    • Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
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    Clothing & packing tips
    • We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
    • Pack a travel water bottle to stay hydrated on hotter, sunnier days.
    • A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
    • You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
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    Health
    • At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov.
    • Please be aware that you will be traveling to altitudes as high as 6,000 feet above sea level. These high altitudes can sometimes cause breathing difficulties for travelers who have heart problems or respiratory ailments. If you suffer from any of these conditions, please speak to your doctor regarding any potential health risks.
    • During the summer months, take proper care with sun exposure and heat.
    • If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
    • If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
    • You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code NSW.
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    Cuisine
    • The cuisine of the American southwest combines influences from Spanish colonial settlers, Mexican staples, and Native American traditions. Expect dishes spiced with chile peppers, like enchiladas, tacos, and chili con carne.
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    Electricity & air conditioning
    • All of North America operates on 110-120 volts and uses Type A or B plugs with two flat pins or two flat pins and one round pin, respectively.
    • The majority of the hotels on this tour will have air conditioning.
    • Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
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    Connectivity 
    • Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
    • There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
    • Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
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    Time zones
    • All states visited on this tour are on Mountain Time (MT), which is two hours behind Eastern Time (ET). Please note that Arizona does not observe daylight saving time and is on Pacific Time (PT) from March through October.
    • When it’s noon in New York City, it’s 10am on tour.
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    Currency
    • You will use the U.S. dollar on this tour.
    • We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
    • You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
    • Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your purchases for fraudulent charges.
    • Many banks and businesses now primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
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    Tipping
    • At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
    • We recommend tipping the equivalent of $8USD to $10USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
    • If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
    • Tips can only be paid in cash.
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    Purchasing excursions on tour
    • Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on your tour.
    • Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for optional excursions.
    • Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
    • Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information.
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