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Welcome to the 'Neon City' in the Nevada desert, a place everyone should experience at least once in their life. The opportunities here are endless and you'll have a full day to explore, so why not try your luck on the tables, see one of the many world-class shows or sample an all-American buffet? Join us at 18:00 hrs for a welcome meeting with your group and tour leader. Afterwards you're free to take in the cityscape at night or wander along The Strip. *Optional Activities: * Helicopter flight US$104 *Accommodation:* Bally's Las Vegas Hotel & Casino (or similar)
Zion effortlessly mixes peaceful beauty with powerful landscapes and the tree lined Virgin River supports fragile flora and fauna as it meanders below massive, cathedral-like sandstone walls. Zion Canyon was named by the early Mormon settlers of Utah who thought of it as their 'promised land' and it offers some of the best hiking in the Southwest USA. Accommodation: La Quinta Inn & Suites (or similar)
You have a full day to further explore the delights of Zion National Park. There are various hikes to choose from, ranging from easy to strenuous. Of all the walks within the park, one you simply must do is the famous and challenging hike to Angels Landing. Once you've conquered this epic trail you'll be greeted with one of the most breathtaking panoramas you've ever laid eyes on. For a less strenuous walk, take one of the short hikes from the valley floor to view the Lower Emerald Pools then continue on to the sparkling Upper Emerald Pools, passing a waterfall along the way to discover Zion's 'beach'. Cool off from the summer sun by exploring the riverside walk section of the Virgin River. If weather conditions permit, you may choose to hike deep into the Zion Narrows. Staying dry is not an option as you wade through the Virgin River between towering walls. The cool waters and the shadow of the canyon can provide a much-needed respite from the scorching sun. Accommodation: La Quinta Inn & Suites (or similar)
Leaving Zion National Park, you climb in elevation to almost 8,296 feet and traverse a high plateau to Bryce Canyon National Park. "Mysterious", "breathtaking" and "out of this world" are just a few of the descriptions offered by past visitors to describe this fascinating natural amphitheatre of pink, orange and white sandstone spires, known locally as hoodoos. There are a variety of scenic overlooks and trails that range from easy to moderate in difficulty. The Navajo or Peek-a-Boo Loop trails will enable you to hike right in amongst these unique rock formations. Wherever you walk, you'll encounter a kaleidoscope of colours and a fantasy land of rock spires that'll leave you mesmerised. For the photographers, you may prefer to remain on the rim and photograph the ever-changing shadows and hues as the sun makes its way across the wide-open sky. These are the picture-perfect moments you've been waiting for. *Optional Activities: * Western horseback riding US$65-$90 Accommodation: Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn (or similar)
Today you travel southeast along the border of Utah and Arizona and make a stop at the immense Glen Canyon Dam en route to Monument Valley in the heart of the Navajo Nation. This is sacred land to those who call it home and the red sandstone monoliths and spectacular sunsets and sunrises have been the backdrop to countless Westerns. Explore the incredible array of rock formations on an included guided back roads tour to learn the magic and myth of the rich Native American culture. Accommodation: Kayenta Monument Valley Inn (or similar)
Continue south through the Navajo Reservation to the Cameron Trading Post to shop for local jewellery, crafts and cultural souvenirs. Traverse the eastern entrance of the mighty Grand Canyon where you'll catch your first glimpse of it at Desert View. This incredible spectacle is difficult to comprehend, even as you stand at the rim or hike down into the canyon. Carved over several millennia, this massive wonder of nature is 277 miles (445km) long, up to 18 miles (29km) wide and over one mile (1.6km) deep. Snaking through the canyon floor is the mighty Colorado River, which runs 1450 miles (2330 km) through seven US states and two Mexican states. In your free time, we highly recommend a scenic helicopter flight over the canyon, offering perspectives you simply can't see by just visiting on foot. Alternatively, stroll the easy meandering South Rim Trail, hike your way down the more challenging trail to Plateau Point, or simply relax at the canyon's edge and enjoy a spectacular sunset over one of the world's most fantastic natural wonders. *Optional Activities:* Helicopter flight US$289 Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express - Tusayan (or similar)
From the epic Grand Canyon, you'll travel onto Seligman, where you'll stop for an optional lunch at the Snow Cap Diner along a section of the iconic Route 66. Prepare to be dazzled all over again by the bright lights of Las Vegas - a memorable end to a fantastic eight days! This tour ends at our gateway hotel at approximately 17:00 hrs. We recommend booking post-tour accommodation if time allows. If you are planning to fly tonight, please do not book a flight that departs before 21:00 hrs.
* Travel by private minibus
* Variety of daywalks to suit all abilities
* Some long journeys
* Group normally 6 to 13, plus leader. Min age 16 yrs
* 7 hotel nights included
There are two breakfasts included on this trip
Most meals will be taken in local restaurants. To help you budget for your
meals on average hotel breakfasts cost from US$6-12, lunches from US$8-15 and
dinners from US$13-30; this does not include alcoholic beverages. Wine costs
approximately US$5 per glass and beer US$4 per bottle. Please also be aware
that a tip of approximately 15%-20% is added to group meals in North American
restaurants. Applicable taxes will also be added to all listed menu prices.
Your tour leader may offer your group the option to operate a ‘lunch
only’ food kitty, this has proven to be a popular alternative to three
daily restaurant meals. Leaders will explain this option while on your tour,
and the whole group will have to agree for this system to run.
Please make sure we are aware of any special meal requirements before
travelling. We will do all we can to accommodate for various dietary
requirements but in certain parts of North America certain food types can be
limited.
* Travel by private minibus
* Variety of daywalks to suit all abilities
* Some long journeys
* Group normally 6 to 13, plus leader. Min age 16 yrs
* 7 hotel nights included
This tour has been graded Leisurely/Moderate
This walking tour is designed for active adults and offer a well-paced mix of
walks for all levels of fitness. Most walks are of moderate difficulty and
are up to four hours in length. For the more adventurous there are often
optional, moderate to strenuous hikes of up to eight hours duration in some
locations. Your tour leader will organise these on your behalf and you will
pay locally in cash. You’ll find the main optional activities listed above
under each itinerary day description, along with guideline prices. It may not
be possible to do all optional activities listed on each tour.
Although each tour follows an itinerary, there is a certain amount of
flexibility and from time to time your tour leader may suggest changes.This
may be due to road conditions, weather or a visit to a special attraction or
event that happens to be in progress. Flexibility is key and often a side
diversion will be a highlight of the tour. Hikes and optional activities
cannot be guaranteed and may vary depending on ability, group interest, local
weather conditions and time of year.
Hotels
Hotel accommodation will be in clean, comfortable hotels with en-suite
bathroom facilities, chosen for their friendly atmosphere and proximity to
the highlights of the region. You will be roomed with a fellow passenger of
the same sex on a twin share basis (two people per room) unless you are
travelling as a couple.
There are no compulsory single supplements on our tours, however if you’d
like your own space, you can request a single room for an additional fee.
Your tour leader will take care of all the planning and organisation
throughout your tour, they will drive the van taking you from A to B and make
sure everything runs smoothly. Your tour leader is there to make sure you get
the most out of your tour; organising activities, providing information and
answering any questions you may have as well as sorting out any queries or
problems. If you have any particular interests or things you would like to do
on your tour, then please let your tour leader know at the beginning of the
tour and they will do their best to help you.
Working hour regulations for Leaders - We would like to note that US Law
regulates the total number of hours your group leader is available to work.
Tours are designed to make the most of your time in the States, but please
understand that there will be certain times each day that your leader will
need to be off duty from work in order to rest and recuperate. Due to these
restrictions, particularly after the longer driving days, your leader may not
be able to join you for some of the daily activities or may need to tend to
other work duties.
There are two breakfasts included on this trip
Most meals will be taken in local restaurants. To help you budget for your
meals on average hotel breakfasts cost from US$6-12, lunches from US$8-15 and
dinners from US$13-30; this does not include alcoholic beverages. Wine costs
approximately US$5 per glass and beer US$4 per bottle. Please also be aware
that a tip of approximately 15%-20% is added to group meals in North American
restaurants. Applicable taxes will also be added to all listed menu prices.
Your tour leader may offer your group the option to operate a ‘lunch
only’ food kitty, this has proven to be a popular alternative to three
daily restaurant meals. Leaders will explain this option while on your tour,
and the whole group will have to agree for this system to run.
Please make sure we are aware of any special meal requirements before
travelling. We will do all we can to accommodate for various dietary
requirements but in certain parts of North America certain food types can be
limited.
Travel in a private air-conditioned 15-seater vehicle driven by your tour
guide. All luggage and equipment are stored in a specially designed trailer
or storage area to maximise comfort in the vehicle. Every group is virtually
self-sufficient and are able to explore the backroads where the crowds
can’t go. vehicles are equipped with CD systems (often iPod compatible),
are Bluetooth compatible, and have large windows for a more enjoyable
journey.
You will need to make your own way to the joining hotel for your tour.
You are free to arrive at any time on day one of your tour but please ensure
you leave plenty of time to reach your joining hotel and attend your welcome
meeting. Details on the time and specific location of your meeting will be
available early on the arrival day. During this evening meeting you will meet
your tour guide and fellow travellers and also spend a few minutes filling
out necessary paperwork, so please bring your insurance documents, passport
and tour documentation to the meeting.
*ARRIVAL COMPLICATIONS*
Sometimes the unexpected can happen; your plane may be delayed or you may
even miss it! If you have missed your tour departure, first check with the
hotel to see if your tour guide has left you a message. If not, call the
relevant emergency number and speak to our staff who will be happy to help
you catch up with the group. Please note that you are responsible for any
extra travelling expenses incurred due to you missing your tour’s
departure, so please be on time.
*FINISHING POINT*
LAS VEGAS - Bally's Hotel
3645 S. Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV
Your tour will end upon arrival at the above hotel, which will be around
17:00 hrs on the final day. Some tour activities scheduled for the last day
may preclude an earlier arrival at the end point hotel, so you should not
book a flight that leaves prior to 21:00 hrs. You will be responsible for any
transportation costs if you have to arrive for an earlier flight and you must
make us aware of this well in advance of your tour departing. If you require
accommodation for the last night, it is essential that you book this before
your tour departs.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to
you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at
least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our
office or your travel agent.
The West is known for its very dry spring, summer and autumn weather and
outstanding blue, sunny skies. Being as far south as southern Europe and
Northern Africa, temperatures are normally much warmer than in northern
Europe. However, temperatures vary greatly depending on the elevation you are
at. Generally, the higher the elevation, the cooler the temperature. Spring
and autumn will offer perfect hiking days in the deserts and cooler days at
higher elevations. In summer, Bryce and the Grand Canyon offer pleasant
temperatures ideal for hiking whereas some of the deserts might experience
hotter temperatures. On warmer days, the leader will opt for early morning
and late afternoon walks, leaving time for mid-day rest. Please note the
hottest time of day in the deserts is actually 15:00 hrs. Most nights will be
mild to warm. In the summer months you should be prepared for afternoon
thunderstorms. Spring offers stunning displays of desert wildflowers, Summer
offers mountain wildflowers and in Autumn the tree colours are beautiful.
Please keep in mind that our dress tends to be informal. It is advised that
you take a practical selection of clothes for both warm and cool climates to
suit the season. Please see the temperature guide showing the highs and lows
that can be expected in key locations that your tour visits. However please
remember that this is just a guide and you may encounter a wide variety of
temperatures en route due to altitude and unforeseen weather conditions - so
it’s best to be prepared!
Besides your essential clothing, here’s a checklist of other items you
should take:
• Small day pack
• Waterproof jacket
• Warm sweater / fleece
• Casual ‘evening out’ clothes
• Hiking shoes / boots
• Thick walking socks
• Blister packs and plasters
• Hiking poles
• Comfortable day shoes
• Sandals or flip-flops
• Warm hat / gloves
• Swim wear
• Sun hat / sunglasses
• Camera / binoculars
• SD memory card / Spare camera batteries
• Water bottle
• Small flashlight / head torch
• Sunscreen / insect repellent (20% DEET)
• Travel power adaptor
• Toiletries / personal medicine
Please note airlines have various rules on what can be carried in your
luggage - if in doubt check with your airline before travelling.
FOOTWEAR
We recommend walking shoes/boots, as comfortable shoes with good ankle
support will make all walking more enjoyable. If you do not own a pair, then
sports trainers will suffice although this is a personal choice. If you
intend to do some walking, it is recommended to bring thick walking socks for
comfort.
CLOTHES WASHING
You will have the opportunity to wash your clothes whilst you are on tour,
and this can often be done at the campsite or in town. Ask your tour leader
for local information.
LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE
One suitcase, soft holdall or rucksack (23kg maximum) per person. A small
daypack and camera can also be carried in the van. Before you travel, please
check the baggage allowance with the airline you’re flying with as this may
be less than 23kg.
We are unable to offer luggage storage facilities however, some of our pre
and post tour hotels will provide this service although there may be a
charge. Please contact the hotels directly for further information.
We recommend you take at least US$50 dollars per day for meals not included
in the tour, drinks, snacks and other incidentals. You should also budget for
expected tipping, as well as for the optional activities that you would like
to do. Guideline prices for the most popular optional activities are listed
on our website.
We suggest you bring USD$150 with you in cash to have with at the beginning
of your trip.
Although it may not be customary in your country, it is normal and expected
in North America to tip local guides, waiters, bar staff, taxi drivers and
anyone who provides a service for you. Service workers are paid a low wage
and depend on tips for their livelihood. It can be embarrassing if you’re
confronted by a local who is expecting a tip and you are not aware of how
much to offer. For this reason we have listed guideline prices below.
A 15-17% tip is standard in restaurants and you should also expect to tip $1
per drink in bars, $1-2 per bag for porters as will 10% for taxi drivers.
It’s also typical to tip around 10% for local guides who provide optional
activities.
Your tour leader will work long and hard for you during your tour and we
recommend a discretionary tip of US$5-$10 per passenger per day if your
leader’s performance meets or exceeds your expectations.
* Flights
* Travel insurance
* Single accommodation (available on request)
* Visas or vaccinations
* Arrival & departure transfers
* Optional activities
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.