Las Vegas: Death Valley Sunset and Stargazing Day Tour

Planning a trip to the American Southwest often means balancing the desire to see iconic landscapes with the need for comfort and convenience. This Las Vegas: Death Valley Sunset and Stargazing Day Tour offers a compelling way to enjoy some of the most breathtaking scenery in Death Valley National Park—all in one long, memorable day. With a highly-rated experience that combines the thrill of daytime exploration, a spectacular sunset, and a peaceful night under the stars, it’s perfect for travelers seeking an authentic desert adventure without the hassle of multiple trips.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, you get to visit Zabriskie Point during sunset—arguably one of the most photogenic spots in Death Valley. Then, as night falls, you’ll enjoy stargazing in Amargosa Valley, where the dark skies reveal a dazzling display of stars and the Milky Way. Plus, the tour is designed to be relaxed, allowing for light walks and plenty of time to soak in the scenery.

One caveat? It’s a 12-hour journey, so it’s best suited for those ready for a full-day adventure. The long hours and early mornings mean it’s not ideal for small children, pregnant women, or travelers with certain mobility issues. Still, if you’re keen on exploring Death Valley’s highlights in a single, well-organized trip, this tour is a fantastic option.

If you thrive on natural beauty, enjoy photography, or are simply curious about one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth, you’ll find a lot to love here.

Good To Know

• All-in-One Experience: Combines daytime sightseeing, sunset views, and stargazing in one tour.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and photography tips.
• Iconic Stops: Includes Dante’s View, Badwater Basin, Artists Palette, and Zabriskie Point.
• Relaxed Pace: Light walking at each stop allows you to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
• Dark Sky Stargazing: The night sky offers a stunning show, especially for astronomy enthusiasts.
• Limited Groups: Small group size (up to 14 participants) ensures a more personalized experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Death Valley in a Day

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Las Vegas, with the exact time depending on sunset schedules—ranging from 8 AM to 1 PM. From there, you’re whisked away in a comfortable vehicle, heading straight into Death Valley National Park, the largest in the United States.

First stops tend to include the Death Valley welcome sign, a classic photo op that marks your entry into this extraordinary landscape. Then, you’ll visit Dante’s Viewpoint, a perch that offers sweeping vistas of the valley below, giving you a sense of the vastness and grandeur of this desert landscape. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making these stops both educational and engaging.

Highlight: Badwater Basin and Artists Palette

No visit here is complete without wandering the salt flats at Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. The stark white salt crust stretching into the distance offers an otherworldly landscape perfect for photos. Next, you’ll experience the vibrant Artists Palette, where colorful mineral deposits create a surreal, rainbow-hued mountain backdrop. It’s a place that truly makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet.

Light Walks and Scenic Stops

Throughout the day, the tour emphasizes light walking and scenic pauses. Guides often know the best spots for photos, and some reviews mention guides like Chris and Leo, who go out of their way to show visitors hidden viewpoints, and even take photos of guests—adding a personal touch to the experience. These touches elevate the tour from a simple bus trip to a meaningful adventure.

Sunset at Zabriskie Point

As the afternoon approaches, the group heads to Zabriskie Point—arguably Death Valley’s most famous viewpoint. Here, the vast, layered badlands are bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, creating some of the most beautiful vistas in the park. Guests are encouraged to take their time, snap photos, and simply soak in this breathtaking scene.

Reviews highlight how magical this moment is: “The sunset at Zabriskie Point was unforgettable,” one traveler notes. The guides often share insights about the geology and history of the area while you watch the sky change colors, making this stop both visually and intellectually enriching.

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Night Under the Stars

Once the sun sets, the tour transitions into its most unique feature: stargazing in Amargosa Valley. About an hour and a half after sunset, the guides set up in a dark, quiet location far from light pollution. The night sky here reveals bright stars, planets, and the Milky Way, making it a favorite among astronomy lovers.

Guests have described the experience as “incredible,” with some guides, like Justin, going beyond the call of duty to help guests with their cameras and share interesting facts about celestial objects. The darkness and clear desert air make for a phenomenal stargazing environment, though be aware that a bright moon can diminish the star show.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $249 per person is quite reasonable given the length of the tour, the included transportation, expert guides, and all fees. Plus, bottled water is unlimited, keeping you hydrated through the day’s heat. However, food and drinks are not included, so it’s wise to bring snacks or plan to eat before or after the tour.

The tour operates with a minimum of two participants and is capped at 14 guests, ensuring a more intimate experience. It’s suited for travelers with a good level of comfort, as the schedule is long and involves some walking and outdoor exposure. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, sun protection, and light layers—desert temperatures can vary greatly.

The tour is flexible; if some attractions are temporarily closed due to park regulations, guides will select alternative sites to keep the experience engaging. Remember, the itinerary may shift based on weather and traffic, but the core experience of viewing Death Valley’s highlights remains.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing, photography, and star gazing in one of the most stunning natural environments in the US. It’s perfect for those with an interest in geology, astronomy, or simply anyone eager to experience Death Valley’s stark beauty without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

It suits those prepared for a full day on the move and who appreciate knowledgeable guides who can enhance the experience with insights and tips. The small group size adds a personal touch—great for making new friends while exploring.

Not suitable if you have mobility issues, are pregnant, or prefer a more leisurely pace. It’s also not the best choice for children under 5 or travelers over 75.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a long but rewarding day of exploration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and loose clothing are recommended to stay comfortable in the desert heat.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat beforehand.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup times vary from 8 AM to 1 PM, depending on sunset times. Your guide will confirm the exact schedule the day before.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is stargazing affected by the moon?
Yes, on nights with a bright or full moon, fewer stars will be visible, but the experience can still be impressive.

Final Thoughts

This Death Valley tour from Las Vegas offers a well-rounded, memorable adventure for those eager to see the park’s most iconic sights, catch a stunning sunset, and enjoy a peaceful night under the stars. The combination of expert guides, scenic stops, and a relaxed pace makes it a worthwhile option for travelers wanting a comprehensive day in one of America’s most dramatic landscapes.

If you love photography, natural beauty, and truly unique experiences, this tour will not disappoint. It’s a long day, but every moment is packed with awe-inspiring vistas and intimate encounters with the desert’s quiet magic.

In sum, this tour is best suited for curious travelers, photography enthusiasts, and star gazers who want an authentic, guided experience that covers the best of Death Valley in a single day.

Note: Always check availability and specific details like pickup times and weather conditions before booking.

You can check if your dates are available here: