Thinking about exploring the American Southwest’s most captivating sights without the hassle of planning? This 6-day guided tour from Los Angeles to Las Vegas might just be the adventure you’re looking for. It promises a mix of extraordinary scenery, iconic national parks, and small-group intimacy, all wrapped into a well-paced journey.
What draws us in? First, the chance to visit Yellowstone, Zion, and Antelope Canyon in one trip is rare and offers incredible value. Second, the small group size of 10-14 people means you’ll likely enjoy a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities for insider insights. Lastly, the tour’s flexible booking options and inclusion of expert guides make it both practical and engaging.
However, it’s worth noting that the itinerary involves a good amount of travel, which could be tiring for some. If you’re after a relaxed, leisurely pace or have mobility concerns, this might be something to consider. This trip is best suited for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground and see some of the most photographed landscapes in the US.
Good To Know
- Small group touring with no more than 14 participants for a more intimate experience
- Visits to major parks like Yellowstone, Zion, and Grand Teton, plus key highlights like Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend
- Balanced mix of natural wonders and cultural stops such as Lake Powell and Salt Lake City
- Flexible booking with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance
- Cost analysis: Offers great value considering the included parks, accommodation, and guided service
- Ideal for travelers wanting an all-encompassing Southwest experience without the hassle of self-driving
Exploring the Itinerary: From Los Angeles to Vegas in Six Days
This tour is a whirlwind of some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the US, carefully curated to maximize sightseeing while maintaining a manageable pace. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll experience each day:
Day 1: Los Angeles to Zion National Park via Seven Magic Mountains
Starting in Los Angeles, the journey westward takes you through the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert. The highlight? A stop at Seven Magic Mountains, a vibrant art installation of stacked boulders painted in neon colors. It’s a perfect photo stop that instantly lifts your mood with its playful, eye-catching visuals.
Arriving at Zion National Park in the afternoon means you’ll have time to explore some of its scenic trails or simply soak in the towering sandstone cliffs. Zion’s dramatic landscape, with its sheer rock walls and lush canyons, is a stark contrast to the desert scenery just behind, making it a true visual feast. Spending the night in Kanab, a charming town, offers a taste of local hospitality and a cozy base for the next day.
Day 2: Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell
Moving north, you’ll visit Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon carved by flash floods that creates swirling, wave-like formations. A Navajo guide will take you through the narrow, light-filled passages—an experience that often leaves visitors speechless. Photographers love this spot for its shifting light patterns and surreal textures.
Next, you’ll see Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River bends in a perfect horseshoe shape—an iconic view often featured in travel magazines. It’s a short walk from the parking lot, but the panoramic vista is truly stunning.
Later, enjoy some downtime at Lake Powell, where you can appreciate its expansive, shimmering waters. The day concludes as you head north to Salt Lake City, a city rich in history and modern culture.
Day 3: Salt Lake City to Yellowstone National Park
A highlight of this tour is visiting Yellowstone, the first national park in the US, known for its geothermal wonders and abundant wildlife. Before heading into Yellowstone itself, you might explore Yellowstone Bear World, an optional wildlife park where you can see bears, elk, and other animals up close.
Once inside Yellowstone, expect to see Grand Prismatic Spring—a kaleidoscope of colors caused by thermophilic bacteria. The geysers are also a must-see, with Old Faithful famously erupting at predictable intervals, creating a grand spectacle. The bubbling Yellowstone Paint Pots add to the park’s geothermal charm, with their colorful mineral deposits.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyDay 4: Yellowstone’s Highlights
This day takes you deeper into Yellowstone’s natural beauty. Starting at Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-altitude lake in North America, you’ll enjoy peaceful views and perhaps some wildlife sightings in Hayden Valley.
The Yellowstone Falls at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is another unforgettable stop, with the powerful Upper Yellowstone Falls plunging into the canyon below. From Artist Point, you’ll gaze out over the canyon’s stunning colors and rugged beauty.
In the afternoon, exploring Mammoth Hot Springs reveals terraces formed by mineral deposits, creating a landscape that looks otherworldly. The tour balances these geothermal sights with opportunities to spot wildlife and relax in natural hot springs.
Day 5: Grand Teton National Park and Salt Lake City
A scenic drive through Grand Teton National Park introduces jagged mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The park is a photographer’s paradise, with views of Mount Moran and Jenny Lake.
Post-Teton, the tour heads to Jackson, where the Elk Antler Arches Park offers a fun photo stop. Later, in Salt Lake City, you’ll visit the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square, blending natural beauty with cultural significance.
Day 6: Valley of Fire and Las Vegas
The final day begins with a visit to Valley of Fire State Park, renowned for its dramatic red rock formations and ancient petroglyphs. The landscape feels almost surreal, offering some perfect last-minute photos.
By evening, you’ll arrive in Las Vegas, the city of lights, marking the end of an unforgettable journey. The combination of natural wonders and urban excitement makes this a well-rounded trip.
Transportation and Group Experience
The tour provides transportation in a professional, insured vehicle, ensuring comfort and safety throughout the trip. Small group sizes—limited to 14 participants—mean more personalized attention from guides, who are fluent in English and eager to share their knowledge.
Traveling in a group of this size offers a good balance: enough camaraderie for shared experiences but still intimate enough to avoid the overwhelm of large tour buses. Reviewers mention that the tour guide, often named as “Chris,” is knowledgeable and friendly, making the journey both informative and fun.
Accommodation and Meals
Staying in well-chosen hotels for five nights adds to the comfort, though breakfast at Yellowstone isn’t included. The tour also covers access to Yellowstone Ecosystem Hot Springs, a highlight for those interested in geothermal activity.
Cost and Value
At $1,236 per person, this tour offers a lot considering the included parks, accommodations, transportation, and guide services. Additional costs such as entrance fees to Antelope Canyon or Yellowstone Bear World are separate, but overall the package delivers a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price.
Final Thoughts
This tour is an excellent choice for travelers eager to see a wide swath of the American West’s most stunning landscapes in just six days. The small group size and expert guides help deepen the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s about connecting with the land.
While the schedule is packed, the variety of stops—from geothermal springs to jagged mountain peaks—serves up an exciting, visually rich adventure. It’s perfect for those who want an all-in-one experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.
If you love breathtaking vistas, iconic landmarks, and small-group comfort, this trip offers a thoughtfully curated journey through some of America’s most impressive scenery.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for all ages and mobility levels?
This tour isn’t recommended for people with mobility impairments, as some stops involve walking or uneven terrain.
How many people will be in the group?
The tour is limited to 14 participants, creating a more personal and engaging atmosphere.
What do I need to bring?
Make sure to pack your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
Are meals included?
Breakfast at Yellowstone is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase meals during the day.
What are the optional activities?
You can visit Yellowstone Bear World for an extra fee, as well as explore Lake Powell or take a boat rental if desired.
How flexible is the booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.
What time does the tour start and end?
Pickup begins at 7:00 AM in Los Angeles, with exact times confirmed a day prior. The tour ends in Las Vegas around evening time.
This 6-day guided adventure offers a fantastic blend of natural wonders, cultural stops, and vibrant landscapes, all at an accessible price point. Perfect for those who want to experience the American Southwest’s highlights without the stress of self-driving.
You can check if your dates are available here: