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*Offered in Platinum Tour format or created for private groups of 6 or more*
                
The Red Rock wonders of the Grand Staircase in Southern Utah and Northern Arizona are some of the most isolated and unique landscapes in the world!   This tour provides a close look into the magical National Parks and Monuments of the Colorado Plateau; Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Staircase/Escalante, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands, LakePowell, and North Rim Grand Canyon. There is also an unforgettable night in Monument Valley, on the Navajo Nation.

The itinerary is designed to offer our clients the time to get away from the crowds and to really experience these famous and unforgettable sights, a photographer’s delight!  Las Vegas is an ideal gateway to this spectacular and diverse region.

 

9 days / 8 nights


National Parks of the Colorado Plateau: Itinerary

Day 1 An early start will allow us to take advantage of the morning light as we head east to the Colorado Plateau.  Our route will take us through historic Native American and Mormon sites of interest.  Our destination is Bryce Canyon NP for a short walk in the late afternoon light and sunset overlooking the incredible formations below Sunset Point. BryceCanyon National Park

Day 2 The view at sunrise from the edge of Bryce Canyon changes rapidly as the light spreads over the sandstone formations. Today we head onto one of the most scenic and isolated routes in North America through The Grand Staircase/Escalante National Monument. There will be time to hike the famous Calf Creek Trail in the Grand Staircase. We then continue along Highway 12, rising to the Aspen forests of Boulder Mountain and to our unique hotel nearCapitol Reef National Park.     Torrey, Utah

Day 3 Following a short stroll in Capitol Reef National Park the tour heads east past the Henry Mountains, across the San Rafael Swell, over the Green River, and into the Colorado River Basin at Moab.  There will be time to enjoy the resort facilities and, after some down time, we board jet boats for a late afternoon experience on the Colorado River.     Moab, Utah

Day 4 Everybody will have the opportunity to hike to the famous Delicate Arch for sunrise, which is moderately strenuous and worth every effort. Those wishing a less strenuous walk can access a lower trail with a fantastic view of this Utah icon. This is followed by a wonderful walk into the Devil's Garden which features several famous Arches. There will be time to enjoy the Lodge surroundings and facilities before we head to Dead Horse Point State Park, for a remarkable afternoon and sunset experience overlooking Canyonlands, above the confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers. The panorama will take your breath away! Everyone can find their own space along the rim trail and take it all in.   Moab, Utah

Day 5 An early morning start, south to Natural Bridges National Monument for a short stroll, to Goosenecks State Park for lunch, down the amazing Moki Dugout, and into the Valley of the Gods.  Across the San Juan River we enter the Navajo Nation and finish the day at Monument Valley Tribal Park on the Navajo Nation. We will be joined by a Navajo guide who will escort us into the valley for a memorable tour of this very sacred place. Gouldings Lodge, Monument Valley

Day 6 NavajoNational Monumentis our first stop today to walk The Sandal Trail to the wonderful overlook of the Betatakin Ruins, abandoned over 800 years ago. The ruins stand as a testament to the Anasazi knowledge and understanding of the area. West now to Northern Arizona and the shores of the one of the largest reservoirs in North America, Lake Powell, at Glen Canyon. There will be a guided tour of Antelope Canyon and an optional dinner cruise on the lake tonight.  Page, Arizona

Day 7 With a morning departure from Page, a scenic drive takes today’s tour to Lees Ferry and the Vermillion Cliffs for a visit to the Zero Mile of Grand Canyon. Breakfast will be served at the base of the 2000 foot formations of the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument. From the Vermillion Cliffs, our route climbs to the Ponderosas of the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park for unforgettable vistas at Cape Royal and Point Imperial.We’ll spend about 5-6 hours exploring the viewpoints, rim trail, visitors center, or hiking into Bright Angel Canyon to experience what’s below the rim. At over 1000 feet higher than the South Rim, and with far fewer visitors, the North Rim is truly a special place. The tour heads back into Utah, with an unforgettable scenic drive to Zion National Park, and our lodgings at the base of Zion’s towering cliffs. Zion NP offers a free shuttle system for maximum flexibility and freedom.   Springdale, near Zion National Park, Utah

Day 8 Numerous trails are available today using the shuttles, such as the Narrows, Weeping Rock, Virgin River Trail, Emerald Pools, and Angels Landing for those looking for a more challenging hike. There are also Natural History courses and guided Ranger walks and activities available.  There is a hosted dinner tonight to say goodbye.   Springdale, Utah

Day 9 Today we head back into the Mojave Desert through the Virgin River Gorge and transfer to the Las Vegas airport to connect to your flight, or to your hotel for post tour accommodation.  Please do not schedule flights with departures prior to 2pm (14:00).

Due to the developing tourism industry in the area changes can and do occur in this type of program. Weather conditions, sometimes severe enough to limit where we can drive or walk, can also alter the program. As visitors, we will respect this, and remain flexible and open to local conditions, safety concerns and unforeseen opportunities. Our guides will do their best to keep things on track and in the event that our schedule changes, they will try to keep disruption to a minimum, consider your wishes and organise other options as far as it is reasonable and practical to do so.

 

General Information

What the Price Includes...

1. Twin share occupancy in 3-4 Star hotels/lodges throughout tour
2. 4 Breakfasts, 4 lunches, 1 dinner
3. All fees to National Parks, State Parks, and other named attractions/activities en-route
4. Experienced and Professional Tour Guide
5. Professional driver

What the Price does not include...

1. Optional activities and attractions as offered en-route, such as bicycle rental, horse riding, or one of many other possible options that arise
2. Tips/gratuities for Tour Guide/Driver
3. Travel Insurance
4. Bar bills, hotel refreshments, laundry, telephone calls, souvenirs, tips, etc.

Staff/Tour Guides

Our Tour Guides have many years experience in leading tours throughout North America. Their knowledge and enthusiasm ensure everyone on the tour gets the most from each destination.

Health and Vaccinations

It is a good idea that you have both a dental and medical check-up and we recommend that you ensure your Tetanus inoculations are up to date.

Baggage Allowance

Your allowable baggage for the trip is one main piece of luggage, which can be either a suitcase or backpack, and a small daypack. This daypack should be suitable for carrying additional outer-layer clothing at higher altitudes and food for lunch while hiking or walking. . If you plan to extend your travels beyond this tour, we can make arrangements to store additional bags to be picked up on the final day.

Accommodation/Lodging

All hotels and lodges on tour are 3 Star or better. The accommodations have been chosen to give passengers the best access to the destinations we visit. For those wishing to have a single room, there is a per night supplement. There is a possibility of a same sex room share opportunity if available within the group.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation Packages

Please contact us for additional Pre or Post Tour Accommodations.

Temperature/Weather

Autumn is the ideal time to visit the region. September and October offer warm days and cool nights with little rain. The cold nights and mornings make a layered clothing approach very sensible. 

Personal Equipment

It is a good idea to bring broken in hiking/walking boots or shoes. It is wise to have a light but waterproof rain jacket and a fleece or good sweater for nights and mornings. A hat and a good daypack are important but in the event you do not have adequate gear, you will be able to obtain the necessary items early in the trip. Overall the tour is very casual but there will be the opportunity for smart, casual dress at dinner on a few nights.

Insurance

Travel insurance is a vital aspect to booking a holiday, giving you protection against unforeseen circumstances that could otherwise spoil your holiday. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that properly covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking