Five Epic National Parks - 9 Days
9 Days
Jackson
Las Vegas
***
Trafalgar Tours
Ticking off five National Parks in just nine days, delve into the Old West from the peaks of the Grand Tetons, geysers at Yellowstone National Park and spires of Bryce Canyon. Cap it off with a relaxing tram ride through Zion National Park and a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in the Grand Canyon.
Itinerary
Day 1: Howdy Jackson
Get ready for your journey through the Old West and epic national parks in the intrepid adventurer's town of Jackson. Check in to your hotel and enjoy an afternoon strolling past the art galleries in town, ranked as one of the top five art markets in the country, before meeting your fellow travellers for a dinner this evening to kick off your US National Park tour. Meet your Travel Director at 18:00
Day 2: Go Wild In Grand Teton National Park
See Grand Teton National Park with the shimmering peaks of the Teton range rising up above alpine forests and lakes. The park is famous for its 45-mile-long Teton Mountain Range, including eight peaks over 3,658 m (12,001 ft) in elevation. Several glacier carved lakes dominate the park's landscape, Jenny Lake being the most popular. Grand Teton is a top-notch destination for wildlife sightings including black bears, grey wolves, eagles and elk. This afternoon, opt to sail into the sky on an aerial tram ride to the peak of Rendezvous Mountain offering 360-degree views of the Tetons, Jackson Hole and the Snake River Valley.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
Jackson Aerial Tramway Ticket - $64 pp
There’s no better way to take in the Tetons, Jackson Hole, the Snake River Valley, Grand Teton National Park and the summit of the Grand Teton than with Jackson Hole Aerial Tram. Your 12-minute trip takes you 4,139 vertical feet to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain offering staggering 360-degree views of the surrounding region. On arrival, take a leisurely stroll along one of the main mountain trails or indulge in world-famous gourmet waffles in Corbet’s Cabin.
Day 3: Delve Into The Wild Scenery Of The West
This morning, opt to get on the water for a Snake River Float Adventure. Grand Teton National Park promised mountain peaks, lakes and forests. Explore the alpine landscapes, keeping your camera at hand to capture the picturesque backdrop of the 40-mile long Teton Mountain Range for today's drive. See parts of Yellowstone's lower loop before arriving in West Yellowstone, the gateway to the world's oldest national park and a boon for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
Snake River Float Trip Through Grand Teton National Park - $115 pp
Ready for relaxation? This gentle 10-mile float trip inside Grand Teton National Park covers the most scenic stretch of the Snake River in the Jackson Hole Valley. As you kick back on the gentle waters, learn how the Snake River is a lifeline to the park’s bison, elk, moose, beaver, pronghorn, deer, bear and 300 different species of birds, including osprey and eagles. Your experienced guide offers in-depth information on the geology of the Grand Tetons and the habitats of the local animals.
Day 4: Admire The Geysers Of Yellowstone
See how Yellowstone, America's first National Park, is in a league of its own. From over 500 spouting geysers and bubbling mud pots to turquoise hot springs, this geothermal wonderland is an endless playground. Pay a visit to Old Faithful, watching as its geysers arc high into the air. Stop at more photo-worthy sights including Canyon Village, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Hayden Valley. Have your eagle eyes ready as you try to spot the park’s resident bison, grizzlies and elk while navigating scenic drives and valleys.
Day 5: Salt Lake City and Swore Farms
Get ready for a taste of all things local on your US National Park tour on your journey to Salt Lake City with a stop in Pocatello for a special Be My Guest experience at Swore Farms. At this family owned and operated farm, meet Wendy, mother, farmer and award-winning author for a tour of the farm and greenhouses followed by lunch. Discover the secrets of Wendy’s family's passion for farming and living a rural lifestyle before travelling south. In Utah’s capital, the center of the Mormon religion, delve into history at the Salt Lake City Temple Square and explore on your own. This evening, join your fellow travellers for dinner.
Day 6: Unmask Bryce Canyon National Park
Explore the eerie hoodoo spires of Bryce Canyon National Park in one of the country’s most remarkable landscapes. Admire its deep canyons, juniper pine trees and secret hideaways in an amphitheatre of rusty red, pink and orange limestone spires. This evening, take the opportunity to explore the charming town of Springdale at your leisure. Nestled at the gateway of Zion National Park, this picturesque town is surrounded by towering red cliffs that creating a stunning natural backdrop.
Day 7: A Scenic Ride Through Zion Canyon
Zion Canyon promised soaring canyon walls and the winding Virgin River, and your private tram ride along the valley floor will have you delving into some of the park's most treasured spots. Next up, we stop at the Desert Viewpoint for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience to support the development of the Intertribal Cultural Heritage Site. You'll explore the exhibits that highlight the stories, traditions, and knowledge of local tribes. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the profound bond between the 11 Grand Canyon tribal communities and the canyon, along with its surrounding lands. You day ends with a Stays with Stories experience at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel in historic Williams just steps away from Route 66.
Day 8: Visit the Grand Canyon
Visit one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Grand Canyon National Park. Experience the park on an optional morning flightseeing ride. Then, take in views on the ground as you learn about this natural spectacle. Celebrate your journey with dinner at Fred Harvey restaurant. Enjoy the restaurant’s railroad atmosphere complete with entrées inspired by recipes used on classic American railroads.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
North Canyon Tour Helicopter Flight, Bell Aircraft (25 minutes) - $299 pp
The Grand Canyon opens up before you on a memorable helicopter experience over its southern and northern rims. After flying over the Kaibab National Forest, enter the Dragon Corridor - the deepest and widest part of the Grand Canyon. Marvel at the canyon's legendary beauty through the specially designed oversized windows of your helicopter. Have your camera ready to capture the colourful stone walls and sweeping vistas surrounding you. Fly over the mighty Colorado River toward the canyon's rugged North Rim and soar along with rock formations, including the Tower of Ra and Vishnu Schist.
Grand Kingdom EcoStar Helicopter Flight (40 minutes) - $419 pp
Soar across the canyon rim on a helicopter flight, watching as the bottom seemingly drops out from under your feet. Gaze deep into the core of the canyon over 5,000 feet down to the confluence of the Little Colorado River. Then drift past Imperial Point - a rugged spire standing alone near the North Rim of the Canyon. Flying at the same altitude as the North Rim, you may feel you can reach out and touch the canyon walls. Then head back to Grand Canyon South Rim via the Dragon Corridor, another of the Grand Canyon's most picturesque sections.
Grand Discovery Air Tour South Rim - Fixed Wing Aircraft Flight (45 minutes) - $199 pp
here’s no better way to experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon South Rim than on a fascinating aerial tour offering unobstructed views. Sit back and feel the thrill of this Natural Wonder as you fly over the Kaibab National Forest, Kaibab Plateau, Confluence of Colorado, Little Colorado River, Imperial Point and Zuni Corridor.
Day 9: One Last Scenic Desert Drive
You’re treated to a classic road trip on iconic Route 66. Slice through desert landscapes bound for the desert playground of Las Vegas where you will be transferred to Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport or consider extending your US National Park tour. Arrive at the airport at 13:00.
Includes
- 8 nights in handpicked 3 & 4 star hotels in great locations
- Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
- 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
- Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
Excludes
- Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
- Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
- Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour
Choose Your Departure Date
Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?
A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.
The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.
The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.
YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.
What does the tour cost include?
The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.
Can i book flights through you?
Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines.
When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for any flight requirements.
You are, of course, welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.
Can i add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?
Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.
Can i book twin beds or triple/quad rooms?
Yes, we have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.
If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.
For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.
For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.
How much is the solo/single supplement?
Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
How many guests will be on this tour?
Trafalgar welcomes guests from all over the world to have an amazing, shared travel experience. While we can’t share details of who you’ll be travelling with and how many people are on your tour in advance of your tour, you can see our average group sizes below. You’ll meet your group at your tour welcome when you start your trip.
Europe trips: An average of 40 to 45 guests and a maximum of 53
United States and Canada trips: A maximum of 52 guests
Australia and New Zealand trips: A maximum of 50 guests
Asia trips (except Sri Lanka): A maximum of 32 guests
Sri Lanka trips: A maximum of 48 guests
Africa trips: A maximum of 36 guests
Latin America trips: A maximum of 40 to 45 guests
How much walking will be on this tour?
With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.
Leisurely: Tours will typically have 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.
Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.
Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.
Do your coaches have on-board wifi and bathroom faclilites?
Regardless of where in the world your tour visits, we do our best to ensure your coach is as comfortable as it can be. However, there can be differences depending on where in the world you're visiting:
Europe, North & South America, Australia & New Zealand trips:-
We pride ourselves on having the best-in-class fleet of fuel-efficient coaches. The high vantage point from your coach’s window means you can take in all the glorious scenery, whether it’s a vast rural landscape or an urban city centre. Facilities you’ll enjoy are:
- Reclining seats
- An on-board restroom
- Charging points (please note that these are power points, and not USBs)
- WiFi
- Air-conditioning
Africa & Asia trips:-
Africa and Asia tour vehicles do not have Wi-Fi. On Asia trips, there are no onboard rest rooms, but we always ensure there are regular rest stops.
Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?
Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.
Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.
Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.
We suggest that your insurance covers the following:
- Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
- Loss or damage to your property and baggage
- Loss of cash, credit cards etc
- Medical costs and personal accidents
Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.
Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel.
Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.
What does a guaranteed departure mean?
A guaranteed departure means the tour will operate no matter how many people are booked to travel on that departure.
In the slim case that a guaranteed departure you are booked on has to be withdrawn due to unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid, or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.
What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.
Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.
USA trips incl transiting travellers:
US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Canada trips:
Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.
Rest of the World trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
What if I have mobility issues?
Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.
What if I have food allergies?
Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.
You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.
How much luggage can I bring?
Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in).
In addition guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).
Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.