Trek America: Canyons & National Parks

Marin Popa   -  Traveled, November 2023

A trip to remember The itinerary was very well-balanced, including a combination of various sightseeing and walks. For us, first-time visitors to these parts of the USA, every day brought something new and amazing, and we enjoyed it thoroughly. Mike, our guide, is a consummate professional – he ensured everything went like clockwork and without doubts or worries, he gave us all the information we needed, told us in an attractive storytelling manner short historical, geographical, and social narratives, enabling us to understand better the places we saw. His permanent optimism and sense of humor made everything look easy and every minute pleasant and worth remembering. The whole atmosphere was relaxing and as magical as the sites we visited. Thanks! Suggestions for improving the experience: 1. It should be noted that the seats in the van are quite narrow, especially in the last row. There were 11 of us and we fit in the van relatively comfortably. A party of 13 would feel very tight, especially on the longer drives. 2. The best accommodations were in Tonopah and Zion. I understand that there are few other options in most of the locations, but at the price we paid, better motels would have been welcomed. Sorry if I seem a bit picky – all in all, it was a trip to remember, an experience of a lifetime.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/24/2023

Carolyn Smith   -  Traveled, April 2023

Review is western explorer trip Very well chosen set of destinations, excellent guide. Informative, helpful, attentive and dynamic Most Inspirational Moment Hike up vernal falls waterfall in Yosemite with assistance from guide Thoughts on Group Leader See earlier - informative, helpful, attentive and dynamic. Competent response to unexpected events - flexible and responsive to group Advice for Potential Travellers Book alternative hotel to OYO at close of trip in Law Vegas. Because this was terminus of trip we thought hotel had been vetted - found it shabby and somewhat dirty.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/20/2023

Gordon McGowan   -  Traveled, May 2024

Canyons and National Parks Review This was a great trip, made better by a fantastic guide who went out of her way to ensure everyone had a great time. Most Inspirational Moment An evening with the Navajo, learning their history and experiencing their culture Thoughts on Group Leader Great, she is one of the best guides I have had, and worked very hard to ensure that everyone had a great experience. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for a great holiday, America isn't cheap but the views and experience is worth it.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/27/2024

John Armstrong   -  Traveled, June 2022

Fantastic variety of parks with great company First time using Exodus which we found to be a great experience from start to finish, with the online presentations during covid giving us confidence in the company and were also extremely inspirational. Our meetup for the briefing at the start of the trip gave us the opportunity to get to know our fellow travelers and cement the bonding of the group. Most Inspirational Moment Whilst hiking up Lembert Dome in Yosemite we were on the verge of deciding it was too much for us when our guide, who had had to escort other members of the party back to a easier route, suddenly appeared to advise us on the correct line of assent and also the technique to enable us to get to the top. This was not the only time that Jay appeared out of nowhere as he was also assisting the various levels in our group to achieve the maximum of their capabilities. Each park is fantastic in different ways, whether it be the enormity of Yosemite, the fun of the narrows in Zion, the hoodoo's of Bryce, the throwback to the westerns in Monument Valley, the grandeur of Grand Canyon and not forgetting the ridiculous heat of death valley. Thoughts on Group Leader Jay was an excellent group leader with his primary priority being the safety of the group. Jay also astounded us with his depth of knowledge on so many different aspects, whether it be geology, astrology or general useful information. Not forgetting his two other main interests (loves?) of music and beer (not necessarily in that order). Many different versions and styles of Route 66 as a example! He was such great fun and so easy to get along with. The fact that he must have driven about two thousand miles whilst keeping us entertained is a testament to his love of the job and stamina. He was also required to accommodate the different expectations and abilities of the group, which he proved he was up to. Advice for Potential Travellers Although classified as cultural in the brochure, travelers do require a certain amount of fitness over uneven terrain to ensure they can make the most of the fantastic scenery and enormity of the parks. Also be aware that wifi is sketchy and insecure in places i.e. not password protected, so be careful if required to make financial transactions.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/12/2022

Catherine Arter   -  Traveled, July 2019

A wonderful trip! I travelled with my 23 yr old daughter and we had a great time. Lots of superlatives which have been covered by reviewers below, so I will not repeat them, but suffice to say that this trip exceeded both our expectations in terms of the amazing variation in landscape in the iconic National Parks visited, and the diversity of activities – ranging from exciting hikes, to laying on the ground in Death Valley looking at the Night Sky. Never a dull moment – and our guide inserted little surprises at regular intervals. Most Inspirational Moment Perhaps meeting our inspirational Navajo guide in Monument Valley and learning about her childhood and culture. But lots to inspire both of us .... Thoughts on Group Leader Joseph Spaid was an incredible leader. He was so knowledgable, approachable, engaging and fun. He was very interesting to chat to, and worked so hard to make sure everyone’s needs were met. We were quite a disparate crowd of 11, some very experienced hikers, others recovering from recent injury, but he found ways to embrace that - I wish I had his energy! Advice for Potential Travellers Take a brolly as sun shade for Death Valley! And rehydration tabs/powder when it's really hot. We all used it and had no problem with overheating even in August. You get dusty walking so plenty of walking gear - it is a busy trip and there wasn’t much time for washing. I was pleased to have my poles in Zion and the Grand Canyon for long (albeit beautiful) uphill stretches. I would definitely advise a few days in San Francisco before joining the trip. It is an incredible city. Our flight from Heathrow was delayed by 28 hours, so we missed one of our three planned days, but we still were well able to meet up with the Group on Sunday. Las Vegas didn’t appeal to us, so we didn’t stay at the end, and we in time to fly out on the same night. The helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon was just extraordinary!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/23/2019

Graham Halcrow   -  Traveled, May 2018

The National Parks Very busy , hugely interesting itinerary. Some quite breathtaking scenery, with opportunities for physical activity in order to experience it more fully. Very good tour leader, experienced, knowledgeable and well organised. Tour group (9 of us) , various ages and experiences, combined well. A great experience. Most Inspirational Moment Hard to pick one particular moment or event. Perhaps the experience of Yosemite: view of the valley from Glacier Point, variety of hikes, and also appreciating the national park beyond the valley itself. Thoughts on Group Leader Very good. See above. Advice for Potential Travellers Some long days in the bus, but that doesn't have to be a problem- it can just mean that you see more.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/23/2018

Catherine .   -  Traveled, September 2017

ncredibly impressed As a family we have done many trips with Exodus in Africa (various countries), Canada and most recently my parents attended the Western Explorers trip in America to see Yosemite, Bryce Canyon and The Grand Canyon which Exodus arrange in partnership with Grand American Adventures. We have always found Exodus trips to be incredibly well planned and organised, ensuring that you see the very best parts of the areas you are visiting in the timescales available. The trips are ideal because there is no hassle involved for the traveller and you are guaranteed to meet like-minded people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy the experiences with. This particular trip was no exception. I write this review however to say a huge thanks to both Exodus and Grand American Adventures as they were absolutely fantastic to my parents and the family back home in England when my father suffered a serious and unexpected illness and had to be rushed to hospital. With specific mentions to Bethany, Monica and the tour guide Charlie, who all went out of their ways to ensure that lines of communication between us, the insurance company and the hospital were clear and effective, to provide my parents with support and to give the family back home piece of mind at what was a very difficult time for us. We will be forever grateful. There is absolutely no doubt that you will be in safe hands with this team. Most Inspirational Moment . Thoughts on Group Leader . Advice for Potential Travellers

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/23/2017

Ruth Foreman   -  Traveled, April 2017

Western Explorer depart 30 April Overall an excellent trip. There are a couple of full days driving but this is necessary to cover the number of locations in the itinery Most Inspirational Moment The waterfalls in Yosemite Advice for Potential Travellers Before booking, consider travelling a couple of days early so you have time to explore San Fransisco - my flight arrived mid afternoon which left no time for that. Similarly, as there is not an overnight stay in Las Vegas at the end, you may want to consider staying on as my departure flight left only a couple of hours mid afternoon in the city.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/21/2017

Vernon Deymos   -  Traveled, December 2016

Mr If you love seeing spectacular natural wonders and also see some amazing cities, this trip is for you. Most Inspirational Moment Driving on Xmas Day in the heavy snow and blue skies from Zion to Bryce Canyon. The amazing views got even better in the snow! It was my first white Xmas as well. Thoughts on Group Leader He was kind, friendly, courteous and professional. Advice for Potential Travellers The tour does not leave much time to explore San Francisco and Las Vegas. I recommend arriving a few days before and/or staying a few days after the tour ends for city sightseeing.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 01/23/2017

Graham Wright   -  Traveled, September 2016

Western Explorer USA A remarkable experience giving tasters of 5 quite unique National Parks. The group is small enough to give freedom to explore each area according to ability and fitness levels by oneself or in small subgroups. A lot of travelling but the views are worth it. Accommodation excellent although the facilities were not always used due to a packed timetable. People need to be aware of early morning starts to make the most of the day if walking as we experienced unusually high temperatures at the end of the season with no rain. There was sufficient freedom to choose whether to eat in the evenings with other members or in subgroups. The included activities added to the experience and were well worth it. Optional activities were available and wide ranging. Most Inspirational Moment Each area was so unique and an unexpected contrast with each other. Yosemite was spectacular and Death Valley at -282ft below sea level with a temperature of 110F was impressive compared to 3 days later in Bryce Canyon at 8300ft with the onset of ice on the upper trail. Bryce itself was so mystical and fantastic to walk through the Hoodoos. Zion was so superb especially in the evening sun and the views from Angels Landing are something to behold if one has no fear of heights. Monument Valley- conjures up all the old westerns and other films that have used the setting for backdrops and just to immerse yourself in the Grand Canyon is all that needs to be said as words can not do it justification. Fortunately, the stays in cities were short for me as I am not a city person, but one feels compelled to just wander down the Las Vegas boulevard for a complete contrast- the loudness and brashness could not be so far removed from ones previous experiences the days preceding. Thoughts on Group Leader Ron Prince was consummately friendly, courteous, professional and full of good advice, information on what to see and where to go. He was well informed on historical and cultural issues. He was available when needed to offer any assistance but was also able to protect himself and have free time so as he could pace himself for a very packed two weeks. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for early starts. Be sensible about your walking/hiking abilities in areas that are far greater and higher than what most people are used to and especially be aware of the dry heat that builds up throughout the day. We were fortunate with the weather but it can change very quickly and flash floods have been known to occur in some of the areas visited.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/03/2016

Paul Gofton   -  Traveled, May 2016

Western Explorer A wonderful trip with each day having numerous wow moments. Most Inspirational Moment Difficult to pick just one but the most unexpected was the walk down Antelope slot canyon and photographing the spectacular colours and shades on the rock that the sunlight cast. Also the 4x4 drive in Monument valley with the Navajo tribe a place I have always wanted to visit. Thoughts on Group Leader Erin was excellent. She had a couple of long days driving but still had loads of energy. She had a good knowledge of the places we visited, had plenty of suggestions for our free days and tried to vary the places we ate at. Advice for Potential Travellers If you are planning on spending extra time in San Francisco at the start then there is no need to visit the Golden Gate bridge. On the first actual day of the trip the minibus deposits you at the bridge and allows you time to walk across before collecting you from the other side. Don't expect any time to visit / see Hoover dam, due to security restrictions meaning all our bags would have had to be searched we did not stop. Although we did visit Glen Canyon dam which is a similar structure and size earlier on the trip There are a couple of long days travelling one of which is around 7 hours, however there are numerous stops and videos to watch also the time seems to pass quickly when looking at the scenery. The earliest we set off in the morning was 7. All the accommodation was good with the 2 nights at Zion particularly good

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/21/2016

Derek Gott   -  Traveled, October 2015

Western Explorer There are some long drives but the scenery is awesome and we were fortunate getting day after day of warm sunshine. Most Inspirational Moment There were several. Seeing El Capitan and Half Dome again after 33 years. Climbing to Angels Landing in Zion NP. Seeing the Hoodoos at Bryce Canyon. The Navajo experience at Monument Valley and descending to Plateau Point in the incomparable Grand Canyon. Thoughts on Group Leader We had a different leader each week. Both of them were very good. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for some long days travelling and carry plenty of water. Eating out is a great pleasure but allow for the 18%tips.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/27/2015

Anonymous   -  Traveled, June 2015

The Wide Wild West by Mike Giles When we started serious travel over 20 years ago the USA was never near the top of our agenda, to be honest it was never on our original list of must see places at all. However with the developing world reasonably well covered our time had come to visit our cousins across the pond. We started our holiday with a couple of added days in San Francisco. Highly recommended. It is a city easily negotiated with local transport and there are sights not to be missed. You can reach the Golden Gate Bridge from the city centre using local buses, ask for a transfer and, if a senior, accept a substantial discount and proffered seat. A return walk across the 1.7 mile span of the bridge is invigorating and gives magnificent views of the harbour. Have care for the trendy cyclists who, head down, pedal the pathway looking only to knock seconds off a previous best. Cable Cars are a nostalgic way of getting to and around downtown, the boardwalks and Chinatown. The Californian line, which is the least crowded, ends close to the Holiday Inn where day passes can be purchased. With stops every couple of blocks you can hop on and hold on as the locals always did but expect to queue in the most popular spots. The National Parks visited on the tour are magnificent and each very different with a range of walks and activities to be savoured individually depending upon fitness and ability. We cannot, as others, tell of the elation of reaching Angels Landing, wallowing waist deep in the Zion Narrows or descending perilous tracks into deep canyons. However we can recount we had some wonderful peaceful hikes in breath-taking locations at our own pace and distance. Free shuttle buses are operated by park authorities which make it possible to link easy-going and moderate hiking routes to viewpoints and to otherwise enjoy full days in the park. Monument Valley, Death Valley, Lakes, Dams and the sheer magnificence of scenery just kept rolling out ahead of us as we journeyed on through what is really just a small part of the west of this immense country. We are not hedonistic travellers, preferring natural wonders and historic edifices of an ancient world than modernity, so Las Vegas held little lure for us but we were to be dumfounded by its temples devoted to Lady Luck. Based in a prestigious central hotel we were well placed to explore every other luxurious resort on The Strip. We went to Paris, Venice, Rome and Egypt all in the course of one day and two evenings. Each vista faithfully reconstructed with no expense spared, such are the profits of the relentless gaming which epitomises this city. Unbelievable! We just loved it! The final day was a drive across desert to Los Angeles where this particular trip ended at Custom Hotel LAX with an immediate evening flight for UK participants. Again we added to the schedule, pre-booked two nights there and once more made use of local transport. We joined the old hippies and young things at Santa Monica Pier, the end of Route 66, and also chilled out on Venice Beach and Boardwalk. 'They playing our song Gal?' 'Yea Man!' Most Inspirational Moment Monument Valley is truly inspirational but the Grand Canyon however must be our highlight, it is after all, well, much grander than the others. Awesome! You will hear this said a lot on your travels but this is really what the word is all about. You may feel the helicopter trip is a very expensive option but we took it, really enjoyed it and have no doubts whatsoever as to money well spent. Thoughts on Group Leader On these trips driver and courier are one, not an easy role with many long day's driving followed by checking in and admin procedures. Ron Prince was a safe and patient driver and organised the days well. He periodically stopped at (super)markets so that we could buy breakfast foods, drinks etc. whilst he shopped with the luncheon kitty. This made a great difference to the economies of the trip and the daily picnics he planned became a feature of each journey. Advice for Potential Travellers If there are two things we UK travellers cannot get our heads round its bargaining and tipping. The good news is you don't bargain in the West except perhaps at a local Trading Post, but then why just hit on the indigenous people? However tipping is a part of a culture you must quickly embrace especially in the leisure industry, where staff who provide services essential to your trip are poorly paid. Simply put, it is the anticipation of a generous tip which elicits the high standard of service which exists and conversely it is deserved. Not to adequately tip your waiter, maid, driver etc. on the basis of personal economy is both unfair and insulting. Unless of course you have had poor service in which case it is customary to say why you think this is so.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/08/2015

Sandra Smith   -  Traveled, April 2015

Western Explorer This was an amazing trip. The scenery was outstanding and became unbelievably more so on each successive day. The unexpected snow both in Yosemite and at Grand Canyon added to our excitement rather than dampen our spirits and although we were disappointed not to fly over the Canyon due to weather conditions, it was still a wonderful holiday. Most Inspirational Moment The fantastic shapes of the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon. were so out-of-this-world and Monument Valley brought back lovely memories fo the old Westerns we used to watch as kids. Thoughts on Group Leader Our leader did everything to make our trip as good as it was. She was a great driver and organizer as well as being knowledgable about the places we passed through. She was also caring and fun. Advice for Potential Travellers Take layers because the weather is unpredictable especially in the mountains, whatever the season.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/21/2015

Stephen Low   -  Traveled, April 2014

Incredible views, great food and wonderful memories! This was an incredible trip which exceeded my expectations! The National Parks on the itinerary were all places I’d wanted to visit for a long, long time but actually visiting them was much more impressive than I had imagined. Often this was due to the scale of these natural wonders which you just can’t get a sense of in photographs or it was due to the varying colours of the rocks such as in Zion or the Grand Canyon which made the views all the more enjoyable. Unfortunately when we visited Yosemite there were forest fires nearby and the smoke spoiled some of the views but luckily the park itself remained open! Yes there are some long drives but the varying landscapes, regular stops for photos or snacks, WiFi, good conversation and a wide range of music available on the tour leader’s iPhone all made them pass fairly quickly. It’s a fairly busy itinerary but I did feel it provided enough time in each place to really get a ‘feel’ for them! The vast majority of restaurants I ate in were terrific (be prepared for large potions), the standard of hotels was very high and it was a great group of people to be on holiday with! Most Inspirational Moment It's difficult to choose as there were many but sunrise at the Grand Canyon was very unique as you could watch the many ridges in the canyon gradually catch the light until the whole view was illuminated and then take an early morning hike! Thoughts on Group Leader Lana did a terrific job - she was always full of energy and happy to answer questions! She strived to make sure we all had a great experience whilst on the trip and organised everything very well! Advice for Potential Travellers If you can, spend a day or two in San Francisco prior to the trip starting and if you plan on visiting Alcatraz be sure to book tickets as far in advance as you can. I'd also recommend hiring a bike and cycling over the Golden Gate bridge. Some days on the trip we started fairly early in the morning so be prepared for those.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/31/2014

Anonymous   -  Traveled, April 2013

NATIONAL PARKS OF THE WEST I think it’s a privilege to have had the opportunity to visit and hike in these breathtakingly beautiful and awe-inspiring locations. An amazing trip that I really can’t recommend highly enough. Most Inspirational Moment Gosh, there were several! Yosemite is just so beautiful and idyllic - I had been before but I still found it stunning.I really hadn't been sure if I would be able to brace myself to make it to the top of Angel's Landing in Zion National Park, but I did, and the spectacular view at the top was a wonderful reward!Wading in the Narrows at Zion National Park was a very memorable experience - a beautiful setting and the water was lovely (after the initially quite bracing sensation of stepping into it!).Monument Valley is as amazing as you hope it will be, given what a familiar location it is from films and TV. The jeep tour followed by dinner with the Navajo is extremely enjoyable, inspiring and fun. How can you beat sitting outside under the stars eating dinner by a campfire in Monument Valley?!The Grand Canyon: even standing there in person, looking at it in the sunset, I still found it hard to truly get my head around the sheer scale and beauty of it. The true meaning of the adjective 'awesome' has been somewhat undermined as it used too lightly now, but in the case of The Grand Canyon, it truly is legitimate to describe it as 'awesome'. Thoughts on Group Leader Alex Yakshe was great fun, very organized, well informed and keen to ensure that we were all having the best-possible holiday experience. In a group you are always going to get varying tastes and interests, and he did everything that he could to accommodate different requests and/or suggestions.People on holiday tend to put their brains into a bit of a 'powered-down setting', and for my own part I appreciated that he seemed to be completely un-phased by having to explain things more than once (or twice, or three times...!).Alex has an infectious enthusiasm and energy, and I surprised myself by willingly waking very early to greet several sunrises. I'm not usually much of a morning person but it was undoubtedly worth it and in fact I would highly recommend it! It was pretty cool to get to attend a rodeo one evening, and also very educational.Importantly, he regularly emphasized safety considerations and taking the right kit with us, and we were well drilled in keeping ourselves properly hydrated - very important in the kinds of conditions that we were often hiking in. Advice for Potential Travellers Take aqua shoes or water-proof sandals so that you do have the option to wade in the Narrows at Zion National Park. You couldn't do it without appropriate footwear and it is a lovely experience.Remember to take a spare camera battery or camera-battery charger, and a spare memory card (or a memory card with *a lot* of capacity) as you will want to take many, many photos! If you are considering whether or not to do this trip - DO IT!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/19/2013

Anonymous   -  Traveled, August 2012

NATIONAL PARKS OF THE WEST This holiday exceeded our expectations. It was, as advertised, busy, spectacular, very varied, and shared by a terrific group of people. Our accommodation was great, and even the long travelling days were lightened by visits to interesting places on the way. Most Inspirational Moment Bryce Canyon, a place I have wanted to see for many yéars, was breathtaking; the colours and shadows ever changing with the different quality of light. Hugging a bristle cone pine was a long-held ambition and I achieved it!! Clambering up to Angel's Landing was the scariest thing I have ever done, so I'm not sure that it was inspirational, perhaps just foolhardy! Thoughts on Group Leader Brendan was a superb and efficient leader, aware of our needs as a group, and sensitive to individual needs. He went out of his way to take us to interesting places, such as star-gazing away from any source of light, and really wanted us to see the very best of his country. He was enthusiastic, generous with information about all the places we went to, a really good and careful driver, and on top of that had a good sense of humour and fun. His organisation of picnic lunches, hotel keys etc. was second to none, and he was universally appreciated and liked. In short, he could not have been bettered! Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for a very full and busy schedule, as stated in the trip notes. There are some early starts. At this time of year,ie October, heed the advice about about taking and wearing layers, as we encountered frost and snow as well as warm conditions. At times, the day-time temperature was hot, but when the sun went in, it got very cold, so carry extra layers while walking.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/04/2012

Anonymous   -  Traveled, April 2011

NATIONAL PARKS OF THE WEST A packed two weeks seeing the highlights of and hiking in the National Parks of Yosemite, Zion Canyon, Bryce Canyon and the Navajo Nation lands of Monument Valley, finally ending up at the Grand Canyon. The variation and beauty of all the sites made the few long journey days well worth while. Most Inspirational Moment All the hikes were excellent but for me the hike up to Angel's Landing was the most inspirational moment, mainly because I was very apprehensive about the sheer drops and very nearly didn't do it. Even the shuttle commentary mentioned the occasional deaths! Thoughts on Group Leader Top guy and guide. I felt that he really wanted us to get the maximum value out of the trip. He organised the most delicious 'proper picnics' and each evening invited us to reflect on the day over 'adult beverages'-this was very popular! Advice for Potential Travellers Expect a couple of longish transit days and come prepared for a range of temperatures.Before we went we booked a show in Las Vegas for the last night and really

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/12/2011

Jonathan Fryer   -  Traveled, June 2014

Western Explorer A taste of many things! A time to walk alone and travel together. What a great way to discover Western USA. From walking the Golden Gate Bridge with clear blue skies to the ‘awesome’ view from Angel’s Landing in Zion Valley. From the unforgettable moment you reach the rim of Bryce Canyon to the madness of Las Vegas. As a sworn-in Ranger (a very rigorous assessment) I feel qualified to recommend this trip to those who love variety and do not want to sit on a beach and roast. Fantastic. Most Inspirational Moment Looking over the edge of Bryce Canyon was wonderful OR the precarious climb up to Angel's Landing and then just looking... Thoughts on Group Leader Devon was very informative and patient. He had a great sense of humour and was passionate about his country. He even tried to teach me the rules and tactics of baseball - what a sport (him, that is). He adjusted the schedule to allow us see a few extra sites. He even even had a word with an obliging barman who slid a glass cold turkey down the bar for me to catch. He was my 'dad'. Devon deserves a pay rise. Advice for Potential Travellers Packing and unpacking frequently does not suit all travellers and many hours on the road can be uncomfortable. It terms of money, is important to allow for tips. The cost of tips took some of us by surprise. Top up with water whenever you can (our guide was excellent at reminding us). When you've taken the trouble to save up, book and travel, do everything.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/02/2014

Anonymous   -  Traveled, October 2013

WESTERN EXPLORER Ever changing scenery even made the travelling seem to pass by quicker than on other trips. A real variety of landscapes and colours with options for walking depending on individual wishes. All the scenery from the ‘Westerns’ and more. Wherever we went the views were fantastic. Hotels good and the outdoor lunches (and the evening barbecue) inspired by our tour guide were just right for the settings. Most Inspirational Moment Having avoided looking at pictures before going, the evening view from the rim of Bryce Canyon is unbelievable and unforgettable. Views stretch the equivalent of north London to the south coast! We weren't planning on taking the helicopter ride at the Grand Canyon but the closure of the National Parks (this was the only one we missed) prompted us to take the plunge. Even flying over the canyon it is impossible to take in the scale and to realise the river is a mile below. The change in the vegetation coming from the Sierra Nevada to Mono Lake, with its tufa rocks and wildlife, was almost instantaneous and summed up the trip in terms of the ever changing scenery. The trip around Monument Valley with the Navajo guide was all that was expected from the films. Thoughts on Group Leader Rebecca was full of enthusiasm and sought to meet everyone's needs. She did a sterling job as driver (safe and comfortable), guide, luggage handler, hotel booker inner, lunch organiser etc., etc. Advice for Potential Travellers Very limited time in San Francisco so worth considering travelling a day or two beforehand. The National Park walks are at a fairly high altitude so be aware of this for both for breathing and temperature.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/26/2013