5 Day Tour L. Angeles Las Vegas Yellowstone & Grand Teton from LA

If you’re considering a multi-day adventure that takes you from the bustling streets of Los Angeles through stunning deserts, and then into the heart of America’s national parks, this 5-day tour from LA promises a mix of iconic sights, natural beauty, and some memorable experiences. While not perfect, it could be a solid choice if you’re after a guided, organized trip that hits major highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we like about this tour? First, the stunning scenery — especially spots like Antelope Canyon and the Grand Teton. Second, the knowledgeable guides that many reviews praise, making the long drives more engaging. However, one caveat is the cost, which includes additional fees not typically included in the initial price, and some travelers have expressed concerns about the overall value.

This tour might appeal most to those who value guided experiences, want to see key sights without the planning hassle, and are comfortable with group travel. If you’re okay with some compromises on comfort or pace, it can be an efficient way to cover a lot of ground in a short time.

Key Points

• Includes major highlights like Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton.
• Guided tour ensures you won’t have to worry about navigation or logistics.
• Additional fees for park admissions and services are required on top of the base price.
• Long days with busy schedules are typical, so be prepared for early starts.
• Hotel accommodations are basic but generally decent, with options for larger groups.
• Group size is capped at 55 travelers, balancing social experience with comfort.
• Travelers’ reviews mention knowledgeable guides and stunning views as highlights.
• Cost is around $878 per person, but expect to pay extra for park fees and optional services.
• Best suited for travelers looking for a quick, all-included overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Los Angeles to Las Vegas and St. George

Your adventure begins early in LA, departing around 7:00 am. The drive takes you through the Mojave Desert, a landscape dotted with characteristic Joshua trees. It’s a stark, almost surreal landscape that many find captivating. The journey is about eight hours, so expect a fair amount of time on the bus, but the scenery does make it pass quicker.

Arriving in Las Vegas around noon, you’ll get a quick glimpse of the city’s famous skyline — though this tour doesn’t include time to explore the Strip deeply. Afterward, the group continues eastward to St. George, Utah, where you’ll stay overnight. The overnight stop offers a chance to rest before the busy days ahead.

Day 2: Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

The highlight of the second day is the visit to Lower Antelope Canyon in Arizona. This slot canyon is renowned for its wave-like structure and light beams filtering through narrow openings. Expect about 1.5 hours here, including the guided walk. The canyon is on Navajo land, and the tour is included in your price, offering a hassle-free experience.

Next, you’ll pass by Glen Canyon, where Lake Powell resides, and then stop at Horseshoe Bend. The view here is truly striking — a river curves into a perfect horseshoe shape, dropping 1,000 feet into the canyon below. The stop lasts about an hour, giving you time to take photos and soak in the scenery.

Day 3: Jackson, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone

The third day kicks off with a drive to Jackson, Wyoming. Here, Jackson’s Elk Antler Arches and charming town square set a Western tone. After exploring Jackson, you’ll head into Grand Teton National Park. The scenic loop drive offers fantastic mountain vistas, alpine lakes, and wildlife sightings.

Later, the group visits Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the US. You’ll stop at the West Thumb Geyser Basin for around 40 minutes, observing geothermal features and bubbling mud pots. The day ends with a hotel check-in in the nearby area, with accommodations depending on your specific check-in date.

Day 4: Full Day in Yellowstone

This is your most extended Yellowstone day, with about 7 hours to explore its highlights. The itinerary includes Norris Geyser Basin, Upper Falls, Artist Point, Hayden Valley, Mud Volcano, and Yellowstone Lake. The park’s geothermal activity and vast landscapes are the main attractions, and your guide will help you navigate the best spots.

You’ll also visit Yellowstone Bear World — a drive-thru wildlife park that offers a chance to see animals like bears and elk in a more natural setting, though this is an optional add-on.

Day 5: Yellowstone and Return

Your last day covers more of Yellowstone, including the famous Old Faithful Geyser and the colorful Fountain Paint Pot. Expect to see geysers erupting predictably and pools of bubbling mud.

Afterward, the tour wraps up with a visit to the Great Salt Lake in Utah, an interesting inland saltwater body that is the largest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. This short stop rounds out the trip, and the group is expected to be back at Salt Lake City Airport by late afternoon or early evening.

Practical Considerations

Transportation is via a bus that varies depending on group size; many travelers comment on the comfort level, noting that the long drives are inevitable but manageable with good guides. The group size is capped at 55, which helps balance social interaction with comfort.

Hotels are based on double beds and can accommodate up to four guests per room. While reviews mention they are decent, some note that costs for additional services or fees are extra. One reviewer pointed out the $377 service fee and park admission fees are not included in the upfront price, which is important to budget for.

Timing is tight, with early departures and busy days. Be prepared for long hours in the bus and some early mornings. The itinerary is flexible, but the company reschedules or adjusts based on weather and other factors, which can alter plans slightly.

Guides receive mixed reviews, but many say guides are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the experience. Some reviews mention language barriers or communication issues, but most found the guides helpful and engaging.

Cost: At around $878 per person, this includes transportation, hotel stays, entry to key parks, and some attractions. However, additional expenses such as park fees, optional activities, and meals are on you, so budget accordingly.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see top sights without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s best suited to those comfortable with long bus rides and a packed schedule. If you’re curious about Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons but prefer the convenience of guided tours, it’s a good choice.

It’s worth noting that this tour isn’t designed for travelers seeking in-depth exploration or luxury accommodations. The hotels are functional but not luxurious, and the schedule leaves little room for unplanned wandering. Families with older children or teens might find the pace manageable, but very young children could find the days exhausting.

The Sum Up

This 5-day tour from Los Angeles offers a manageable way to see some of the most iconic natural and cultural sights in the American West. With guided transportation, a focus on major landmarks, and opportunities to photograph breathtaking landscapes, it suits those who want an overview without the stress of logistics.

While the experience isn’t flawless — additional fees, long days, and some mixed reviews about guides — many travelers appreciate the convenience and the chance to tick off several bucket-list destinations in one trip. The stunning views of Antelope Canyon, the mountains of Grand Teton, and Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders are true highlights.

If you’re someone who enjoys structured tours and making the most of limited time, this could be a good fit. However, if you prefer more flexibility, private travel, or luxury stays, you might want to consider other options or plan a custom trip. Either way, it’s a chance to see a captivating slice of America’s national parks and landscapes, even if it’s not the most luxurious or relaxed experience out there.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly designed for children, older kids and teens might enjoy the adventure, especially seeing Yellowstone and Antelope Canyon. Keep in mind the days are long, and the pace is busy.

Are park entrance fees included?
No, they are additional. Many reviews mention paying extra for park admissions and service fees, so budget about $377 extra if you want everything included.

What kind of accommodation should I expect?
Hotels are based on double or queen beds, with a maximum of four per room. They are generally decent but basic, with some travelers noting they are functional rather than luxurious.

How much time is spent on the bus?
Most days involve several hours of driving, with some days exceeding 8 hours. Be prepared for long stretches on the bus and bring snacks, entertainment, or books.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, the tour is bilingual, with guides speaking both English and Chinese. Some reviews mention language barriers or longer explanations, but guides are generally praised for their knowledge.

Can I customize my room or have separate rooms?
Yes, if you’re a larger group or want separate accommodations, you should make separate bookings and provide all confirmation numbers.

Does the tour operate year-round?
The schedule varies depending on the date, with some dates offering free cabin upgrades in Yellowstone. Check specific dates for availability and hotel arrangements.

Are meals included?
Some breakfasts are optional, but most meals are not included. It’s best to bring cash or cards for food and drinks.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes, sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and hydration are recommended. Also, bring cash for extras and tips.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The tour operator may adjust the schedule based on weather and traffic, but major stops are generally fixed to ensure you see key sights.

If you’re ready for a guided trip that covers some of the most famous sights in the American West, this tour offers a practical, if somewhat busy, way to do it. Just keep in mind the additional costs and the packed schedule, and you’ll be set for an adventure you won’t forget.