From San Francisco: Curry Village 2-Day National Park Tour

Planning a trip to Yosemite and wondering how to make the most of your visit? This 2-day guided tour from San Francisco might just be what you’re looking for. It offers a chance to see the park’s most famous sights, stay overnight right in the heart of Yosemite, and do all that comfortably and responsibly. It’s perfect if you want a mix of sightseeing, some light hiking, and a taste of the wilderness without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What really stands out is the way this tour balances iconic views—think Yosemite Falls and El Capitan—with a relaxed pace that includes an overnight stay in Curry Village. Plus, the eco-friendly transportation adds a nice touch for those conscious of their environmental footprint. On the flip side, the itinerary isn’t overly packed, so if you’re craving intense hiking or very specific park experiences like Half Dome views in winter, you might find it a bit limiting.

This trip is well-suited for travelers who want to see Yosemite’s highlights without feeling rushed. It’s also a good pick for anyone who appreciates knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations. While it’s not designed as a hardcore adventure tour, it offers enough to make a memorable, well-rounded visit—especially if you’re traveling from San Francisco and want a quick, immersive escape.

Key Points

• Comfortable, eco-friendly transportation in biodiesel mini-coach
• Two full days of sightseeing, hiking, and exploring Yosemite
• Overnight stay in historic Curry Village tents, right in Yosemite Valley
• Highlights include Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Tunnel View
• Time for optional hikes among the Giant Sequoias (weather permitting)
• Small group experience with personal guide to enhance your trip
• Flexible schedule on the second day for exploration and photos

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on Your Yosemite Tour

When we looked into this tour, what really caught our attention was the way it manages to pack two days into a manageable, enjoyable experience. It’s not a strenuous trek—more of a relaxed but immersive trip that hits all the highlights and leaves room for some personal adventures.

The journey begins with a pick-up from your San Francisco hotel, which is a huge convenience. From there, you’re transported comfortably in a biodiesel mini-coach, which feels like a responsible choice in today’s world. The drive itself is scenic, setting the tone for the natural beauty ahead.

Day 1: Exploring Yosemite Valley

Your first day in the park is focused on the classic sights. You’ll visit Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, and get some great photo opportunities. The guide will take you to El Capitan, the world-famous granite monolith that attracts climbers and photographers alike. Bridalveil Fall is also on the list, offering stunning views and photo ops, especially if the weather is clear.

An important highlight is the Tunnel View, arguably the most iconic overlook in Yosemite, providing a sweeping vista of the valley with Half Dome in the background. While you won’t be able to hike Half Dome itself (at least not in winter), the view from Tunnel View gives you a sense of its grandeur.

The guide stays with the group throughout the day, sharing insights about the park’s geology, history, and ecology. This personal touch makes a difference—you’re not just on a bus, but on a small, intimate journey.

Day 2: Among the Sequoias and Beyond

The second day offers more flexibility. You’ll have the chance to hike among the Giant Sequoias—these trees are jaw-dropping in their size and age, and walking among them is an experience that sticks with you. However, weather conditions in winter may impact this part, so it’s not always guaranteed.

Beyond that, the day is yours to explore more of Yosemite’s outlying areas or revisit favorite spots with the guide’s help. The group gets to enjoy some free time, which many reviews highlight as a real plus—this isn’t a rigid schedule, but a balanced itinerary that offers some breathing room.

In the evening, you’ll stay overnight in Curry Village’s tent cabins. While rustic, these are comfortable enough for most travelers, and the historic charm adds to the experience. The cabins are conveniently located in Yosemite Valley, just below Half Dome and Glacier Point, so after a day of exploring, it’s easy to stroll back and soak in the surroundings.

The tour wraps up with a return to San Francisco around 9 pm. It’s a long day, but most find it worth the effort for the sights and the experience.

The Value of This Tour

When we consider the cost—$599 per person—it’s important to weigh what’s included. The price covers all transportation, park entrance fees, and the unique experience of staying overnight at Curry Village. The transport in biodiesel mini-coach is a thoughtful touch, making this an eco-conscious choice.

Accommodation in Curry Village tent cabins strikes a good balance between comfort and adventure. Reviews praise the comfortable stay and good amenities, plus the opportunity to witness a moonbow, which sounds pretty magical. The guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude are frequently mentioned as highlights, making the experience not just about the sights but also about the stories behind them.

While meals and tips aren’t included, stops are made where you can purchase food, giving you flexibility. You might find that bringing some snacks or a light picnic adds to your comfort, especially during longer sightseeing stops.

More Great Tours Nearby

What the Reviews Say

One traveler from Spain called it a “great two-day trip” and appreciated the organization and guide, Jordan, who was rated a 10/10. They felt the itinerary was perfect for hitting all the highlights but noted it might be a bit too short if you’re a serious hiker.

Another reviewer from Australia mentioned how the guide made effort to ensure they saw every highlight and appreciated the plenty of vantage points and short walks that made the trip accessible. The mention of a moonbow and good food options suggests that the experience extends beyond just the daytime sightseeing.

Most reviews emphasize the small group size, which helps keep the experience personal, and the knowledge of the guides, turning a simple visit into a more engaging learning experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive look at Yosemite’s main sights without the fuss of planning. It’s ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace but still want the magic of Yosemite’s iconic sights.

If you’re someone who enjoys light hiking and photography, you’ll love the stops at Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Fall, and Tunnel View. The overnight in Curry Village offers a taste of the park’s history and charm without the expense or effort of camping independently.

However, if you’re seeking intense hiking or specific park adventures like climbing Half Dome, this tour might feel limited. It’s also a good fit for families or groups who enjoy guided trips in a small group setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but there will be stops where you can purchase food and snacks. It’s a good idea to bring some light food or snacks with you.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll travel in an eco-friendly, biodiesel mini-coach, which makes for comfortable and responsible transportation. The drive offers scenic views en route to Yosemite.

How much luggage can I bring?
Luggage storage is limited, so it’s recommended to bring only one small, soft overnight bag that fits under the seats.

What sights will I see during the tour?
Expect to visit Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Tunnel View. There’s also an optional hike among the Giant Sequoias, weather permitting.

Are the accommodations in Curry Village suitable for everyone?
The tent cabins are generally comfortable and charming, ideal for those who enjoy rustic stays. They’re especially good for travelers who want to experience Yosemite without camping.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the short walks and manageable schedule may suit families with older children. Always check with the provider if you have specific needs.

How long does the tour last?
The tour starts from San Francisco early in the morning and returns around 9 pm on the second day, making it a full but rewarding experience.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Yosemite tour from San Francisco offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, guided insights, and comfortable overnight accommodations. It’s a good choice if you want to see Yosemite’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail yourself. The small group size and knowledgeable guides help make the experience personal and relaxed, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of the park.

While it may not satisfy hardcore hikers or those seeking remote, off-the-beaten-path adventures, for most visitors looking to tick iconic sights off their list, this trip delivers. The eco-friendly transport, historic lodging, and the chance to explore Yosemite in depth make it a worthwhile option for many travelers.

If you’re okay with a thoughtfully paced tour that balances sightseeing with some downtime, this could be your ideal Yosemite escape. Just remember to pack light, bring some snacks, and prepare for some breathtaking views.

You can check availability for your dates here: