Private 2-Day Tour from Los Angeles to Death Valley National Park

If you’re dreaming of experiencing one of America’s most iconic and surreal landscapes, a private 2-day trip from Los Angeles to Death Valley might just be perfect. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, I’ve reviewed the details and feedback from travelers, and it seems like a thoughtfully curated experience that balances breathtaking scenery with comfort and expert guidance.

What I love about this kind of trip is the chance to see spectacular sights like Zabriskie Point and Badwater Basin without the hassle of planning every detail. Plus, traveling in a private vehicle means you get a more relaxed, personalized experience. That said, it’s a somewhat intensive schedule, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of travel and walking. If you’re after a hassle-free way to see Death Valley’s highlights with knowledgeable guides, this tour could be a great fit.

One thing to keep in mind is the price—$1,990 per group for up to five people. While that might seem steep, it includes private transportation, park fees, and bottled water, which can add up if you tried to do this on your own. But if you’re a budget traveler, the cost might be a barrier, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a couple. This tour appeals most to those who appreciate comfort, convenience, and expert insights in a manageable timeframe.

This tour is ideal for adventurers who want a comprehensive, stress-free experience that hits all major sights. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with friends or a small family group who enjoy exploring at their own pace and capturing great photos. If landscape photography, geology, or just witnessing otherworldly views intrigues you, this trip promises plenty of those moments.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience: Private transportation, park fees, and bottled water are covered, making it easy and comfortable.
• Packed itinerary: Highlights include Zabriskie Point, Twenty Mule Team Canyon, Ubehebe Crater, and sunset at Dantes View.
• Early starts and long drives: Expect early mornings and several hours in the vehicle, but with scenic stops.
• Variety of scenery: From sand dunes to salt flats, colorful canyons, and volcanic craters, the diversity is impressive.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable rangers and guides help you understand the park’s geology and history.
• Limited flexibility: The schedule is packed, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy structured plans.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

This tour offers a balance of sightseeing, walking, and photography opportunities. It’s clear that the focus is on covering the park’s most iconic spots comfortably in just two days.

Day 1: From Los Angeles to Death Valley

Start early around 7:30 am, so you can maximize your daylight hours in the park. The first leg involves about a four-and-a-half-hour drive with a planned stop for breakfast at your convenience—this could be a good chance to stretch your legs and grab a coffee before diving into the day.

The first major stop is Zabriskie Point, known for its dramatic erosional landscape. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Death Valley, and for good reason. We’re told the view is nothing short of spectacular, and it’s a perfect introduction to the park’s unique geology. Expect about 30 minutes here, enough time to soak in the vistas and snap some photos.

Next, you’ll explore Twenty Mule Team Canyon, a winding, scenic drive through colorful rock formations that feel like a peek into an Old West movie. Walking through or along the canyon’s edges will give you the chance to really appreciate the layers of geology that tell a story millions of years in the making.

The visit to Ubehebe Crater is a highlight for geology lovers. This volcanic crater is quite striking, and you’ll have about an hour to explore its rim and perhaps walk down one of the trails. It’s a reminder of the volcanic activity that shaped this desert landscape.

As evening approaches, your group heads to Dantes View for sunset—a magical moment when the expansive valley below turns golden and pink. It’s a fitting end to day one’s adventures, with panoramic views that make for memorable photos.

Day 2: The Park’s Highlights and Sunrise Moments

Waking early for sunrise at the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is a must. Watching the sun cast long shadows over the rolling dunes creates an almost otherworldly landscape. It’s an experience many travelers rate as unforgettable. You’ll have about an hour here before continuing your exploration.

Mosaic Canyon offers narrow, polished marble walls and winding channels. It’s a short stop, but the geological features are fascinating, providing a more intimate look at the park’s natural artistry.

Next, you’ll tackle Golden Canyon, a trail that usually takes around two hours but is well worth the effort. The canyon’s vibrant colors and dramatic rock formations make it one of the park’s most photogenic spots. Walking through winding paths with a guide helps you appreciate the geological processes that created these striking features.

A visit to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center allows you to learn about Death Valley’s natural and cultural history from knowledgeable park rangers, adding an educational layer to your trip.

After lunch, the tour takes you to Desolation Canyon, a remote and stark landscape that underscores the park’s ruggedness. Then, the highlight of the afternoon—Artists Palette. This hillside, streaked with reds, greens, and purples, is a painter’s dream and a favorite among visitors for its vibrant colors.

Finally, you’ll arrive at Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. Staying until sunset here lets you see the salt flats glow as the sun dips, creating an iconic and dramatic setting.

What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value considering everything included. The private vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility, and park entrance fees, parking, and fuel surcharges are all covered. Plus, you get bottled water to stay refreshed.

However, it’s important to note that meals are not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan for meals during the stops. Also, accommodation is not part of the package, so consider where you’ll stay before or after the trip if you’re coming from out of town.

Practical Considerations and Who It’s Best For

The tour’s schedule is quite packed, with early mornings and several hours in the vehicle. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level since some stops involve walking or light hikes, especially at canyons and dunes. The experience is private, so it’s tailored to your group, making it ideal for those who prefer a customized, relaxed pace.

While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the stops are generally suitable for older children and teens interested in geology, photography, or nature. The focus is on sightseeing and learning, not strenuous activities.

The Value of This Experience

At nearly $2,000 per group, this tour isn’t cheap, but it offers significant value. You’re paying for expert guides, private transportation, and streamlined access to major sights, saving you hours of planning and potential stress. If you were to visit independently, you’d likely spend more on park passes, gas, and rental vehicles, not to mention the time and effort involved in organizing each stop.

Reviewers comment on how stunning the views are, noting that the tour’s stops at spots like Artist’s Palette and Badwater Basin are truly memorable. One traveler shared, “Watching the sunset over Death Valley from Dantes View was breathtaking—stories I’ll remember forever.”

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a deeply immersive and comfortable way to experience Death Valley’s most iconic sights, this private tour offers both ease and spectacular scenery. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a curated experience without the hassle of self-driving or booking multiple tickets. The small group and expert guidance add a layer of insight that elevates the visit beyond just sightseeing.

However, if you’re on a tight budget, prefer a more flexible schedule, or love spontaneous adventures, you might find this experience a bit structured. But for those who enjoy well-planned trips with professional insights and stunning photo opportunities, this tour strikes a solid balance.

Overall, it’s a journey worth considering if you want to see the park’s dramatic landscapes with comfort and expert guidance, all wrapped into two memorable days.

FAQs About the Death Valley Private Tour

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll be picked up from your Los Angeles hotel and transported in a private, air-conditioned vehicle throughout the trip.

What’s the physical activity level?
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as some stops involve walking or light hikes, especially in canyons and dunes.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, the ticket to Death Valley National Park is included, along with parking fees and fuel surcharge.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private tour, so it’s tailored to your group—though the itinerary is fairly fixed due to the focus on key sights.

How early do we start?
The tour begins around 7:30 am, allowing plenty of time to see major sights and catch sunset views.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, but bottled water is provided. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan your meals during stops.

If stunning desert vistas and natural wonders call to you, this tour checks many boxes. It combines convenience, expert guidance, and unforgettable scenery, making it a solid choice for a memorable escape into one of America’s most extraordinary landscapes.