6 Day Zion Antelope Grand Canyon and Las Vegas Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing some of the most iconic sights in the American Southwest in just a week, this 6-day tour from Los Angeles promises to take you through five major national parks and vibrant cityscapes. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, we’ve looked into what makes it appealing—and what might give you pause.

One aspect we love is the carefully curated itinerary that balances natural wonders with the lively vibe of Las Vegas. Plus, the inclusion of hotel stays at the Casino Avenue Hotel gives a taste of the city’s energy without the hassle of organizing accommodation yourself. On the flip side, the tour’s group size and pace might be a bit tight for those wanting a more relaxed or flexible experience.

This tour would suit travelers who enjoy a jam-packed schedule, are eager to tick off major Southwest landmarks quickly, and don’t mind bus rides lasting several hours. It’s especially good for first-timers eager for an overview of this majestic region without the logistical headache of planning every stop. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and city lights, this could be a solid pick.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers five national parks and key scenic spots in just six days.
• Hotel accommodations: Includes two nights at a well-located hotel in Las Vegas.
• Expert guides: The tour is led by professional drivers and guides, enhancing the experience with local knowledge.
• Value for money: For around $1,057, you get park admissions, some optional tours, and transportation—making it a convenient package.
• Group size: The tour accommodates up to 55 travelers, which can mean a lively, social atmosphere but might feel crowded.
• Flexibility and extras: Optional activities like helicopter tours or Antelope Canyon visits are available but at additional costs.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Los Angeles to Las Vegas

Your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive through the Mojave Desert, a landscape that’s as stark as it is beautiful. Once you arrive in Las Vegas, the city lights beckon. The Fountains of Bellagio are a highlight, and if you opt for the Las Vegas Night Tour, you’ll get a taste of the city’s vibrant nightlife, with stops at iconic spots like the Mirage Volcano. Keep in mind that admission to these attractions isn’t included, so budget for that.

This first day is a good warm-up, setting the tone with the contrast of desert scenery and neon-lit nightlife.

Day 2: Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks

The early morning takes you to Zion National Park, Utah’s first national park, famous for its towering sandstone cliffs and native history. The guide’s 45-minute stop here is enough to appreciate the grandeur—massive cream, pink, and red formations that seem to reach for the sky.

Next, a quick visit to Checkerboard Mesa offers a fun photo opportunity with its distinctive cross-hatched rock pattern. In the afternoon, you’ll head to Bryce Canyon, known for its unique hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock that look almost surreal. An hour here is enough to get a sense of the park’s majesty.

Traveling from Zion to Bryce is about a day’s worth of sightseeing, making this stretch full but manageable.

Day 3: Canyonlands and Arches National Parks

Today’s focus is on Canyonlands, where you’ll see a landscape carved into stunning canyons, mesas, and buttes. The one-hour visit should give you a snapshot of this colorful terrain.

Then, it’s on to Arches National Park, home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches. The two-hour scenic drive allows you to see some of the most famous formations like Delicate Arch and others. The park’s landscapes are remarkable, and you’ll likely find yourself marveling at how these natural structures came to be.

Day 4: Monument Valley and Horseshoe Bend

A true highlight is Monument Valley, where colossal sandstone buttes rise dramatically from the ground. An optional Jeep tour offers a closer look—though it’s at an extra cost. Even without the Jeep, the views are breathtaking, and the area’s significance to Native American culture adds an interesting layer.

Next, Horseshoe Bend is a quick but impressive stop—an iconic river meander that’s perfect for photos. Visiting both sites provides a sense of the vastness and geological wonder of this region.

Optional visits to Lower Antelope Canyon are available, which many travelers rave about, but note that this is an extra expense and the slot canyon can feel a bit crowded.

Day 5: The Grand Canyon

Arguably the star of the trip, the Grand Canyon South Rim offers some of the most jaw-dropping vistas. The tour includes a 2.5-hour stop, enough time to take in the stunning views and possibly grab some photos. If you’re interested, there’s an optional helicopter or plane tour—perfect if you want a different perspective but at additional cost.

This day highlights the canyon’s steep terrain and its incredible scale, something that truly leaves a lasting impression.

Day 6: Return via Las Vegas and Los Angeles

The final day takes you back to California, with stops at the Las Vegas Welcome Sign and the M&M’S Store—a fun way to cap off the trip with some souvenirs. The Flyover Las Vegas experience (if you’ve paid for it) offers a virtual flight over the city, which many find exciting.

On the way, you’ll also pass the Seven Magic Mountains, colorful stone formations that seem to defy gravity, and stop at the Outlets at Barstow for some quick shopping before heading home.

What We Think About the Value and Experience

At a price of $1,057 per person, this tour packs in a lot. The inclusion of national park admissions, some optional tours, hotel stays, and transportation makes it a reasonably priced option for those who prefer guided convenience.

However, it’s worth noting that the schedule is quite packed. Some travelers might find the days long with many hours on the bus, especially on Days 2 through 5. If you prefer a slower pace or more time to explore each site, this might feel rushed.

The hotels are based on double or king/queen beds, and the two nights in Las Vegas give a nice break from the bus. The group size maxing out at 55 travelers can lead to a lively atmosphere, but it may also mean less personal space or flexibility.

The guides are often praised for their knowledge, which can greatly enrich your understanding of the places you visit. On the other hand, optional activities like helicopter rides and Antelope Canyon tours are extra costs, which can increase the overall expense if you choose to indulge.

Practical Considerations

Travelers should be prepared for early mornings, long days, and a fair amount of walking or sightseeing in the parks. The tour emphasizes iconic sights, so it’s perfect if you want a ‘big hitters’ experience rather than hidden gems.

If you’re traveling with children or looking for a leisurely vacation, this might not be the best fit given the tight schedule. Also, if you’re sensitive to bus travel or want more time at each stop, consider whether the itinerary aligns with your preferences.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If your goal is to see the major southwestern landmarks in a short period without the hassle of planning logistics, this tour offers a solid package. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want an overview of Zion, Bryce, Canyonlands, Arches, Monument Valley, and the Grand Canyon, combined with some fun city stops in Las Vegas.

Travelers who enjoy guided tours, don’t mind bus rides, and want to maximize sightseeing in a limited time will find this trip practical and rewarding. The inclusion of optional extras allows for personalized splurges, but they come at an additional cost.

On the flip side, if you prefer a more relaxed, flexible experience or want to explore less touristy areas, this tour might feel a bit rushed. Also, those with specific accessibility needs should check the details on transportation and site accessibility.

FAQs about the 6-Day Zion, Antelope, Grand Canyon, and Vegas Tour

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a vehicle suitable for the group size, led by a professional driver and guide.

Are park admissions included?
Yes, all national park admissions listed in the itinerary, like Zion, Bryce, Canyonlands, and Arches, are included.

Can I customize the itinerary or choose different hotel options?
The offered accommodations are based on what’s available at the time. For parties over four or those requesting separate rooms, separate bookings are recommended.

Are optional activities like helicopter rides or Antelope Canyon tours included?
No, these are extra and paid separately if you choose to participate.

What should I bring on this tour?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), cash, and drinks for hydration are recommended. The tour involves a lot of outdoor sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically designed as a family tour, the itinerary can work for families comfortable with long days and bus travel. Kids under 6 require booster seats.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are optional and may be available, but food and beverages outside of scheduled meals are not included.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is about 55 travelers, which helps maintain a lively atmosphere but may feel crowded.

Can I leave the group early?
Yes, but you should inform the guide and sign a departure form. No refunds are available for unused portions.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within that window may incur charges or no refund, depending on timing.

Final Word

This 6-day tour offers a structured, all-in-one adventure for those eager to see the highlights of the Southwest. It’s a practical choice for travelers who enjoy guided trips and want to experience a variety of landscapes and city sights in a short span. While the packed schedule might not suit everyone, the value for the price, combined with expert guides and included park entries, makes it a compelling option for many.

If you’re ready for a whirlwind trip filled with stunning vistas, iconic landmarks, and the bright lights of Las Vegas, this could be just the journey you’re looking for.