LA: San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Antelope, 8-Day Tour

Planning a trip through the American West can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially with so many iconic sights packed into one itinerary. This 8-day tour from Los Angeles to Las Vegas promises a whirlwind experience, taking you through some of the most photographed and talked-about destinations in California, Nevada, and Arizona. From the stunning vistas of Yosemite to the vibrant lights of Vegas, this trip offers a lot — but it’s not without its quirks.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its careful balance of natural beauty and cultural landmarks. You’ll get a good sense of each location’s unique character, whether it’s the breathtaking waterfalls in Yosemite or the intriguing Navajo scenery in Monument Valley. Plus, the inclusion of a Bay cruise in San Francisco and a Jeep tour in Monument Valley** adds a bit of extra flavor to your trip.

However, a key consideration is the long hours on the bus — this isn’t a relaxing, slow-paced vacation. The itinerary is packed, and some travelers, like one reviewee, found the experience to be less than stellar due to bus comfort issues and logistical hiccups. So, if you’re not a fan of extended travel days or tight schedules, this might not be your best fit.

This tour is best suited for adventurers who love iconic scenery, don’t mind spending many hours on a bus, and want to see a lot in a short period. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to tick off a lot of bucket-list destinations with a guided group.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with a mix of natural wonders and cultural sites
• Includes popular highlights like Yosemite Falls, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon
• Long travel days mean you’ll spend a lot of time on the bus
• Group size can go up to 50 travelers, which might impact the intimacy of the experience
• Hotel accommodations are included with breakfast, offering a practical convenience
• Some reviews mention logistical issues, so be prepared for potential hiccups

What the Tour Offers: A Deep Dive

This 8-day, 7-night journey from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, designed by Empire Vacations, is a great way to see some of the most instantly recognizable landscapes in the U.S. If you’re in the mood for a deep dive into the American West’s natural scenery, this tour hits many of the top spots while also providing cultural insights.

The Starting Point and First Days

Your adventure kicks off along California’s stunning coast. In summer and winter, you’ll visit Old Mission Santa Barbara, a window into the region’s Spanish past, and Solvang, a charming Danish community full of shops and architecture. The first day also takes you through Carmel and along the famed 17-Mile Drive — a highlight for its breathtaking ocean views and luxurious golf courses.

One reviewer noted that “we loved the way the bus was comfortable with climate control and wifi,” which makes those initial long drives more bearable. But, be aware that some travelers, like Dineshkumar, experienced frustrations such as buses with no AC or other logistical issues, so comfort can vary.

Exploring San Francisco

The second day is dedicated to San Francisco’s iconic sights. You’ll start with City Hall and walk through Lombard Street, known as the “crookedest street,” then continue to Fisherman’s Wharf where you’ll enjoy a Bay cruise — a perfect way to see the city from the water.

Additional stops include Sausalito for its waterfront charm, Twin Peaks for panoramic views, and Chinatown — the oldest in North America. Expect about three hours of sightseeing, which is enough to get a feel for the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.

Nature’s Grandeur: Yosemite and Monterey

Day 3 is arguably the highlight for nature lovers. You’ll venture into Yosemite National Park, visiting the iconic Yosemite Falls and marveling at the breathtaking scenery that has drawn visitors for generations. Yosemite’s dramatic cliffs and waterfalls make for a truly memorable experience.

For winter travelers or if the summer route isn’t available, the itinerary shifts slightly, with a focus on Monterey’s Cannery Row and Carmel, making the most of California’s coast.

The Desert and Vegas Lights

On Day 4, the journey shifts eastward across the desert toward Las Vegas, with a stop at Barstow’s outlet mall for some shopping. You’ll arrive in Vegas in the evening to explore the famous Strip, with its elaborate hotels like Caesars Palace and the Luxor, illuminated and bustling.

One reviewer called the Vegas night tour “truly amazing,” highlighting the spectacle of the city’s lights and architecture. But, keep in mind, the experience is about seeing the sights rather than relaxing, so be prepared for a lot of walking and standing.

Hoover Dam and Sedona

Early on Day 5, you’ll visit the Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel with fascinating stories about its construction. The next day, traveling into Sedona, you’ll encounter the striking Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock, stunning formations perfect for brief hikes and photos.

The Grand Canyon’s Hidden Gems

Day 7 takes you to Horseshoe Bend, an awe-inspiring curve in the Colorado River, followed by a scenic drive through Monument Valley. The latter is a true symbol of the American West, with its iconic red buttes. The Jeep tour in Monument Valley lets you get closer to these formations and dive into Navajo culture.

Antelope Canyon and Valley of Fire

Your final day is packed with Antelope Canyon’s dazzling light beams and flowing sandstone, plus a visit to Valley of Fire State Park. The latter’s fiery red rocks are a feast for the eyes and a fitting grand finale to the trip.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Accommodation, and Costs

Throughout, transportation is via air-conditioned buses or vans, depending on group size, which is a standard approach but can vary in comfort. Seven nights of hotel stay with included breakfast provide a convenient base, though some travelers mentioned that hotel quality can vary and in rare cases, hotels might be substituted.

Pricing at $1,570 per person covers most major sites, cruise, and Jeep tour, which offers good value considering the number of attractions. However, food and drinks are not included, and meals outside breakfast are at your expense, so budget accordingly.

What the Reviews Say

While most travelers enjoyed the trip’s highlights, feedback is mixed. One review called it a “beautiful experience,” noting the stunning scenery and comfortable bus. The same reviewer suggested that an extra day in California would improve the trip, highlighting how packed the schedule is.

In contrast, a less favorable review pointed out bus discomfort and logistical problems — long bus rides, broken AC, and driver issues tainted their experience. This review is a reminder that the quality of the trip can depend heavily on the group and conditions.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This tour is a good fit for adventurous travelers who don’t mind long days on the bus and want a guided, rundown of some of the West’s most famous sights. If you’re eager to see Yosemite’s waterfalls, the Navajo Nation’s monuments, and the bright lights of Vegas in a single trip, this route offers that package.

However, if you prefer more leisurely travel or better hotel accommodations, you might want to look for a more relaxed or premium tour. It’s also worth noting that the tour ends in Las Vegas, so it’s ideal if Vegas is your final destination or you’re comfortable arranging your own onward travel.

The Bottom Line

In essence, this 8-day tour is an opportunity to check off many bucket-list locations with a group. The included attractions, like Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Yosemite, and Monument Valley, are genuinely breathtaking and worth the trip.

The experience’s success hinges on your tolerance for long travel days and the potential for logistical hiccups. The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive nature — you’ll see a lot, learn some, and leave with plenty of photos and memories. For those who thrive on adventure, sightseeing, and a packed schedule, this could be a memorable trip.

But if comfort and flexibility are your priorities, consider whether the long bus rides and mixed hotel reviews are worth it. As always, weigh your preferences carefully.

FAQ

Does this tour return to Los Angeles at the end?
No, it’s a one-way trip starting in Los Angeles and ending in Las Vegas, so you’ll need to plan your return separately.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’ll need to make your own way to the designated meeting points, but parking is available at those locations.

What type of vehicle is used during the tour?
Depending on group size, you’ll travel in either a comfortable air-conditioned bus or van.

Is Wi-Fi available during the trip?
Yes, Wi-Fi is provided on full-size coaches, but streaming might be limited due to bandwidth.

Can I bring my luggage?
Yes, luggage is limited to one piece and a small carry-on per person. There are no restrictions on size or weight.

Are vegetarian or special dietary options available?
Vegetarian options and dietary needs can be accommodated at meal stops, though meals are at your own expense outside continental breakfast.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age to participate is 7 years old. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a moderate level of physical activity and long days.

What is the group size?
Up to 50 travelers can join the tour, which impacts the overall experience and may affect intimacy.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
You’ll visit Yosemite’s waterfalls, San Francisco’s iconic sights, Horseshoe Bend, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, and experience the vibrant Las Vegas Strip.

Is the tour operated in multiple languages?
Yes, it can be offered in several languages, including English, Italian, Spanish, and more, but confirm at the time of booking.

Are there any notable downsides?
The major drawbacks are the long hours on the bus, some reports of comfort issues, and a tightly packed schedule that might leave little time for relaxation or exploration on your own.

This tour offers a busy but rewarding way to see some of the most celebrated landscapes and landmarks of the American West. It’s perfect if you’re excited to pack a lot into one trip and don’t mind the hustle — just be prepared for the travel logistics and varying hotel experiences.