USA Road Trip: Best of the West

There's a lot to see and do in LA, and we recommend spending extra time here if you'd like to explore Hollywood, Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica, Venice Beach and other hot spots around the city; speak to your sales agent to book extra accommodation. Enjoy free time today in Santa Monica, where the hostel is located, and check out the famous pier or hit the beach.

Be on celebrity-watch while passing by a few popular sites on the way out of LA, California's most glamorous city. Cruise through Orange County and along the incredible Pacific coastline to the truly remarkable San Diego. Sun, sand, food, and fun await us in this beautiful beach city. Once we have arrived you are free to adventure as you please. Soak up the sun on Mission Beach, hike along the sandstone cliffs of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, spend the day at the city’s cultural hub – Balboa Park, or immerse yourself in the military and maritime history of one of the happiest cities in the U.S. In the evening, head to the Gaslamp Quarter District for dinner and live music. As the sun sets, watch the area come alive with numerous pubs and nightclubs and get ready for a night of fun!

Travel to the desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park – a place that attracts everyone from stargazers to rock climbers. Stop, stare, and enjoy the scenery of the Mojave and Colorado deserts, and of course the famous Joshua trees, with their gnarled branches. The group will take a short hike amongst the boulders of this park before zooming off to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the Colorado River at Lake Havasu.

Hit the road to get some kicks on Route 66. Dive into historic Americana and enjoy lunch at a famous joint and see if you can spot all the movie memorabilia. Afterwards, it’s off to the Grand Canyon to explore the massive gorges, ridges, and rock formations that make even the most skeptical of travellers become awestruck. Dive into a delicious pizza dinner as you sit with your newest adventures buddies and watch the sun dip below the canyon’s south rim.

Another day, another adventure! Not feeling a hike this morning? That's cool, you have the option to splurge on an unforgettable helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon. Get ready to feel incredibly small as the world opens up at your feet. For a quieter experience rent a bike to check out the south rim or go see the IMAX Grand Canyon movie. No matter what you decide, the epic views will be there.

Wave goodbye to this grand park as we take one last drive along the southern rim of the canyon. Then it’s time to eat some grub at a local Navajo food truck supported by Planeterra. With a full stomach and a happy attitude drive through the desert to discover one of the most majestic places on earth, Monument Valley. You have the option of getting deep into the valley with a 4x4 excursion with a local Navajo guide, or simply walk around yourself and admire this vast, colourful landscape and cool rock formations.

Grab your camera and break a sweat with a quick hike to iconic Horseshoe Bend. Stand overlooking this cool natural shape of the Colorado River and snap a few zen photos. Then, discover ghost towns, funky roadside attractions, and bask in the fading sun as you head into “Sin City”. Explore the Las Vegas strip in style on an optional VIP party limo ride with some fellow trip mates.

Full day to explore Las Vegas. Walk the strip and try your luck at the tables or slot machines. Or spend the day shopping, dining or poolside. In the evening opt to see one of the wildly entertaining shows Vegas is known for.

Experience a land of extremes in Death Valley National Park. Visit the driest, hottest, and the lowest places in the U.S. From Badwater Basin to Zabriskie Point and Dante's View to Furnace Creek – it is easy to fall in love with this desolate landscape. The adventure doesn't stop here! Continue past Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes as the group heads to Panamint Valley. Finish your night together around a campfire and gaze at the night sky in the Sierra Nevadas.

Get ready to feel like you are on Mars as the group arrives at Mono Lake for a morning walk among the tufa tours. The strange towers are created by underground springs in the lake. Just be aware that this visit is seasonal. Then, let your mind wander as you hike past roaring waterfalls and giant sequoias. Gaze in wonder at Yosemite's magnificent peaks and granite domes before turning your attention to the tranquil nature of the valley floor. Snap photos or simply take in the splendour of one of the country's most beautiful national parks.

Wake up surrounded by nature and fresh air! Breathe it in, maybe do some meditation, write in your travel journal, or talk a walk alone. This free day is a wonderful way to start things slow and really immerse yourself in Yosemite’s atmosphere. Keep an eye out for rock climbers and diverse wildlife within the park and consider renting bikes with some friends to better explore Yosemite Valley. There are plenty of hiking trails that will take you loads of cool places from rushing waterfalls to the tops of sheer granite cliffs you’ll find yourself stopping often to simply admire the beauty. Just a tip: some of the best views in the park are at Glacier and Taft Points!

Catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge on the way into one of America's most popular cities. Ride a cable car, walk down winding Lombard Street, indulge in some erotic shaped treats in the Castro District, get lost at the botanical garden, chill out at Baker's Beach and simply enjoy being in the moment.

Explore San Francisco the way you always dreamed—any way you want! After finding your bearings the day before, try completely different things today. Maybe hike up to Coit Tower via the secret steps, or try your luck at finding the most scenic swing in the city. If Alcatraz is on your bucket-list we suggest pre-booking to make sure you get to go. For more of a relaxing day stroll along the waterfront and grab oysters along Fisherman’s Wharf. From beaches to crazy hills and eclectic neighbourhoods, you’re bound to come across something interesting.

Hang out for a bit at the ultra-mellow beach town of Santa Cruz; stroll along the boardwalk or enjoy the trendy shops of downtown. Then, travel down the famous Pacific Coast Highway and marvel at the beautiful coastline and mountain ranges of Big Sur. Have your cameras handy as you will be making multiple stops along the way in places you'll want to capture forever in a photo. Take in the crashing waves, rolling fog, and sheer rocky cliffs that make this journey down California's coast Highway 1 an unforgettable experience. Arrive in time to enjoy sunset on Morro Bay.

Journey along the stunning Pacific coast to the City of Angels. Stop in Santa Barbara for lunch in this famous coastal city on our way to LA. Maybe sneak in a volleyball game on the beach if you have time. Your CEO will point out a few famous neighbourhoods and landmarks on the drive. And even though the trip ends upon arrival to Los Angeles you can certainly book some post accommodation and continue enjoying one of the most geographically diverse states in America.