The Gold Experience

The Gold Experience

1 Views
7 Days From

$1315

$1253

The Gold Experience

7 Days Starting and ending in Los Angeles, United States

Visiting: Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Modesto, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park

Tour operator:

Empire Vacations

Tour code:

GDL

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1315 $1253 (USD) Travel Club discount: -$62

NB: Prices correct on 30-Jan-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on "The Gold Experience," a captivating journey through some of the most iconic destinations in the United States. Begin your adventure in Los Angeles, traveling up the stunning California coast to Santa Barbara and the charming Danish town of Solvang. Experience the breathtaking views along Route 1 and visit the picturesque town of Carmel. In San Francisco, enjoy a bay cruise with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Explore the natural wonders of Yosemite National Park and the vibrant city of Las Vegas. Discover the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, the mystical Antelope Canyon, and the majestic Bryce Canyon. Conclude your tour with a visit to Zion Park, where the serene beauty of nature offers a truly transformative experience. This tour promises unforgettable landscapes, cultural insights, and the thrill of exploration.

Highlights

  • Visit a Spanish Mission in Santa Barbara and explore the quaint Danish community of Solvang.

  • Experience the breathtaking views along the world-famous Route 1 and the 17-mile drive.

  • Cruise the San Francisco Bay with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.

  • Explore Yosemite National Park, including El Capitan and Yosemite Falls.

  • Discover the vibrant nightlife and iconic hotels of the Las Vegas Strip.

  • Tour the South Bank of the Grand Canyon and browse Navajo Indian market crafts.

  • Marvel at the natural sculptures in Bryce Canyon and witness the sunset's changing colors.

  • Walk along the Virgin River in Zion Park, experiencing its majestic mountains and wilderness.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Los Angeles – Santa Barbara – Route 1/17 Mile Drive – Carmel

Location: Santa Barbara

Accommodation Name: hotel

Depart north up the spectacular California Coast to the first stop in Santa Barbara. Visit a Spanish Mission and learn how these religious outposts were key in the development of the entire region. Continue to Solvang, a quaint Danish community to browse in the local shops. We head north to the world-famous Route #1 where we get to see the spectacular California coastline up close (small vehicles will travel the southern portion of route 1 while full size coaches will travel the 17-mile drive exclusively). After our visit we visit the town of Carmel home to the actor Clint Eastwood. Enjoy some free time to stroll in town before departing to reach our hotel for overnight.

Day 2 : San Francisco – Bay Cruise – Golden Gate Bridge – Chinatown

Location: San Francisco

Accommodation Name: hotel

Today we understand why San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. We start our tour at the Fisherman’s Wharf with a cruise in the world-famous bay, On the way to Sausalito we will have great views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Next, we return to Pier 39 for a leisurely lunch before an afternoon tour that takes in all the city’s famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union square, Chinatown, and Nob Hill. Our tour ends with a night view of the city from the Bay Bridge.

Day 3 : Modesto – Yosemite – Los Angeles

Location: Modesto

Accommodation Name: hotel

We head east through the farmlands of the Joaquin Valley to Yosemite National Park. This 1,200 square mile wonderland of forests, lakes, and waterfalls is located in the Sierra Nevada. Stop at El Capitan, Bridal-Veil Falls, and Half Dome to continue for a walk from the Yosemite Visitor Center to reach one of the highest waterfalls in North America (730 meters) Yosemite Falls. After a beautiful day in the park we head to Stevenson Ranch for overnight.

Day 4 : Stevenson Ranch – Las Vegas

Location: Las Vegas

Accommodation Name: hotel

Today’s route is east through the desert and Death Valley to arrive at the gambling capital of the world: Las Vegas. We stop for lunch at the outlet mall in Barstow, which is filled with all the famous brand names like, Levi’s, Nike, Reebok, Timberland, Ralph Lauren and more. In the evening we take a tour of the strip to see some of the truly amazing hotels and fantasies that are built in the middle of the desert, such as Caesar’s Palace, Luxor, Mirage, Paris, Venetian, Bellagio, New York New York, Treasure Island and more. Finish off the evening at one of the many shows or try your hand at one of the many casinos’, who knows maybe lady luck will be smiling on you tonight.

Day 5 : Las Vegas – Grand Canyon – Page

Location: Grand Canyon

Accommodation Name: hotel

We start the day traveling South East through the desert and the through the Navajo Indian reservation before we come to the South Bank of “One of the 7 wonders of the world” the Grand Canyon. Tour along the south bank and learn how throughout the years the Colorado river carved its way down to the sea and created the wonderland for geologists. After lunch we continue along the canyon east stopping at some of the many Indian market places to browse the handmade arts and crafts. After enjoying the Indian market we head to the Page and Lake Powell area for the evening.

Day 6 : Antelope Canyon – Bryce Canyon

Location: Bryce Canyon

Accommodation Name: hotel

We start the day where “The water runs through the rocks” as per the local Navajo folklore. We tour the lower Antelope Canyon and visit the spectacular dunes created by the wind, water and sand; words are not enough to describe these formations created by Mother Nature. After our tour we depart this amazing area and head west to Bryce Canyon home to the most amazing natural sculptures of the world. Our tour will take us to see amazing rock and sand sculptures honed to perfection over thousands of years of rain wind and sunshine. Experience the unique changing of the colors during the sunset from one of the vista points in the park. (may change due to changing sunset times) After the visit we head towards the town of Kanab.

Day 7 : Zion Park – Las Vegas – Los Angeles

Location: Zion National Park

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast we head into Zion Park. This park got its name from the Mormon’s the settled in the area. They gave it this name after claiming that visiting the park is like a religious experience, the majesty of the mountains and silence of the wilderness make you feel like you have been transported to another place. Tour the park and enjoy a short walking trail along the Virgin River that runs through the park, before leaving this amazing area for an early evening arrival in Las Vegas, option for a late night return to Los Angeles.

What's Included

  • Visit to Santa Barbara

    The tour includes a visit to Santa Barbara, where you will explore a Spanish Mission and learn about its historical significance.

  • Solvang Visit

    The tour includes a visit to Solvang, a quaint Danish community, where you can browse local shops.

  • Route 1/17 Mile Drive

    Experience the spectacular California coastline up close on Route 1 or the 17-mile drive.

  • San Francisco Bay Cruise

    Enjoy a cruise in the world-famous San Francisco Bay with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.

  • Yosemite National Park

    The tour includes a visit to Yosemite National Park, where you will see El Capitan, Bridal-Veil Falls, and Half Dome.

  • Las Vegas Strip Tour

    Experience a tour of the Las Vegas Strip, visiting famous hotels and casinos.

  • Grand Canyon Tour

    Tour along the South Bank of the Grand Canyon and learn about its geological history.

  • Antelope Canyon Tour

    Visit the lower Antelope Canyon and see the spectacular dunes created by wind, water, and sand.

  • Bryce Canyon Tour

    Explore Bryce Canyon and witness the amazing natural sculptures and changing colors during sunset.

  • Zion Park Tour

    Tour Zion Park and enjoy a short walking trail along the Virgin River.

What's Not Included

  • Meals

    Meals are not included in the tour package.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is not included in the tour package.

Mode of Transport

Transportation includes travel along the California Coast, Route 1, and visits to various locations such as Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, and the Grand Canyon.

Accommodation

Accommodation details are not provided for this tour.

Check out our Q&As

  • What can I expect to see on the first day of the tour?

    On the first day, you will travel north up the California Coast, stopping in Santa Barbara to visit a Spanish Mission. You'll then continue to Solvang, a quaint Danish community, and head north to the world-famous Route #1 to see the spectacular California coastline. The day ends with a visit to Carmel, where you'll have free time to explore the town.

  • What activities are included in San Francisco on the second day?

    In San Francisco, you'll start with a cruise in the bay, offering views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. After lunch at Pier 39, you'll have an afternoon tour of the city's famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union Square, Chinatown, and Nob Hill. The day concludes with a night view of the city from the Bay Bridge.

  • What highlights are included in the visit to Yosemite National Park?

    During the visit to Yosemite National Park, you'll stop at El Capitan, Bridal-Veil Falls, and Half Dome. You'll also take a walk from the Yosemite Visitor Center to see Yosemite Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in North America.

  • What can I do in Las Vegas during the tour?

    In Las Vegas, you'll have the opportunity to tour the strip and see some of the city's amazing hotels and attractions, such as Caesar's Palace, Luxor, Mirage, Paris, Venetian, Bellagio, New York New York, and Treasure Island. You can also attend one of the many shows or try your luck at the casinos.

  • What is special about the visit to the Grand Canyon?

    At the Grand Canyon, you'll tour along the south bank and learn about the geological history of the area. You'll also have the chance to visit Indian marketplaces to browse handmade arts and crafts.

  • What natural wonders will I see at Antelope Canyon and Bryce Canyon?

    At Antelope Canyon, you'll tour the lower canyon and see the spectacular dunes created by wind, water, and sand. In Bryce Canyon, you'll witness amazing rock and sand sculptures and experience the unique changing colors during sunset from a vista point in the park.

  • What is the experience like at Zion Park?

    Zion Park offers a majestic experience with its mountains and wilderness. You'll enjoy a short walking trail along the Virgin River and feel as if you've been transported to another place, as the park is known for its serene and awe-inspiring environment.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All our accommodations based upon US 3 star hotels (normally European - 3.5 - 4 stars)

  • Services included in your tour price

    All our tours include your Transportation, Guide, Accommodation, Entrance fees and Breakfast for every night slept on tour.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    We provide electronic vouchers which can be displayed when join the tour

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    We are members of multiple trade organisations in the USA - US Travel, International Inbound Travel Association(IITA), NYC and CO (The New York City Travel Trade Association), Better Business Bureau of New Jersey BBB

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    All of our services are cleaned and disinfected as per the United States CDC guidelines. This includes buses, Hotels and Atractions

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    We offer 1 free date change for every reservation up to 3 days prior to departure

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Our company has been operating escorted tours since 1999

  • Language Guided tours

    All of our tours are available in the language of your choice. We offer English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, Japanese and Chinese

Reviews of this operator

Paco Lam (Google Reviewer)  

We booked our trip on...

07-Oct-2024

We booked our trip on Klook and it was really enjoyable! Other than the fact that we have to wake up 6 am everyday, the spots we went are really nice and beautiful. Our guide Lorenzo was super helpful along the way and he speaks English, Spanish and Italian so everyone fully understood the instructions. Highly recommend!

Meng Lin (Google Reviewer)  

My mom and I had...

16-Oct-2024

My mom and I had an incredible experience with Lorenzo as our guide to Grand Canyon! Not only was he extremely knowledgeable about the area, but he was also very considerate and attentive to the needs of everyone in the group. Lorenzo made sure we were comfortable and took the time to answer all our questions. Another standout part of the experience was his talent for photography. He captured some stunning shots of us at the most scenic spots, making the trip even more memorable. If you're looking for a guide who is thoughtful and has a great eye for photography, I highly recommend Lorenzo cus we really had a great time!

Anaris (Google Reviewer)  

We came to Antelope Canyon...

22-Dec-2024

We came to Antelope Canyon and Horse shoes, al the logistics, the attention and the tour guided by Walter was an amazing experience for my family. Walter was very knowledgeable and very professional with the way he conducted the tour! Highly recommend.

Loretta Hileman (Google Reviewer)  

In LV with friends, booked...

13-Nov-2024

In LV with friends, booked a day trip to Valley of Fire and Zion National Park! The day could not have been any better! Stellar in all ways! Mario and Walter were outstanding, above and beyond as our tour guides!!! They made the 6 hr drive , there and back , exciting, so very informative, We hiked several exquisite trails, breathtaking views, and were educated along the way with history and fun facts on this beautiful part of the country! Walter repeatedly suggested/ offered the perfect photo spots, taking the photos for us! Mario was a conscientious, safe driver taking us there and back with many laughs along the way. Walter shared his knowledge of the views from left to right! Incredible!. In a few downtimes along the ride, we turned up the music and sang ! So very fun , highly recommend these two individuals as they perform their job so well, It is obvious they love what they do. And they know their stuff. As Walter says.. " Let me show you the way.."

Sean Farrell (Google Reviewer)  

Wonderful experience, Lorenzo is a...

07-Oct-2024

Wonderful experience, Lorenzo is a class guide, very informative and full of knowledge about every place we visited. It was such a pleasure to learn so much history of Arizona and Utah.

Yafa Daisudov (Google Reviewer)  

My sister Yael and her...

03-Aug-2024

My sister Yael and her friend Batia had the most wonderful time on your tour. The guides were very helpful and knowledgeable. Thanks for making our trip so memorable. We will most definitely recommend it to anyone who is interested in visiting the US.

Merly Mathew (Google Reviewer)  

Me and my family went...

07-May-2024

Me and my family went on a one day Washington tour with Empire vacations recently. The trip was fun and extremely enjoyable. The tour guides were very polite and knowledgeable. The entire trip was very well coordinated with impeccable time management. Highly recommended.

Alena Shako (Google Reviewer)  

Lorenzo was an absolutely incredible...

07-Oct-2024

Lorenzo was an absolutely incredible and knowledgeable guide, providing us with fascinating insights and making the entire experience memorable. His deep understanding of the history, culture, and hidden gems of each destination truly enhanced our trip. Gerardo, our driver, was equally amazing—professional, friendly, and always ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. His expertise behind the wheel allowed us to relax and fully enjoy the beautiful scenery. Thank you both for making this 3-day tour such an unforgettable adventure!

Zhanna Arsirii (Google Reviewer)  

My recent trip to Niagara...

22-Oct-2024

My recent trip to Niagara Falls, Toronto, and the Thousand Islands was absolutely fabulous! Over the course of three days, I enjoyed a kind and warm atmosphere that made the experience unforgettable. Our guides were professional , ensuring that we made the most of our time together. Each location we visited was breathtaking, from the stunning views of Niagara Falls to the picturesque beauty of the Thousand Islands. This trip truly exceeded my expectations, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a memorable adventure filled with stunning scenery and exceptional service.

Osc Wh (Google Reviewer)  

Great tour, wonderful experience and...

29-Sep-2023

Great tour, wonderful experience and guid.

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Mar 31, 2025 - Apr 06, 2025
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Travel Club discount: -$62 (USD)

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Travel Club discount: -$62 (USD)

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Travel Club discount: -$62 (USD)

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  • Free Date Changes

    CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

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