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American Parks Trail

9 Day Tour to Mount Rushmore & Yellowstone

9 Days
1 Country

United States

14 Cities

Salt Lake City, Jackson, Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful Geyser of California, Cody, Ucross, Devils Tower, Spearfish Canyon, Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt. Rushmore, Denver

11 Meals

3 Dinner with Wines, 8 Breakfasts

Active

Faster paced with mix of 1 and 2-night stays in each destination. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size average 33
Tour brand Insight Vacations

Insight Vacations

If you typically fly business with extra legroom and appreciate 4 and 5-star hotels and one-of-a-kind experiences, Insight Vacations is a great fit for you. Get all the sights and insights, up close and personal on these premium guided tours and enjoy business class seating on luxury motorcoaches designed just for Insight Vacations, with double the legroom and personal space of a regular touring coach. Engage your curiosity with hand-selected experiences, immerse yourself in local culture with superior dining and stay in style at highly rated hotels. Every tour includes at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. These immersive impact experiences are not only a positive force for change in the destinations you visit, by advancing one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but also offer you the chance to take a deep dive into culture and community.

View all Insight Vacations Tours

Experience the rugged and wild West during this 9-Day tour. Start in Salt Lake City, and then head to Jackson & the Grand Tetons. The adventure continues to Yellowstone National Park where you will walk beside the rainbow-hued hot springs and watch Old Faithful spew water more than 120 feet into the air. In Cody, see a firearms collection at the Buffalo Bill Center. Travel to Devils Tower, a butte of igneous rock jutting from the craggy Black Hills mountains. Here, you’ll learn about the Western legends Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Then head to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where the visages of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Roosevelt are carved into the mountainside. And ascend 563 feet to the top of Crazy Horse Memorial, named for the Lakota warrior, and stand face-to-face with the world’s largest mountain carving.

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Average group size
average 33
Tour brand
Insight Vacations
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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Salt Lake City

Welcome to Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah. Situated between Wasatch Range and the Great Salt Lake, this mountainous city is perfect for lovers of the outdoors, with a strong focus on skiing and hiking. Savor a dinner accompanied by wine in the company of your fellow travelers.

Mormon Tabernacle Temple Square, Salt Lake City, USA
Sheraton Salt Lake City Hotel View Hotel Details
Included Meals Dinner with Wine

Sheraton Salt Lake City Hotel

About the Hotel

Salt Lake City, United States

Centrally situated in the downtown business and entertainment districts, the Sheraton Salt Lake City Hotel offers many modern amenities for business and leisure travelers visiting Utah.

Hotel Amenities

  • Bar
  • Gym
  • Pool
  • Room Service
  • Restaurant
  • Concierge
  • Laundry
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Authentic Dining Enjoy a Welcome Dinner
Salt Lake City Dinner

At 18:00, join your Travel Director for a dinner with wine where you'll have the chance to mingle with fellow guests.

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Day 2

Jackson and the Tetons

Before leaving Salt Lake City, take in the State Capitol building. Drive along the scenic Logan Canyon, over the Wasatch Mountain Range, and up to the Bear Lake. Stop for lunch near Bear Lake offering views of beautiful turquoise waters. Then, head north across the Oregon Trail to historic Jackson. Have your cameras ready for the famous elk antlers at central square, while eager shoppers will find a number of charming traditional boutique galleries to browse. Enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure, with your hotel located only a short walk away from Jackson's Town Square.

Hiker in Grand Teton National Park, USA
Elk Country Inn View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Elk Country Inn

About the Hotel

Jackson, United States

Hotel Amenities

  • Laundry
  • 24-hour Front Desk
Top Rated Highlights Depart JacksonWyoming, Usa
Visit Jackson

Historic Jackson, where the majestic peaks of the Teton Range act as your constant backdrop. Feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you walk thro...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 3

Yellowstone National Park

Wake up to a mountainous view like no other and witness the striking Grand Tetons thrust skyward 13,775 Ft (4,199 m) from the valley floor. This morning, you have the opportunity to partake in an optional scenic float down the Snake River inside Grand Teton National Park. In keeping with today’s rustic country charm, you’ll enter Yellowstone, the world’s first National Park. Known for its unique geothermal activity, spectacular landscapes and abundant wildlife, you’ll experience Wyoming in all its glory. Keep an eye out for black bears or wolves. Tonight you’ll stay in one of Yellowstone's National Park Lodges, allowing you to experience the park after hours, in its natural habitat.

Buffalos, Yellowstone National Park, USA
Yellowstone National Park Lodges View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Yellowstone National Park Lodges

About the Hotel

Yellowstone National Park, United States

Centrally located within the National Park, guests will get to enjoy the beauty of Yellowstone in every moment of their visit.

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park, USA
Yellowstone National Park Visit

The world’s first National Park, Yellowstone spans 2,219,789 acres and even has its own Grand Canyon. The park is home to half of the world’s hydro...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Mountains, Grand Teton National Park, USA
Visit Grand Teton National Park

Travel through a mountainous landscape like no other. Witness the striking Grand Tetons thrust skyward 6,562 feet (2,000 meters) from the valley fl...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Optional Experiences Enjoy a Snake River Float ride through Grand Teton National Park and see wildlife along the way, USA
Snake River Float Trip Through Grand Teton National Park

Ready for relaxation? This gentle 10-mile float trip inside Grand Teton National Park covers the most scenic stretch of the Snake River in the Jack...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 4

Geysers and Colorful Mudpots

Savor the surreal surroundings of Yellowstone with a relaxed start. Walk among the rainbow tinted hot springs and watch the erupting geysers as you take in the history of the park on an informative stroll with your Travel Director. Catch the renowned colorful bubbling mud pots and observe Old Faithful geyser shooting water over 120 feet (37 meters) into the air. In the afternoon, enjoy the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone as you take in stunning natural wonders. While driving through Hayden Valley, famous for its wildlife, keep an eye out for wolves, bears, elk and hundreds of bison. The rest of the evening is at leisure for you to relax.

Lower Yellowstone Falls​, Yellowstone National Park, USA
Yellowstone National Park Lodges View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Yellowstone National Park Lodges

About the Hotel

Yellowstone National Park, United States

Centrally located within the National Park, guests will get to enjoy the beauty of Yellowstone in every moment of their visit.

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park, USA
See Upper Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park

Catch the renowned colorful bubbling mud pots and observe Old Faithful geyser shooting water over 120 feet (37 meters) into the air. The Upper Geys...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 5

The Ranch at Ucross

Set off on your travels through the stark Shoshone Canyon and Absaroka Rocky Mountains, leading you to the Wild West Town of Cody. Channel your inner showman and learn more about America’s great Western legends at the Buffalo Bill Center, known for its Western art collection, firearms, and natural history. Travel through the Bighorn National Forest to the Ranch at UCross. Take in the rustic charm as you're hosted at a traditional Wyoming Family ranch. Start off the evening with a cocktail hour in the historic Ranch House bar. After a home-cooked dinner, enjoy a fire pit with live entertainment, including country, folk and bluegrass music.

Canyon Visitor Education Center, Wyoming
Ranch at UCross View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Ranch at UCross

About the Hotel

Clearmont, United States

Enjoy a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere during your stay at the Ranch at UCross with the natural scenic beauty of the surroundings.

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Buffalo Bill Center Visit Cody, Wyoming
Cody Buffalo Bill Center Visit

Explore the award-winning Buffalo Bill Center of the West, known for its excellent Western art collection and natural history.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Authentic Dining Authentic Dining Ranch At Ucross, Wyoming
Dinner at UCross Ranch

Savor a hearty ranch style dinner prepared by your local hosts.

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Top Rated Highlights Drive through Shoshone National Forest and Absaroka Rockies, Cody, USA
Drive Through Shoshone National Forest

Travel out of Yellowstone NP through Shoshone Canyon and Absaroka Rocky Mountains to the Wild West Town of Cody.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 6

Devils Tower into the Black Hills

Live the American frontier dream and begin your day with a scenic country horseback ride accompanied by a Ranch Hand. If playing cowboy isn’t your thing, perhaps go fishing, or merely relax and take in your beautiful surroundings, the choice is yours. Make your way to Devils Tower, an astounding geological feature that protrudes out of the surrounding Black Hills. You'll learn why this symbolic landmark is considered sacred to the Lakota and other local tribes. Experience Spearfish Canyon, a favored spot among wildlife enthusiasts, and one famous for its elvish woodland beauty. The limestone palisades of this creek-carved gorge are more ancient than the Grand Canyon itself.

Two people looking at Devils Tower, USA
Spearfish Canyon Lodge View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Spearfish Canyon Lodge

About the Hotel

Spearfish Canyon, United States

Deep in the heart of beautiful canyons you'll find Spearfish Canyon Lodge. Built and decorated in the style of the old lodges of the West, it is a quaint resort that brings the best of Spearfish Canyon to your doorstep.

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Devil's Tower Monument, USA
See the Devils Tower in the Black Hills

View the awe-inspiring Devils Tower National Monument, a butte that protrudes from the landscape and is considered sacred by the Lakota and other tribes.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Insight Choice Horseback Riding, Clearmont, USA
Horseback Riding at UCross Ranch

Live the American frontier dream with a scenic morning country horseback ride.

Included in Trip

Insight Choice

Insight Choice Fishing, Ucross, Wyoming
Fishing at UCross

Take a leisurely fishing outing and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Included in Trip

Insight Choice

Day 7

Custer and the Wild, Wild West

A day for those looking to explore the Wild West, try to spot the fastest mammal in North America, the pronghorn antelope as you cross the great high plains to the Black Hills of South Dakota. Our first stop this morning is the Oglala Lakota Living History Museum for a one-of-a-kind MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Visit Badlands National Park in South Dakota, 244,000 acres of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and spires blended with the largest protected mixed grass prairie in America. A hidden gem in the national park system, the unique beauty of the Badlands landscape is unlike any other.

Landscape, Black Hills, USA
Accommodation State Game Lodge
Included Meals Breakfast
Top Rated Highlights Custer State Park, South Dakota
Custer State Park

Continue venturing through the Black Hills to arrive at Custer State Park. Renowned for its beautiful landscape and abundance of wildlife. Home to ...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Visit Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Visit Badlands National Park

Steep yourself in all that is the Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Preserved here are 244,000 acres of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and ...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Make Travel Matter
Oglala Lakota Living History Village

Discover the past, present, and future of the Lakota people at the Oglala Lakota Living History Village. Walk the trails through displays of 19th-c...

See More
Included in Trip

Make Travel Matter

Optional Experiences
Buffalo Safari & Chuckwagon Cookout

Custer State Park is known for its beauty and serenity, but it is also a wildlife reserve that is home to a famous herd of 1,500 free roaming bison...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 8

Mountain Monuments of the Black Hills

This morning, see the granite faces of Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Later, you'll experience the Crazy Horse Memorial - the world's largest mountain carving in honor of the Lakota warrior. With exclusive access not available to the general public, guests ascend 563 feet (172 meters) and have the opportunity to face the monument up close. Tonight, celebrate your travels over dinner with your Travel Director and new found friends.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial​, USA
Accommodation State Game Lodge
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Insight Experiences Crazy Horse Memorial, Black Hills
Visit Crazy Horse Memorial in the Black Hills

Visit Crazy Horse Memorial, which is dedicated to protecting and preserving the culture, tradition and living heritage of the Native American peopl...

See More
Included in Trip

Insight Experiences

Top Rated Highlights Close up of Lincoln, Mount Rushmore, USA
See Mount Rushmore National Memorial at the Black Hills

View iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial where carvings of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Roosevelt overlook the landscape.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Authentic Dining Celebration Dinner, Custer, Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Dinner in Custer

Toast to the finale of your trip at a dinner served at your lodge in Custer State Park.

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Day 9

Depart Denver

Your journey comes to an end today. A transfer is available to Denver International Airport, arrival at the airport will be at approximately 16:30.

Guests have the option to end the tour in Denver or Rapid City at time of booking.

City Park, Denver, USA
Included Meals Breakfast

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Special Departure

Special Departure

Included Highlights

Top rated highlights

Learn more about the landmarks, history and culture that makes your destination special.

Top Rated Highlights
Visit Jackson

Historic Jackson, where the majestic peaks of the Teton Range act as your constant backdrop. Feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you walk thro...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Yellowstone National Park Visit

The world’s first National Park, Yellowstone spans 2,219,789 acres and even has its own Grand Canyon. The park is home to half of the world’s hydro...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Visit Grand Teton National Park

Travel through a mountainous landscape like no other. Witness the striking Grand Tetons thrust skyward 6,562 feet (2,000 meters) from the valley fl...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
See Upper Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park

Catch the renowned colorful bubbling mud pots and observe Old Faithful geyser shooting water over 120 feet (37 meters) into the air. The Upper Geys...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Cody Buffalo Bill Center Visit

Explore the award-winning Buffalo Bill Center of the West, known for its excellent Western art collection and natural history.

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Drive Through Shoshone National Forest

Travel out of Yellowstone NP through Shoshone Canyon and Absaroka Rocky Mountains to the Wild West Town of Cody.

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
See the Devils Tower in the Black Hills

View the awe-inspiring Devils Tower National Monument, a butte that protrudes from the landscape and is considered sacred by the Lakota and other tribes.

Included in Trip
Insight Choice
Horseback Riding at UCross Ranch

Live the American frontier dream with a scenic morning country horseback ride.

Included in Trip
Insight Choice
Fishing at UCross

Take a leisurely fishing outing and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Custer State Park

Continue venturing through the Black Hills to arrive at Custer State Park. Renowned for its beautiful landscape and abundance of wildlife. Home to ...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Visit Badlands National Park

Steep yourself in all that is the Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Preserved here are 244,000 acres of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and ...

See More
Included in Trip
Make Travel Matter
Oglala Lakota Living History Village

Discover the past, present, and future of the Lakota people at the Oglala Lakota Living History Village. Walk the trails through displays of 19th-c...

See More
Included in Trip
Insight Experiences
Visit Crazy Horse Memorial in the Black Hills

Visit Crazy Horse Memorial, which is dedicated to protecting and preserving the culture, tradition and living heritage of the Native American peopl...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
See Mount Rushmore National Memorial at the Black Hills

View iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial where carvings of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Roosevelt overlook the landscape.

Included in Trip

About this trip

Our highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas. 
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.

Authentic Dining

3 Dinner with Wines, 8 Breakfasts

Salt Lake City Dinner

At 18:00, join your Travel Director for a dinner with wine where you'll have the chance to mingle with fellow guests.

Dinner at UCross Ranch

Savor a hearty ranch style dinner prepared by your local hosts.

Dinner in Custer

Toast to the finale of your trip at a dinner served at your lodge in Custer State Park.

Hand-Picked Hotels

Stay at highly rated hotels in desirable locations offering superb service, superior rooms with comfy beds to rest in.

Yellowstone National Park Lodges
Ranch at UCross
Spearfish Canyon Lodge

Optional Experiences

Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.

Optional Experience
Snake River Float Trip Through Grand Teton National Park

Ready for relaxation? This gentle 10-mile float trip inside Grand Teton National Park covers the most scenic stretch of the Snake River in the Jack...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Buffalo Safari & Chuckwagon Cookout

Custer State Park is known for its beauty and serenity, but it is also a wildlife reserve that is home to a famous herd of 1,500 free roaming bison...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

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USA National Parks

The National Park system was launched when Congress established Yellowstone National Park in the Territories of Wyoming and Montana. Since this preceded statehood for both territories, they were placed under federal management within the Department of the Interior. Today, the National Park System administers 419 parks! Here are some quick facts about our top national parks in the USA. 

If you're planning to go on a tour of the USA's national parks, there are several important things to know to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some key tips:

Pack Appropriately:

  • Depending on the time of year and location, weather conditions can vary greatly. Pack layers, waterproof gear, and appropriate footwear for hiking.
  • Don't forget essentials like water bottles, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit.

Stay on Marked Trails:

  • Follow marked trails and paths to protect fragile ecosystems and your own safety.
  • Venturing off marked paths can harm plants, disturb wildlife, and increase the risk of accidents.

Wildlife Safety:

  • Keep a safe distance from wildlife. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens to observe animals from a distance.
  • Never feed wild animals, as it can alter their natural behaviors and potentially lead to dangerous encounters.

Leave No Trace:

  • Follow the principles of "Leave No Trace" by packing out all trash, minimizing your impact on the environment, and respecting the natural beauty of the parks.

Photography Etiquette:

  • Take photos responsibly and without disturbing the environment or other visitors.
  • Avoid climbing on delicate formations for the sake of a photo.

Cultural and Historic Sites:

  • Respect cultural and historical sites within the parks. Do not touch or disturb artifacts or structures.

The climate and weather in the USA's national parks can vary significantly due to their diverse geographical locations and elevations. It's important to note that the weather can be unpredictable in many national parks, so it's wise to be prepared for changing conditions. Always check the weather forecast before your trip, especially if you plan to participate in outdoor activities such as hiking or camping. Additionally, higher elevations tend to have cooler temperatures, and conditions can change rapidly, so be sure to pack accordingly and follow park guidelines for safety.

Here's a general overview of the climate and weather considerations for some of the top-visited national parks:

Yellowstone National Park:

  • Located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.
  • Summers are short and cool, while winters are cold with heavy snowfall.
  • Weather can change rapidly, even within a single day.
  • Snow can be present even in summer at higher elevations.

Grand Canyon National Park:

  • Located in Arizona.
  • Summers are hot on the canyon floor, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations.
  • Winters can be mild at the bottom but cold at the rim. Snow is possible at the rim.

Yosemite National Park:

  • Located in California.
  • Mild temperatures in the valley during summer, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations.
  • Winters can bring snow to the valley floor and heavy snowfall at higher elevations.

Rocky Mountain National Park:

  • Located in Colorado.
  • Summers are pleasant, but temperatures can drop at night due to high elevation.
  • Winters are cold with heavy snowfall, especially at higher elevations.

Zion National Park:

  • Located in Utah.
  • Summers are hot, particularly in the narrow canyons.
  • Winters are mild in the lower elevations but can be snowy at higher elevations.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

  • Located in Tennessee and North Carolina.
  • Experiences a temperate climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters.
  • Rainfall is common, contributing to the lush vegetation.

Glacier National Park:

  • Located in Montana.
  • Short, cool summers with temperatures varying significantly depending on elevation.
  • Winters are cold with heavy snowfall, and many areas remain inaccessible due to snow.

Bryce Canyon National Park:

  • Located in Utah.
  • Summers are warm during the day and cool at night.
  • Winters are cold with significant snowfall, creating a unique snowy landscape.

Acadia National Park:

  • Located in Maine.
  • Summers are mild and pleasant, but fog can be expected along the coast.
  • Winters are cold, and snowfall is possible.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

  • *Please note: A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a trip to Alaska will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Still, it requires careful consideration due to the diverse climate and activities you might encounter. Here's a comprehensive list of packing tips to ensure you're well-prepared:

Clothing:

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good traction are essential for exploring park trails.
  • Layering is key: Bring a variety of lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers to adapt to changing weather conditions.
  • A warm jacket: A waterproof and insulated jacket will be essential for colder days.
  • Rain gear: Bring a waterproof jacket, pants, and even a rain cover for your backpack/camera to stay dry during unexpected rain showers.
  • Fleece or sweaters: These provide extra warmth and can be worn over base layers.
  • Quick-dry pants: Opt for comfortable pants that dry quickly if they get wet.
  • Gloves and mittens: Pack lightweight gloves or heavy mittens for colder days.
  • Hats: A warm beanie and a sun hat with a wide brim for sun protection.
  • Polarized sunglasses for glare reduction and eye protection.

Sun Protection:

  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring "Reef-Safe" sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly.

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone. However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag is useful for carrying essentials like water, snacks, a camera, and any extra clothing layers during excursions.
  • Insect repellent can be essential, especially in parks with dense foliage or during warmer months.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet, and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • If you have a National Park Pass or any tour-related documents, keep them easily accessible.
  • Carry a copy of your ID, passport, or driver's license, especially if you're staying in lodges within the park.
  • A small travel alarm.
  • A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
  • A travel pillow.

Optional:

  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember that the specific items you pack may vary based on the park you're visiting and the activities planned during your guided tour.

Since you are traveling within the USA, you won't need to worry about voltage and plug type differences. Just pack your electronic devices as you would for any domestic trip, and you'll be all set to enjoy your guided tour in the United States!

It's important to keep in mind that the focus of national park lodges is often on providing a comfortable and immersive experience that aligns with the natural surroundings. Depending on the lodge's location and the park's preservation priorities, the amenities offered might differ from what you'd find in a typical hotel. As well, the availability of amenities such as air conditioning and hair dryers in national park lodges can vary widely based on the specific lodge and park you're visiting. 

Here's a general idea of what to expect:

Electricity

  • Voltage and Plug Type: As an American traveler, you won't need a voltage converter or plug adapter for your electronic devices within the country.
  • Compatibility: Since you are traveling within the USA, your electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and camera chargers, should be compatible with the standard voltage and plug type used in the country. You can use your regular chargers and power cords without any issues.
  • Hotels and Accommodations: Most hotels and accommodations in the USA provide electrical outlets compatible with American plugs. You won't need to worry about adaptors or converters within the country.
  • Airports and Public Places: Airports, train stations, and other public places in the USA will have outlets that match the American standard, so you can quickly charge your devices while on the go.
  • On the Go: We highly suggest bringing a portable power bank for charging devices on the go. You can charge it each night and pack it for your excursions during the day. There's nothing like missing that photo when your camera dies!

Air Conditioning:

  • Many national park lodges are located in areas with cooler temperatures or higher elevations, where air conditioning is not as commonly needed.
  • However, some lodges in warmer regions or lower elevations might offer air conditioning, especially if the climate calls for it.

Hair Dryers:

  • National park lodges often prioritize preserving the natural environment and minimizing their ecological footprint, so some lodges might not provide hair dryers in rooms.
  • However, larger lodges or those near more developed areas might offer hair dryers as part of their room amenities.
  • If having a hair dryer is essential, check with the lodge in advance or consider bringing a compact, travel-sized hair dryer.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers are not included or available on tours that operate in the United States. Guests will be provided local transfer options after booking so they can make their travel arrangements from the airport to the hotel and vice versa. Learn more about Airport Transfers here.

So that you can personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. Optional programs are designed to help you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

Traveling on a guided tour can be an exciting and enriching experience. However, it's essential to prioritize your health and safety while exploring new territories. Staying informed, prepared, and cautious will go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience. Always stay in touch with your Travel Director and always follow their recommendations.

Here are some health advice and recommendations for travelers:

Visit the Doctor: Before embarking on your trip, schedule a visit with a medicine specialist or your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized health advice based on your medical history and current health status.

Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuations, and trip cancellations.

First Aid Kit: Carry a basic kit with essential items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antidiarrheal medication, and any prescribed medications.  

Stay Hydrated: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day, and rest in air-conditioned or shaded areas.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medications and carry them in their original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these. 

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity of $1.00-$2.00 USD per person/half day. You can always ask your Travel Director if there will be any need to bring cash along to tip someone that day. 

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/day is listed in your travel documents.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

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Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Richard Geltzer
Review date: Sunday, October 14, 2018
Service
This was our first Insight tour and we would definitely take another. Our tour guide (Ann) was extremely knowledgeable and shared so much information about the area and the places we were visiting. She had a great personality and you could tell that she loved what she did. Our bus driver (Kevin) was pleasant and courteous and kept the bus windows spotless!
Vacation
Hotels/lodges were all nice. Meals that were included were very good.
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