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California's Great National Parks

8 Day National Park Tour of California

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AARP Members Save on select departures
SAVE UP TO $383
From $3,443
WAS $3,825
Find this price
8 Days
1 Country

United States

6 Cities

Las Vegas, Death Valley, Mammoth Lakes, Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, Los Angeles

11 Meals

2 Dinners, 7 Breakfasts, 2 Lunchs

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 48-52
Tour brand Trafalgar

Best Value Tours by Trafalgar

If you like hassle free travel with everything handled for you – looking to meet great people, eat great food, enjoy great sightseeing, and have immersive experiences, Trafalgar is for you.  From the iconic not-to-be-missed to one-of-a-kind local experiences, including Be-my-Guest dining and stays with stories, you’ll connect deeper to your destination, and every tour has at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER immersive impact experience offering you the chance to dive into culture and community.

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National Parks Tours

Explore the breathtaking beauty of the National Parks in the USA. See the wonders of Yellowstone, Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, and more with local experts who provide insights into the park's history, geology, and wildlife. From magnific geysers to breathtaking vistas, these guided tours offer an unforgettable experience in the heart of America's natural treasures.

View all National Parks Tours

Larger-than-life sequoias frame your path through the Land of the Giants - experience the natural wonders of California National Parks. Gain fascinating insight and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® as you meet a climber within Yosemite National Park to learn first-hand about the world of climbing and important conservation efforts. Have lunch with a Local Specialist in Sequoia National Park and learn about the timeless nature that abounds and later admire the stars above in a guided stargazing experience. Bask in the beauty of Mammoth Lakes and see the stunning Death Valley National Park.

Reviews
10
Average group size
average 48-52
Tour brand
Trafalgar
Travel style
National Parks
Globe

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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Soar Above the Neon Lights of Vegas

Begin your exploration in Las Vegas. This evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception before soaring 550 feet above the center of the Las Vegas Strip on the High Roller, the world's tallest observation wheel.

Sign in Las Vegas, USA
Welcome Meet your Travel Director at 18:00
Accommodation Horseshoe Las Vegas
Included Meals Dinner
Iconic Experience Visit the High Roller observation wheel in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
High Roller Las Vegas

A true must-see. Live “Viva Las Vegas” from the sky as you hop on the High Roller, North America's tallest observation wheel standing 550 feet tall...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 2

Travel Through Stoic Death Valley National Park

Immerse yourself in the solitude and desolation of Death Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and barren, yet unexpectedly lively land of extremes which we will have an opportunity to explore for part of today. Admire scenic views of the undulating rocky landscape at Zabriskie Point and learn about the valley's unique geological features, history and intriguing weather patterns. Descend below sea level to the Badwater Basin. We continue through the desert landscape of Death Valley ascending to Mammoth Lakes, our home for the night.

Skull in desert, Death Valley, USA
Accommodation Mammoth Mountain Inn, Mammoth Lakes
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Take a guided sightseeing tour in Death Valley, California, USA
Death Valley Sightseeing Tour

You’ll truly feel the solitude and vastness of Death Valley today as you head out on a guided tour of the park’s most famous sites. You’ll discover...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 3

Dine in the Clouds at Mammoth Mountain

Take a scenic Gondola ride to the peak of Mammoth Mountain (seasonal) and enjoy the stunning views while you enjoy a tasty breakfast. Enjoy a scenic drive on the June Lake Loop for your first peak at the bright blue waters of June Lake. The alpine scenery of Aspens and willows is a feast for the eyes along this winding road before lunch on your own at Lee Vining. Touch the clouds through the Tioga Pass (seasonal) and enter the UNESCO-listed Yosemite National Park. Driving past Tenaya Lake and Tuolumne Meadows, journey to Yosemite Valley. Our Stays With Stories accommodation tonight includes a cozy lodge atmosphere and is located just a stone’s throw from Yosemite Falls.

 

Tioga Pass: weather conditions may cause Tioga Pass to be closed to traffic, typically from mid-October to the end of May. In this case, an alternate entry point to Yosemite will be used entering through the west side of the park and Mammoth Lakes overnight will be replaced with Bakersfield or similar. This overnight change will affect sightseeing for this day.

Rainbow Falls in Mammoth Lake, USA
Yosemite Valley Lodge View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Yosemite Valley Lodge

About the Hotel

Yosemite National Park, United States

Style

  • Hotel
Trafalgar Difference
Yosemite Valley Lodge

Stay at the Yosemite Valley Lodge located close to Yosemite Falls in the middle of the national park.

Included in Trip

Trafalgar Difference

Iconic Experience Take an aerial gondola ride in Mammoth, California, USA
Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola

Ascend Mammoth Mountain by gondola and enjoy the stunning views over a tasty breakfast.

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 4

Stroll or Hike in Yosemite

Explore Yosemite National Park, famed for its ancient sequoia trees, grand meadows and iconic rock formations. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience through the Yosemite Conservancy hearing a climbers fascinating stories, photographs, demonstrations and a look at climbing gear. Learn about the science behind the emotions climbers feel when inching up a wall. Afterwards, you can explore Yosemite Valley's El Capitan, Cathedral Rocks or Bridalveil Falls at your leisure. The rest of the day is yours in Yosemite where the possibilities are endless.

Elk in Yosemite National Park, USA
Yosemite Valley Lodge View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Yosemite Valley Lodge

About the Hotel

Yosemite National Park, United States

Style

  • Hotel
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Enjoy a guided climb through Yosemite Conservancy in California, USA
Meet a Climber with the Yosemite Conservancy

Meet a climber and naturalist that will delve into the dynamic history of climbing in Yosemite. Enjoy storytelling, photographs, see the old and ne...

See More
Included in Trip

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Day 5

Enjoy the Night Sky Under Sequoias and Stars

After departing Yosemite, get ready for a unique Be My Guest Experience incorporating mindfulness while embracing the outdoors over a guided Forest Bathing meditation followed by lunch. Then, stretch your legs in Kings Canyon National Park and gaze towards the sky as you greet the giant boughs of General Grant Tree. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Kings Canyon before you continue along the Majestic Mountain Loop. Towering redwood trunks frame your journey to Sequoia National Park where you’ll spend the night in your Stays with Stories accommodation surrounded by forest and soaring Sierra peaks. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and spend the evening gazing upwards at the star-spangled sky as a local naturalist guides you through the constellations.

Tree in Sequoia National Park, USA
Accommodation Wuksachi Lodge, Sequoia National Park
Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch
Trafalgar Difference Stay at The Wuksachi Lodge in Sequoia National Park, USA
Wukasachi Lodge

The Wuksachi Lodge in the heart of Sequoia National Park surrounded by forest and soaring Sierra peaks. 

Included in Trip

Trafalgar Difference

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Enjoy an evening stargazing in Sequoia, USA
Stargazing in Sequoia

Meet your Local Specialist and enjoy stories and the latest astronomical news under one of California's most brilliant skies. The Milky Way galaxy ...

See More
Included in Trip

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Be My Guest Enjoy a one-of-a-kind Be My Guest experience Forest Bathing at Tenaya Lodge, Yosemite, California, USA
Join your host Susan at Tenaya Lodge

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience Forest Bathing, an immersive practice that uses all your senses to connect with your surroundings. Meet your host ...

See More
Included in Trip

Be My Guest

Day 6

Meet the World's Largest Living Tree

Tread in the footsteps of giants, walking beneath the soaring sequoia canopy to see first-hand the world’s largest living tree, General Sherman. Learn about the Giant Forest and its history during a stop at the Giant Forest Museum, then enjoy a leisurely walk along the Big Trees Trail, connecting with the invigorating natural surroundings before meeting up with a Local Specialist and Old West pioneer reenactor for an insightful lunch. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the park on your terms, using the complimentary shuttle system (seasonal).

General Sherman Tree in Sequoia National Park, USA
Accommodation Wuksachi Lodge, Sequoia National Park
Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch
Dive Into Culture Tree in Sequoia National Park, USA
Sequoia Lunch With a Local Specialist

Immerse yourself in the pioneer history of the Old West, joining a living-history reenactor and Local Specialist for a lunch and stories of early life in the mountains.

Included in Trip

Dive Into Culture

Day 7

Get a Taste of Hollywood

Descend the Sierra Nevada mountain range into southern California for an unrivaled view of the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. You will enjoy a visit to Hollywood, the entertainment capital of the world, for your chance to find your favorite celebrity's Hollywood Star. As our encounter with California’s epic natural beauty comes to an end, join your Travel Director and newfound friends for a Farewell Dinner.

Palm Trees and downtown Los Angeles, USA
Accommodation Beverly Hills Marriott, Los Angeles
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8

Farewell California

After our adventurous journey through California's national parks, the time has come for us to say goodbye. Prepare to leave Los Angeles International Airport at your leisure or consider extending your stay.

Venice Beach in Los Angeles, 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.

Iconic Experience
High Roller Las Vegas

A true must-see. Live “Viva Las Vegas” from the sky as you hop on the High Roller, North America's tallest observation wheel standing 550 feet tall...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Death Valley Sightseeing Tour

You’ll truly feel the solitude and vastness of Death Valley today as you head out on a guided tour of the park’s most famous sites. You’ll discover...

See More
Included in Trip
Trafalgar Difference
Yosemite Valley Lodge

Stay at the Yosemite Valley Lodge located close to Yosemite Falls in the middle of the national park.

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola

Ascend Mammoth Mountain by gondola and enjoy the stunning views over a tasty breakfast.

Included in Trip
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Meet a Climber with the Yosemite Conservancy

Meet a climber and naturalist that will delve into the dynamic history of climbing in Yosemite. Enjoy storytelling, photographs, see the old and ne...

See More
Included in Trip
Trafalgar Difference
Wukasachi Lodge

The Wuksachi Lodge in the heart of Sequoia National Park surrounded by forest and soaring Sierra peaks. 

Included in Trip
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Stargazing in Sequoia

Meet your Local Specialist and enjoy stories and the latest astronomical news under one of California's most brilliant skies. The Milky Way galaxy ...

See More
Included in Trip
Be My Guest
Join your host Susan at Tenaya Lodge

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience Forest Bathing, an immersive practice that uses all your senses to connect with your surroundings. Meet your host ...

See More
Included in Trip
Dive Into Culture
Sequoia Lunch With a Local Specialist

Immerse yourself in the pioneer history of the Old West, joining a living-history reenactor and Local Specialist for a lunch and stories of early life in the mountains.

Included in Trip

About this trip

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
All transport and transfers shown
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Optional Experiences and free time
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

What to expect

Visit Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Mammoth Lakes, Death Valley National Park, Giant Forest Museum, High Roller Las Vegas
View Zabriskie Point and Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park, General Grant Tree in Kings Canyon National Park, General Sherman Tree in Sequoia National Park
See El Capitan, Half Dome, Bridalveil Falls
Scenic Drive Along Tioga Pass (seasonal)
Tickets Included Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola

Hand-Picked Hotels

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

Yosemite Valley Lodge

Compare similar tours

National Park Wonders
9 Days from $3,893

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
Ronald Kombrinck
Review date: Saturday, July 8, 2023
Service
Would recommend
Vacation
Enjoyed very much. Wish tour was longer. Extra day in Yosemite would’ve been even better vs. Bakersfield..
Lesline Wildman
Review date: Monday, October 10, 2022
Service
yes, they were always helpful&kiind
Response from Grand European Travel:
It sounds like you had a great time on your tour of California's National Parks. They are certainly a sight to behold! Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We appreciate your feedback!
Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Vacation
our driver our tour guide and our health care person was the best
Michael Pikelny
Review date: Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Service
The booking experience went smoothly and most of the payment procedures could be done online.
Vacation
The travel director, wellness director and driver were all very professional and friendly. The only negative issues such as understaffing at some restaurants and lodges and certain places on the tour being closed were all due to covid and not to Trafalgar.
Steven Tolf
Review date: Monday, June 28, 2021
Service
Everyone was very helpful when I rebooked my canceled trip. They reached out to make sure we knew the trip was occurring and to see if we had any questions.
Vacation
I have given this trip 5 stars because any issues that we encountered were a result of post COVID travel. Great itinerary and the tour director, wellness director and bus driver were excellent. Lack of enough help at some restaurants caused major delays in getting food in a timely manner. Yet , you were expected to be on the coach at the predetermined time. A little more flexibility would have been appreciated and caused less stomach distress! Mother Nature was waiting for visitors to return and I am so glad that we were able to enjoy her beauty.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. We are so glad that you could enjoy the beauty of the National Parks while taking the COVID changes in stride. We will however share your suggestions with our operations team for upcoming trips and appreciate you bringing these issues to our attention.
Thursday, July 1, 2021
Leslie Weldin
Review date: Saturday, September 21, 2019
Service
It was easy. The guide and bus driver were outstanding. Local guides in the areas expanded our knowledge of the vicinities. Accommodations were comfortable and authentic to the areas. We would book from GET again.
Vacation
Excellent choice of places to visit. Great variety also. We didn’t feel pressured to do all that was offered. It was a majestic experience.
Thomas Brown
Review date: Saturday, September 21, 2019
Service
you are treated as if you are very special. I would and will recommend and am looking forward to our next trip.
Vacation
Well organized trip, we were blessed with great weather, great tour guide, great bus driver. The Sierra Nevada mts are fantastic.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Saturday, June 29, 2019
Service
Excellent service
Vacation
Awesome sights. Great weather
Janis - Rozena Peri
Review date: Tuesday, September 25, 2018
Service
Yes, I would buy again and recommend to others. My only reservation is the cost: this trip was a little more expensive that other companies going to the same destinations. But it was definitely worth it.
Vacation
A wonderful experience. The food and food service at the next to last lodge (Wasaki? I'm not looking at the brochure at the moment) was not up to the standard of the rest of the trip, but the overall trip was wonderful.
Bruce Grundish
Review date: Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Service
All arrangements made for you, Tour Guide was excellent, Very informed and knowledgeable about all aspects of the parks and surrounding areas and local culture. Really injoyed his talks along the way and what to do when we arrive at daily destinations.
Vacation
Wanted to see these parks without the hassle of driving, finding places to stay or what to see.
Deborah Campbell
Review date: Sunday, June 4, 2017
Service
Excellent excellent service, not a problem came up, not a complaint to be made!
Vacation
Loved the parks, the accommodations, the people; had a wonderful guide, Mark, and a fabulous bus driver, Tim.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Wow! Thanks for sharing your gorgeous pictures of Yosemite National Park.  Looks like you had great weather for your trip.
Friday, June 9, 2017
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