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National Park Wonders (Black Hills Pow Wow)

9 Day US Tour from Jackson to Rapid City

CLICK HERE for National Park Wonders
9 Days
1 Country

United States

10 Cities

Jackson, Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Cody, Billings, Deadwood, Rapid City, Badlands National Park, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial

12 Meals

4 Dinners, 8 Breakfasts

Comfortable

Mainly 2 and 3 night stays in each location. Comfortable travel days with numerous stops. 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.

View all Trafalgar Tours

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

Black Hills Pow Wow Tours

Immerse yourself in the joyous atmosphere of the Black Hills Pow Wow, a yearly gathering held in Rapid City, South Dakota. The vibrant occasion honors the preservation of the cultural heritage of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota communities. Witness the dazzling performances by talented dancers and singers, and marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of skilled artisans.

View all Black Hills Pow Wow Tours

The Pow Wow is one of the premier American Indian cultural events in the United States, attracting hundreds of dancers, singers, artisans and several thousand spectators from across several U.S. states and Canadian provinces.

Reviews
108
Average group size
average 48-52
Tour brand
Trafalgar
Travel style
National Parks Black Hills Pow Wow
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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Welcome To Jackson

Welcome to Jackson! Home to an array of wildlife and the center of outdoor adventures, explore Jackson on your own before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner. Excitement builds as your Travel Director outlines the sites to come in your exploration of US national parks.

Mountain Range in Jackson, USA
Welcome Meet your Travel Director at 18:00
Accommodation The Lodge at Jackson Hole
Included Meals Dinner

Day 2

An Adventure in Grand Teton National Park

Spend the morning connecting with the dazzling natural scenery of Grand Teton National Park. Marvel at the summit peaks of the Teton mountain range and take in the awe-inspiring Jenny Lake. This afternoon, choose to sail into the sky on an aerial tram ride to the peak of Rendezvous Mountain offering 360-degree views of the Tetons, Jackson Hole, the Snake River Valley, and Grand Teton National Park. This evening, opt for a western hoedown featuring a Dutch-oven style dinner with Bar-T 5.

Moulton Barn in Grand Teton National Park, USA
Accommodation The Lodge at Jackson Hole
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Moulton Barn in Grand Teton National Park, USA
Visit Grand Teton National Park

Get your cameras ready for Grand Teton National Park’s shimmering peaks of the Teton mountain range rising up above forests and lakes. You’ll love ...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Optional Experiences Travel by a horse drawn covered wagon to Cache Creek Canyon for a Cookout and Show, USA
Bar T 5 Chuckwagon Cookout

Arriving at the Bar T-5, travel by horse-drawn covered wagons as you are swept away from the town of Jackson into beautiful Cache Creek Canyon. Kee...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Take the Jackson Aerial Tram to 4,139 feet with 360-degree views of the Tetons, Jackson Hole valley and surrounding mountains, USA
Ride the Jackson Hole Aerial Tramway

The Jackson Hole Aerial Tram in Teton Village is the gateway to your national park experience. Located one mile from the entrance to Grand Teton Na...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 3

Delve Into Yellowstone National Park

This morning, you may take an optional float trip down Snake River. Sit back and relax as your expert guide points out the sites and wildlife which may include beaver, cutthroat trout, cliff swallows, pelicans, osprey, and bald eagles. No matter what critters come into view, you’ll surely enjoy the mountain views. We continue our exploration of the great American West as we head to the world's first National Park, Yellowstone. Your encounter with its geothermal wonders will leave you in awe. Witness Old Faithful’s waters arc high into the air as it has done approximately every 90 minutes since the Washburn Expedition discovered it. We stay amidst the colorful pools of hotsprings, mudpots and geysers tonight at one of the park’s signature lodges.

Old Faithful Geyser in Yellowstone, USA
Accommodation National Park Lodges Yellowstone
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Stays With Stories Exterior 1, Yellowstone National Park Lodges, Yellowstone, USA
Yellowstone National Park Lodges

Nothing beats staying close to all the action. Your accommodation for the next two nights is inside the National Park granting you all day access t...

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Included in Trip

Stays With Stories

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

Journey Through Yellowstone National Park

Rise and shine to unlock Yellowstone National Park. Begin by teaming up with local naturalist guides to explore Norris Geyser Basin, the hottest, most acidic and most dynamic geyser basin in Yellowstone on the rim of the Yellowstone volcano. Continue your discovery of the Park with your Travel Director, keeping a keen eye out for bison, grizzlies and elk as you journey through Hayden Valley en route to the rusting walls of Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon. Drive along Dunraven Pass and past Montana’s Lamar Valley, home to herds of elk, bison and grizzlies. Admire the gentle cascade of water running down the multi-colored mineral terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs as they descend into the valley.

Bison in Yellowstone, USA
Accommodation National Park Lodges Yellowstone
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Lower Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park, USA
Visit Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park. A bucket list destination and a must-see icon. Established as America's first National Park by President Grant in 1872, ...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Dive Into Culture Norris Hotspring in Yellowstone National Park, USA
Yellowstone National Park’s Norris Geyser Basin

In Yellowstone National Park’s Norris Geyser Basin, join local guides who bring the landscape to life over accounts of early travelers, anecdotes f...

See More
Included in Trip

Dive Into Culture

Day 5

Get A Taste Of The Wild West

Head to the infamous town of Cody, named for its most famous native son, Buffalo Bill. Gain insights into the history of the American West at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and delve into the history of the cowboy, the role of the firearm in the early days, and the culture of the Plains Indians. This evening, enjoy a Be My Guest experience as you dine at the historic Billings Depot, featuring a hyper-local pairing of food and mixed cocktails. Meet Allen Hodges, owner and founder of Undammed Distilling Co. for a one-of-a-kind culinary experience.

Visit the Buffalo Bill Center, Cody, USA
Accommodation DoubleTree by Hilton Billings
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience Visit the Buffalo Bill Center, Cody, USA
Visit The Buffalo Bill Center

Jump into the playground of the wild west. Glimpse into the "Spirit of the West" at the Buffalo Bill Center for the West Museum complex. Boasting f...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Be My Guest Visit Billings depot in the Historic District of downtown Billings, USA
Presentation about Montana’s Local Tribes

Guests will dine at the historic Billings Depot and experience a hyper-local pairing of food and mixed cocktails. Your host for the evening is Alle...

See More
Included in Trip

Be My Guest

Day 6

Journey to Rapid City

Head through the windswept prairies of the American Frontier and into the Black Hills of South Dakota, admiring the looming fortress of Devils Tower, a geological monolith that seems to rise up out of the prairie. You’ll learn why Devils Tower is considered sacred to local Native American tribes while appreciating its distinct beauty. Afterwards journey to Rapid City, where you'll have your overnight stay.

National Monument, Devil's Tower, USA
Accommodation The Rushmore Hotel & Suites
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience
Visit Devils Tower National Monument

Admire Devils Tower, a geological monolith that seems to rise up out of the prairie. You’ll be able to see why Devils Tower is considered sacred to...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 7

Explore the Black Hills Pow Wow

Today is your first full day in Rapid City to do as you please. Relax at your hotel or opt for one of our exciting optional experiences. Choose to visit Badlands National Park with your Tour Director exploring some of the 244,000 acres of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and spires amongst the largest protected mixed grass prairie in America. You’ll even make a stop at the famous Wall Drug Store, one of the top roadside attractions in the country. In the evening, you'll attend the Black Hills Pow Wow, also known as He Sapa Wacipi, with Stephen Yellowhawk of the Lakota tribe. The Black Hills Pow Wow is a sacred social gathering held by many North American indigenous communities that includes singing, dancing, drum groups, art, athletic competitions, and a variety of other events, all to celebrate and honor their beautiful culture that you get to witness.

Chief's Headresses in Rapid City, USA
Accommodation The Rushmore Hotel & Suites
Included Meals Breakfast
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® See the Black Hills Pow Wow experience in Rapid City, South Dakota, USA
Black Hills Pow Wow Experience

Enjoy an evening at the Black Hills Pow Wow, one of the premier American Indian cultural events in the United States, attracting hundreds of dancer...

See More
Included in Trip

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Optional Experiences Visit Badlands National Park in southwest South Dakota and see 244,000 acres of pinnacles and spires, USA
Badlands National Park Excursion

A hidden gem in the national park system, the beauty of the Badlands landscape is like no other. Badlands National Park preserves 244,000 acres of ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 8

Hear the History of the Black Hills

Travel to South Dakota to pay tribute to Crazy Horse, the largest mountain carving in the world, peering at the immortalized face of the famed war chief of the Lakota people etched from the granite rock of the Black Hills. We continue to Mount Rushmore featuring the enormous carvings of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln dramatically etched into the granite rock face. Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Farewell Dinner.

View of Mount Rushmore, USA
Accommodation The Rushmore Hotel & Suites
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Native American Moccasins in Rapid City, USA
Discover Lakota Culture through Song and Dance

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind-experience meeting Stephen Yellowhawk to discover the history of his tribe during a festive evening of dance and song...

See More
Included in Trip

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Iconic Experience Visit the Crazy Horse Memorial in Black Hills, USA
Visit Crazy Horse Memorial

Unlock the history of Crazy Horse Memorial. Learn how construction began in 1948 after Henry Standing Bear, a Lakota elder, commissioned Korczak Zi...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Iconic Experience View of Mount Rushmore, USA
Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

The grand faces of Mount Rushmore National Memorial await. View the faces of four of America’s most important presidents - George Washington, Thoma...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 9

Farewell Rapid City

After breakfast, bid farewell to your traveling companions and transfer to Rapid City Regional Airport at your leisure. Or, extend your stay in Rapid City at The Rushmore Hotel.

Cowboy hat in Rapid City, USA
Included Meals Breakfast

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Included Highlights

Top rated highlights

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

Iconic Experience
Visit Grand Teton National Park

Get your cameras ready for Grand Teton National Park’s shimmering peaks of the Teton mountain range rising up above forests and lakes. You’ll love ...

See More
Included in Trip
Stays With Stories
Yellowstone National Park Lodges

Nothing beats staying close to all the action. Your accommodation for the next two nights is inside the National Park granting you all day access t...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Visit Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park. A bucket list destination and a must-see icon. Established as America's first National Park by President Grant in 1872, ...

See More
Included in Trip
Dive Into Culture
Yellowstone National Park’s Norris Geyser Basin

In Yellowstone National Park’s Norris Geyser Basin, join local guides who bring the landscape to life over accounts of early travelers, anecdotes f...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Visit The Buffalo Bill Center

Jump into the playground of the wild west. Glimpse into the "Spirit of the West" at the Buffalo Bill Center for the West Museum complex. Boasting f...

See More
Included in Trip
Be My Guest
Presentation about Montana’s Local Tribes

Guests will dine at the historic Billings Depot and experience a hyper-local pairing of food and mixed cocktails. Your host for the evening is Alle...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Visit Devils Tower National Monument

Admire Devils Tower, a geological monolith that seems to rise up out of the prairie. You’ll be able to see why Devils Tower is considered sacred to...

See More
Included in Trip
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Black Hills Pow Wow Experience

Enjoy an evening at the Black Hills Pow Wow, one of the premier American Indian cultural events in the United States, attracting hundreds of dancer...

See More
Included in Trip
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Discover Lakota Culture through Song and Dance

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind-experience meeting Stephen Yellowhawk to discover the history of his tribe during a festive evening of dance and song...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Visit Crazy Horse Memorial

Unlock the history of Crazy Horse Memorial. Learn how construction began in 1948 after Henry Standing Bear, a Lakota elder, commissioned Korczak Zi...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

The grand faces of Mount Rushmore National Memorial await. View the faces of four of America’s most important presidents - George Washington, Thoma...

See More
Included in Trip

What to expect

Discover Jackson, Rapid City
Visit the towering peaks of Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Devils Tower National Monument, the Black Hills of South Dakota
View Crazy Horse Memorial, Mount Rushmore
Explore Meet naturalist guides from Yellowstone Wildlife Profiles to learn about its geysers, hot springs, deep canyons and wildlife

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
Bar T 5 Chuckwagon Cookout

Arriving at the Bar T-5, travel by horse-drawn covered wagons as you are swept away from the town of Jackson into beautiful Cache Creek Canyon. Kee...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Ride the Jackson Hole Aerial Tramway

The Jackson Hole Aerial Tram in Teton Village is the gateway to your national park experience. Located one mile from the entrance to Grand Teton Na...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
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
Badlands National Park Excursion

A hidden gem in the national park system, the beauty of the Badlands landscape is like no other. Badlands National Park preserves 244,000 acres of ...

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
Trusted Customer
Review date: Monday, October 21, 2024
Service
Vacation
Accommodations were OK as was the food. Nothing was really outstanding. I wouldn't recommend your company to any future prospects who might be wanting to go on this tour with.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are sorry that this trip fell short of your expectations. We appreciate your feedback and will share it with the Tour Operator.
Thursday, October 24, 2024
Trusted Customer
Review date: Monday, October 7, 2024
Vacation
Well organized trip. Excellent tour director and driver. Great videos shown when traveling to different sites.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Monday, June 10, 2024
Service
Took care of everything.
Vacation
Lot of bus travel, but needed since I was seeing lots of area. Company was good. The hotels rated from excellent to ok. The provided voucher for food also rated from excellent to ok.
Thomas Rayburn
Review date: Monday, June 3, 2024
Service
Rob Rainwater did an excellent job.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for your lovely comments about our team. We will be sure to share them with all involved. We are so happy to see that you enjoyed your trip.
Monday, June 17, 2024
Vacation
A great trip. The tour director ,Ann, was excellent. She was informative as well as being flexible with some of the weather issues. The bus driver,Byron, also was good.
Dorothy Rochelle Linscott
Review date: Monday, October 16, 2023
Service
Great Customer service, great tour guide (Robert), great bus driver (Paul)
Vacation
Saw everything wanted to see and more
Sheree Green
Review date: Monday, October 2, 2023
Service
She was very knowledgeable and patient. I was happy she was the one I connected with.
Vacation
It was so well planned and executed. We didn't have to do much, just show up. That's what we like.
Sharon Oberholtzer
Review date: Friday, September 29, 2023
Service
The trip was wonderful. Our tour guide, Tyson Whitney, was excellent. The excursions were great. There was nothing we would not choose again. Our absolute favorite was the float trip on the Snake River. Tyson was knowledgeable and entertaining.
Vacation
Incredible scenery, range of experiences from the float on the Snake River to the Chuck Wagon dinner and the lighting of Mount Rushmore. Everything was great as well as time on our own.
Peter Shepard
Review date: Monday, July 24, 2023
Service
Tyson Whitney made the whole trip very educational and fun.
Vacation
They took us places we never would have gone if we were on our own.
Carol Eldred
Review date: Tuesday, June 6, 2023
Service
It was easy. Agent was very helpful
Vacation
Very enjoyable, great tour guide, great tour group
Sandra Kayse
Review date: Tuesday, June 6, 2023
Service
Our Western National Parks event was totally wonderful! From the hotels to our wonderful guide & bus driver, it was everything we hoped for.
Vacation
From hotels to guide & driver, it was everything we wished for. Wonderful!!
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