5 Day Tour L. Angeles Las Vegas Yellowstone & Grand Teton from LA

Planning a trip that spans iconic American landscapes in just five days sounds ambitious—and it is. This tour from Los Angeles packs in some of the most breathtaking sights in the western U.S., from the shimmering waters of Yellowstone to the dramatic cliffs of Antelope Canyon. While it promises a whirlwind adventure, it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for before booking.

What we love about this experience? First, the diverse landscapes — ranging from desert vistas to mountain peaks — make it a visual feast. Second, the knowledgeable guide (at least according to some reviews) can really enhance the experience with insights into the areas visited. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the tight schedule, which might limit time at each spot for those wanting more than just a quick glance.

This tour is best suited for travelers eager for a broad overview of the American West, especially those who enjoy guided trips that handle transportation and logistics. If you’re after a leisurely pace or specific activities, you might find this trip a little rushed. Still, if you want a taste of big landscapes and are okay with a fast-paced itinerary, this could be an exciting option.

Key Points

• Efficient itinerary covers major sights across several states in five days.
• Value for money at $878 per person, considering transportation, entry fees, and guided commentary.
• Comfortable lodging included, though some reviews suggest the hotels are decent but not luxurious.
• Group size maxes out at 55 travelers, balancing social vibe and manageable logistics.
• Pre-booking is recommended, with most travelers booking about four weeks in advance.
• Mixed reviews highlight both knowledgeable guides and some dissatisfaction with certain aspects, like extra costs or language barriers.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Los Angeles to St. George, Utah

The journey kicks off bright and early in Los Angeles, heading east through the Mojave Desert. We loved the way the desert landscape is described as barren yet decorated with Joshua trees — a classic southwestern scene. This drive gives you a sense of the vast openness of this part of the U.S., a stark contrast to LA’s urban sprawl.

Arriving in Las Vegas around noon, you get a quick taste of the city’s famous neon energy, though this tour doesn’t include a detailed exploration of Vegas itself. Instead, the focus quickly shifts as you leave the city behind for St. George, Utah, where your overnight stay provides a restful break after the long drive.

Day 2: Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

Antelope Canyon is renowned for its narrow, wave-like passageways and beautiful light beams — truly one of the most photogenic spots in the Southwest. The tour visits the Lower Antelope Canyon, which some find more immersive than the Upper Canyon due to its darker, more twisting passages. It’s on Navajo land, which adds an element of cultural significance.

Passing by Glen Canyon and Lake Powell offers panoramic views of one of the largest artificial lakes in the U.S., surrounded by nearly 100 side canyons. Lake Powell’s stunning blue waters contrast sharply with the surrounding rock formations, making it a favorite for photography.

Horseshoe Bend, an iconic meander of the Colorado River, is a highlight that many travelers find breathtaking. It’s a short walk from the parking area to get a view of the river’s perfect horseshoe shape — a classic Arizona photo stop.

Day 3: Jackson, Grand Teton & Yellowstone

Traveling north into Wyoming, we arrive at Jackson, a charming cowboy town with a lively town square. The Elk Antler Arches are a quirky yet iconic feature, offering a distinctly Western vibe. The town itself is a great place for some quick souvenirs or a hearty lunch.

The tour then moves into Grand Teton National Park, where we’re promised stunning mountain vistas. The Scenic Loop Drive offers sweeping views of the Teton Range, which rise sharply from the plains, creating some of the most dramatic scenery in the Rockies.

Yellowstone, the first national park in the U.S., is a true highlight, with geothermal features like West Thumb Geyser Basin. The 40-minute stop offers a snapshot of this vast, geologically active park.

Day 4: Yellowstone’s Wonders

This full day in Yellowstone is packed with stops at key attractions like Norris Geyser Basin, Upper and Lower Falls, Artist Point, Mammoth Hot Springs, and more. The 7-hour itinerary means you’ll see a lot, but not necessarily have time to linger. Still, the diversity of landscapes—from boiling mud pots to thundering waterfalls—is hard to beat.

According to reviews, this day captures the essence of Yellowstone, but some found the schedule a bit rushed. The Mud Volcano and Black Dragon’s Caldron showcase the park’s geothermal activity, while Artist Point provides one of the most famous views of the Lower Falls.

Day 5: Yellowstone and the Great Salt Lake

The final day continues exploring Yellowstone’s geothermal areas and scenic lakes. The Color Palette and Fountain Paint Pot showcase the park’s volcanic activity and vibrant mineral deposits.

The tour’s highlight is Old Faithful, which reliably erupts every 90 minutes or so. Watching this natural geyser in action is a satisfying end to the Yellowstone experience, especially as it’s one of the park’s most famous features.

The trip concludes with a visit to the Great Salt Lake, a surreal inland sea known for its high salinity and unique landscape. It’s a fitting end, mixing a natural wonder with a sense of both serenity and oddity.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The tour uses various vehicles based on the number of travelers, which helps keep things manageable and comfortable. The group size caps at 55, which balances the benefits of a guided experience without feeling too crowded. Most travelers can participate, with some restrictions like age (children under 18 need adult supervision) and safety considerations (pregnant women under 24 weeks can join).

While the guide’s knowledge is praised in some reviews, a few travelers noted issues like language barriers or inconsistent guide quality. The tour is bilingual, which might make some explanations longer or more complex than expected, but overall, most found guides helpful and engaging.

Lodging and Meals

Hotels are included for the nights spent in St. George, Salt Lake City, Jackson, and Yellowstone. Review feedback indicates that lodging is decent but not luxurious, with rooms accommodating 2-4 guests. For those seeking more privacy or separate rooms, booking multiple rooms separately is recommended.

The tour offers breakfast options, but meals and drinks are generally not included, so you’ll want to budget extra for food. Some reviewers mention additional costs, like a $377 service fee and park admittance, which might seem steep but cover the essentials.

Value for Money and Overall Impression

At $878 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package, including transportation, entry fees to key parks, and guiding. However, reviews suggest that additional costs (like service fees and park admissions) can add up, so budget accordingly.

Considering the intense schedule—covering several states and major parks in just five days—the trip is best suited for those who want a fast-paced introduction to the American West. If your goal is a relaxed, in-depth experience, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re after a big-picture overview and don’t mind the hustle, you’ll get a good sense of these iconic places.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who are short on time but eager to see some of the most famous sights in the western U.S. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting a guided, all-in-one experience that covers mountains, deserts, geysers, and lakes. Plus, those who appreciate organized transportation and hotel stays will find this a hassle-free way to visit these remote spots.

However, if you’re a seasoned traveler who prefers slow, immersive visits or has specific interests like hiking or photography, this tour might feel rushed. The itinerary is packed, and for some, that means missing out on the quieter, more contemplative side of these natural wonders.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This 5-day guided tour offers a solid snapshot of some truly spectacular American landscapes. It’s a good option for folks who want a guided, logistical solution to see multiple iconic landmarks in a short span, especially if they value having everything arranged for them.

The value is reasonable given the inclusion of transportation, parks, and guides, but some travelers might find the extra costs and pace a little daunting. The quality of hotels is generally acceptable, and the guided commentary can make the experience more enriching, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

For adventure lovers, first-time visitors, or families wanting a manageable way to see the highlights, this tour can be a cost-effective and time-efficient choice. But those seeking a more relaxed, personalized, or in-depth exploration might prefer to tailor their own trip, perhaps spending more time at each site.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel stays (for the nights you’re scheduled), transportation in a vehicle suitable for the group size, guided commentary, and entry fees to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Great Salt Lake, Horseshoe Bend, and Lower Antelope Canyon.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, though breakfast options are available. You should budget for additional food costs during the trip.

How many people are in the group?
The group size can be up to 55 travelers, which balances a social atmosphere with manageable logistics.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, vehicles are based on the number of guests and are designed to provide a comfortable ride over long distances.

Can I have a separate room?
Yes, if you are more than four travelers or prefer separate accommodations, you should book multiple rooms separately.

What is the best time of year to join?
While specific dates aren’t detailed here, booking about four weeks in advance is recommended, and the tour runs during the warmer months when parks are fully accessible.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Chinese, which can lead to longer explanations but generally enhances the experience for diverse groups.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, cash, and drinks for hydration are advised. The tour involves outdoor walks and sightseeing in variable weather.

What if attractions are closed or weather is poor?
The tour operator may adjust the itinerary or offer alternative attractions if something is unavailable or weather conditions are unsuitable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult, and safety regulations like booster seats are required for kids under 6 in the bus.

To sum it up, this guided 5-day tour offers an accessible and efficient way to see some of the most stunning sights in the American West, perfect for travelers who don’t mind a packed schedule. While it offers good value and the chance to relax with everything pre-arranged, it’s best suited for those eager for a broad overview rather than a slow, contemplative journey.