Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Death Valley National Park on this comprehensive 12-hour tour from Las Vegas. Witness the striking contrasts of this arid desert paradise as you traverse the serene Badwater Basin, marvel at the vibrant Artists Palette, and witness a breathtaking sunset at Zabriskie Point. But the adventure doesn’t end there – prepare to be captivated by the park’s dark night sky, where you’ll have the chance to gaze upon the Milky Way galaxy during an unforgettable stargazing experience. With a small group size and live guide, this tour promises an immersive and educational exploration of one of America’s most unique natural wonders.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 12-hour tour from Las Vegas exploring the iconic sights of Death Valley National Park, including Dante’s View, Badwater Basin, and Artists Palette.
- Guided tour with live guide and audio guide, providing insights into the park’s geology, history, and wildlife.
- Witness a stunning sunset at Zabriskie Point and experience the awe-inspiring night sky for stargazing.
- Small group tour limited to 14 participants, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience.
- Pickup and drop-off services from hotels on the Las Vegas Strip, making it a convenient option for visitors.
Tour Details
The Death Valley Sunset and Starry Night Tour lasts for 12 hours and includes pickup and drop-off from hotels on the Las Vegas Strip. It’s a small group tour, limited to 14 participants, with a live tour guide and audio guide in English.
Visitors can expect to experience both day and night in Death Valley National Park, with stops at iconic locations like Dante’s View, Badwater Basin, Artists Palette, and Zabriskie Point.
The tour provides the opportunity to enjoy a stunning sunset at Zabriskie Point and stargaze in a location free from light pollution. Bottled water is included, but food, drinks, and certain health restrictions apply.
Itinerary Overview
On this 12-hour tour, visitors will start by exploring the iconic Death Valley National Park Sign.
Next, they’ll embark on a guided tour and have the opportunity to take photos at Dante’s View, offering panoramic vistas of the park.
The tour then continues to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, where guests can stroll around and snap pictures.
Afterward, they’ll visit Artists Palette, known for its vibrant, multicolored hills.
The final stop is Zabriskie Point, where visitors can soak in the stunning sunset and gaze at the star-filled night sky, far from the light pollution of the city.
Dante’s View Experience
From the tour’s first stop at the Death Valley National Park Sign, visitors embark on a guided tour of Dante’s View.
This elevated vantage point offers panoramic vistas of the park’s otherworldly landscape. The guide shares insights about the area’s geology and history as participants snap photos of the dramatic salt flats, rugged mountains, and colorful badlands.
At 5,475 feet above sea level, Dante’s View provides a bird’s-eye perspective of the vast and desolate Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. Guests have time to explore the overlook, taking in the breathtaking scenery and absorbing the serene tranquility of this remote and awe-inspiring location.
Badwater Basin Exploration
Next, the tour group ventures down into the renowned Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. Guests marvel at the vast expanse of pristine salt flats, a stark contrast to the surrounding rugged mountains. The tour guide leads them on a leisurely stroll across the smooth, crystalline surface, explaining the basin’s unique geological formation and the hardy organisms that eke out an existence in this extreme environment.
| Geological Features | Wildlife | Visitor Tips |
|---|---|---|
| – Salt polygons | – Microbial mats | – Wear proper footwear |
| – Salt ridges | – Insects | – Bring sun protection |
| – Salt caves | – Small reptiles | – Carry plenty of water |
| – Salt pinnacles | – Birds | – Avoid stepping on fragile salt crust |
| – Salt pans | – Rodents | – Stay on designated paths |
Artists Palette Discovery
After exploring the otherworldly Badwater Basin, the tour group sets their sights on the vibrant geological wonder known as Artists Palette.
This unique section of the park showcases a stunning display of multicolored rock formations, created by the oxidation of various metal deposits within the ancient lakebed.
During the guided tour, visitors will have the opportunity to stroll along the scenic loop and capture breathtaking photos of the vivid hues, which range from pink and yellow to green and purple.
With the guidance of the knowledgeable tour leader, the group will learn about the fascinating geologic processes that shaped this one-of-a-kind landscape over millions of years.
Zabriskie Point Sunset
As the tour group wraps up their time at the vibrant Artists Palette, they make their way to the iconic Zabriskie Point, where they’ll witness the sunset over the dramatic landscape.
During this portion of the tour, visitors can capture stunning photos of the fiery hues as the sun dips below the horizon, illuminating the intricate patterns and textures of the surrounding badlands.
The guided tour at Zabriskie Point provides insights into the geological history and formation of this breathtaking viewpoint.
With ample time for exploration and photography, guests can soak in the tranquility and natural beauty of the scene, perfectly timed to coincide with the sunset.
This serene moment serves as the grand finale to a day of adventure in Death Valley.
Stargazing in the Park
As the sun dips below the horizon, the tour group eagerly awaits the arrival of the night sky, eager to witness the stunning display of celestial wonders that Death Valley has to offer.
This remote and isolated park is renowned for its exceptional stargazing opportunities, free from the glare of artificial lights.
The group will:
- Witness the Milky Way galaxy stretching across the inky darkness
- Spot constellations and planets not visible from the city
- Experience the eerie silence of the desert at night
- Learn about the park’s nocturnal wildlife from the knowledgeable guide
- Capture breathtaking astrophotography against the dramatic desert landscape
With the Badwater Basin as a backdrop, the stargazing experience promises to be truly unforgettable.
Tour Logistics and Restrictions
The Death Valley Sunset and Starry Night Tour offers pickup and drop-off services from hotels along the Las Vegas Strip, providing convenient transportation for participants.
The small group tour is limited to 14 guests, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.
Travellers should be aware that the tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals, including children under 3, pregnant women, those with back problems, wheelchair users, people with a cold, or those over 70 years of age.
The tour includes a live guide and audio guide in English, as well as unlimited bottled water. Participants should bring their own food and drinks, as these aren’t provided.
The itinerary offers a range of activities, allowing visitors to experience both the day and night in Death Valley National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Stop for a Meal During the Tour?
The tour does not include any meal stops. However, participants can bring their own food and snacks to enjoy during the free time at various locations throughout the day.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
The minimum age requirement for this tour is 3 years old. The tour is not suitable for children under 3, as well as pregnant women, people with back problems, wheelchair users, those with a cold, or those over 70 years old.
Is There a Restroom Available During the Tour?
The tour provides restroom breaks at various stops throughout the day, allowing participants to use the facilities as needed. Restrooms are available at the main visitor centers and select points of interest along the itinerary.
Can We Purchase Snacks or Souvenirs on the Tour?
Snacks and souvenirs are not included on the tour. Participants can purchase food and drinks during the stops, but there are no scheduled opportunities to buy souvenirs. Travelers should plan to bring their own snacks if desired.
Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens or Students?
The tour does not offer any discounts for senior citizens or students. The price is the same for all participants, regardless of age or student status. Additional fees or special accommodations are not provided.
Recap
This comprehensive tour from Las Vegas provides an immersive and educational experience in Death Valley National Park.
Visitors will witness stunning landscapes, from the majestic Dante’s View to the vibrant Artists Palette, culminating in a breathtaking sunset at Zabriskie Point.
The tour also includes stargazing, allowing participants to marvel at the Milky Way galaxy in the park’s dark night sky.
With a small group size and live guide, it’s an unforgettable way to explore one of America’s most unique natural wonders.
