Lower Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon 6-Day Tour from Los Angeles

If you’re dreaming of vast deserts, towering rock formations, and breathtaking canyon vistas, this 6-day Southwest adventure promises to be an enticing journey. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it offers a well-rounded experience that combines iconic sights with the chance to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

What we love about this tour is its comprehensive nature—covering five famous national parks and three must-see scenic spots—and the thoughtful accommodation choices, including two nights at the Casino Avenue Hotel, which offers a comfortable base after days full of exploration. We also appreciate the inclusion of guided tours and park admissions, making it easier for travelers to focus on the scenery rather than logistics.

One potential consideration is the price point—at $1,200 per person—though when broken down, it offers good value considering the transportation, park entries, and guided expertise. It’s best suited for those who thrive on structured itineraries packed with camera-ready landscapes, and who want to maximize their time while minimizing the hassle of planning. This tour caters to travelers with a sense of adventure and a desire to see the highlights of the American Southwest in one immersive trip.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Transportation, hotel stays, guides, and park admissions are covered.
• Diverse scenery: From deserts and canyon walls to sandstone arches and Navajo landscapes.
• Comfortable accommodation: Two nights at a well-located hotel, with room options for small groups.
• Guided insights: Knowledgeable guides add context and make navigation easier.
• Flexible options: Optional helicopter or IMAX experiences available for an extra thrill.
• Ideal for: Travelers seeking a structured, hassle-free journey through iconic landmarks with plenty of opportunities for photography and sightseeing.

The Complete Journey: What to Expect

This tour is designed to give you the most complete look at some of the Southwest’s most awe-inspiring sights, all packed into just six days. It’s a fast-paced but rewarding way to see a lot, especially if you’re pressed for time but eager to experience the grandeur of this region.

Day 1: From Los Angeles to Las Vegas

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through the Mojave Desert, a landscape of stark beauty and curious rock formations. The journey ends in Las Vegas, where the city’s bright lights and bustling vibe will welcome you. You’ll have time to explore the famous Fountains of Bellagio and see some iconic sights during the Las Vegas Night Tour—a 3-hour jaunt through the city’s neon-lit streets and landmarks like the Mirage Volcano. While the tour doesn’t include admission fees, it provides a fantastic way to get your bearings and see the city’s famous sights at night.

Day 2: Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks

Early morning, you’ll depart for Zion National Park, Utah’s first national park, known for its towering sandstone cliffs and narrow canyons. The guide will take you to Checkerboard Mesa, a striking geological feature with its distinctive cross-hatched patterns, and provide about 45 minutes to soak in Zion’s impressive scenery.

In the afternoon, the journey continues to Bryce Canyon National Park, where the famous hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock—offer a surreal landscape. The park’s vibrant colors and unique formations make for excellent photo opportunities. These parks are a highlight for many travelers, and the guide’s insights help you appreciate their natural history and geology.

Day 3: Canyonlands and Arches National Parks

Today is a day of red rock wonder. Starting at Canyonlands National Park, you’ll see a landscape carved into a maze of canyons, mesas, and buttes. The 1-hour visit grants a taste of the park’s colorful and rugged terrain.

Next, you’ll explore Arches National Park, home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch. The scenic drive offers several vantage points, and you’ll have around 2 hours to marvel at these spectacular formations. Both parks are accessible and photogenic, and the guide’s commentary enriches your understanding of their geological features.

Day 4: Monument Valley and Horseshoe Bend

A day dedicated to some of the most iconic Navajo landscapes. Monument Valley features vast sandstone buttes that seem to rise straight out of the desert, offering quintessential Western vistas. An optional Jeep tour (additional fee) can take you closer to the formations, adding an immersive element.

Following that, Horseshoe Bend provides a jaw-dropping view of the Colorado River winding into a perfect horseshoe shape. It’s a quick stop, but the view is often described as breathtaking. The tour includes a 1-hour visit here, with plenty of photo opportunities.

The highlight of the day is Lower Antelope Canyon, a narrow, winding slot canyon with light filtering through the narrow openings—truly a photographer’s paradise. This optional visit, if selected, lasts about 2 hours and offers a chance to witness one of the Southwest’s most captivating natural sculptures.

Day 5: Grand Canyon South Rim

No trip to the Southwest is complete without visiting the Grand Canyon. You’ll spend around 2.5 hours at the South Rim, where the vastness and layered colors of the canyon are impossible to fully capture in photos. For those interested, an optional helicopter tour provides a bird’s eye view of this immense landscape, adding a memorable perspective.

This day offers plenty of time to walk along the rim, take in the vistas, and appreciate the scale of this natural wonder. The guide’s commentary helps travelers understand the canyon’s geology and history, making the experience more meaningful.

Day 6: Return via Las Vegas to Los Angeles or San Francisco

The journey concludes with a drive back to Las Vegas, where stops include the famous Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, the M&M’s Store, and optional attractions such as FlyOver Las Vegas—a virtual flying experience (additional fee). You’ll also see the Seven Magic Mountains art installation—bright, towering boulders that add a splash of color to the desert landscape.

Depending on your final destination, the tour ends either in Los Angeles or San Francisco, with a chance to reflect on the stunning sights you’ve experienced.

What Travelers Can Expect

Transportation: The group travels in a comfortable vehicle tailored to the number of participants, making the long drives manageable and scenic. The pace is generally steady, with stops designed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Guides: Based on reviews, guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the journey both educational and enjoyable. They help make the landscape come alive with stories and context, which is especially helpful at sites like Bryce Canyon and Monument Valley.

Accommodations: Staying two nights at the Casino Avenue Hotel offers a decent base for resting after days of exploration. Rooms are designed for up to four travelers, with flexible bed arrangements. For larger groups or those seeking privacy, separate bookings are encouraged.

Activities: Many sites include optional activities—such as helicopter rides or IMAX movies—allowing travelers to customize their experience. The inclusion of park fees and admissions simplifies planning.

Timing: The tour begins early in the morning (around 7:00 a.m.), emphasizing the importance of being punctual. The pace can be brisk, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are a must.

Analyzing the Value

At $1,200 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that covers transportation, attractions, and guided insights. When you consider the cost of individual park admissions, guided tours, and hotels, the overall value becomes clear. The convenience of having everything arranged—transport, lodging, and tickets—means you spend less time stressing and more time enjoying.

However, the price may seem steep for some, especially if you’re not interested in optional extras like helicopter rides. For those who want a guided, hassle-free experience with the opportunity to photograph and learn from experts, it’s a solid investment.

The reviews highlight the value of knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery—one traveler raved about a “fantastic” experience with a “best tour guide possible.” The carefully curated itinerary ensures you don’t miss the highlights, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those who prefer a guided approach.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers eager to see the main sights of the American Southwest without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy organized tours and want a balance of structured sightseeing and free time.

It also appeals to photographers, nature lovers, and anyone curious about the geology and landscape features of the region. Since the tour includes optional upgrades, it can cater to both budget-conscious travelers and those looking for extra adventure.

However, if you prefer slow, flexible travel or want to explore at your own pace, this tour’s fast pace and fixed schedule might feel restrictive. Also, those traveling on a strict budget may want to compare the costs of a DIY trip against this all-in-one package.

The Sum Up

This 6-day Southwest tour from Los Angeles offers an extensive look at some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the United States. It balances guided expertise with breathtaking scenery, making it especially attractive for first-timers and those wanting a comprehensive experience in a short amount of time. The inclusion of hotel stays, park entries, and guided commentary helps justify the price, delivering good value for the convenience and depth of the trip.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized trips that take the stress out of logistics and focus on the highlights, this tour could be just what you need. It’s particularly suited for travelers seeking a mix of scenic adventure, cultural insights, and memorable photo moments—all within a manageable schedule.

For those with a sense of adventure and an enthusiasm for natural beauty, this tour promises a memorable journey through America’s most iconic landscapes. Just pack your camera and your sense of wonder—you’ll likely return with a camera full of stunning images and a head full of stories.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation, hotel accommodations for two nights, a professional guide, all national park admissions listed in the itinerary, and some special experiences like the Las Vegas night tour and M&M’s store visit.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included. Travelers should plan to bring cash and snacks for the day, especially for long drives or when exploring parks.

Can I customize the experience?
Optional activities like helicopter tours or IMAX movies are available at an extra cost. The itinerary is fixed but flexible within the scheduled stops.

What are the room arrangements?
Rooms accommodate 2-4 guests, with beds arranged based on availability (Full/Double or King/Queen). Separate bookings are recommended for larger groups or those wanting individual rooms.

Is there a recommended age for travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women can join if under 24 weeks at trip’s end.

How early should I book?
The tour is generally booked about 75 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended to secure availability and preferred accommodations.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and drinks for hydration are essential. A camera is a must for capturing scenery.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, for helicopter or plane upgrades, the maximum weight is 300 lbs (136 kg). Overweight guests may be subject to extra fees or denied boarding.

What if attractions are closed?
The tour operator will substitute alternative sites or experiences if any scenic spots are temporarily unavailable.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days before the start for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days in advance may incur fees or no refund, depending on timing.

In all, this Southwest adventure offers a rich taste of the American West—perfect for those ready for a whirlwind journey through some of the most captivating landscapes on earth.