3-Day Tour: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley and Grand Canyon

Discover the stunning landscapes of the American Southwest on this 3-day small-group tour departing from Las Vegas. Priced at $743.75 per person, this adventure covers Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, and the Grand Canyon, with a flexible mix of lodging or camping accommodations. The tour is highly rated with a perfect 5.0/5 from over 400 reviews and is recommended by 97% of travelers.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors, those with limited time, or nature lovers eager to see multiple iconic parks in just three days. Expect transportation in an air-conditioned minibus, park entrance fees, some meals, and the opportunity to explore with a Navajo-guided Jeep tour. While the itinerary is packed, it offers a personalized experience with a small group of up to 14 travelers.

Key Points

• Visit four of the Southwest’s most famous parks in three days, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, and the Grand Canyon South Rim.
• Transportation is provided via air-conditioned minibus with luggage restrictions of 44 lbs per piece.
• Accommodation options include lodging or camping, with camping gear provided and the opportunity to camp in scenic sites.
• A Navajo Jeep tour in Monument Valley and the option for a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon add unique experiences.
• The trip is well-organized, with regular comfort stops and a moderate pace suitable for most travelers in good health.
• Optional activities like Antelope Canyon and helicopter rides are not included in the base price but can be added at additional cost.

Exploring Zion National Park: White Cliffs and Trails

The tour begins with a departure from Las Vegas at 7:15 am, heading to Zion National Park in an air-conditioned minibus. Zion is famed for its white, pink, and red Navajo sandstone cliffs, which create a dramatic backdrop for exploration.

In Zion, you gain around 3 hours of free time to walk at your own pace. Popular options include the Emerald Pools Trail, the Temple of Sinawava, Weeping Rock, or a hike to the Great White Throne. Visitors can also visit the Human History Museum to learn about the area’s cultural background. This flexibility allows for relaxed sightseeing or more active hikes.

Discovering Bryce Canyon’s Hoodoo Formations

After Zion, the group proceeds to Bryce Canyon, where around 3 hours are allocated for exploring the spectacular amphitheater. Bryce is renowned for its red, orange, and pink hoodoo rock formations, carved by erosion over thousands of years.

Walking among the hoodoos offers breathtaking photo opportunities and memorable landscapes. The park’s unique geology makes it a highlight of this tour. The visit is timed to enjoy the dazzling scenery, with plenty of stops for photos and short walks.

Optional Visit to Antelope Canyon on Day Two

On the second day, travelers have the option to visit Antelope Canyon, located near Lake Powell, at their own expense. The scenic drive in the morning leads to this narrow, winding slot canyon, famous for its wave-like structure and light beams.

However, the visit to Antelope Canyon is typically around 2 hours, and reviews note it can be strenuous due to tight spaces and standing for extended periods. The canyon’s beauty makes it a highly recommended but physically demanding stop.

Exploring Monument Valley with a Navajo Jeep Tour

Following Antelope Canyon, the tour continues to Monument Valley, a landscape of towering buttes and mesas that symbolize the American West. This location is home to the Navajo Nation and offers a 12-hour experience with a Jeep tour led by a Navajo guide.

The Jeep tour takes you into the valley, sharing stories and insights about the landscape’s cultural significance. As part of the experience, you can enjoy a stunning sunrise (if overnight accommodation is booked) or a sunset view. The site’s iconic formations and desert scenery are a highlight of the trip.

Day Three: Painted Desert and the Grand Canyon South Rim

The final day features a 30-minute stop at the Painted Desert, a colorful expanse of layered rock formations. The viewpoint offers a vibrant contrast to the previous parks and a quick photo opportunity.

Next, the group heads to the Grand Canyon South Rim, where around 4 hours are spent exploring. Options include walking along the rim, relaxing at a café with panoramic views, or upgrading for a helicopter ride over the canyon (not included). The Grand Canyon’s vastness and layered geology are unforgettable, and the tour allows flexible exploration.

Accommodation and Camping Options

Travelers can choose between lodging or camping accommodations. If camping, all necessary equipment like tents, sleeping bags, and mats are provided, and campgrounds are equipped with amenities such as Wi-Fi, laundry, and hot showers.

Lodging is of 3-star quality or higher and typically shared two-person rooms, with options for same-sex or couples. Larger groups of three or more are accommodated in triple rooms with two queen beds. The camping option involves setting up tents but offers a more immersive outdoor experience in scenic locations.

Guides, Transportation, and Group Size

The tour is led by experienced guides such as Aurora, Christy, Spencer, Kaitlyn, Chloe, and Martin Hardy, praised for their knowledge, helpfulness, and friendliness. The small group size of up to 14 travelers allows for a more personal experience and easier access to parks and viewpoints.

Transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus or SUV, depending on the group size. The vehicle includes luggage space limited to 44 lbs per piece, so packing light is advised.

Extra Activities and Optional Tours

Besides the core itinerary, optional activities like the Antelope Canyon visit and Grand Canyon helicopter rides are available to enhance the experience but are not included in the base price. These add-ons are popular choices for those seeking a more thrilling or immersive adventure.

Practicalities and Tips

The tour departs from the Palms Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Parking is available at the meeting point with parking rates, or travelers can opt for rideshare services.

Guests should be prepared for variable weather—warm temperatures during the day and cooler conditions at night. Comfort stops are frequent, providing opportunities for snacks, rest, and photography. To stay hydrated, travelers should bring refillable water bottles.

Suitable for most travelers aged 7 and above, the tour involves walking and some hiking, with the ability to adjust activities based on fitness levels. Luggage restrictions mean packing only essentials is necessary.

Final Thoughts on the 3-Day Southwest Tour

This small-group tour offers a rundown of some of the most iconic parks in the American Southwest. It balances organized excursions with free time for personal exploration, making it well-suited for first-time visitors and those with a tight schedule.

Highlights like Zion’s cliffs, Bryce’s hoodoos, Monument Valley’s mesas, and the Grand Canyon’s vastness are complemented by the expert guidance and scenic Jeep tours. While the tour is fast-paced, it covers a lot of ground without feeling overly exhausting, especially with well-planned stops.

For travelers who want a blend of sightseeing, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration, this tour delivers great value. The accommodation and camping options add versatility, making it a flexible, memorable experience for those eager to see the best of the Southwest in just three days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included for the tour?
No, the tour begins at the Palms Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Parking is available, and ride-share options are recommended.

Can I bring young children on this tour?
The minimum age is 7 years old, and children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

Are meals included?
Breakfast and lunch are included on most days, with dinner at your own expense. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

What about optional activities like Antelope Canyon?
Antelope Canyon visits cost extra and are not included in the tour fee. The tour also offers the option to upgrade to a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon.

How strenuous is the tour?
The tour involves walking and some hiking, but activities can be adjusted to suit different fitness levels. Proper footwear and preparedness are advised.

How many people are in the group?
The group size is limited to 14 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is the transportation like?
Travel is in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus or SUV, with luggage restrictions of 44 lbs per piece.

Are accommodations shared?
Yes, lodging is typically shared rooms with two guests per room; camping gear is provided for campers.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, warm layers for cooler nights, and refillable water bottles.

Is this tour suitable for most travelers?
Yes, as long as participants are in reasonably good shape and prepared for a lot of walking and outdoor exposure.

This 3-day Southwest tour from Las Vegas offers an excellent way to experience multiple national parks in a packed and well-organized itinerary, with the community vibe of a small group and optional upgrades for an even more memorable adventure.