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

Discover the Ultimate Southwest National Parks Tour from Las Vegas

This 7-day tour from Las Vegas offers an in-depth experience of some of the most stunning landscapes in the American Southwest. Priced at $1,610.75 per person, it combines visits to Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, Monument Valley, and the Grand Canyon South Rim. The tour includes transport via climate-controlled minivan, six nights of comfortable accommodations or camping options, and all national park entrance fees.

The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 stars from 161 reviews, and is recommended by 98% of travelers. It is designed for those who want an immersive experience with small-group intimacy, guided commentary, and opportunities for hikes and scenic explorations. A notable strength is the inclusion of Navajo-guided Jeep tours at Monument Valley, which add a local perspective to the scenery.

Key Points

• Duration and Price: A full 7-day adventure costing $1,610.75 per person, with most bookings occurring about 101 days in advance.
• Included Activities: Visits to five major parks plus a Navajo-guided Jeep tour of Monument Valley.
• Accommodation Options: Choice between lodging or camping, with six nights of accommodations included.
• Transport and Guides: Travel in climate-controlled mini-vans with professional guides providing live commentary and optional audio in multiple languages.
• Food and Meals: Most days include breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, with an additional local food kitty of about $125 for camping or $85 for lodging options.

Starting the Adventure at Zion National Park

The tour begins with a full day at Zion, crossing into Utah from Las Vegas. Massive canyon walls and red sandstone cliffs define Zion’s landscape. Visitors can choose from walks and hikes suitable for all fitness levels. Highlights include the Narrows, where you walk through a river surrounded by canyon walls (weather permitting), and the Emerald Pools, which pass waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.

Expect to spend around 8 hours at Zion, with all entrance fees included. The day offers flexibility, so you can enjoy a relaxed stroll or a more vigorous hike based on your preference. The scenic diversity and towering formations make Zion a memorable first stop.

Exploring Bryce Canyon’s Hoodoos and Scenic Rim

After Zion, the tour moves to Bryce Canyon, also in Utah, where over 8 hours are dedicated to exploring its famous sandstone hoodoos. These tall, spire-shaped formations erupt from the canyon floor, creating a landscape unlike any other. Travelers can walk along the canyon rim to take in panoramic views or hike down into the amphitheater for closer encounters with the unique rock formations.

Bryce’s natural beauty and dramatic vistas make it a highlight of the trip, with the option to enjoy both viewpoints and more immersive hikes. The entrance fee is included, ensuring a seamless experience.

Visiting Arches National Park and Canyonlands

On Day 3, the journey continues to Arches National Park in Utah, home to over 2,000 natural stone arches. The tour includes a hike to Delicate Arch, the iconic, freestanding arch that is often featured in images of Utah. This 2-hour hike offers up-close views of a 65-foot-tall sandstone formation.

Next, the group heads to Canyonlands National Park, near Moab, Utah, renowned for its colorful landscapes carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers. Here, the tour explores the desert scenery and shares stories of lawless outlaws like Butch Cassidy and Sundance Kid who used these canyons as hideouts in the late 1800s.

Optional activities like a sunset Hummer tour or canyoneering are available for those interested in further adventure, with 2 hours allocated at each park for exploration.

Flexibility at Arches and Canyonlands on Day 4

Day 4 offers a generous 4 hours at each park, providing a chance to explore more on your own or revisit favorite spots. Visitors can choose to spend extra time at Arches National Park, discovering lesser-known arches and scenic viewpoints, or explore Canyonlands in depth.

This flexible schedule allows for relaxed sightseeing, photography, or additional hikes, depending on individual energy levels and interests. The focus remains on enjoying the landscapes without being rushed.

Experience the Iconic Monument Valley on Navajo Land

Day 5 features the drive to Monument Valley, a famous Navajo Tribal Park with towering red rock formations. After breakfast, the tour passes by Lake Powell en route. The highlight is the offroad Jeep tour, led by a local Navajo guide, who shares stories and insights about the land and its history.

The starry night sky at Monument Valley is an added bonus, offering a chance to see a clear canopy of stars away from city lights. The 2-hour guided tour provides an authentic perspective on one of the most widely recognized Western landscapes.

Visiting Antelope Canyon and Grand Canyon’s South Rim

On Day 6, the tour includes an optional visit to Antelope Canyon, the world’s most famous slot canyon, followed by a scenic walk to Horseshoe Bend, a dramatic meander of the Colorado River. Although these stops are optional, they are highly recommended for their breathtaking views.

Later, the group travels to the Grand Canyon South Rim, following the Colorado River through the Painted Desert. The 4-hour visit presents multiple ways to enjoy the canyon, including walking along the rim, taking in sunset views, or visiting cafes. For those seeking extra adrenaline, a helicopter ride over the canyon is available at an additional cost, offering panoramic views of the ridges and formations like the Dragon’s Corridor.

Final Day: Route 66 and Return to Las Vegas

The tour concludes on Day 7 with a scenic drive along Route 66, the historic highway that symbolizes American travel. The journey back to Las Vegas takes approximately an hour, providing time to relax or enjoy the hotel amenities before heading out for a night in Las Vegas.

The return trip offers a final taste of classic Americana scenery, wrapping up a week filled with breathtaking vistas and memorable landscapes.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

The tour departs from the Palms Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, with parking available at the meeting point (parking rates apply). Travelers should arrive early to ensure timely departure. The group size is capped at 14, ensuring a personalized experience with small-group intimacy.

Options for lodging or camping are available. Lodging accommodations are 3-star quality or higher, with shared rooms for same-sex travelers or couples. Camping involves setting up your own tents, with equipment provided and assistance from guides. Participants must bring their own sleeping bags.

Meals are included based on your choice, with breakfasts, dinners, and lunches available. The local food kitty adds approximately $125 for camping guests or $85 for lodging. Vegetarian meals can be requested.

The tour is suitable for most travelers over 7 years old and involves walking and hiking. Participants should pack comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, water bottles, and clothing suitable for varying temperatures.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This 7-day Southwest adventure appeals to those eager to experience multiple national parks in a limited time, with the convenience of all logistics handled. The small-group setting and guided commentary make it suitable for travelers wanting an informative and relaxed experience.

While the itinerary is packed, it is designed to maximize exposure to the region’s natural beauty. Travelers should be prepared for active days with some walking and hiking but can customize their experience at key sites.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Exploration of the Southwest

The 7-Day Zion, Bryce, Monument Valley, Arches, and Grand Canyon Tour offers a comprehensive journey through some of the most scenic parts of the American Southwest. Its strengths lie in expert guides, flexible exploration options, and inclusive activities like Navajo-guided Jeep tours.

The value is clear, with all entrance fees, most meals, and comfortable accommodations included. The tour is especially well-suited for those wanting a balance of guided insights and personal discovery over a full week of sightseeing.

Limitations include the fast-paced schedule that may leave little time at each park for deep exploration. Hikers and active travelers will enjoy the opportunities, but those seeking a more relaxed pace may need to plan additional days.

This tour provides a rich, accessible introduction to the stunning landscapes of Utah, Arizona, and Nevada—perfect for travelers who want to see multiple parks without the hassle of planning each stop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included for the tour?
The tour departs from the Palms Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Travelers should arrive early, and parking is available at the hotel (parking rates apply).

Are meals included?
Most days include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, though a local food kitty of about $125 for camping or $85 for lodging must be paid to cover these meals. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

What are the accommodation options?
Participants can choose between lodging in 3-star hotels or camping with tents set up and taken down with guide assistance. All camping equipment is provided, but you need to bring your own sleeping bag.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children must be at least 7 years old due to the walking and hiking involved.

How large are the groups?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I customize or book a private tour?
Yes, private groups of 5 or more can be arranged, with options available during booking for full privacy.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, water bottles, layers of clothing for varying temperatures, and any personal essentials to make your trip comfortable.

What is the physical effort level?
While the tour can be adjusted to your abilities, walking and hiking are part of the experience, so reasonably good fitness is recommended for full participation.

Can I participate if I am not an experienced hiker?
Yes, there are more relaxed options at some stops, like viewing viewpoints or walking along the rim, making it accessible for various activity levels.

Is there an option for a fully private tour?
Yes, by purchasing 8 seats, you can secure a fully private experience with selected ticket types for your group.