Death Valley Sunset and Starry Night Tour from Las Vegas

Discover Death Valley by Day and Night for $249

This full-day tour from Las Vegas offers an immersive look at Death Valley National Park, combining spectacular daytime sightseeing with unforgettable stargazing after sunset. For $249 per person, travelers enjoy round-trip hotel pickup, visits to renowned spots like Dante’s View, Badwater Basin, Artists Palette, and Zabriskie Point, plus an opportunity to witness the dark night skies over one of the best stargazing locations in the United States.

The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, with most departure times between 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM, depending on the season. The experience is ideal for those interested in striking landscapes, photography, and celestial views, but it requires a moderate level of comfort with long drives and some walking. The small-group format, capped at 14 travelers, ensures a more personalized and engaging experience.

Key Points

• Includes all park fees and taxes, with hotel pick-up and drop-off in Las Vegas
• Visits multiple iconic sites like Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point
• Enjoys stunning sunset and starry sky viewing at a designated dark-sky location
• Tour duration is about 12 hours, with plenty of time at each stop for exploration
• Guides are knowledgeable, skilled in photography, and provide bottled water throughout
• Best suited for ages 4 and above, with a maximum group size of 14

Seamless Transportation from Las Vegas Hotels

The tour begins with hotel pickup directly from your Las Vegas Strip accommodation, making the start effortless. The group is transported in a comfortable vehicle, with most drives lasting about 2.5 to 3 hours each way, allowing ample time for sightseeing en route. Since transportation and park entry fees are included, there’s no need to worry about additional costs or logistics on the day.

The small-group size guarantees a more intimate experience, with plenty of room to relax during the drives. Most travelers find the early start manageable, especially knowing they’ll return to Las Vegas between 8 PM and 2 AM depending on the pickup time.

Visiting Death Valley’s Most Famous Landmarks

This tour covers a broad range of Death Valley highlights, giving a rundown of the park’s diverse scenery. The first stop is Dante’s View, offering spectacular panoramic views of the salt flats and desert landscape. The location was used as Mos Eisley in Star Wars, adding a fun pop culture note.

Next, the tour visits Badwater Basin, North America’s lowest point at -282 feet below sea level. Here, salt formations stretch across the basin, and a Sea Level plaque marks the elevation. Visitors can appreciate the vastness of the salt flats, which are visible from many vantage points.

Artists Palette delights with its colorful sedimentary hills, displaying shades of pink, gold, green, and purple that resemble an artist’s canvas. The short walk to Zabriskie Point offers a breathtaking vista of badlands and deep canyons, especially at sunset or during stargazing.

The Unique Experience of Zabriskie Point and Sunset Viewing

Zabriskie Point is one of the most celebrated spots in Death Valley, with an impressive vista of rugged terrain and badlands. The overlook, easily accessible via a paved path, provides panoramic views perfect for photography. The timing of this stop coincides with sunset, making it a prime location for capturing the transition from day to night.

Following sunset, the tour moves to Death Valley Junction for some of the best stargazing in the country. This dark-sky site allows clear views of the Milky Way, countless stars, and celestial objects. The guides often help guests set up cameras or simply enjoy the brilliant night sky, which is described as magical in reviews.

Stop at the Death Valley General Store and Lunch Break

During the daytime portion, the group stops at the Death Valley General Store, which provides a brief break for food, drinks, and souvenirs. The tour offers vegetarian options at the stop, with choices at either a sandwich shop or a Chinese buffet. Relaxing here allows time to enjoy some local snacks or stretch legs before continuing the exploration.

Most reviews mention ample time at each stop, allowing for photos, walking around, and taking in the scenery. The stops are well-paced, making the long day comfortable despite the extensive travel.

Photography Tips and Guides’ Expertise

The tour’s guides are praised for their knowledge of the park’s geology and history, as well as their photography skills. Several reviews highlight guides like Justin and Steve as helpful and engaging, often capturing professional-quality photos of small groups against iconic backdrops.

Guests are encouraged to bring cameras and smartphones to record the stunning landscapes and night sky. Since the tour includes unlimited bottled water, staying hydrated during the day is simple, especially in the desert heat.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

This is not a hiking-heavy tour; most stops involve short walks or paved paths. It is suitable for children aged 4 and up, provided they are comfortable in a vehicle for extended periods. The long drives and exposure to the sun and desert cold at night are considerations—layers and sturdy shoes are recommended, as evenings can get chilly.

The tour advises that participants under 70 years without health problems will enjoy the experience comfortably. Some stops, like Artists Palette and Zabriskie Point, require minimal walking but are accessible to most.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Experiences

While many Death Valley tours focus solely on daytime sightseeing, this particular tour emphasizes both daylight and nighttime experiences, offering stunning sunset views and star gazing. The all-inclusive fee covers park admission, transportation, and guide services, representing good value for such a comprehensive experience.

Those with a keen interest in astrophotography or desert landscapes will find this tour especially rewarding. The small-group format ensures more personalized attention and better photo opportunities compared to larger, bus-style excursions.

Final Thoughts on the Death Valley Sunset and Starry Night Tour

This 12-hour adventure from Las Vegas provides a rich array of sights, from dramatic landscapes to stunning night skies. The expert guides, praised for their knowledge and photography skills, help make every stop informative and memorable. The inclusive pricing and hotel pickup simplify logistics, making the day smooth and enjoyable.

While the tour involves long drives and an early start, most find the spectacular scenery and celestial views worth the effort. It’s particularly suited for nature lovers, photographers, and star enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive, well-organized experience of Death Valley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from select hotels on the Las Vegas Strip, making the start of the tour easy and convenient.

Can I participate if I am under 4 years old?
No, the minimum age for participation is 4 years old.

What should I wear during the nighttime portion?
Dressing in layers and wearing comfortable shoes is recommended, as it can get cold at night.

How long does the drive from Las Vegas take?
The drive is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours each way, allowing for relaxed exploration en route.

Are park fees included in the tour price?
Yes, all admission fees and taxes are included in the $249 cost.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Dante’s View, Badwater Basin, Artists Palette, Zabriskie Point, Death Valley Junction, and others, with a focus on photo opportunities and scenery.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most stops involve short walks on paved or manageable terrain. Participants should be able to handle these modest walks comfortably.

Can I bring my camera and phone?
Absolutely! The landscapes and starry skies present perfect opportunities for photography.

Will I be able to see stars clearly?
Yes, the dark-sky location is highly praised for its excellent stargazing conditions.

What if the weather is cloudy or bad for star viewing?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a full refund or alternative date.