Death Valley Sightseeing & Stargazing from Vegas *Avg. 46 Guests

Leaving behind the vibrant lights of the Las Vegas Strip, the Death Valley Sightseeing & Stargazing tour offers an immersive escape into some of the most stunning desert landscapes in the USA. Priced at $299 per person, this 10.5-hour experience is perfect for those eager to explore Red Rock Canyon and Death Valley National Park, with the added highlight of nighttime stargazing in areas free from light pollution. The tour features hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for travelers staying in Las Vegas, and operates with a small group size of up to 13 guests.

Guided by knowledgeable hosts, this tour is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone looking to see iconic vistas without the hassle of planning. While the trip includes lunch, snacks, and bottled water, it is important to note that some stops involve walking or hiking, so travelers with mobility issues should prepare accordingly. The reviews praise the guide’s expertise and the stunning scenery, making it a top-rated choice for a day in the desert.

Key Points

• Price: $299 per person for a full-day sightseeing and stargazing experience
• Duration: Approximately 10 hours 30 minutes
• Highlights: Red Rock Canyon Overlook, Dante’s View, Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, and epic stargazing in Death Valley
• Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, snacks, bottled water, admission tickets
• Small group size: Max 13 travelers for a more personalized experience
• Expert Guide: Guides are praised for their knowledge and photography skills

Scenic Stops at Iconic Desert Viewpoints

The tour begins with a 15-minute stop at Red Rock Canyon Overlook, where you can snap panoramic desert views. This spot offers a quick but stunning photo opportunity, with the admission included. As the tour continues, Dante’s View becomes a highlight—located at 5,000 feet elevation, it provides sweeping vistas over Death Valley, setting the tone for the day’s grand scenery.

Next, Zabriskie Point features its famous golden, wave-like badlands, perfect for capturing vivid landscape photos. Following this, a 30-minute stop at Furnace Creek Visitor Center offers a brief rest and a chance to absorb more desert scenery. The Badwater Basin stop allows visitors to stand at the lowest point in North America, at 282 feet below sea level, providing a surreal view of the salt flats.

Exploring Death Valley’s Unique Landscapes

The tour’s core includes a two-hour visit inside Death Valley, where travelers see some of the most striking desert landscapes. Stops at Artist’s Palette display colorful hill formations—pink, red, and green hues painted by mineral deposits—culminating in a 45-minute sunset viewing that is often described as breathtaking.

Other key sites include Death Valley Junction, a designated dark sky location, perfect for night sky observation. This setting allows for stargazing free from light pollution, with clear views of Jupiter and the Milky Way—a highlight appreciated especially by photography enthusiasts and sky lovers.

In-Depth Experience at Zabriskie Point and Artist’s Palette

Zabriskie Point is renowned for its dramatic vistas and wave-like badlands, perfect for photography and appreciating geological formations. The Artist’s Palette hills provide a splash of color against the desert backdrop, with 45 minutes allowing ample time for viewing and taking photos. Travelers often remark on the vivid colors and unique landscapes here, making these stops memorable highlights.

Gourmet Lunch and Refreshments Included

Instead of packing your own food, this tour provides a lunch and snacks—including a subway sandwich, bottled water, and additional snacks— ensuring energy is maintained for the full day. The meals are designed for convenience, so travelers can focus on sightseeing and photography without worrying about sustenance.

Evening at Death Valley for Stargazing

As darkness falls, the tour shifts to Death Valley Junction for night sky observation. Thanks to the area’s status as a dark sky location, the star gazing is spectacular, with views of Jupiter and the Milky Way often reported as simply breathtaking. The 45-minute stargazing session is a peaceful, awe-inspiring way to end the day and is a favorite part of the experience.

Logistical Details for a Smooth Trip

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with pickup available from any hotel on the Las Vegas Strip. The tour operates with a small group, ensuring a personalized experience and plenty of interaction with guides. Travelers are advised to wear hiking or athletic shoes and dress according to the season—long pants and a jacket for cooler months or lighter clothing for warmer weather.

The Guided Experience and Photography Tips

Guides like Jay and Mama Lankun receive high praise for their knowledgeability and friendly demeanor. They often bring cameras and offer photo-taking services, capturing professional-quality images of the scenery and participants. Bright-colored clothing is recommended to make photos pop, according to guides’ advice.

Guides also provide detailed explanations about each location’s geology and history, enriching the sightseeing. They’re known for taking time at each stop and keeping hydration levels high, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience is best suited for those who love photography, scenic landscapes, and clear night skies. The small group size and expert guides create an intimate environment for learning and capturing stunning images. However, travelers with mobility challenges or vertigo issues should be aware that some stops involve walking over uneven terrain or navigating windy roads.

The tour’s value is reflected in the comprehensive itinerary and the quality of the guides, but it is important to note that food and wine are not included in the standard price, and additional expenses may apply for extras like wine tasting or souvenirs.

Final Thoughts on the Death Valley and Red Rock Canyon Tour

This tour offers an excellent balance of daytime sightseeing and nighttime stargazing, with many stops at iconic locations. The expert guides ensure that visitors learn about the geology and history of each site while capturing beautiful photos along the way. The inclusion of lunch, snacks, and hotel pickup adds convenience, making it suitable for visitors seeking a full, hassle-free day in the desert.

While some stops involve walking and the price point may be higher for solo travelers, the overall quality and personalization make it a top choice for experiencing Death Valley and Red Rock Canyon in one day. Travelers who prioritize scenic views, geological wonders, and stargazing will find this tour both rewarding and memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included and available from any hotel on the Las Vegas Strip.

What should I bring for the stargazing portion?
Dress warmly for the nighttime and bring a phone or camera with enough storage space to capture the stars. It’s also helpful to wear bright colors for photos, as recommended by guides.

Are food and wine included in the price?
Lunch, snacks, and bottled water are included, but wine tasting is not part of the standard package. Some reviews mention additional costs for wine, but the tour has replaced winery stops with scenic viewpoints to better suit all travelers.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Some stops involve walking or hiking, and windy roads can be challenging for those with vertigo or mobility problems. It’s best to check with the tour provider if unsure.

What if the weather is not clear for stargazing?
The tour runs rain or shine, but if bad weather causes cancellation, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

How far in advance should I book?
This tour is usually booked around 49 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended, especially during peak seasons.