From San Francisco: Curry Village 2-Day National Park Tour

Discover Yosemite in Two Days with Guided Expertise and Comfortable Lodging

This $599 per person tour from San Francisco offers a full two-day immersion into the stunning landscapes of Yosemite National Park. It is designed for those who want more than just a day trip—this tour provides ample time to explore the park’s highlights, photograph iconic sights, and enjoy overnight accommodation at Curry Village Tent Cabins. The tour is led by a professional guide who stays with the group, offering insightful commentary and personal attention. The eco-friendly biodiesel mini-coach ensures a responsible journey into the wilderness.

While the tour includes many of Yosemite’s most famous sights, it offers enough flexibility to enjoy additional excursions on the second day. It suits travelers who appreciate guided tours but also want some free time for personal exploration. A key consideration is that luggage must be limited to a small, soft overnight bag due to vehicle storage constraints, making it ideal for light packers. The tour’s popularity and limited group size—restricted to 13 participants—help create a more intimate, personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Two full days in Yosemite with a guided tour from San Francisco
• Overnight stay at the historic Curry Village Tent Cabins
• Visits and photos of Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Tunnel View
• Hiking among giant sequoias (weather permitting, not winter)
• Sustainable transport in biodiesel mini-coach
• Tour led by a knowledgeable guide with personal attention

Departure from San Francisco Including Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off

The tour departs directly from San Francisco, with hotel pickup and drop-off included from select hotels. This convenience saves travelers from arranging transport and ensures a smooth start and finish. The guide leads the group on a narrated journey, sharing fascinating stories about Yosemite’s history and natural features. The small group size—limited to 13 participants—means more personalized service and less crowding at key sites.

The pickup times are arranged based on availability, with specific starting times communicated upon booking. This setup allows travelers to relax and focus on the adventure ahead, knowing transportation and logistics are handled professionally.

Traveling Comfortably in a Petroleum-Free Mini-Coach

Transportation is a highlight of this tour, as it uses a biodiesel mini-coach, emphasizing environmental responsibility. The vehicle’s petroleum-free operation reduces carbon footprint while providing comfortable seating for all travelers. The journey to Yosemite is smooth and scenic, with multiple stops for photo opportunities and stretching along the way.

This eco-conscious approach aligns with the park’s preservation goals and makes the experience more sustainable. The coach’s ample windows ensure travelers enjoy unobstructed views of the changing landscapes en route to the park.

Exploring Yosemite Valley’s Iconic Landmarks

Once inside Yosemite National Park, the tour focuses on the most famous highlights. Travelers will visit Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, and El Capitan, the renowned rock formation for climbers. They also see Bridalveil Fall and Tunnel View, offering stunning panoramas of the Yosemite Valley.

These sites are best enjoyed with plenty of time for photography and appreciation. The guide provides insights into each location’s significance, helping visitors understand what makes Yosemite’s scenery so special. The tour’s schedule allows sufficient time to admire these sights without feeling rushed.

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Hiking and Sequoia Sightings on the Second Day

The second day grants the opportunity for hiking among the Giant Sequoias, weather permitting. This activity is particularly enjoyable in the summer when the park is lush and vibrant. The walk among Giant Sequoias offers a chance to experience the grandeur of these ancient trees up close.

It’s worth noting that this activity is not available during winter months, due to weather conditions. The second day’s flexibility also means travelers can choose to undertake additional excursions or relax in the park. The guide is available to help plan these optional activities for those interested.

Staying Overnight at Curry Village in Historic Tent Cabins

The overnight stay takes place at Curry Village, which is located in the heart of Yosemite Valley, just below Half Dome and Glacier Point. The wood-framed tent cabins combine a rustic outdoor experience with a comfortable bed and basic amenities, making them a suitable choice for families or couples.

This historic lodging offers a scenic setting and short walks to nearby facilities. The location provides easy access to Yosemite’s key sights, allowing travelers to experience the park’s atmosphere both day and night. The authentic tent cabin experience adds to the adventure without sacrificing comfort.

Practical Details: Meals, Cancellations, and Group Size

The tour includes Yosemite Park entrance fees and hotel pickup and drop-off, but meals are not provided. Travelers will have opportunities to purchase food during stops, and the guide can offer recommendations. Gratuities for guides are optional, and are not included in the price.

The tour allows free cancellation up to 15 days in advance, giving flexibility for planning. It operates on a demand basis, requiring a minimum of 5 passengers to run. If the minimum is not met, travelers are transferred to a semi-guided 2-day Yosemite tour option.

A Well-Reviewed, Eco-Conscious Yosemite Experience

With a perfect rating of 5 out of 5 based on three reviews, this tour clearly offers a high-quality experience. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially highlighting Jordan, for making the trip engaging and informative. The comfortable accommodation at Curry Village and the beautiful viewpoints are repeatedly appreciated.

The tour balances sightseeing and free time, making it suitable for those who want to see the park’s highlights without feeling rushed. The short walks to amenities and the small group size enhance the personal, relaxed atmosphere.

Yosemite in Two Days: Perfect for Nature Lovers and Sightseers

This guided two-day tour from San Francisco provides a comprehensive view of Yosemite’s iconic landscapes. It offers a comfortable, environmentally responsible way to experience the park’s main attractions, with the added benefit of overnight lodging in a convenient location.

While the schedule emphasizes key sights and guided commentary, the second day’s flexibility allows for personal exploration or additional hikes. The limited group size and professional guide ensure a personalized experience that balances expert narration with free time.

Travelers who enjoy photography, nature walks, and historic accommodations will find this tour a rewarding way to see Yosemite. It’s especially fitting for those who appreciate guided insights but also want some independence during their visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $599 per person price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, guided narration, eco-friendly transportation in a biodiesel mini-coach, Yosemite Park entrance fee, and overnight tent cabin accommodation at Curry Village.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. There will be stops where travelers can purchase food, and the guide can assist with suggestions.

How many people participate in the tour?
The tour is limited to 13 participants, ensuring a small-group experience with more personal attention.

What are the accommodations like at Curry Village?
Guests stay overnight in wood-framed tent cabins within Curry Village, offering a rustic but comfortable experience close to Yosemite’s main sights.

Can I hike during the tour?
Yes, hiking among the Giant Sequoias is offered on the second day, weather permitting. The activity provides an up-close encounter with Yosemite’s ancient trees.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 15 days in advance. Cancellations within 15 days are charged at 50%, and no-shows or cancellations within 24 hours are charged 100%.

What should I pack for this trip?
Travelers should bring a small, soft overnight bag—due to vehicle storage limits—and prepare for a mix of sightseeing and optional hiking activities.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the Curry Village location and short walks make this a family-friendly option, especially for those interested in seeing Yosemite’s highlights comfortably.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of two full days in Yosemite, overnight in the park, environmentally conscious transport, and personalized guide service makes this a practical and enjoyable choice for those wanting a comprehensive Yosemite experience.

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