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

Travelers dreaming of sweeping canyons, towering rock formations, and iconic vistas often find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. This 7-day guided tour from Las Vegas offers a balanced way to see many of the Southwest’s highlights without the stress of planning each detail. It’s tailored for those who want a taste of everything—from Zion’s dramatic cliffs to Monument Valley’s red monoliths—while enjoying the comfort of professional guidance and small group intimacy.

What we love about this tour is how it packs so many of the region’s top sights into a manageable week, with knowledgeable guides to enrich the experience. The second thing that stands out is the variety of activities—hiking, scenic drives, Navajo-guided jeep excursions—ensuring you’ll get both visual awe and meaningful engagement. On the flip side, a possible consideration is how tight the schedule can be, leaving little time for lengthy explorations in each park. If you’re the kind of traveler who prefers slow, contemplative visits, this might feel a bit rushed. However, for those eager to see a lot in a short time, this tour hits the sweet spot. It suits travelers who want an active, adventure-packed week with a good dose of authentic local culture.

Key Points

• Visits to Zion, Bryce, Arches, Canyonlands, Monument Valley, and Grand Canyon in one trip
• Guided by knowledgeable, personable tour leaders
• Includes transportation, some meals, and park entrance fees for great value
• Small-group format enhances flexibility and comfort
• Mix of hikes, scenic drives, and cultural experiences
• Well-reviewed for organization, scenery, and overall value

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Zion National Park

Starting the trip in Zion, the tour kicks off with a visit to one of the most loved parks in the U.S. With its towering canyon walls and striking red rocks, Zion feels almost surreal. The itinerary offers a flexible day—whether you want to hike the famous Narrows (walking through a river surrounded by canyon walls) or take a gentler walk to Emerald Pools, there’s something for all. The review from Tiffany highlights how the tour guide’s flexibility and knowledge made the experience seamless: “He was very knowledgeable, organized and had a great personality. We felt very comfortable.” Expect a full 8 hours here, with your guide making sure you hit the highlights and offering insights into Zion’s geology and history.

Bryce Canyon

Just a short drive from Zion, Bryce Canyon introduces a different kind of landscape—an amphitheater filled with thousands of hoodoos, those peculiar spire-shaped rocks. The views from the rim are breathtaking, and you can opt to hike down into the canyon for close-up encounters with these natural sculptures. The tour’s efficient use of time ensures you get to appreciate Bryce’s unique scenery without feeling rushed. Reviewers like Robert note how thoughtfully the stops are planned: “Each stop was well thought out.” You’ll also get panoramic vistas that are perfect for photos, and your guide will likely share stories about how these formations came to be.

Arches and Canyonlands

The next few days focus on Utah’s famous red rock country. Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, with Delicate Arch being the iconic symbol of Utah. Expect a manageable hike up to the arch, taking around two hours, with plenty of time to marvel at the sculpted sandstone. Canyonlands, nearby in Moab, offers colorful, layered landscapes shaped by the Colorado and Green Rivers. The tour allows time to explore these parks thoroughly, with optional activities like sunset Hummer rides or canyoneering—though some reviews note that the packed schedule can make it tough to spend as long as you’d like at each site. Still, the visuals are unforgettable.

Monument Valley

Moving into Navajo territory, the tour includes a Navajo-guided offroad jeep adventure through Monument Valley. This is where the landscape truly becomes legendary, with red monoliths rising out of the desert in shapes recognizable from countless Western movies. The guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, and the starry night sky—free of city lights—is often highlighted as a magical moment. One reviewer, Parham, appreciated the off-the-beaten-path stops: “He took us to places that we would not have known at all if not in the tour.”

The Grand Canyon

No southwest trip is complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon. The South Rim offers spectacular viewpoints, and the tour includes options to walk along the rim, take photos, or even take a helicopter ride (additional cost). The scenery here is almost too big to grasp at once, and your guide will help you find the best spots for sunrise or sunset if timing allows. The last full day combines a scenic drive and some time to relax and take in these iconic vistas.

Final Leg and Return

On the last day, you’ll travel back along Route 66, enjoying the nostalgia of this historic highway before returning to Las Vegas. The journey concludes with ample time to unwind, maybe hit the hotel pool, or explore Vegas’s vibrant nightlife. With a total of six nights’ lodging included, your accommodations are typically rated 3-star or higher, providing comfort after days packed with activity.

What the Reviews Say

The tour’s reputation is glowing, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 161 reviews. Travelers frequently praise guides like John and Chloe, noting their friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to go above and beyond. Tiffany calls her experience “amazing,” emphasizing how the guide’s flexibility and know-how made the trip memorable. Guillaume notes that the landscapes are “breathtaking,” though he also points out the schedule can be “a lot to do in 7 days,” which is fair—packing so many parks into a week does mean some rushing.

Many reviewers highlight the good value for money—covering entrance fees, transportation, some meals, and accommodations—especially considering how much ground is covered. Marilyn appreciated the “interesting places with some beautiful hikes,” and Hannah loved her guide Chloe, describing her as “absolutely incredible.” The small-group format consistently receives praise, making the experience more personal and allowing the guides to tailor the day’s activities.

What to Expect in Terms of Logistics

Transportation is by climate-controlled minivan or SUV, depending on group size, which helps keep everyone comfortable during long drives. The group size is capped at 14 to preserve intimacy and flexibility. Meals are included on most days—breakfasts, lunches, and dinners—though you’ll need to pay a small extra fee upfront for these, with vegetarian options available. Camping gear is provided if you opt for the camping upgrade; you’ll set up your own tent with help from your guide. Hotel accommodations are generally comfortable, with shared rooms, and some campsites offer Wi-Fi, laundry, and hot showers.

The Cost and Its Value

At around $1,610 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive, guided experience that covers transportation, park fees, most meals, and accommodations. Reviews point out that the guide’s expertise and the convenience of included logistics make this a good deal, especially given how many parks and landmarks are visited in just a week. For travelers eager to see Utah and Arizona’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving or planning, this package provides both efficiency and authenticity.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to see some of the most famous parks in the Southwest with expert guides and a small group, this trip is ideal. It’s perfect for active travelers who don’t mind a packed schedule but still want some flexibility and personal touches. It suits those who value local insights—especially Navajo-guided tours—and want a mix of hiking, sightseeing, and cultural experiences. Keep in mind, it’s best for people comfortable with walking and the occasional hike, and those who don’t mind sharing accommodations.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

If you prefer long, leisurely explorations or want to spend extra days in a single park, this tour might feel a little rushed. Travelers who prefer private rooms or more luxury might also find the accommodations and shared tents less appealing. Finally, if you’re traveling with very young children or are looking for a more relaxed vacation, this active, tightly scheduled trip may not be your best fit.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?
The tour departs from the Palms Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. You should arrive early to meet your guide; no hotel pickup is included.

Is parking available at the pickup location?
Yes, there is parking at the Palms, though rates may apply. You can also take a ride-share or public transportation.

Can I bring young children or infants?
This tour is designed for travelers aged 7 and up due to hiking and activity levels.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included—five breakfasts, six lunches, and four dinners—though there is a small additional fee paid at the start of the trip for food. Vegetarian options can be accommodated.

What should I pack?
Bring layers for temperature changes, hiking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle. Sleeping bags are not provided, but tents and camping gear are.

How strenuous is the tour?
It involves walking and hiking, but can be adjusted to your abilities. Expect some active days with a fair amount of walking.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 14 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

Are optional activities available?
Yes, you can choose optional adventures like helicopter rides, sunset Hummer tours, or canyoneering, usually at an extra cost.

What’s the weather like?
Expect a mix of warm and cool temperatures, so packing versatile clothing is wise.

Is there free Wi-Fi?
Some campsites offer Wi-Fi, but it’s not guaranteed everywhere. Be prepared for limited connectivity in remote areas.

In essence, this 7-day tour from Las Vegas offers a well-rounded, thoroughly enjoyable introduction to some of the American Southwest’s most breathtaking sights. With friendly guides, efficient logistics, and a good mix of active and scenic experiences, it’s a great choice for travelers eager to see a lot without the fuss of self-planning. Just be ready for a fast-paced week—and plenty of awe-inspiring views.