Zion, Bryce, Antelope, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas 6-Day Tour from SF

Our review of this 6-day Southwest adventure offers an inside look at what travelers can expect when exploring some of America’s most breathtaking national parks and scenic spots. If you’re longing to see Zion, Bryce Canyon, Antelope Canyon, the Grand Canyon, and the vibrant city of Las Vegas—all in one organized trip—this tour promises a comprehensive experience that balances natural wonders with the excitement of Sin City.

We particularly appreciate the careful planning that allows you to visit many iconic sites without the hassle of driving yourself or managing multiple bookings. Plus, the expert guides and included admissions mean you can focus on soaking in the views rather than worrying about logistics. That said, with a packed itinerary and long days, this tour is not for those seeking a leisurely pace. It’s best suited for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground and see some of the United States’ most photogenic landscapes in a relatively short period.

One consideration is the cost, which at $1,139 per person, reflects a value for the comprehensive nature of the trip and included attractions—but be prepared to pay extra for optional tours like helicopter rides or canyon visits. This experience will appeal most to adventurous travelers with a sense of curiosity, who love natural scenery and don’t mind a busy schedule.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Access: Many national parks and scenic spots are included in the price, reducing the stress of ticket purchases.
• Variety of Landscapes: From towering sandstone cliffs to slot canyons and colorful rock formations, the tour covers a wide spectrum of natural beauty.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with explanations and local insights.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Two nights at a hotel on Casino Avenue offer a convenient base for exploring Las Vegas and nearby sights.
• Long Days, Rich Experiences: Expect early mornings, full days, and a packed schedule—ideal for those who want to maximize sightseeing.
• Optional Extras: Helicopter tours, canyon boat rides, and night tours are available if you want to splurge for an even more memorable experience.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From San Francisco to Las Vegas

Your adventure begins with a morning departure from San Francisco, heading south to the city of lights. Expect a roughly 10-hour drive, but the trip is comfortably broken up with scenic stops. Once in Vegas, you can opt for a night tour of the Strip, which includes highlights like the Mirage volcano and Bellagio Fountains. Some reviews praise the organization of the Vegas night experience, calling it “wonderfully organized,” which means you’ll get a taste of the city’s famous energy without feeling overwhelmed.

Day 2: Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon

Early next morning, the group heads to Zion National Park, famed for its massive sandstone cliffs that seem to stretch endlessly upward. The tour includes a 45-minute visit to Zion, where you’ll walk along some of the paths used by native tribes and pioneers centuries ago. The spectacle of cream, pink, and red cliffs will leave you in awe. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way guides explained the history and geology,” making the scenery even more meaningful.

In the afternoon, the drive continues to Bryce Canyon, known for its striking hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock. You’ll spend about an hour exploring this uniquely shaped landscape. Visitors often comment on how these parks are “beautiful” and that the stops are well-paced, offering just enough time to appreciate but not get over-saturated.

Day 3: Canyonlands and Arches National Parks

This day is packed with spectacular scenery. The journey includes a visit to Canyonlands National Park, a colorful maze of canyons and mesas. The park’s eroded landscape offers countless photography opportunities. Next, you’ll explore Arches National Park, home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch. Expect a 2-hour drive through the scenic drive and plenty of opportunities to take photos of the famous formations.

One traveler shared, “We got bonus sites because we were on time,” highlighting the efficiency and flexibility of the tour. The focus here is on stunning geological features that make this area a must-see for any lover of natural architecture.

Day 4: Monument Valley and Horseshoe Bend

The iconic monumental buttes of Monument Valley are the highlight of this day, especially if you choose to take a Jeep tour (additional fee applies). The vast sandstone formations offer a quintessential Western landscape that’s instantly recognizable from movies and photos worldwide. Visiting with a Navajo guide enriches the experience, sharing stories and cultural insights.

Next, the group visits Horseshoe Bend, a spectacular meander of the Colorado River, carved into the rock into a perfect horseshoe shape. One reviewer described it as “a landmark for many parks and cities,” and the 1-hour, 15-minute stop is perfect for capturing that perfect photo. During this part of the trip, there’s an optional visit to Lower Antelope Canyon, which is highly praised for its amazing light effects—though note that it requires an extra fee unless you opt for the alternative, Antelope Canyon X, during closures.

Day 5: The Grand Canyon

No trip to the Southwest is complete without visiting the Grand Canyon. The tour includes 2.5 hours at the East and South Rims, giving ample time to marvel at one of the world’s most famous natural wonders. For those interested, optional helicopter rides are available, offering a bird’s-eye view of the canyon’s vastness—an extra cost but highly recommended by previous travelers.

One reviewer commented that the Grand Canyon was “breathtaking,” and the optional helicopter ride adds a layer of adventure for those looking to splurge. The tour provides a balanced view of the canyon, with enough time to enjoy the scenery and take pictures without feeling rushed.

Day 6: Returning via Las Vegas to San Francisco

On the final day, the group departs from Las Vegas, with a visit to the Fabulous Las Vegas Sign for a classic photo opportunity. You’ll also stop at M&M’S World and the Coca-Cola Store for some fun shopping, plus an optional FlyOver Las Vegas ride for those craving more excitement. The day wraps up with a stop at Seven Magic Mountains, a colorful art installation in the desert.

The trip ends with a 30-minute stop at the Las Vegas Sign, giving you time to snap memorable photos before heading back to San Francisco.

What Makes This Tour a Great Choice

The value for money is clear given the inclusion of admissions to key parks, guided commentary, and hotel stays. The hotels on Casino Avenue provide a convenient base and a touch of Vegas flair, making it easier to unwind after long sightseeing days. The organized nature of the itinerary, with well-paced stops and knowledgeable guides, helps you avoid the stress of planning and navigating on your own.

From the reviews, many travelers appreciated the efficient organization. As one person put it, “If you want to cover a lot of parks in a short time, then this tour is for you.” The tour is especially good for those who want a rundown of the Southwest’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

However, keep in mind that the long days and packed schedule mean this isn’t for everyone. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or detailed explorations, you might find this trip a bit rushed. Also, optional activities like helicopter rides or Antelope Canyon tours come at extra costs, which should be factored into your budget.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see many iconic sites within a limited timeframe. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with long days on the road and want a guided experience that takes care of logistics. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo (many reviews mention solo travelers enjoying it), you’ll enjoy the social aspect and shared awe at the landscapes.

It’s also well-suited for those who want to maximize their sightseeing and don’t mind the occasional optional expense for extras like helicopter rides or canyon tours. If your goal is to check off multiple bucket-list destinations in one trip, this tour offers a practical and memorable option.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Southwest tour from San Francisco offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience for those wanting a quick, organized way to see some of America’s most celebrated natural wonders. From the towering cliffs of Zion to the surreal formations of Bryce, the colorful canyons of Antelope and the awe-inspiring depths of the Grand Canyon, you’ll cover a lot of ground—and take plenty of photos.

We loved the expert guidance, which makes the scenery more meaningful, and the convenience of included admissions and hotel stays. The trip’s energetic pace suits travelers who want to pack their days with adventure and don’t mind a busy schedule.

For travelers seeking to combine natural beauty with a touch of city excitement, this tour strikes a good balance. Just be prepared for long days, a bit of a crowd, and the optional extra costs. If you’re ready for a whirlwind adventure through some of America’s most stunning landscapes, this tour is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many parks and scenic spots are included?
You’ll visit Zion, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Arches, Monument Valley, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and the Grand Canyon—covering seven major landmarks and iconic landscapes.

Are all admissions included?
Most national park admissions, such as Zion, Bryce, Canyonlands, and Arches, are included. Some sites, like the Lower Antelope Canyon and helicopter tours, are optional and require additional fees.

What’s the hotel accommodation like?
You stay for two nights at a hotel on Casino Avenue, with rooms typically holding up to four travelers, featuring either two full/double beds or one king/queen bed. The hotel location is convenient for exploring Las Vegas and the surrounding parks.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many solo travelers have enjoyed this tour, often commenting on the well-organized schedule and social atmosphere. It’s also a good way to meet fellow travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothing, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), cash, and drinks for hydration are recommended. Be prepared for some walking and variable weather.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour is fixed, optional activities like helicopter rides or canyon visits can be added at extra cost. If a site is closed, an alternative will be provided.

Is transportation comfortable?
The tour uses a vehicle suited to the group size, and the guide helps manage timing and logistics. The focus is on making travel between sites smooth and efficient.

What if I want separate rooms or have a larger group?
For more than four travelers or to request separate rooms, you’ll need to make additional bookings with specific arrangements.

This detailed, balanced review shows that this tour offers great value for travelers eager to explore the Southwest’s most stunning landscapes with expert guidance, comfortable logistics, and a busy but rewarding schedule. It’s ideal for those who want to see a lot in a short time and enjoy a mix of nature and city life.