Las Vegas: Death Valley Seven Magic Mountain & Welcome Sign

If you’re looking for a way to escape the bright lights of the Las Vegas Strip and learn about the raw beauty of the American Southwest, this tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing. It promises a mix of natural wonders, striking art installations, and classic Vegas icons—all in just 10 hours. Though it’s a long day, it’s packed with highlights that appeal to curious travelers eager for authentic experiences beyond the casinos.

What we really like about this trip is how it balances breathtaking landscapes with cultural touches like the Seven Magic Mountains art piece. Plus, the fact that all entrance fees, lunch, and snacks are included makes it easier to enjoy without worrying about extra costs. The only caveat? Given the expansive itinerary and the early start, you’ll want to come prepared for a full day on your feet.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature and scenery, enjoy photography, or simply want a guided, hassle-free way to see some of the most iconic sights around Las Vegas and Death Valley. If you’re after an affordable, well-organized trip with a small group feel, this experience could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering both natural wonders and iconic landmarks.
• All fees and lunch included, providing good value for the cost.
• Small group size (limited to 12 participants) for a more personal experience.
• Balanced mix of photography opportunities and educational insights.
• Ideal for active travelers prepared for a full day outdoors.
• Great for first-timers wanting to tick off major sights comfortably.

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A Well-Organized Start: Early Pickup and Convenient Locations

Begin your adventure with a pickup from one of seven central locations in Las Vegas, including MGM Grand, Wynn, and Circus Circus. This flexibility makes it easier to fit into your hotel plans. The tour departs early, around 7 am, giving you plenty of daylight hours and avoiding the midday heat, especially important if you visit during warmer months.

The small group size—limited to just 12 participants—means you’ll enjoy a more intimate atmosphere, with your guide able to answer questions and tailor the experience a bit. This setup often results in a more relaxed, personalized feel compared to larger bus tours.

The Iconic Welcome Sign: An Instant Classic Photo Op

Your first stop is the Fabulous Las Vegas Welcome Sign. Standing beside this legendary icon, travelers often feel a rush of excitement. It’s a quintessential “snapshot of Vegas,” and you’ll have about 20 minutes here. The guide’s tips often include best angles and lighting, helping even shy photographers get a great shot.

This stop sets the tone—familiar, fun, and quintessentially Vegas. It’s a quick but meaningful way to mark the start of your journey into the desert’s wonders.

The Art of the Seven Magic Mountains

Next, you’ll visit the Seven Magic Mountains, a striking outdoor art installation by Ugo Rondinone. These towering, vibrantly colored boulders in Ivanpah Valley provide a pop of color against the desert backdrop.

Guests frequently comment on how impressive and surreal the installation is in person. One reviewer noted, “The colors really pop, and it’s perfect for photos,” highlighting how this stop offers a memorable visual contrast to the desert landscapes. You’ll spend around 30 minutes here, enough time to take photos and appreciate the art with some commentary from your guide about its significance and the artist’s intent.

Entering Death Valley: The Heart of the Tour

Crossing into Death Valley National Park, you’ll stop at the Death Valley Welcome Sign, a perfect photo opportunity to capture the moment you step into one of America’s most extreme environments.

The tour then heads to Zabriskie Point, renowned for its striking geological formations. In just 30 minutes, you’ll see bizarre, colorful rock shapes that seem almost otherworldly. Many travelers find Zabriskie Point to be one of the most visually compelling stops, with some describing it as “a landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet.”

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Furnace Creek Visitor Center: Learn and Explore

A longer stop at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center allows for a brief educational session. Here, you can learn about the park’s geology, climate, and history. The center is a good place to stretch your legs, use the facilities, and perhaps buy a souvenir or two.

The Salt Flats and the Lowest Point in North America

Next, you’ll visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. Walking out onto the salt flats, you’re treated to vast, shimmering landscapes that stretch to the horizon. The silence and the shimmering salt create a surreal atmosphere perfect for photos. Reviewers often mention how impressive and unique it feels to stand at this extreme point.

Devil’s Golf Course

Your last natural stop is Devil’s Golf Course, a landscape of spiky salt formations. The name hints at its inhospitable terrain, and many find it fascinating to walk among the jagged salt crystals. It’s a quick 20-minute stop but memorable, especially when hearing tales of how these salt deposits formed.

Artist’s Palette: A Kaleidoscope of Color

Before returning to Vegas, the tour makes a scenic stop at Artist’s Palette. Here, the earth’s minerals have painted the rocks in bright reds, pinks, greens, and purples. This area is a favorite for photographers, and visitors often comment on the vivid colors and distinctive landscape.

Return to Las Vegas: Reflection and Relaxation

The tour concludes with drop-offs at multiple central locations in Las Vegas, giving you flexibility to continue your evening plans or rest after a full day. Many travelers appreciate the well-paced itinerary, which balances sightseeing with comfort.

Value and Practical Considerations

At a cost that includes all entrance fees, lunch, snacks, and bottled water, this tour offers good value. The inclusion of a discount coupon book for Premium Outlets adds a bonus for shoppers. Reviewers highlight that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, with many mentioning that the trip exceeded their expectations in terms of scenery and organization.

However, remember this is a long day. You’ll want comfortable shoes and sun protection, and be prepared for some temperature fluctuations—hot in the desert, cooler in the morning and evening. The tour explicitly states that it is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart issues, or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love stunning vistas, great photo opportunities, and want a comprehensive look at some of Nevada’s most iconic sights, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting to see a lot without the hassle of self-driving.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and personalized attention. The itinerary’s diversity—desert landscapes, colorful art, and Vegas icons—ensures there’s something for all to enjoy.

While a long day, the included amenities and balanced pace make it manageable for most active travelers. It’s a smart choice if you want to maximize your time and see the highlights, especially if you appreciate value-packed tours that combine education, scenery, and fun.

How much does the tour cost?
Pricing varies, but considering all fees, lunch, snacks, and bottled water are included, it offers good value compared to doing these sights independently.

What is included in the tour?
All entrance fees, lunch, snacks, and a complimentary bottle of water are included. Plus, a discount coupon book for Premium Outlets is part of the package.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended. Be prepared for significant temperature changes, depending on the season.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, with about 20-45 minute stops at each major site.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, this tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or wheelchair users.

Where does the tour pick up?
Pickups are available at seven central Las Vegas locations, including MGM Grand, Wynn, Circus Circus, and more.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the physical nature and length suggest it’s best suited for older children and teens who can handle a full day outdoors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

What is the guide’s language?
Guides speak English, and the small group size helps facilitate interaction and questions.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of Nevada’s most eye-catching sights, blending natural beauty, intriguing art, and iconic signage. Its value is amplified by inclusions like lunch and entrance fees, making it a practical choice for travelers seeking convenience.

Perfect for those interested in photography, landscapes, and sightseeing, it suits travelers who want to see a lot with minimal hassle. If you enjoy stunning vistas and authentic experiences that go beyond the casino floors, this day trip could very well be a memorable highlight of your trip. Just remember, it’s a full day—so pack your curiosity and comfortable shoes.

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