- 36
Southern Sun Plus from Los Angeles
- Code #SLB
- 20 Days
-
Trip Overview
Take the southern route through sun-drenched San Diego, the mighty Grand Canyon, the exciting neon desert city of Las Vegas and the Navajo tribal lands of Monument Valley. Cross the wild Texan plains and soak up the sweet Southern sounds of Austin, New Orleans, Nashville and Memphis. Have your fill of history in Washington DC and finish up your epic trip in the New York area. I think the word you're looking for is epic!
- Party bus tour of Las Vegas
- Search for 'gators on a Louisiana swamp tour
- Start your tour in glamorous LA
- California's white sandy beaches in San Diego
- Travel along Historic Route 66 and visit Seligman, AZ
- Experience an epic Grand Canyon sunrise or sunset
- Discover the buzz of New Orleans' Bourbon Street
- Live music scene in Austin, New Orleans, Memphis & Nashville
- Visit Washington DC's famous monuments & museums
- Climb Philadelphia's 'Rocky' steps & see the Liberty Bell
- Admission to amazing national parks & monuments - Grand Canyon & Monument Valley
Interests
Accommodation & Transportation
Food & Meals
- All meals to be paid locally
Other Inclusions
- Services of a TrekAmerica tour leader
- Private transportation with free Wi-Fi
- All accommodation
Essential Information
- Prices quoted are land only. Call us on 0333 999 7951 for a flight quote (UK only).
- We highly recommend you book this trip at least 60 days prior to departure. Reservations received within 30 days will be on request and subject to availability of all en route accommodation.
- This tour occasionally links up with the Northern BLT to form the Grand BLT tour.
- This tour requires a minimum number of five to operate. On rare occasions we may run with lower numbers.
Resources
My name is Mike "Grizzly" Harding and I've been working for Trek America for over a decade. It is both an honor and a privilege to show people around the incredible, diverse, fascinating country I call home.
Known to be: fast paced, non-stop, always on, adaptable, dependable adventure spirited Tour leader. Originally from Michigan but traveling the world.
Our routes have been carefully chosen to include the best overnight stops, highlights and included experiences, with plenty of optional activities to choose from. No two Trek trips are the same, with stops at some of your tour leader's favourite places and occasional changes to the itinerary, so get ready for one awesome adventure!
As this tour departs at 07:30 hrs we recommend that you book pre tour accommodation. Please request further details at time of booking.
We use a combination of accommodation types on our Plus tours. Most cabins are multi-share rooms sleeping 4 to 6 people with shared facilities and hostel nights are generally arranged on a single sex, multi-share basis, subject to availability. Where possible we will keep the group together and try to accommodate couples; however twin rooms cannot be guaranteed and any additional upgrade costs for a private room will need to be covered by the passenger/s en route.
Leave 'Tinseltown' for San Diego for some seriously laid-back vibes and powder white sand beaches. There's loads to keep you busy in this awesome West Coast city. Laze in grassy Balboa Park, or show off your skills by renting some rollerblades or a surfboard. You're in paradise so don your shades and soak up some rays. Later, explore the Gaslamp Quarter and experience the heart of San Diego's nightlife.
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Meals
Optional Activities
Next it’s on to Las Vegas, and there’s nowhere else on earth quite like it! Feel like a celeb on an included party bus and then treat yourself to a show, indulge in an all-you-can-eat buffet, or just watch the amazing crowds and neon signs as the glitzy hotels try to outdo each other with spectacular attractions. If that's not enough, you can always take an optional helicopter flight down The Strip. If you're still left wanting more, head on over to a chapel and get hitched by the one and only Elvis. Don't worry, it's not legally binding - but the folks back home don't know that, so just imagine their surprise!
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Drive along a section of the original Route 66, stopping at the town of Seligman, a town frozen in time where you'll find tons of old Americana. Grab a root beer, have a look around and pick up some souvenirs for the folks back home. Now it's time for the ultimate showstopper, the mighty Grand Canyon! Once you've cast your eyes upon the deep canyon landscape you'll understand why this great natural wonder is loved by locals and tourists alike.
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You’re on the road again, and off to one of North America's most iconic landscapes, used as the set for countless Western movies, including the recent remake of The Lone Ranger. Immerse yourself in the native culture on an optional guided jeep tour of the Navajo Reservation and backroads. Marvel at the sight of towering buttes and mesas which dominate the awe-inspiring landscape during the day. At night it gets even more incredible; as the sun goes down, swap campfire stories under a starry sky.
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Optional Activities
With 325 days of sunshine per year plus some of the best Tex-Mex food in the USA, Santa Fe won't disappoint. For all the art lovers out there, visit Canyon Road, home to art galleries, cultural treasures such as hand-woven Navajo rugs, historic adobe buildings and a vibrant restaurant scene. Head over to Meow Wolf, for a wonderfully weird immersive art experience set in a nondescript building, bound to leave you totally baffled.
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Welcome to the ‘Lone Star’ state, home to world class barbeque and the armadillo, though sadly no holiday armadillos! Get to grips with Lubbock’s thriving arts scene, visit the West Texas Walk of Fame or catch a flick at the classic Stars and Stripes movie drive in.
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Austin has exploded as the ‘live music capital of the world’ and you’ll soon see why. Head to South Congress where some of the best street performers can be found, along with lively outdoor cafes and great boutiques. Grab a pair of cowboy boots at Allens Boots and head to the nearest Honky Tonk for a Texas Twostep session. During the day you can find some beautiful areas to relax, including Barton Springs and the trails around Lady Bird Lake, where you can laze around and watch the stand-up paddle boarders. Alternatively settle those food cravings with BBQ, Tex-Mex or food truck infusions. The night comes alive on Sixth Street, littered with bars and party goers. Or head to Rainy street, a quirky imitation of suburbia.
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Say goodbye to Texas and enjoy a day of rest, recovery and van games on your long drive into bayou country, Louisiana.
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Enjoy an included swamp tour into the alligator habitat of southern Louisiana and see all sorts of wildlife in the mysterious wetlands of Cajun country. This is the Deep South, where life moves at a much slower pace, so embrace it! Why not spice up your trip with lip-smacking Cajun and Creole fare, ride a steamboat on the Mississippi River or people watch and relax to the sounds of a Dixieland jazz band in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Check out the jazz clubs of Frenchmen Street or the notorious nightlife of Bourbon Street. The world is your oyster in ‘N’Awlins’.
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You’ll see the influence of music everywhere in this city, so you won't want to miss out on a visit to Sun Studio, where the likes of Johnny Cash and BB King made history with some of their famous tracks. Head on down to iconic Beale Street where music is literally playing around every corner, and of course, you won't want to leave without a trip to the former home of ‘The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll', Elvis Presley, in Graceland. But there’s more to Memphis’ history than just music, so pay a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum located in the former Lorraine Hotel to see the place where Martin Luther King was assassinated.
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Cowboy boots and sequinned denim anyone? You're in Nashville, the shining star of the country music scene. Laze in the city’s parks, shop for cowboy boots, or visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. When the sun goes down, learn to line dance, check out live bands and hit up some of the Nashville nightlife.
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Touch down in the gorgeous pine-clad foothills of the Appalachian Mountain range. The scenery is beautiful and it’s also home to the American Black Bear and a former haunt of the Cherokee Indians.
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Washington DC is next on the agenda and you'll really enjoy the grandeur of the nation's capital. If museums are your thing, you might want to check out the impressive Smithsonian National Museums. Home to 19 different museums and galleries, you're bound to learn a thing or two here! From the iconic White House and incredible monuments to the city's trendy bars, the capital has something for everyone. Head to Dupont Circle for its celebrated nightlife or get down to Georgetown for cool bars and eateries.
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Leaving the capital behind, drive towards Philadelphia where you can visit the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and climb the famous steps from the Rocky movies. But, before you leave make sure you treat yourself to a tasty Philly cheesesteak lunch - delicious! Then it’s time to head to the New York area where the tour will end. If you're not ready to say goodbye to America just yet and want to explore New York City, why not spend a couple more days after the tour to explore the sights and sounds of the Big Apple on your own or with your new Trek buddies? You could jump on a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the highlights or take a guided bike tour of Central Park, splurge along Fifth Avenue or soak up the trendy, laid-back vibe of Greenwich Village. The possibilities are endless!
This tour ends at approximately 17:00 hrs. We can book you post tour accommodation at our gateway hotel if required. If you are planning to fly tonight, please do not book a flight that departs before 21:00 hrs.
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Reviews
What our trekkers say
Amazing Cities and Incredible National Parks
After looking at this trek for nearly 6 months, I fully pluck up the courage to book and I am so glad I did. I had an incredible 3 weeks. We had an amazing tour guide called Sam she told us everything we needed to know, kept us in loop, showed us her favourite places and was a laugh to be around. Having a good time on trek really does depend on your group, lucky for me I had a group of 12 who were all lovely and a good laugh to be around. After being back for 5 months I still can't believe how much I saw in a short space of time.
Best trip of my life!
This was the first trip I have ever done with Trek America and my first ever solo adventure. It was honestly the best 4 weeks ever. I saw so many amazing sights, did some amazing things and met the most amazing people! Its been 5 months since I've come home and I still don't stop talking about it.
A great way to see America
I'd always wanted to travel across America but didn't want to do it alone so I thought this would be a great way to do it. We got to see and do so many things in the space of 3 weeks, it was pretty non-stop and tiring at times but so worth it. There were places I would of liked to of spent m...
Our tours usually depart at 07:30am and finish around 5:00pm at designated hotels in our gateway cities, so it's a great idea to book a room for the night before and after your tour. It's also worth staying extra nights to explore the city more. You must book these hotels in advance either online with your tour or by contacting our friendly sales team.
LOS ANGELES - FAIRFIELD INN MARRIOTT
525 North Sepulveda Boulevard, El Segundo, Los Angeles, CA 90245
This hotel offers free WiFi, air-conditioning, mini-market, plus an outdoor pool, fitness centre and free shuttle service to LAX.
Twin share (With a trekker of the same sex)
From £114 | US$134 | Eur122 | AU$172 | NZ$181
Price per person per night
Full room (Your own single or double room)
From £177 | US$233 | Eur213 | AU$301 | NZ$316
Price per room per night
AIRPORT TRANSFER INFORMATION
The hotel operates a free airport to hotel pickup from the international airport to the Fairfield Inn & Suites Hotel. Whilst this is a complimentary service a tip of US$1-$2 is generally expected. On arrival to the airport, please call the hotel and advise them which terminal you are at and to arrange pick up. The transfer should take approximately fifteen minutes by road depending on traffic. For airport drop-off, please arrange this with the reception staff.
Our tours usually depart at 07:30am and finish around 5:00pm at designated hotels in our gateway cities, so it's a great idea to book a room for the night before and after your tour. It's also worth staying extra nights to explore the city more. You must book these hotels in advance either online with your tour or by contacting our friendly sales team.
NEW YORK AREA - HILTON NEWARK AIRPORT
1170 Spring St, Elizabeth, NJ 07201
The 4 star hotel offers free airport shuttle and many onsite amenities including fitness room, indoor pool, spa.
Twin share (With a trekker of the same sex)
From £68 | US$89 | Eur81 | AU$115 | NZ$121
Price per person per night
Full room (Your own single or double room)
From £135| US$178 | Eur162 | AU$230 | NZ$241
Price per room per night
AIRPORT TRANSFER INFORMATION - NEWARK AIRPORT
Transportation from Newark International Airport is the cheapest and most convenient. From Baggage Claim at the airport, take the AIRTRAIN to station P4 and wait for the Hilton Newark Airport Complimentary Shuttle. This will bring you directly to the Hotel and a shuttle arrives/departs every 15-20 minutes. The journey will take approximately 10mins, depending on traffic. It is customary to tip the driver who helps you with your bag ($1-$2 per bag).
AIRPORT TRANSFER INFORMATION - JFK & LA GUARDIA AIRPORTS
From both JFK and La Guardia airports you must first transfer to New York Penn Station located at 31st and 7th Streets in Midtown Manhattan and then take another transfer to Newark International Airport.
1). To transfer from the airport to New York Penn Station:
By Shuttle: You can pre-book your transfer on the Super Shuttle website by searching for "Penn Station" landmark when prompted. A shared transfer service costs US$19 plus tip.
By Bus: The most convenient service is the "New York Airport Express Service Bus". This bus departs from both airports every 20-30 minutes (7am- midnight) and stops are located at the 'Express Bus Stop' at each airport terminal. Cost is US$15. For reservations or for more info call (718) 875-8200 or visit their website at www.nyairportservice.com/. Use taxis for transport during the hours of midnight-7am.
2). To transfer from NY Penn Station to Newark Liberty International Airport Train Station:
Trains depart New York Penn Station every 10-15 minutes to Newark Airport. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket window for approx. $12.50 and wait until the train board displays your track. ALL trains that go to Newark Liberty International Airport Train Station are displayed as "EWR." The train ride to the airport station is about 25 minutes and you will be asked to show you ticket while on the train.
3.) To transfer from Newark Liberty International Train Station to the Hilton Newark Airport:
After exiting the train follow the signs for the "AIRTRAIN". Take the AIRTRAIN to station P4 and wait for the Hilton Newark Airport Complimentary Shuttle. This will bring you directly to the Hotel and a shuttle arrives/departs every 15-20 minutes. It is customary to tip the driver who helps you with your bag ($1-$2 per bag).
Booking our 3 day New York to Niagara mini adventure is a perfect way to extend your adventure. Leaving the bright lights and crazy nights of New York area behind, venture deep into 'up state' New York to the thundering wonder of the incomparable Niagara Falls before a night on the shore of the Finger Lakes with it's many waterfalls and wineries.
New York Mini Adventure Highlights
- Drive through the Delaware Water Gap
- Visit the stunning Finger Lakes town of Seneca Falls
- Niagara Falls & the Maid of the Mist cruise
- Woodbury Common Outlet Mall
Book your Niagara Mini Adventure here or call us to add to your booking.
Sticking around for a day or two after your trip? Arriving early for some big city fun? We don’t blame you. Making sure you catch ALL the highlights, we’ve partnered with GetYourGuide to show off the ultimate things to do in our fave cities.
Check out our city tours below >
Our specialist flights department can offer UK customers a great airline fare to all of our Trek destinations. We have preferred contracts with many international carriers and have secured some of the most competitive prices in the industry.
Why Book Your Flights with Trek?
- Secure your flight with a deposit of only £125 per person
- Date changes free of charge (subject to terms)
- We are ATOL protected and IATA licensed
- Personal service - you're more than just a number
Call us now on 0208 682 8920 for today's special offers or
At TrekAmerica we believe that your safety and enjoyment are the most important parts of your holiday. That's why we recommend you take out insurance as soon as your booking is confirmed. TrekAmerica can offer you comprehensive travel insurance which is completely tailored for your trip and is specially designed to include all the activities listed we do.
If you do not take our policy, you must ensure that the policy you do take offers an equivalent level of protection and covers you for the activities involved - be aware that some policies do not include, or restrict, coverage for this type of travel.
See our insurance page for more information.
There are loads of exciting optional activities available for you to choose from during your trip giving you the flexibility to do the things you want to and leave out the things you don't. A list of optional activities and approximate costs are shown at the end of each day by day itinerary descriptions above.
Your tour leader will arrange your chosen activities during the tour so no need to pre-book. You'll also pay for these locally so ensure you budget for the bucket list items!
As local weather conditions and seasonality can change not all optional activities may be available on your trip and prices can be subject to change.
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