Sand and Surf: Death Valley to San Diego
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Select small group departures (averaging 26 Tauck guests), or classic departures, and the year you would like to travel.
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Overview
EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK
Explore two unique national parks for Tauck – Death Valley and Joshua Tree – uncovering surreal desert landscapes, otherworldly rock formations, rare ecosystems, and the stories shaped by some of nature's most dramatic forces
Exclusive early access on the USS Midway provides a behind-the-scenes look at this historic aircraft carrier, with docent-led insights, interactive exhibits, and access before public hours
Step into the timeless elegance of the iconic Hotel del Coronado, your seaside resort in San Diego that has been a haven for royalty, celebrities and dignitaries since 1888
TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES
Two nights at The Oasis at Death Valley, where vast desert silence, shifting sands, and endless skies create a retreat as timeless as the land itself
Two nights in Palm Springs, where desert luxury meets Hollywood history, with stunning mountain views, world-class resorts, and a memory of timeless glamour
An overnight stay at Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, an intimate retreat above the Strip, where luxury, tranquility, and dazzling city views redefine the Vegas experience
SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES
Activity
3
Most days involve walking in the 2–3.5-mile range (~4,000–7,000 steps), with frequent stairs, cobblestones, and standing for 90+ minutes. Activity is consistent across consecutive days, requiring stamina and balance throughout the itinerary.
Pace
3
Full days with little downtime. Select days may offer opt-out opportunities or lighter alternatives. Ideal for travelers who want to stay engaged, but with some room to pace themselves.
Legendary Journeys and Adventures
Experience the breathtaking contrasts of the American Southwest, where rugged desert landscapes meet the captivating allure of the Pacific coast. Journey from the dazzling lights of Las Vegas to Death Valley's dramatic desert terrain, Palm Springs' architectural charm, and San Diego's coastal beauty.
From the neon glow of Las Vegas to the sunlit shores of San Diego, your journey unveils the breathtaking contrasts of the American Southwest. Stand in awe at Death Valley's vast desert terrain, where golden dunes and rugged peaks create an otherworldly landscape. Discover the architectural elegance and Hollywood history of Rancho Mirage and Palm Springs, then explore the surreal rock formations and twisted Joshua trees in the national park. Savor fine wines in Temecula before arriving at the iconic Hotel del Coronado, where ocean breezes and Victorian grandeur welcome you. With early access to the USS Midway (the home of the United States Navy Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor program, also known as the Top Gun flight school) and time to explore San Diego's vibrant districts, our colder weather adventure blends natural wonders, cultural gems, and coastal beauty into an unforgettable experience.
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About Booking This Tour
Covid Travel Requirements
The below provides an overview of Tauck's requirements and those of the countries we visit, along with our supplier partners who have implemented their own Covid policies that may go beyond Tauck's requirements. The trip-specific guidelines are for U.S. travelers.
Up-to-date destination entry requirements will be posted 60 days prior to the first seasonal departure for each tour or cruise series. For journeys not yet posted below, please visit our Travel Requirements page. As entry requirement change frequently, please check often.
Tauck 2024 Covid Policy
For 2024 tours and cruises, Tauck has no remaining Covid requirements. There is no vaccination requirement or travel pledge to be signed. This 2024 policy could change if there is a surge in infection rates or other factors that could impact the safety of our guests and employees.
Tauck 2023 Covid Policy
- Vaccination Requirement: All Tauck guests age 12 and older must be fully vaccinated. Additionally, you must have had at least one booster dose and/or have proof of recovery from Covid.
- Requirements for Minors: Though highly recommended, vaccination for minors age 11 and under is not required by Tauck. However, if unvaccinated they must present a negative result from either a PCR or antigen test taken within 3 days of departing for their Tauck trip. If a child age 11 or under is vaccinated but not boosted, they must also present a negative test prior to their Tauck trip.
- Tauck Travel Agreement: Tauck requires all guests to sign our Travel Well Pledge. Your Tauck Director will provide this document for your signature on the first day of your trip, and will check your proof of vaccination and booster/or proof of recovery. Additional information can be found at here.
To ensure the safety of your fellow travelers and the communities we visit, all guests must follow health and safety protocols when necessitated by local health guidance or our supplier partners. Your Tauck Director will keep you informed of these local requirements.
Although not required by Tauck, some countries may require a pre-travel Covid test. It is important that you carefully check the most recent entry requirements (listed below) for your tour or cruise.
Additional Destination Requirements
Your health and safety remain our number one priority while you are traveling with us. The below requirements are mandated by the US National Park Service and are applicable to all Tauck guests without exception:
For entry to National Park Service Facilities:
- There are no specific Covid destination requirements for this tour.
If You Have To Cancel
If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit
Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.
If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit
Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.
Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:
Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person
Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:
60 days or more before departure = $350 per person
59-8 days before departure = $600 per person
7-1 days before departure = $900 per person
Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.
In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.
Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Fee Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.
Travel Terms and Conditions
Click here to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.
Trip Prep & Essentials
The Tauck Experience
Why Tauck?
From the Forum
Book Today... And Travel Dreams Begin
Discover The World
Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.
Book Today... And Travel Dreams Begin
Discover The World
Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.
