Land Journey

Sand and Surf: Death Valley to San Diego

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Year, Departure Type

Select small group departures (averaging 26 Tauck guests), or classic departures, and the year you would like to travel.

Days
8
From (per Person)
$6,390 USD
Journey Type
Land
Time of Year
Jan - Mar, Oct - Dec
Cities & Landmarks
Death Valley National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Zabriskie Point, Las Vegas, Sunnylands, Badwater Basin
Death Valley National Park

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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 Rancho Mirage, where desert luxury meets Hollywood history, with stunning mountain views, world-class resorts, and the timeless glamour of Palm Springs 

 

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
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Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Pace

3
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Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

View Full Itinerary

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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The Tauck Difference in the National Parks

Joshua Tree National Park

The Intersection of Two Deserts

Arrive at Joshua Tree National Park where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts merge... creating an ecosystem unlike any other. Here, the creosote and cacti, weird rock formations, boulder hills, wandering canyons and windswept desert plains where giant yucca plants, appropriately named Joshua Trees, create unimaginable landscapes. Along nature trails that wind through Lost Horse Valley, hidden oases, long abandoned mining camps and the Wonderland of Rocks, there is so much more than meets the eye at this timeless sanctuary.

Artist's Palette

Nature's Natural Palette

One of the most unique areas of Death Valley National Park is Artist's Palette, specifically, a portion of the nine-mile drive known as "Artist's Drive." Famous for its beautiful, vibrant colors that the outer facing rocks showcase, this phenomenon is caused by the oxidation of different metals found within the rock formations and is due to the chemical weathering and hydrothermal alteration occurrences within the area. Each metal, when oxidized, produces a different color. Iron compounds produce pink, red and yellow colors whereas mica and manganese produce green and purple respectively. These colors are likely a remnant of explosive volcanic times of the past! Don't forget to bring your camera to capture this jaw-dropping scenery.

The Inn at Death Valley

A hidden gem within the surrounding desert...

Amidst the shifting sand dunes, hidden canyons and gargantuan rock formations sits The Inn at Death Valley. Surrounded by palm trees and other unique desert flora, this property has transformed into a desert oasis unlike any other. Once an exclusive desert escape for the Hollywood elite the likes of Marlon Brando, Clark Gable, and Carole Lombard, The Inn at Death Valley is bringing back the Old Hollywood feel after a multi-million dollar renovation to its property finished in 2019. Relax by the spring-fed pool, enjoy the sunset from one of the stone patios, partake in a round of 18 at the world's lowest elevation golf course and witness the awestruck beauty of the Milky Way Galaxy like you've never seen before!

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Pricing & Availability

About Booking This Tour

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Travel Requirements For This Tour

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The Tauck Experience

Why Tauck?

Leave Your Worries At Home

One Upfront Price – No Hidden Costs

Tauck Directors – Simply The Best

Never Settle For Ordinary

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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.

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