
United States
United States - The Great Southwest
United States - The Great Southwest
Duration
21 days
Start/End
Denver
Tour type
Individual
Level
Easy
Accommodation
Hotels, cabins or campsites
Overview
In 21 days you cross the Rocky Mountains from Denver, roam North America's highest sand dunes and travel to Monument Valley and the Grand Canyon. After two nights in Las Vegas, the rock landscapes of Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Arches and Canyonlands await.
This magnificent journey takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the American Southwest over 21 days. You begin in Denver, cross the majestic Rocky Mountains, traverse the tallest sand dunes in North America, delve into the mythical world of Monument Valley, experience the magic of the Grand Canyon, and immerse yourself in the rock formations of Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches Canyon, and Canyonlands. Two full nights in Las Vegas offer a striking contrast between nature and glamour; in Moab, you'll have time to fully enjoy Arches and Canyonlands; and in Kanab, you'll be surrounded by the red rocks of the Vermilion Cliffs. With 20 nights, you'll have ample time not only to explore the area by car but also to consciously experience the landscapes and cities.
Tour Code
Tour language
GermanItinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Denver
Welcome to the Mile High City! After arrival and vehicle pick-up, you'll have free time to explore the city, depending on your flight time. Stroll through the historic LoDo district, with its restored brick buildings, and visit the vibrant Union Station, now a meeting place with cafes, bars, and small shops. For a panoramic view, climb the steps of the State Capitol and enjoy the view of the Rocky Mountains in the distance. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the 16th Street Mall, where street performers, restaurants, and shops create a lively atmosphere. For dinner, you can choose from trendy restaurants or classic steakhouses—a perfect start to your trip.
Arrival in Denver
Day 1
Welcome to the Mile High City! After arrival and vehicle pick-up, you'll have free time to explore the city, depending on your flight time. Stroll through the historic LoDo district, with its restored brick buildings, and visit the vibrant Union Station, now a meeting place with cafes, bars, and small shops. For a panoramic view, climb the steps of the State Capitol and enjoy the view of the Rocky Mountains in the distance. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the 16th Street Mall, where street performers, restaurants, and shops create a lively atmosphere. For dinner, you can choose from trendy restaurants or classic steakhouses—a perfect start to your trip.
Day 2
Denver – Colorado Springs – Great Sand Dunes
approx. 380 km / 4–5 h
In the morning, you'll head south toward Colorado Springs. There, the "Garden of the Gods" awaits: a landscape of unique red sandstone towers that rise picturesquely against Pikes Peak. Short hikes will take you to the heart of this natural wonder, offering spectacular photo opportunities. Afterward, you'll continue south until the Great Sand Dunes appear on the horizon: the tallest dunes in North America. Especially at sunset, the dunes resemble a dreamlike desert landscape. Take off your shoes, feel the fine sand beneath your feet, and enjoy this unique experience. You'll spend the night in Alamosa, near the park.
Denver – Colorado Springs – Great Sand Dunes
Day 2
approx. 380 km / 4–5 h
In the morning, you'll head south toward Colorado Springs. There, the "Garden of the Gods" awaits: a landscape of unique red sandstone towers that rise picturesquely against Pikes Peak. Short hikes will take you to the heart of this natural wonder, offering spectacular photo opportunities. Afterward, you'll continue south until the Great Sand Dunes appear on the horizon: the tallest dunes in North America. Especially at sunset, the dunes resemble a dreamlike desert landscape. Take off your shoes, feel the fine sand beneath your feet, and enjoy this unique experience. You'll spend the night in Alamosa, near the park.
Day 3
Great Sand Dunes – Durango
approx. 320 km / 4 h
If you wish, you can return to the dunes in the morning before the road takes you across rolling mesas and through the San Juan Mountains to Durango. This small town exudes Western charm and tells tales of its eventful past. Strolling along Main Street, you'll discover Victorian facades, small boutiques, and inviting restaurants. If you're fascinated by trains, the famous Durango & Silverton Railroad is well worth a visit, where historic steam locomotives create an authentic Western atmosphere. You can end the evening relaxing at a local restaurant and looking forward to your next adventure.
Great Sand Dunes – Durango
Day 3
approx. 320 km / 4 h
If you wish, you can return to the dunes in the morning before the road takes you across rolling mesas and through the San Juan Mountains to Durango. This small town exudes Western charm and tells tales of its eventful past. Strolling along Main Street, you'll discover Victorian facades, small boutiques, and inviting restaurants. If you're fascinated by trains, the famous Durango & Silverton Railroad is well worth a visit, where historic steam locomotives create an authentic Western atmosphere. You can end the evening relaxing at a local restaurant and looking forward to your next adventure.
Day 4
Durango – Monument Valley
approx. 330 km / 4.5 h
Today you'll venture into the heart of the Wild West: Monument Valley awaits. Even during the drive, you'll admire the breathtaking mesas and hills that rise above the plains like towering sentinels. In the afternoon, you'll embark on a guided jeep tour with Navajo guides, taking you to legendary viewpoints like John Ford's Point. Along the way, you'll learn about Navajo culture and the history of this unique place. At sunset, the rocks glow with warm shades of red and orange—an unforgettable sight. You'll spend the night in Kayenta or near the valley.
Durango – Monument Valley
Day 4
approx. 330 km / 4.5 h
Today you'll venture into the heart of the Wild West: Monument Valley awaits. Even during the drive, you'll admire the breathtaking mesas and hills that rise above the plains like towering sentinels. In the afternoon, you'll embark on a guided jeep tour with Navajo guides, taking you to legendary viewpoints like John Ford's Point. Along the way, you'll learn about Navajo culture and the history of this unique place. At sunset, the rocks glow with warm shades of red and orange—an unforgettable sight. You'll spend the night in Kayenta or near the valley.
Day 5
Monument Valley – Page/Lake Powell
approx. 200 km / 2.5 h
After a final look at the rock formations of Monument Valley, you'll continue your journey to Page, on the shores of Lake Powell. A highlight awaits you along the way: Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River carves a spectacular meander through the rocks. From the parking lot, a short hike will take you to the overlook—a truly breathtaking moment! In the afternoon, you'll explore the famous Antelope Canyon, whose narrow passages are flooded with light, creating mesmerizing patterns in the sandstone. Whether you choose the Upper or Lower Canyon, both offer unforgettable photo opportunities. In the evening, you can relax by Lake Powell or enjoy the views from Glen Canyon Dam before spending the night in Page.
Monument Valley – Page/Lake Powell
Day 5
approx. 200 km / 2.5 h
After a final look at the rock formations of Monument Valley, you'll continue your journey to Page, on the shores of Lake Powell. A highlight awaits you along the way: Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River carves a spectacular meander through the rocks. From the parking lot, a short hike will take you to the overlook—a truly breathtaking moment! In the afternoon, you'll explore the famous Antelope Canyon, whose narrow passages are flooded with light, creating mesmerizing patterns in the sandstone. Whether you choose the Upper or Lower Canyon, both offer unforgettable photo opportunities. In the evening, you can relax by Lake Powell or enjoy the views from Glen Canyon Dam before spending the night in Page.
Day 6
Page – Grand Canyon (South Rim)
approx. 220 km / 3 h
In the morning, you'll depart for the Grand Canyon. The drive across the Arizona plateau is breathtaking, but the first glimpse of the canyon is truly unforgettable. From Desert View Drive, with its historic lookout tower, spectacular panoramas unfold before you reach the South Rim. Here, you can hike the Rim Trail and marvel at the canyon's incredible depth from viewpoints like Mather Point or Yavapai Point. Especially at sunset, the rock formations glow with intense shades of red and orange. You can spend the afternoon relaxing in Tusayan or right on the canyon's rim.
Page – Grand Canyon (South Rim)
Day 6
approx. 220 km / 3 h
In the morning, you'll depart for the Grand Canyon. The drive across the Arizona plateau is breathtaking, but the first glimpse of the canyon is truly unforgettable. From Desert View Drive, with its historic lookout tower, spectacular panoramas unfold before you reach the South Rim. Here, you can hike the Rim Trail and marvel at the canyon's incredible depth from viewpoints like Mather Point or Yavapai Point. Especially at sunset, the rock formations glow with intense shades of red and orange. You can spend the afternoon relaxing in Tusayan or right on the canyon's rim.
Day 7
Grand Canyon
A full day is dedicated to this natural wonder. Shuttle buses will take you comfortably to the viewpoints along West Rim Drive, including Hopi Point and Mohave Point, both famous for their spectacular sunsets. If you're feeling energetic, you can hike down part of the Bright Angel Trail and see the canyon from a different perspective. But be aware that the hike back down is more strenuous than the descent. You can also attend a ranger-led presentation or visit the Visitor Center. Either way, you'll get to know the Grand Canyon inside and out today.
Grand Canyon
Day 7
A full day is dedicated to this natural wonder. Shuttle buses will take you comfortably to the viewpoints along West Rim Drive, including Hopi Point and Mohave Point, both famous for their spectacular sunsets. If you're feeling energetic, you can hike down part of the Bright Angel Trail and see the canyon from a different perspective. But be aware that the hike back down is more strenuous than the descent. You can also attend a ranger-led presentation or visit the Visitor Center. Either way, you'll get to know the Grand Canyon inside and out today.
Day 8
Grand Canyon – Las Vegas
approx. 450 km / 5 h
Today you'll leave the canyon and head west. Along the way, you'll relive the nostalgia of Route 66 in Williams and Seligman, where colorful restaurants and vintage billboards evoke a bygone era. Continue through Kingman to the impressive Hoover Dam, which impounds the Colorado River. In the afternoon, you'll arrive in Las Vegas. Here, a stark contrast awaits: dazzling hotels, neon lights, and endless entertainment. In the evening, stroll down the Strip, admire the themed hotels, and enjoy the famous Bellagio fountain show. Welcome to the city that never sleeps!
Grand Canyon – Las Vegas
Day 8
approx. 450 km / 5 h
Today you'll leave the canyon and head west. Along the way, you'll relive the nostalgia of Route 66 in Williams and Seligman, where colorful restaurants and vintage billboards evoke a bygone era. Continue through Kingman to the impressive Hoover Dam, which impounds the Colorado River. In the afternoon, you'll arrive in Las Vegas. Here, a stark contrast awaits: dazzling hotels, neon lights, and endless entertainment. In the evening, stroll down the Strip, admire the themed hotels, and enjoy the famous Bellagio fountain show. Welcome to the city that never sleeps!
Day 9
Las Vegas
Today you have time to enjoy Las Vegas at your own pace. Relax by the pool, shop in the sprawling malls, or treat yourself to a sumptuous breakfast buffet. If you'd like to connect with nature, a trip to Valley of Fire is an excellent option, where vibrant red rocks and short hiking trails await. The Hoover Dam is also nearby. In the evening, the entertainment capital invites you to enjoy shows like Cirque du Soleil, magicians, and musicals. From the observation deck of the High Roller Ferris wheel, you'll have a fantastic view of the dazzling city at night.
Las Vegas
Day 9
Today you have time to enjoy Las Vegas at your own pace. Relax by the pool, shop in the sprawling malls, or treat yourself to a sumptuous breakfast buffet. If you'd like to connect with nature, a trip to Valley of Fire is an excellent option, where vibrant red rocks and short hiking trails await. The Hoover Dam is also nearby. In the evening, the entertainment capital invites you to enjoy shows like Cirque du Soleil, magicians, and musicals. From the observation deck of the High Roller Ferris wheel, you'll have a fantastic view of the dazzling city at night.
Day 10
Las Vegas – Zion National Park
approx. 270 km / 3 h
After days filled with lights and entertainment, today you'll return to enjoying nature in its purest form. You'll travel to Utah and Zion National Park, where towering sandstone cliffs rise toward the sky. Even the arrival is breathtaking, and a leisurely stroll along the Virgin River, the Riverside Walk, will allow you to appreciate the park's beauty. In the evening, you'll wander through Springdale, a charming town with numerous restaurants and small galleries, and soak up its relaxed atmosphere.
Las Vegas – Zion National Park
Day 10
approx. 270 km / 3 h
After days filled with lights and entertainment, today you'll return to enjoying nature in its purest form. You'll travel to Utah and Zion National Park, where towering sandstone cliffs rise toward the sky. Even the arrival is breathtaking, and a leisurely stroll along the Virgin River, the Riverside Walk, will allow you to appreciate the park's beauty. In the evening, you'll wander through Springdale, a charming town with numerous restaurants and small galleries, and soak up its relaxed atmosphere.
Day 11
Zion National Park
You have a full day to explore Zion. Shuttle buses will take you comfortably to the trailheads. For a leisurely start, try the Emerald Pools or the Canyon Overlook Trail with their fantastic views. If you're looking for adventure, venture onto the legendary Angels Landing Trail (permit required) or into the Narrows, where you'll hike along the Virgin River. You can rent equipment in Springdale. At sunset, when the golden light illuminates the rocks, you'll feel the true magic of this valley.
Zion National Park
Day 11
You have a full day to explore Zion. Shuttle buses will take you comfortably to the trailheads. For a leisurely start, try the Emerald Pools or the Canyon Overlook Trail with their fantastic views. If you're looking for adventure, venture onto the legendary Angels Landing Trail (permit required) or into the Narrows, where you'll hike along the Virgin River. You can rent equipment in Springdale. At sunset, when the golden light illuminates the rocks, you'll feel the true magic of this valley.
Day 12
Zion-Bryce Canyon National Park
approx. 140 km / 2 h
Today, a short but beautiful tour takes you to Bryce Canyon National Park. Even the first views from the rim, with its thousands of delicate rock towers known as hoodoos, are breathtaking. You'll hike from Sunrise Point to Sunset Point, enjoying spectacular panoramas. In the afternoon, you can hike the Navajo Loop or combine it with the Queen's Garden Trail, a hike that leads you among strange rock formations and reveals the canyon from a completely new perspective. You'll watch the sunset at Bryce Amphitheater, one of the most beautiful spots in the park.
Zion-Bryce Canyon National Park
Day 12
approx. 140 km / 2 h
Today, a short but beautiful tour takes you to Bryce Canyon National Park. Even the first views from the rim, with its thousands of delicate rock towers known as hoodoos, are breathtaking. You'll hike from Sunrise Point to Sunset Point, enjoying spectacular panoramas. In the afternoon, you can hike the Navajo Loop or combine it with the Queen's Garden Trail, a hike that leads you among strange rock formations and reveals the canyon from a completely new perspective. You'll watch the sunset at Bryce Amphitheater, one of the most beautiful spots in the park.
Day 13
Bryce Canyon – Kanab
approx. 130 km / 2 h
Today you'll travel to Kanab, a charming Western town that has served as the backdrop for numerous films. Along the way or in the surrounding area, you can discover hidden gems: the rock formations known as Toadstool Hoodoos, which rise from the ground like mushrooms; the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, with their vibrant colors; or the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, the largest animal shelter in the United States. Kanab, with its relaxed atmosphere, restaurants, and Western ambiance, invites you to enjoy a cozy evening.
Bryce Canyon – Kanab
Day 13
approx. 130 km / 2 h
Today you'll travel to Kanab, a charming Western town that has served as the backdrop for numerous films. Along the way or in the surrounding area, you can discover hidden gems: the rock formations known as Toadstool Hoodoos, which rise from the ground like mushrooms; the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, with their vibrant colors; or the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, the largest animal shelter in the United States. Kanab, with its relaxed atmosphere, restaurants, and Western ambiance, invites you to enjoy a cozy evening.
Day 14
Kanab – Scenic Route 12 – Capitol Reef National Park
approx. 270 km / 4 h
Today, one of the most spectacular moments of your trip awaits: traveling along Scenic Route 12, one of the most beautiful highways in the United States. This route traverses vast and solitary landscapes, stretches of smooth rock, and deep canyons. Along the way, a trip to Calf Creek Falls is well worth it; this picturesque waterfall is located in an oasis in the middle of the desert, after a nearly three-hour hike. In the evening, you will arrive in Torrey, the gateway to Capitol Reef National Park, where you will spend the night.
Kanab – Scenic Route 12 – Capitol Reef National Park
Day 14
approx. 270 km / 4 h
Today, one of the most spectacular moments of your trip awaits: traveling along Scenic Route 12, one of the most beautiful highways in the United States. This route traverses vast and solitary landscapes, stretches of smooth rock, and deep canyons. Along the way, a trip to Calf Creek Falls is well worth it; this picturesque waterfall is located in an oasis in the middle of the desert, after a nearly three-hour hike. In the evening, you will arrive in Torrey, the gateway to Capitol Reef National Park, where you will spend the night.
Day 15
Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park is less well-known than its larger neighbors, but it captivates visitors with its red rock walls, orchards, and historic petroglyphs. You can stroll through the Fruita Historic District, once home to the Mormons, or hike to Hickman Bridge, a natural rock arch. If you have a 4x4 vehicle, the remote Cathedral Valley beckons with its monumental rock formations. You can also enjoy the views along the Scenic Route, which offers numerous short detours.
Capitol Reef National Park
Day 15
Capitol Reef National Park is less well-known than its larger neighbors, but it captivates visitors with its red rock walls, orchards, and historic petroglyphs. You can stroll through the Fruita Historic District, once home to the Mormons, or hike to Hickman Bridge, a natural rock arch. If you have a 4x4 vehicle, the remote Cathedral Valley beckons with its monumental rock formations. You can also enjoy the views along the Scenic Route, which offers numerous short detours.
Day 16
Capitol Reef – Moab / Arches National Park
approx. 250 km / 3.5 h
Today you'll travel to Moab, the vibrant outdoor mecca of the Southwest. This afternoon, you'll have time for your first visit to Arches National Park. There you'll find rock arches of all shapes and sizes: the Windows Section, Balancing Rock, and, as the highlight, Delicate Arch. This world-famous arch is especially beautiful at sunset. You'll spend the night in Moab, a lively town filled with restaurants, bars, and outdoor gear shops.
Capitol Reef – Moab / Arches National Park
Day 16
approx. 250 km / 3.5 h
Today you'll travel to Moab, the vibrant outdoor mecca of the Southwest. This afternoon, you'll have time for your first visit to Arches National Park. There you'll find rock arches of all shapes and sizes: the Windows Section, Balancing Rock, and, as the highlight, Delicate Arch. This world-famous arch is especially beautiful at sunset. You'll spend the night in Moab, a lively town filled with restaurants, bars, and outdoor gear shops.
Day 17
Arches National Park
A full day will be dedicated to the stone arches. You'll start early at Devil's Garden, where the trail leads to Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural stone arches in the world. Those who wish can continue the hike on a longer loop trail. In the afternoon, you'll visit other highlights such as Double Arch, Turret Arch, and the enchanting Windows section. A break in Moab with a refreshing drink will provide a well-deserved respite before returning to the park at sunset, when the golden light illuminates the arches.
Arches National Park
Day 17
A full day will be dedicated to the stone arches. You'll start early at Devil's Garden, where the trail leads to Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural stone arches in the world. Those who wish can continue the hike on a longer loop trail. In the afternoon, you'll visit other highlights such as Double Arch, Turret Arch, and the enchanting Windows section. A break in Moab with a refreshing drink will provide a well-deserved respite before returning to the park at sunset, when the golden light illuminates the arches.
Day 18
Canyonlands National Park – Dead Horse Point
approx. 100 km / 1.5 h
Today you'll explore Canyonlands National Park, specifically the area known as "Island in the Sky." A short hike will take you to Mesa Arch, one of the most beautiful spots in the region for photography, especially in the early morning light. At Grand View Point, you'll enjoy a breathtaking view of the magnificent canyon landscape, where the Colorado River has carved deep gorges. On the way back, a detour to Dead Horse Point State Park is worthwhile, offering one of the most spectacular views of the Colorado River.
Canyonlands National Park – Dead Horse Point
Day 18
approx. 100 km / 1.5 h
Today you'll explore Canyonlands National Park, specifically the area known as "Island in the Sky." A short hike will take you to Mesa Arch, one of the most beautiful spots in the region for photography, especially in the early morning light. At Grand View Point, you'll enjoy a breathtaking view of the magnificent canyon landscape, where the Colorado River has carved deep gorges. On the way back, a detour to Dead Horse Point State Park is worthwhile, offering one of the most spectacular views of the Colorado River.
Day 19
Moab – Glenwood Springs
approx. 350 km / 4–5 h
After several days of activity, today you'll enjoy a more relaxed journey back to Colorado. The route follows the course of the Colorado River and winds through diverse landscapes. In the afternoon, you'll arrive in Glenwood Springs, where the hot springs invite you to unwind. After so many adventures and hikes, a soak in their warm waters is the perfect way to revitalize yourself.
Moab – Glenwood Springs
Day 19
approx. 350 km / 4–5 h
After several days of activity, today you'll enjoy a more relaxed journey back to Colorado. The route follows the course of the Colorado River and winds through diverse landscapes. In the afternoon, you'll arrive in Glenwood Springs, where the hot springs invite you to unwind. After so many adventures and hikes, a soak in their warm waters is the perfect way to revitalize yourself.
Day 20
Glenwood Springs – Denver
approx. 260 km / 3–4 h
On your way back to Denver, you'll pass through the stunning Glenwood Canyon and charming towns like Vail and Breckenridge. In the afternoon, you'll have more time to explore the city: perhaps you'd like to visit the Denver Art Museum, stroll through the trendy RiNo neighborhood, or enjoy a final dinner at one of its many creative restaurants. A relaxing evening in the metropolis will be the perfect ending to your trip.
Glenwood Springs – Denver
Day 20
approx. 260 km / 3–4 h
On your way back to Denver, you'll pass through the stunning Glenwood Canyon and charming towns like Vail and Breckenridge. In the afternoon, you'll have more time to explore the city: perhaps you'd like to visit the Denver Art Museum, stroll through the trendy RiNo neighborhood, or enjoy a final dinner at one of its many creative restaurants. A relaxing evening in the metropolis will be the perfect ending to your trip.
Day 21
Denver – Return trip
On your last morning, you'll still have time for a coffee at one of LoDo's trendy cafes or a short stroll through the city center. Afterward, you'll return your rental car and catch your flight home. With countless experiences—from the Rocky Mountains to dunes and canyons, from desert landscapes and starry nights to the dazzling world of Las Vegas—this journey of contrasts comes to an end.
Denver – Return trip
Day 21
On your last morning, you'll still have time for a coffee at one of LoDo's trendy cafes or a short stroll through the city center. Afterward, you'll return your rental car and catch your flight home. With countless experiences—from the Rocky Mountains to dunes and canyons, from desert landscapes and starry nights to the dazzling world of Las Vegas—this journey of contrasts comes to an end.
Motorhome or rental car
Experience unforgettable moments and discover the most beautiful places at your own pace. Whether it's a road trip with comfortable hotel stays or a free-spirited campervan adventure, you decide how you want your dream trip to be. We'd be delighted to help you plan.
Motorhome or rental car
Experience unforgettable moments and discover the most beautiful places at your own pace. Whether it's a road trip with comfortable hotel stays or a free-spirited campervan adventure, you decide how you want your dream trip to be. We'd be delighted to help you plan.
Nonstop flight to Denver
Denver is the ideal starting point: there are direct flights to Denver from Frankfurt, Munich or Zurich, so you can begin your adventure in the southwestern United States in a relaxed way and without having to change planes. Alternatively, you can also start in Las Vegas.
Nonstop flight to Denver
Denver is the ideal starting point: there are direct flights to Denver from Frankfurt, Munich or Zurich, so you can begin your adventure in the southwestern United States in a relaxed way and without having to change planes. Alternatively, you can also start in Las Vegas.
Price from
€3,000.00
Services
What's included
We will prepare a complete offer that includes flight, car/hotel rental or motorhome rental.
What's not included
Individual travel to and from the destination (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)
Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)
personal equipment
Visa and vaccinations, if required
Advice
Character of the trip
Fitness
Easy
Altitude
Medium
Culture / nature
Nature-led
This road trip requires no special athletic skills; you decide your own pace and activities. You should be comfortable driving long distances, as each day's stage lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours. A valid driver's license is required.
You can include excursions and walks through the national parks as you wish. It can get very hot in the desert, so it's essential to bring plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun.
Dates and prices
There are no departures available at the moment. Send a request and we will find a suitable date.
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