3 Day LA to Vegas: Grand and Antelope Canyon, Zion, Death Valley

Discover the Best of the American Southwest in Three Days

If you’re craving a quick but comprehensive look at some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the southwestern United States, this 3-day LA to Vegas tour might just be your perfect fit. It takes you through Death Valley, the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Zion National Park—some of the most photogenic and awe-inspiring spots in the country. For $649 per person, you get almost three days of expertly guided sightseeing, with a small group (max 14 people) that keeps things personal and engaging.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the well-organized itinerary—which balances nature’s grandeur with manageable travel times—and the knowledgeable guides who make these natural wonders come alive with stories and insights. Plus, the inclusion of unlimited snacks and drinks means you can stay energized without constantly reaching for your wallet.

One possible drawback is the non-refundable nature of the booking, which requires travelers to be comfortable with firm plans. Also, meals beyond breakfast aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for lunches and dinners.

This trip suits adventurers who love photography, nature lovers eager to see iconic landscapes, and anyone wanting a taste of the American Southwest without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s especially ideal if you prefer small-group tours for a more intimate experience and expert guiding.

Key Points

• Breathtaking Landscapes: From Death Valley to the Grand Canyon, this tour covers some of the most stunning scenery in the US.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides bring the landscapes to life with stories about geology, history, and culture.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 14 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• All-Inclusive Snacks and Drinks: Unlimited snacks and beverages keep you comfortable during long days of exploration.
• Authentic Local Stops: Bonus stops like Seligman add a touch of Route 66 nostalgia and local charm.
• Convenient Drop-off: Tour ends in Las Vegas, perfect for travelers planning to explore the city afterward.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Southwest Adventure

Day 1: Death Valley — The Land of Extremes

Your journey begins early from the Las Vegas Strip at 6:00am, heading straight into Death Valley National Park. Known for its extreme temperatures and unique geology, Death Valley offers sights that seem almost otherworldly. The tour’s first stop is the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, where you can walk among towering, wind-sculpted dunes—great for photos or just marveling at nature’s power.

Next, you’ll visit other iconic spots within Death Valley, such as Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and Zabriskie Point, famous for its dramatic erosional landscape. The guide, often a local or someone with substantial knowledge about the park’s geology, will share stories about how these formations came to be. Since admission is free and the stops are timed to about 3 hours, you’ll have ample opportunity to appreciate the stark beauty of this stark desert landscape.

What we love: The guide’s insights lend context to the extreme environment—this isn’t just a quick photo stop but a meaningful look at one of Earth’s most interesting places.

Day 2: Zion and Antelope Canyon — Giants of the Canyon Country

The second day is packed with highlights. You’ll start at Zion National Park, where the towering sandstone cliffs and lush canyon floors showcase the power of water and wind shaping the landscape. The observation points offer stunning panoramic views, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the natural grandeur.

After a brief stop at Zion, the tour takes you to Lower Antelope Canyon—a Navajo-guided exploration of one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world. The guide, often Navajo, shares stories along with geological details, enriching your understanding of both the land and its cultural significance. You’ll navigate narrow V-shaped passages filled with shifting light and shadow, an experience both intimate and awe-inspiring. Entry to the canyon is included in your ticket price, making it a hassle-free addition.

Later, you’ll walk to Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River makes a dramatic 270-degree loop. Standing on the overlook, you’ll see why this site is a favorite for photographers and nature lovers alike. The panoramic views of the river carving its way through ancient sandstone are unforgettable.

What we love: The Navajo guide’s storytelling makes the canyon experience more meaningful, and Horseshoe Bend’s sweeping vistas are genuinely stunning.

Day 3: The Grand Finale — The Grand Canyon and Historic Stops

The last day begins with a visit to the Grand Canyon South Rim, where vastness and depth leave visitors speechless. The tour’s timing allows access to several viewpoints, each offering different perspectives of this immense canyon carved over millions of years. You’ll experience the grandeur of the canyon’s layers, colors, and formations, all with the benefit of expert commentary.

After several hours, you’ll make a quick stop at Seligman, a charming town that feels like stepping back into Route 66’s heyday. It’s a perfect place to stretch your legs, browse vintage shops, or grab a snack before heading back to Las Vegas.

What we love: The combination of natural wonder and small-town Americana gives this day a well-rounded feel—each stop complements the other.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s included features make it a good value: small group transportation, two nights’ hotel accommodation, two breakfasts, unlimited snacks and drinks, and the entrance fee for Antelope Canyon. The not-included meals mean you should budget extra for lunches and dinners, especially if you want to try local eateries or pack a picnic.

The tour’s firm non-refundable policy emphasizes the importance of good weather, so travelers should be prepared for possible changes due to weather conditions. Still, the flexibility to reschedule or get a full refund if canceled for weather reasons offers peace of mind.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in a comfortable vehicle suited for small groups, which increases the chance for personalized attention and easier access to photo stops. With a maximum of 14 travelers, you’ll avoid the crowds typical of large tours, making the experience more relaxed.

Timing and Pacing

The early start ensures you beat crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially important in desert environments like Death Valley. The days are well-paced, balancing sightseeing with sufficient downtime.

Authenticity and the Guide’s Role

Reviews highlight the importance of knowledgeable guides who can answer questions and tell stories that bring these landscapes to life. The guides’ local expertise is often mentioned as a key reason to choose this tour, especially at sites like Antelope Canyon, where Navajo guides add cultural context.

Participants appreciated the small-group approach for its personal touch and fewer people on photo ops. The ability to ask questions and get tailored recommendations makes this tour stand out against larger, more impersonal options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 3-day adventure from Los Angeles to Las Vegas offers a balanced mix of spectacular scenery, informative guiding, and authentic stops. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to see major landmarks without the stress of planning or driving long distances themselves. The trip is ideal if you love photography, nature’s grandeur, and learning about geology and local culture.

While the non-refundable policy requires commitment, the overall value for the price—considering all included stops, accommodation, and guiding—makes it a solid choice for most adventure-seekers. The tour’s intimate size and knowledgeable guides ensure that you won’t just see these sights but understand and appreciate them on a deeper level.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:00am on the Las Vegas Strip, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

Where does the tour end?
You’ll be dropped off at your hotel along the Las Vegas Strip, making it easy to continue exploring the city afterward.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included on two mornings, but lunch and dinner are not, so plan to bring some extra money or pack snacks for the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you’re bringing children to ensure suitability for their age and stamina.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and a water bottle. Snacks and drinks are unlimited but don’t forget your essentials for a full day outdoors.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 14 travelers keeps the group small for a more personal experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are park fees included?
Non-resident park fees are not included if applicable, but the entrance fee for Antelope Canyon is covered in your ticket price.

Can I customize this tour?
This is a fixed itinerary; modifications are unlikely but check with MaxTour if you have special requests.

This guided adventure offers a wonderful window into some of the most stunning natural sites in America, with the added benefit of expert knowledge and small-group intimacy. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting a deep, authentic experience of the Southwest’s iconic landscapes—without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.