Contact us:
+1 (415) 549 8996
travel@saexpeditions.com
+1 (415) 549 8996
travel@saexpeditions.com
This unforgettable eight day Mountains, Deserts and Moonscapes Expedition will take you to the most remote and spectacular corners of this otherworldly state.
After a brief intro to San Francisco, you’ll drive to Yosemite National Park, to hike, stargaze and picnic in some of the most picturesque surroundings on the planet. Next explore the contrasting habitats of saline Mono Lake and freshwater June Lake before taking a detour to Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest to see the world’s oldest living trees.
Top it all off with two full days exploring surreal Death Valley, the lowest point in North America and the hottest spot on the planet!
We are committed to helping you change your plans if you need to and we pledge the utmost flexibility to adjust your trip dates if required.
Private Socially Distanced Tours
Privately guided tours are more essential than ever, allowing you to freely explore remote destinations with your family. With SA you will ride in your own spacious, sanitised vehicles and visit attractions at strategic times, steering clear of any crowds.
Explore one of the West Coast’s true gems, San Francisco, from the city’s most iconic neighborhoods, to its famously steep streets, to the bright red Golden Gate Bridge.
Don your swimming duds and go for a relaxing soak in natural mineral hot springs.
Enjoy a privately guided visit to Yosemite National Park, home to iconic spots El Capitan and Half Dome.
Hike through a grove of the world’s oldest living trees – the 5000-year-old Ancient Bristlecone Pines, perched on a barren hillside in the White Mountains.
Visit the desert known for being the hottest place on earth and the lowest point in North America: Death Valley.
Use the following itinerary for inspiration. Remember: all days, hotels and activities can be altered to suit your requirements. A SA Expeditions travel specialist will be happy to advise.
Welcome to California! Today is a transit day. After your plane glides in for a landing over the waters of the San Francisco Bay, you will take a shuttle to claim your rental car before driving into the City by the Bay. Take the afternoon to explore or relax in your iconic SF Hotel. Rest up for the adventure to come or hit the town to experience some of San Francisco’s famous nightlife.
The AC Hotel, located on San Francisco’s bay waterfront just minutes away from the SFO airport and with easy access to most of the city’s must-sees, is an ideal place to stay. Combining sleek furnishings, an excellent night’s rest, and wonderful water views, the AC Hotel provides great value during your stay in one of the world’s greatest cities.
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Being the only hotel directly located on San Francisco’s Union Square, and just steps away from the city’s best shopping, nightlife, theatre, and dining, the Westin is perhaps our best-located hotel in the whole city. Featuring a thoughtful selection of both Classic and Modern rooms plus elegant suites, the hotel provides signature Westin amenities and the perfect refuge when not exploring the center of one of the West Coast’s most vibrant cities.
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The luxury Fairmont hotel, located atop iconic Nob Hill in San Francisco, provides all the “services one would expect of a luxury hotel in a world-class city.” Guest rooms at this haven for international stars & world leaders are spacious and well-appointed, with the suites offering impressive views of the Bay & city (each suite is equipped with telescopes to maximize viewing). During your stay, take advantage of the Fairmont’s concierge service, the fitness center, the nightly “Wine Down” reception, the famous Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, and complimentary use of hotel bicycles.
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After driving over the bay and across the expansive Central Valley, climbing into the Sierras by vehicle you will arrive to the majestic and fabled Yosemite Valley. The glaciated valley within the shadows of massive granite protrusions was one of the world’s first National Parks. Its value to humanity as a natural landscape has inspired conservation movements around the world ever since. You will be greeted in comfort and style at your Yosemite lodge to begin your exploration of the park.
Included meals: Breakfast
The Ahwanee was designed to highlight the natural spectacles of Half Dome, Glacier Point, and the Yosemite Falls, and the lodge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Step back in time and into a perfect balance of history, hospitality, and elegance, either by dining at the classic Ahwahnee Dining Room after a day’s trek or staying in one of the numerous rooms – waking up with a cup of coffee on your balcony, greeted by stunning vistas of one of the world’s first National Parks.
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The Chateau du Sureau is a fairytale getaway in the small town of Oakhurst, the gateway to Yosemite National Park. This coveted Relais & Chateaux property provides traditional, impeccable European service - you may never want to leave! Also on-site you'll find the Elderberry House restaurant (awarded the Relais & Chateaux restaurant designation) and the delightful Spa du Sureau, making for the perfect way to unwind after exploring the beauty of Yosemite.
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One of our favourite perks of the modern yet rustic Yosemite Valley Lodge is its shocking proximity to the beautiful Yosemite Falls, just an easy walk away. After marvelling at the beauty of the falls, choose from any of the lodge’s 240 comfortable rooms, many with a balcony or patio, and make sure to leave time to enjoy the two on-site restaurants, the lounge, a seasonal swimming pool, and bicycle rentals.
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Tenaya Lodge is an unrivalled all-season resort located just two miles from Yosemite National Park's south gate. Choose from a spacious lodge room or a stand-alone Explorer Cabin, and enjoy multiple restaurants and pool areas when not exploring the country's first National Park. Make some time for a little indulgence at the Ascent Spa, challenge your family members to billiards in the game room, and participate in daily guided nature hikes at Tenaya.
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One of the best ways to explore the park is on foot. After breakfast, your guide will greet you at the lodge to take you into the back-country. There you will picnic amongst the wild-flowers and green meadows and visit waterfalls and alpine streams that meander through sheer granite cliffs. By day’s end, you will be back at your lodge for a cold beverage to reflect on a beautiful day in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
One of our favourite perks of the modern yet rustic Yosemite Valley Lodge is its shocking proximity to the beautiful Yosemite Falls, just an easy walk away. After marvelling at the beauty of the falls, choose from any of the lodge’s 240 comfortable rooms, many with a balcony or patio, and make sure to leave time to enjoy the two on-site restaurants, the lounge, a seasonal swimming pool, and bicycle rentals.
Talk to us
The Chateau du Sureau is a fairytale getaway in the small town of Oakhurst, the gateway to Yosemite National Park. This coveted Relais & Chateaux property provides traditional, impeccable European service - you may never want to leave! Also on-site you'll find the Elderberry House restaurant (awarded the Relais & Chateaux restaurant designation) and the delightful Spa du Sureau, making for the perfect way to unwind after exploring the beauty of Yosemite.
Talk to us
The Ahwanee was designed to highlight the natural spectacles of Half Dome, Glacier Point, and the Yosemite Falls, and the lodge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Step back in time and into a perfect balance of history, hospitality, and elegance, either by dining at the classic Ahwahnee Dining Room after a day’s trek or staying in one of the numerous rooms – waking up with a cup of coffee on your balcony, greeted by stunning vistas of one of the world’s first National Parks.
Talk to us
Tenaya Lodge is an unrivalled all-season resort located just two miles from Yosemite National Park's south gate. Choose from a spacious lodge room or a stand-alone Explorer Cabin, and enjoy multiple restaurants and pool areas when not exploring the country's first National Park. Make some time for a little indulgence at the Ascent Spa, challenge your family members to billiards in the game room, and participate in daily guided nature hikes at Tenaya.
Talk to us
From Yosemite, you will descend out of the mountains down the Highway 395 corridor to Mono Lake. This saline lake, formed over hundreds of millennia, is a critical habitat for millions of migratory birds – and it’s equally popular among photographers and seekers of otherworldly landscapes. After visiting the briny waters of Mono, you will head to June Lake where a wonderful lodge, surrounded by a more conventionally majestic alpine setting, awaits. Your sunset and evening are spent taking in the views and mountain air.
Included meals: Breakfast
June Lake is often referred to as the “Switzerland of California,” and the Double Eagle Resort is the perfect place to experience this four-season destination. Situated on the banks of pristine Ron’s Pond and in the shadow of Carson Peak, Double Eagle offers cozy rooms in the main resort lodge, standalone two-bedroom cabins, and a spacious guest house for larger groups. Enjoy the on-site spa and fitness center, and make sure to check out the various lake rentals available to summer guests, including fishing gear, canoes, and stand-up paddle boards.
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Bishop Creek runs through the middle of the Creekside Inn, which is nestled in the town of Bishop in the Eastern Sierra Nevadas. The Inn's rustic elegance is enhanced by a central wood burning fireplace and outdoor creek-side fire tables. Guest rooms are spacious yet cozy, and amenities include an outdoor hot tub and pool area, and freshly baked cookies served each evening. Fishing enthusiasts can take advantage of the Inn's special area for fish cleaning and complimentary freezer storage, ensuring your catch is still fresh whenever you check out.
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This California State Park is home to the oldest living trees on the planet. The 5000-year-old trees of Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest live in groves on a windswept mountainside of dolomite at 11,000 feet. After a morning spent exploring the many trails of this paradise for naturalists and photographers, you’ll enjoy a well-earned picnic lunch. By the mid-afternoon you will depart for a scenic drive into Death Valley, arriving in time for your first desert sunset.
Included meals: Breakfast
For a secluded and serene oasis in the middle of Death Valley, look no further than the elegant and tucked-away Inn at Death Valley. This exclusive 88-room mission-style Inn has a privileged location (with a natural spring running through) and features gardens overflowing with flowers and palms, a historic pool area, and beautiful Old California charm throughout.
Labelled the “energetic center of activity in Death Valley,” the vibrant and family-friendly Ranch at Death Valley has recently undergone a multi-million dollar renovation. With a prime location next to the National Park Visitor Center, the 224-room complex also boasts spacious grounds, a new restaurant (featuring an ice cream and coffee bar), and the must-see “Last Kind Words” Saloon. No visit to one of the lowest points on earth is complete without a stay at the seminal Ranch at Death Valley.
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Death Valley National Park is a desert wonderland like few places on earth. Both the lowest point in North America (282 feet below sea level) and the hottest spot on earth (134 degrees Fahrenheit), Death Valley is not for the faint of heart! Not that you’ll have to worry about any of this – our travelers stay at the finest lodges in the park. Your first full day in the park will include a fascinating docent-led geology tour and a sunset trek among the dunes, once the midday heat has worn off.
Then you’ll have another full day to drink in this incredible landscape. Setting out in the morning, you will go with your guide to further explore the mysteries of Death Valley. Choose between a fascinating Geological tour of the sliding boulders and lunar landscapes and a journey through the storied history of the California desert with visits to Leadfield Ghost Town and Scotty's Castle. Regardless of which option you choose, you will be moved.
Included meals: Breakfast
Labelled the “energetic center of activity in Death Valley,” the vibrant and family-friendly Ranch at Death Valley has recently undergone a multi-million dollar renovation. With a prime location next to the National Park Visitor Center, the 224-room complex also boasts spacious grounds, a new restaurant (featuring an ice cream and coffee bar), and the must-see “Last Kind Words” Saloon. No visit to one of the lowest points on earth is complete without a stay at the seminal Ranch at Death Valley.
Talk to us
For a secluded and serene oasis in the middle of Death Valley, look no further than the elegant and tucked-away Inn at Death Valley. This exclusive 88-room mission-style Inn has a privileged location (with a natural spring running through) and features gardens overflowing with flowers and palms, a historic pool area, and beautiful Old California charm throughout.
All good things must come to an end. Departing Death Valley you will return to the Highway 395 corridor before heading south to Los Angeles to head home or onwards to your next California destination.
Included meals: Breakfast
Accommodation is included and our destination experts will help you chose the perfect hotels.
Labelled the “energetic center of activity in Death Valley,” the vibrant and family-friendly Ranch at Death Valley has recently undergone a multi-million dollar renovation. With a prime location next to the National Park Visitor Center, the 224-room complex also boasts spacious grounds, a new restaurant (featuring an ice cream and coffee bar), and the must-see “Last Kind Words” Saloon. No visit to one of the lowest points on earth is complete without a stay at the seminal Ranch at Death Valley.
Talk to usLabelled the “energetic center of activity in Death Valley,” the vibrant and family-friendly Ranch at Death Valley has recently undergone a multi-million dollar renovation...
Bishop Creek runs through the middle of the Creekside Inn, which is nestled in the town of Bishop in the Eastern Sierra Nevadas. The Inn's rustic elegance is enhanced by a central wood burning fireplace and outdoor creek-side fire tables. Guest rooms are spacious yet cozy, and amenities include an outdoor hot tub and pool area, and freshly baked cookies served each evening. Fishing enthusiasts can take advantage of the Inn's special area for fish cleaning and complimentary freezer storage, ensuring your catch is still fresh whenever you check out.
Talk to usBishop Creek runs through the middle of the Creekside Inn, which is nestled in the town of Bishop in the Eastern Sierra Nevadas...
June Lake is often referred to as the “Switzerland of California,” and the Double Eagle Resort is the perfect place to experience this four-season destination. Situated on the banks of pristine Ron’s Pond and in the shadow of Carson Peak, Double Eagle offers cozy rooms in the main resort lodge, standalone two-bedroom cabins, and a spacious guest house for larger groups. Enjoy the on-site spa and fitness center, and make sure to check out the various lake rentals available to summer guests, including fishing gear, canoes, and stand-up paddle boards.
Talk to usJune Lake is often referred to as the “Switzerland of California,” and the Double Eagle Resort is the perfect place to experience this four-season destination...
Tenaya Lodge is an unrivalled all-season resort located just two miles from Yosemite National Park's south gate. Choose from a spacious lodge room or a stand-alone Explorer Cabin, and enjoy multiple restaurants and pool areas when not exploring the country's first National Park. Make some time for a little indulgence at the Ascent Spa, challenge your family members to billiards in the game room, and participate in daily guided nature hikes at Tenaya.
Talk to usTenaya Lodge is an unrivalled all-season resort located just two miles from Yosemite National Park's south gate...
The Chateau du Sureau is a fairytale getaway in the small town of Oakhurst, the gateway to Yosemite National Park. This coveted Relais & Chateaux property provides traditional, impeccable European service - you may never want to leave! Also on-site you'll find the Elderberry House restaurant (awarded the Relais & Chateaux restaurant designation) and the delightful Spa du Sureau, making for the perfect way to unwind after exploring the beauty of Yosemite.
Talk to usThe Chateau du Sureau is a fairytale getaway in the small town of Oakhurst, the gateway to Yosemite National Park...
The luxury Fairmont hotel, located atop iconic Nob Hill in San Francisco, provides all the “services one would expect of a luxury hotel in a world-class city.” Guest rooms at this haven for international stars & world leaders are spacious and well-appointed, with the suites offering impressive views of the Bay & city (each suite is equipped with telescopes to maximize viewing). During your stay, take advantage of the Fairmont’s concierge service, the fitness center, the nightly “Wine Down” reception, the famous Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, and complimentary use of hotel bicycles.
Talk to usThe luxury Fairmont hotel, located atop iconic Nob Hill in San Francisco, provides all the “services one would expect of a luxury hotel in a world-class city...
I went to Ecuador on the Galapagos trip. It was my first trip with SA Expeditions so I had no idea why to expect. They definitely impressed. Every detail was organized and planned for me. The hotels exceeded my expectations. The tours were exactly what they described. My guides were fun, knowledgeable and flexible to adjust to what I felt like doing. I travelled alone as a single woman and felt completely safe the entire time. I knew they were just a phone call away. I'll be booking the trip to the salt flats for December!
We had a great trip to Peru booked through SA Expeditions! Everything ran smoothly from start to finish. We had great accommodations and we especially liked our guide Silver! I was nervous at first about booking with a company I found on the web and had no experience with but Dan, who made all arrangements, was very patient with me and but me at ease. I would highly recommend SA Expeditions!
My daughter and I went with SA Expeditions to coordinate our trip to Peru to Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain and Lake Titicaca. The accommodations that SA scheduled were fantastic. Beautiful settings, delicious food and friendly staff.
Our guides were extremely knowledgeable and accommodating. We had to make some last minute changes to our hike. Our guide Marco rolled with the changes and made it a memorable experience.
We enjoyed the knowledge that the guides had regarding Incan and pre-Incan societies. We left the vacation more knowledgeable that when we started.
Can't recommend enough.
This itinerary would cost from $3,490 pp.
Pricing may vary by accommodation choice, group size and time of year.
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Accommodation |
Customise your trip, choosing from recommended hotels. |
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Guided excursions |
You'll be shown around each destination by a local expert (we call them ‘docents’) who knows the place inside out and enjoy private excursions. |
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Some meals |
Select meals included. |
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Support |
We'll greet you at the airport and be by your side every step of the way, making room for spontaneity as you go, with 24 hour support. |
Trip Date Flexibility
We are committed to helping you change your plans if you need to. While every trip SA Expeditions designs is unique, we pledge the utmost flexibility to adjust your trip dates, working closely with our partners across the Americas with personalized and informed assistance throughout.
Private Socially Distanced Tours
Privately guided tours are more essential than ever, allowing you to freely explore remote destinations with your family. With SA you will ride in your own spacious, sanitized vehicles and visit attractions at strategic times, steering clear of any crowds.
