Flagstaff (Arizona) | Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona) | Lake Powell (Arizona & Utah) | Moab (Utah)
The following are Signature: Southwest Usa, Grand Canyon & Colorado River tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Welcome to the dramatic desert landscapes of Utah. Your expedition begins in Moab, a vibrant red-rock oasis. You will be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel to unpack and unwind. As evening falls, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader, National Geographic Expedition Expert, and fellow travellers for an engaging welcome meeting. Afterwards, raise a glass and celebrate the beginning of this remarkable path of discovery over a delicious welcome dinner.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group. There will be an included group welcome dinner after the meeting.
Let the sounds of the river engulf you as you embark on a half-day float trip along the Green River in Gray Canyon, stopping for a delicious lunch along the riverbanks. Afterwards, enjoy a private visit and presentation at the John Wesley Powell River History Museum. Step inside to explore historic watercraft, vivid photography, and the River Runners Hall of Fame. The museum's Curator brings the daring exploration history of the Colorado and Green Rivers to life. The remainder of your evening is yours, to relax at your own pace or explore the charming town and soak in the atmosphere.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Join a specialist from the museum for a private visit to the John Wesley Powell River History Museum, which will open exclusively for the group. The gallery chronicles the daring 1869 expedition that mapped the American West. Powell's historic journeys directly inspired modern exploration, leading him to become a founding member of the National Geographic Society in 1888. The museum's historic watercraft and regional fossils perfectly connect the area's deep geological history with the desert landscapes that you have been experiencing firsthand.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Set off on a half-day whitewater rafting trip along the Green River. Drive to the put-in point and drift down a gentle 2-mile stretch of river before about a 4-mile stretch of mellow level 1-2 rapids. Offering just the right mix of excitement and ease, allowing the opportunity to soak in the breathtaking scenery while enjoying a touch of adventure along the way.
Marvel at the sheer scale of Moab's physical geography this morning in Canyonlands National Park. Take in the sweeping panoramic vistas from Grand Viewpoint, Green River Overlook, and the dramatic cliffs of Dead Horse Point. After darkness falls, leave the city lights behind and head toward Arches National Park for a stargazing experience just outside the park along the Colorado River. Beneath one of the world's most pristine dark skies, look up to see a brilliant canopy of stars and the Milky Way stretching across the seemingly endless desert.
Uncover a wilderness of endless canyons and striking buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. Four distinct districts make up this National Park, preserving a colourful landscape eroded into countless canyons, mesas, and buttes by the Colorado River, the Green River, and their tributaries. Make stops at Grand Viewpoint, Green River Overlook and Dead Horse State Park before returning to Moab.
When night falls, venture beyond the city lights to the edge of Arches National Park. Beneath one of the world's most pristine dark sky sanctuaries, look up to behold a brilliant canopy of stars and the pale river of the Milky Way stretching across the vast desert sky.
Depart as the morning light stretches across the desert, driving south toward the Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum to view the largest collection of Ancestral Puebloan pottery in the region. Step outside to explore the ruins of a Chacoan Settlement and the great house. Continue into the heart of Monument Valley for a private tour in an open-air vehicle. Feel the warm breeze as you navigate between towering, iconic red monoliths on sacred Navajo land. Savour a delicious Navajo barbecue lunch in the Valley before leaving for the late afternoon drive toward Lake Powell where you check in and enjoy dinner.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Step into the quiet galleries of Edge of the Cedars to admire the Four Corners region's most extensive collection of Ancestral Puebloan pottery, where intricately painted earthen vessels reflect the skill and spirit of ancient artisans. Step outside to tread quietly among the weathered masonry of an authentic Puebloan village, walking the very ground where a vibrant community once gathered beneath the open desert sky.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Explore this magical and sacred place on a private, open-air jeep tour. See magnificent colours, miles of mesas, buttes, and pinnacles that make Monument Valley a truly wondrous experience. Cap off the experience with a delicious barbecue lunch of steak and Navajo tacos before continuing on to Page in the afternoon.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Board a boat for a morning cruise into the sheer, sun-baked walls of Navajo Canyon. Look up at towering sandstone formations rising hundreds of feet above the water, admiring the dark streaks of desert varnish coating the vibrant rock faces. After lunch, slow down and soak in the views of Lake Powell from the resort, go for a swim or open a good book. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy.
Set off by boat to explore the natural beauty of Navajo Canyon and the surrounding area. See the enormous Glen Canyon Dam, the second largest concrete arch dam in the United States and view towering Navajo sandstone geological formations with stunning red and burnt orange rocks. Once in Navajo Canyon itself, the walls are 600 feet above the water and you will see "desert varnish", also known as Navajo Tapestry, on the sandstone walls. See also the "50/50 Wall," where as high as the rock is above you, it is equally deep below you.
Take advantage of free time to enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening by the lake or at the resort.
After breakfast, experience a spectacular off-road excursion to Secret Antelope Canyon. Located on Navajo land, this hidden gem allows you to wander through swirling, light-infused sandstone corridors away from the crowded trails. Conclude with private access to a secluded overlook of Horseshoe Bend, feeling the absolute stillness as you gaze down at the Colorado River looping far below the desert cliffs. Imagine the original expedition seeing this for the first time. Later, travel toward the crown jewel of the Southwest: The Grand Canyon. Stop at Desert View and Grandview Point to gaze in awe and capture photographs of the immense, multi-layered gorge. Check into your lodge in the park, enjoy dinner at leisure.
Escape the crowds with an exclusive tour of Secret Antelope Canyon, a hidden gem on Navajo land.
Enjoy private access to a secluded viewpoint of Horseshoe Bend, away from the busy tourist areas. This adventure includes a peaceful off-road ride, offering stunning views of the Southwest's most iconic landscapes.
Drive south from Lake Powell through the desert landscapes to the Grand Canyon, with stops at Desert View and Grand View Points.
Spend the day uncovering the secrets of one of the world's greatest natural wonders. Begin the morning with an inspiring walk along the rim trail alongside your National Geographic Expedition Leader, listening to the gentle rustle of the pines. Soak in sweeping views and the breathtaking, raw beauty of this colossal geological phenomenon. In the afternoon, take advantage of free time to further explore the canyon rim or relax at your hotel, letting the tranquil high-desert breeze ease your senses. Tonight, cap off your extraordinary expedition as you watch the fading sun paint the ancient rock layers in brilliant shades of violet and gold before gathering with your fellow travellers for a memorable farewell dinner.
Set off on a walk along the southern rim of the Grand Canyon. Marvel at how the land drops almost straight down more than 1000m (3280 ft) into the canyon below. The walk along the rim is approximately 4.5km with regular shuttle buses passing frequently at various points for any wishing to return earlier.
Enjoy a free afternoon to further explore the canyon rim or to relax.
Greet the morning with a sunrise walk along the canyon rim, watching the first light pierce the shadows of the deep abyss. After breakfast, transfer through the scenic ponderosa pine forests to the airport in Flagstaff. Bid farewell to your fellow travellers as your exploration of the American Southwest's iconic landscapes and indigenous cultures comes to an end.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Signature: Southwest Usa, Grand Canyon & Colorado River tour:
5 Village Loop Drive, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, United States
Grand Canyon, United States
111 N 100 W
Moab, United States-84532
100 Lakeshore Dr, Page, AZ 86040, United States
Page, United States
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: Southwest Usa, Grand Canyon & Colorado River tour:
Max. 22, Avg. 16.
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, MoabSignature Moment: Private Tour of the John Wesley Powell River History Museum, Green River. Arrival transfer. Welcome dinner. Half-day rafting trip on the Green River. Visit Canyonlands National Park. Walk in Dead Horse State Park. Night sky stargazing excursion from Moab. Visit the Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum. Open-air vehicle tour of Monument Valley with barbecue lunch and Navajo tacos. Half-day Navajo Canyon boat tour. Secret Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend excursion. Expedition Leader-led walk along the south rim of the Grand Canyon. Farewell dinner. Departure transfer. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Enjoy private access and Curator presentation tracing the legacy of John Wesley Powell - an explorer and founding member of the National Geographic Society, Explore Monument Valley with a Navajo guide and savour traditional Navajo tacos, Discover a hidden slot canyon on Navajo land before a private Horseshoe Bend overlook, Stand in awe as the colours of the Grand Canyon walls come alive at sunset
For peace of mind while on the move, we strongly advise using a concealed neck wallet or money belt to secure your passport, travel documentation, and currency. We suggest leaving exceptional jewelry at home, as it is unnecessary for our style of travel; instead, make use of the safety deposit boxes available at most of our accommodations. Securing your luggage with a reliable lock is also highly recommended.
Hotels (7 nts)
7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout, Local Guides.
Every National Geographic Signature departure is accompanied throughout by a dedicated National Geographic Expedition Leader, whose purpose is to ensure a seamless experience so you can fully immerse yourself in the destination. Your Expedition Leader offers deep insight into the landscapes you traverse, suggests enriching independent activities, recommends exceptional local dining venues, and connects you with our community friends along the way. Rather than acting as conventional guides, they possess a broad, sophisticated understanding of the historical, cultural, religious, and social tapestry of the region. To offer the ultimate perspective, we complement their expertise with specialist local guides whose deep regional knowledge adds profound depth to specific sites—delivering a masterfully balanced exploration.
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Private vehicle, raft, open-air vehicle, boat, walking.
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Footwear (required) (Closed toe suggested)o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
When deciding what to pack, considerations will vary based on your specific itinerary, the regions you are visiting, and the season in which you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend packing thoughtfully and keeping your luggage to one checked bag at a manageable weight to facilitate seamless transitions throughout your expedition.In addition to your primary luggage, you will also require a small day pack or shoulder bag. This smaller bag is essential for keeping your camera, water, and personal items close at hand during day walks, excursions, and daily explorations.
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.
To ensure a seamless and elevated experience throughout your National Geographic Signature departure, gratuities have been fully taken care of for all included meals, activities, and luggage porterage.On our National Geographic Signature tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals, and porterage. Tipping is not included for the Expedition Leader. Should you want some basic guidelines on tipping for the activities you do on your own, please see below. At the end of each trip if you felt your National Geographic Signature Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline would be $10-$15 per person per day. Tipping is neither required nor expected for your National Geographic Expedition Expert.For the independent moments on your itinerary, tipping is generally not expected across Central Asia. However, should you wish to reward exceptional service during independent dining or activities, a modest gratuity of 3–5% is entirely appropriate and warmly received by local community members.