Day 1 - 2: Sedona, Arizona - Gateway to Red Rock Country

 

Your Southwest adventure begins in the enchanting town of Sedona, where towering red rock formations and vibrant desert landscapes await. Spend your time here soaking in the beauty of this mystical destination, known for its spiritual energy and stunning scenery.

 

Explore the Red Rock Trails: Start your Sedona experience with a hike along one of the many scenic trails that wind through the surrounding red rock formations. Whether you choose the iconic Cathedral Rock Trail or the peaceful tranquillity of the Boynton Canyon Trail, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views and a profound connection with nature.

 

Art and Culture: Sedona is also renowned for its thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing local artwork and Native American crafts. Take some time to explore the charming streets of the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village or visit the Sedona Arts Center to admire the works of talented local artists.

 

Sunset at Airport Mesa: End your first day in Sedona with a breathtaking sunset experience at Airport Mesa. Drive or hike up to the mesa's summit and witness the sky ablaze with hues of orange and pink as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the surrounding landscape.

 

 

Day 2 - 4: Grand Canyon Junction, Arizona - Glamping Amidst Natural Splendour

 

From Sedona, venture north to the iconic Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Your next two nights will be spent at Under Canvas, a luxury glamping site nestled in the heart of Grand Canyon Junction, just moments away from the rim of this majestic canyon.

 

Sunrise at the Grand Canyon: Wake up to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon and witness a spectacular sunrise over the vast expanse of the canyon walls. Take a short walk from your canvas tent to one of the nearby viewpoints and watch as the first rays of light illuminate the ancient rock formations in shades of gold and crimson.

 

Exploring the South Rim: Spend your days exploring the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, where a network of hiking trails offers opportunities for adventurers of all skill levels. Whether you embark on a challenging rim-to-rim hike or opt for a leisurely stroll along the paved Rim Trail, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas that will leave you speechless.

 

Stargazing Under the Desert Sky: As night falls, retreat to your cosy glamping tent and gaze up at the star-filled desert sky. Away from the glare of city lights, the Grand Canyon offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country, with millions of stars twinkling overhead and the Milky Way stretching across the heavens.

 

 

Day 4 - 6: Page / Lake Powell, Arizona - Oasis in the Desert

 

From the Grand Canyon, journey east to the town of Page, nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of the Colorado Plateau. Here, you'll spend two nights exploring the natural wonders of Lake Powell and its surrounding attractions.

 

Antelope Canyon Adventure: No visit to Page is complete without a tour of Antelope Canyon, a breathtaking slot canyon renowned for its mesmerising light beams and sculpted sandstone walls. Join a guided tour of Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon and marvel at the otherworldly beauty of this natural wonder.

 

Cruise Lake Powell: Spend an afternoon cruising the turquoise waters of Lake Powell on a scenic boat tour. Admire the towering sandstone cliffs, hidden coves, and pristine beaches that line the shores of this expansive reservoir, created by the Glen Canyon Dam.

 

Horseshoe Bend Sunset: End your day with a visit to Horseshoe Bend, where the emerald waters of the Colorado River carve a dramatic horseshoe-shaped curve through the desert landscape. Arrive in time for sunset and watch as the fading light casts a warm glow over the canyon walls, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty.

 

 

Day 6 - 7: Oljato-Monument Valley, Arizona - Land of the Navajo

 

Continuing eastward, your next stop is Oljato-Monument Valley, a sacred land steeped in Navajo culture and tradition. Spend a night immersed in the rich history and stunning scenery of this iconic destination.

 

Monument Valley Tour: Explore the iconic mesas, buttes, and spires of Monument Valley on a guided tour led by a Navajo guide. Learn about the region's geological formations, folklore, and spiritual significance as you traverse the rugged landscape made famous by countless Western films.

 

Navajo Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in Navajo culture with a visit to the Navajo Tribal Park Visitor Center, where exhibits and demonstrations offer insights into the traditions and way of life of the Navajo people. Browse handmade crafts and artwork created by local artisans, and perhaps purchase a meaningful souvenir to commemorate your visit.

 

Stargazing Amongst the Monuments: As night falls, step outside and marvel at the vast expanse of stars that blanket the desert sky above Monument Valley. With minimal light pollution, this remote location offers exceptional stargazing opportunities, allowing you to witness the brilliance of the Milky Way and countless constellations.

 

 

Day 7 - 8: Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado - Journey into Ancient History

 

Crossing into Colorado, your next destination is Mesa Verde National Park, home to some of the most well-preserved archaeological sites in North America. Spend one night exploring the ancient cliff dwellings and rich cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

Cliff Palace Tour: Embark on a guided tour of Cliff Palace, the largest and most impressive cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde. Descend into the depths of the canyon and marvel at the intricate masonry, ceremonial chambers, and fascinating petroglyphs that offer glimpses into the lives of the ancestral Pueblo people who inhabited this area over 700 years ago.

 

Balcony House Adventure: For a more immersive experience, join a ranger-led tour of Balcony House, where you'll climb ladders and squeeze through narrow passageways to reach the ancient cliff dwelling perched high above the canyon floor. Stand on the same balconies where the Ancestral Puebloans once lived and imagine life in this rugged landscape centuries ago.

 

Scenic Drives and Hiking Trails: Explore Mesa Verde's stunning landscapes on a scenic drive along the park's winding roads, stopping at overlooks and viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding canyons and mesas. Alternatively, lace up your hiking boots and venture out on one of the park's many trails, where you'll encounter ancient ruins, petroglyphs, and breathtaking scenery at every turn.

 

 

Day 8 - 10: Moab, Utah - Gateway to Adventure

 

From Mesa Verde, make your way to the outdoor mecca of Moab, where adventure awaits amidst the red rock desert landscapes of Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. Spend two nights exploring the rugged beauty of this iconic destination.

 

Arches National Park: Discover the world-famous arches, fins, and spires of Arches National Park on a scenic drive along the park's main road. Marvel at iconic landmarks such as Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Balanced Rock, each sculpted by millions of years of erosion and weathering.

 

Canyonlands National Park: Venture into the vast wilderness of Canyonlands National Park, where towering mesas, deep canyons, and meandering rivers converge to create a landscape of unparalleled beauty. Explore the park's numerous viewpoints, hiking trails, and overlooks, each offering sweeping panoramas of the rugged terrain below.

 

Adventures in Moab: Moab is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of activities to suit every interest and skill level. Whether you're into hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, or off-road exploring, you'll find endless opportunities for adventure amidst Moab's stunning natural scenery.

 

 

Day 10 - 11: Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah - Hoodoos and Starlit Skies

 

Continuing westward, your next stop is Bryce Canyon National Park, a wonderland of hoodoos, spires, and amphitheatres carved by the forces of erosion. Spend a night amidst the otherworldly landscapes of this unique park.

 

Sunrise at Sunrise Point: Wake up early to catch the sunrise at Sunrise Point, one of the best vantage points in Bryce Canyon for capturing the first light as it illuminates the intricate rock formations below. Watch in awe as the hoodoos glow with shades of pink, orange, and red, creating a surreal and magical scene.

 

Hiking Amongst the Hoodoos: Lace up your hiking boots and set out on one of Bryce Canyon's spectacular trails, where you'll descend into the canyon amidst towering hoodoos and towering rock formations. Choose from a variety of trails, ranging from easy rim walks to challenging treks that take you deep into the heart of the amphitheatres.

 

Stargazing at Bryce Point: As night falls, head to Bryce Point and witness the magic of the night sky as it unfolds above the canyon. With its high elevation and minimal light pollution, Bryce Canyon offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country, allowing you to marvel at the Milky Way, constellations, and shooting stars against a backdrop of towering hoodoos.

 

 

Day 11 - 12: Zion National Park, Utah - Sanctuary in the Desert

 

Your penultimate stop takes you to Zion National Park, a place of towering sandstone cliffs, lush canyon oases, and scenic beauty beyond compare. Spend a night amidst the natural wonders of this iconic park.

 

Hiking the Narrows: Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Zion's most famous hike, The Narrows, where you'll wade through the cool waters of the Virgin River as it winds its way through towering canyon walls. Marvel at the narrow slot canyons, hanging gardens, and sheer rock faces that make this hike one of the most unforgettable experiences in the Southwest.

 

Angels Landing Adventure: For the ultimate thrill-seekers, tackle the challenging ascent to Angels Landing, where a narrow trail carved into the cliffside leads to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking Zion Canyon. The exhilarating hike offers unparalleled vistas of the surrounding landscape, but be prepared for steep drop-offs and exposed sections along the way.

 

Sunset at Canyon Overlook: End your day with a visit to Canyon Overlook, where you'll be treated to a stunning sunset view overlooking Zion Canyon. Watch as the fading light casts a warm glow over the sandstone cliffs, painting the landscape in hues of gold and crimson as the day comes to a close.

 

 

Day 12 - 14: Las Vegas, Nevada - Neon Lights and Entertainment Extravaganza

 

Your epic Southwest adventure concludes in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, where dazzling lights, world-class entertainment, and endless excitement await. Spend your final two nights indulging in the glitz and glamour of Sin City.

 

Explore the Strip: Dive headfirst into the electrifying energy of the Las Vegas Strip, where towering casinos, extravagant resorts, and iconic landmarks line the bustling thoroughfare. Take a stroll along the Strip and marvel at the dazzling array of neon lights, fountains, and themed attractions that make Las Vegas a city like no other.

 

World-Class Entertainment: Treat yourself to a world-class entertainment experience with a live show or performance featuring some of the biggest names in music, comedy, magic, and more. From Cirque du Soleil extravaganzas to headline residencies by top artists, Las Vegas offers entertainment options to suit every taste and interest.

 

Gourmet Dining: Indulge your palate with a culinary adventure through Las Vegas' diverse dining scene, where celebrity chefs and Michelin-starred restaurants serve up a feast for the senses. Whether you're craving gourmet cuisine, international flavours, or classic comfort food, you'll find an endless array of dining options to tempt your taste buds.

 

Nightlife and Casinos: As the sun sets, the nightlife heats up in Las Vegas, with a plethora of bars, lounges, and nightclubs offering endless entertainment options. Test your luck at one of the city's world-class casinos, dance the night away at a trendy nightclub, or simply relax with a cocktail in hand and soak up the electric atmosphere of Sin City.

 

 

As you bid farewell to Las Vegas and reflect on the incredible experiences of your Southwest adventure, you'll carry with you memories of breathtaking natural beauty, thrilling outdoor adventures, and unforgettable moments shared with loved ones. From the majestic grandeur of the Grand Canyon to the neon-lit streets of Las Vegas, this Fly Drive Holiday itinerary promises an epic journey through some of the most iconic destinations in the American Southwest. So pack your bags, hit the open road, and prepare to be swept away by the magic of the Southwest. Your adventure awaits!