Discover Southwest USA
Discover the American Southwest, where red rock landscapes, green national parks, pine forests and blue ocean meet unique wildlife, dramatic geology and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Welcome to the Southwest
Set off on an unforgettable journey through the American Southwest, where red-rock landscapes, dramatic national parks and sweeping coastal routes come together. Go whale watching along the Californian coast, look out for unique wildlife, and spend the night in an American-style cabin surrounded by nature.
With spectacular drives through ever-changing scenery, this remarkable part of the United States is sure to leave a lasting impression.
California
You could holiday in California for a lifetime and still find more to discover. With sunny surf beaches, famous cities rich in culture and entertainment, and bucket-list national parks, there is something here for every kind of traveller.
Go rafting on one of Yosemite National Park’s rivers in spring, or head to Wine Country for a memorable wine-tasting tour. In winter, you can enjoy skiing in the mountains or take a whale-watching cruise off the North Coast.
Not feeling very outdoorsy? Visit San Francisco's bustling Union Square, the dynamic downtown of Los Angeles and the Sunset Strip, or San Diego's historic Gaslamp Quarter.
Make sure to leave some time for Anaheim's Disneyland Resort, SeaWorld San Diego and Universal Studios Hollywood, not to mention the allure of real Hollywood! California really does have it all.
Utah
The western state of Utah is one of the USA’s most popular destinations for outdoor adventure. Home to the Mighty 5 national parks, it features some of the country's most astonishing landscapes.
Watch the shades of red rock change as the sun sets in Zion National Park, or take in the vast, rugged landscapes of Capitol Reef. Hike through the Needles district in Canyonlands, and capture one of the American West’s most photographed landmarks: Mesa Arch.
Nature's wonderland
Step into another world as you walk among the red-rock hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, or marvel at the natural wonderland of Arches National Park. Best of all, you do not even need to leave your car to experience the heart of Red Rock Country, with some of the world’s most scenic drives found here.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, from hiking and mountain biking to desert buggy adventures. Be sure to visit Moab and St George, both excellent bases for exploring Utah’s dramatic landscapes.
Arizona
Whether you're a nature lover, a foodie, a parent, a spiritual seeker, or all of the above, Arizona has amazing, unforgettable experiences waiting to be crossed off your bucket list. From breathtaking hikes and mountain bike rides to water skiing and white-water rafting.
Experience life on a grander scale
Take a road trip through the exhilarating countryside. Experience the majestic beauty of Grand Canyon National Park and the Sonoran Desert. Enjoy fine wine and culinary delights at one of Arizona's renowned wineries. End the day by indulging in a luxurious spa treatment at an elegant resort.
Across Arizona, you will find the remains of ancient villages, historic structures and missions shaped by Indigenous communities and, later, European settlers. The state is also closely tied to the history of the American West, adding another layer to its rich cultural story.
Arizona is home to more than 20 Native American tribes, each with its own history, traditions and connection to the land. For travellers interested in Indigenous culture, it offers meaningful opportunities to learn more through museums, cultural centres and guided experiences.
Nevada
The desert plains of Nevada are made for a road trip. Follow breathtaking mountain ranges along US Highway 50, also known as the Loneliest Road in America, and visit Great Basin National Park or the ruins of Fort Churchill.
Looking to cool off? At Lake Lahontan, Lake Tahoe and Pyramid Lake, you can enjoy water-based activities such as kayaking, water skiing and relaxed time on the water.
Take US Highway 95 South towards Las Vegas and spend the night in Tonopah, known for its wonderfully dark skies and thousands of visible stars. Then experience bold, energetic Las Vegas with a stroll along The Strip, passing historic casinos, vast hotels and dancing fountains.
Other highlights include Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, as well as historic gold and silver mining sites. Nevada is a state with rich history, striking natural beauty and plenty of character, whether you are drawn by the desert landscapes, the stories of the Old West or the bright lights of Las Vegas.
Best travel time
The Southwest is the perfect region for a road trip. Drive through the national parks, stop for an American or Mexican delicacy along the way and enjoy the friendly locals.
Every season has its charm, but the most pleasant time for a trip through the Southwest is in the spring and autumn, due to the wonderful weather conditions and fewer crowds.
Of course, the best travel time also depends on your wishes. Do you want to hike in Yosemite National Park? Surf the waves in Santa Barbara? Drive through Death Valley? Stand under giant sequoias? Indulge in wine tasting? Contact your travel specialist, who will be happy to help you plan your ideal trip.
Where to stay?
Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our extensive collection of hand-selected accommodations in Southwest USA and beyond. Your travel specialist will match you with accommodation that suits your wants and needs. A journey where your accommodation is an experience in itself.
Let's design your holiday together
We'll take the time to get to know you to match your fully bespoke holiday with your pace, your interests, and anything you desire. Combined with first-hand, local knowledge, you'll receive a mapped-out itinerary from us, but the process isn't done until you are 100% satisfied.
We take care of every detail, so you can focus on relaxing, rejuvenating and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you. Get in touch to get started now.
Frequently asked questions
Our favourite times to visit Southwest USA are usually April to May and September to October, when conditions are often better for walking, scenic drives and national parks. Summer can work well on the California coast, but desert areas such as Death Valley and the Grand Canyon’s inner canyon can be extremely hot, so routes need careful planning.
Most travellers need at least 14 to 21 days to enjoy the Southwest USA without rushing. That gives enough time to combine places such as California, Arizona, Utah and Nevada with two or three nights in key stops like Yosemite, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley or the Grand Canyon.
The best way to see the Southwest USA is usually by hire car, because the region is made for scenic road trips. A car gives you more flexibility than a campervan for national parks, small lodges, cabins and remote viewpoints, and Little America can shape the driving distances around your pace.
