Palm Springs & the Sonoran Desert

Your Southwest adventure begins as you leave Los Angeles behind and head towards the desert oasis of Palm Springs.

Known for its mid-century architecture, palm-lined streets and spectacular mountain backdrop, Palm Springs has long been a favourite escape for Hollywood stars and visitors seeking sunshine and desert scenery.

Continue through the Coachella Valley, passing the town of Indio before travelling onwards through the changing landscapes of the American Southwest.

Arrive in Phoenix, Arizona's vibrant desert capital, where you'll have time to relax and enjoy the evening.

Overnight: Courtyard Scottsdale Old Town or similar

Red Rocks & the Grand Canyon

Today brings some of the most spectacular scenery of the entire journey.

Travel through the Sonoran Desert before arriving in Sedona, surrounded by dramatic red-rock formations. Take time to appreciate the scenery and explore this beautiful desert town before continuing through the spectacular Oak Creek Canyon.

Your journey then continues north towards one of America's greatest natural wonders – the Grand Canyon.

Arrive at the South Rim and experience your first views across the immense canyon, carved over millions of years by the Colorado River. With its vast scale, colourful rock layers and breathtaking viewpoints, the Grand Canyon is a highlight of any visit to the American West.

Overnight: Holiday Inn Resort The Squire at Grand Canyon, Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel or similar

The Grand Canyon, Painted Desert & Monument Valley

Enjoy more time amongst the spectacular landscapes surrounding the Grand Canyon before continuing east through northern Arizona.

Travel through the heart of the Navajo Nation, passing the historic Cameron Trading Post and entering the colourful landscapes of the Painted Desert.

The day's major highlight is Monument Valley, one of the most recognisable landscapes in the American Southwest. Towering sandstone buttes rise dramatically from the desert floor, creating the scenery made famous by countless films, photographs and Westerns.

Continue to Page, situated close to the shores of Lake Powell, where the evening is free to relax.

Overnight: Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell or similar

Lake Powell, Glen Canyon & Bryce Canyon

Begin the day with a visit to Glen Canyon Dam, one of the largest dams in the United States and the structure responsible for creating Lake Powell.

Continue into Utah, travelling through the colourful landscapes around Kanab before arriving at Bryce Canyon National Park.

Bryce Canyon is famous for its extraordinary hoodoos – tall, slender rock formations rising from the canyon floor in shades of orange, red and pink. The scenery is particularly spectacular around sunset when the changing light brings the rock formations to life.

With its high elevation and exceptionally dark skies, Bryce Canyon is also renowned for its opportunities for stargazing.

Overnight: Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn or similar

Zion National Park & the Bright Lights of Las Vegas

Leave Bryce Canyon behind and continue to Zion National Park, one of Utah's most spectacular landscapes.

Travel through the dramatic scenery of Zion Canyon, where enormous sandstone cliffs rise above the Virgin River. The combination of towering rock walls, narrow canyons and lush vegetation makes Zion a striking contrast to the desert landscapes encountered earlier in the journey.

Later, leave Utah behind and continue towards Las Vegas.

As the desert gives way to neon lights, you'll arrive in the entertainment capital of the world. Check into your hotel and begin experiencing the famous Las Vegas Strip.

Overnight: Luxor Las Vegas – Pyramid Rooms or similar

A Day to Discover Las Vegas

Today is yours to enjoy Las Vegas at your own pace.

Explore the famous Las Vegas Strip, browse the shops and attractions, relax around the hotel pool or choose from the city's huge selection of restaurants and entertainment.

You could take in a spectacular live show, explore the themed resorts along the Strip or venture beyond the city on an optional excursion into the surrounding desert.

Don't forget to capture a photograph at the famous Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign – one of the city's most recognisable landmarks.

Overnight: Luxor Las Vegas – Pyramid Rooms or similar

Through the Mojave Desert & Homeward Bound

Your Southwest adventure comes to an end today as you leave Las Vegas and travel back towards Los Angeles.

Journey through the vast Mojave Desert, characterised by rugged mountains, Joshua trees and wide-open desert landscapes.

Continue towards Los Angeles International Airport for your return flight to London Heathrow.

Alternatively, extend your holiday with additional nights in Los Angeles. You could explore more of Southern California, relax on the beaches or even continue your journey north towards San Francisco.

Return flight: Los Angeles to London Heathrow