"One Day Roadtrip Across Southern California"

  1. 8:00AM: Joshua Tree National Park
    2 hours (130 miles) from Los Angeles

    Explore an otherworldly terrain filled with boulder formations, desert flora and fauna, and starry skies. Don't miss the towering rock formations of Hidden Valley or the Cholla Cactus Garden.

  2. 11:30AM: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
    1 hour 20 minutes (47 miles) from Joshua Tree National Park

    Take a ride on the world's largest rotating tramcar over two-and-a-half miles of breathtaking desert views up to the San Jacinto Mountains. Enjoy hiking, dining, and breathtaking views of the valley below.

  3. 2:00PM: San Diego Zoo Safari Park
    2 hours 15 minutes (95 miles) from Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

    Explore the 1,800-acre park in an open-air safari vehicle and see giraffes, rhinos, cheetahs, and other animals roam freely. Don't miss the Flightline Safari or the Cheetah Run experience, which showcases the impressive speed of these big cats.

  4. 5:30PM: La Jolla Cove
    55 minutes (34 miles) from San Diego Zoo Safari Park

    Witness a beautiful sunset at the small, picturesque beach surrounded by cliffs and sea caves. Take a stroll on beautiful walking paths, go snorkelling or kayaking in the cove.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Joshua Tree National Park (2 hours, $30 entrance fee)
  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (3 hours, $34.95 per adult)
  • San Diego Zoo Safari Park (3 hours, $62 per adult)
  • La Jolla Cove (1.5 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $126.95 per adult

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a stop in idyllic desert town of Sedona at the en-route to San Diego from Palm Springs. Check the opening time before for Joshua National Park and plan your visit accordingly. Exploring Joshua Tree in late autumn or winter is a good call to avoid scorching summers. Arrive early at the San Diego Safari Park in order to avoid the crowds and have time for maximum safari experiences. With a little extra afternoon day light, consider visiting Balboa Park in San Diego which is just about half an hour drive from the Safari Park.

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