Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat and a must-visit destination in Bolivia. With its stunning white landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see, it’s the perfect place for nature lovers and photographers to explore. Make sure to visit Incahuasi Island, which is covered with giant cacti, and catch an unforgettable sunset.
One of the most famous natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon is a sight to behold. Whether you hike down into the canyon or take a helicopter tour above it, you’ll understand why it’s such a popular destination. If you have time, visit the nearby Havasu Falls, which are famous for their turquoise blue water.
One of the most iconic national parks in America, Yosemite is a natural paradise filled with soaring granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoias. Spend a day exploring Yosemite Valley, then hike to the top of Half Dome to see the view from the top.
Crater Lake is a crown jewel in the Cascades mountain range. Formed from a collapsed volcano, the crystal-clear lake is the deepest in America and a stunning shade of blue. Take the scenic drive around the entire rim of the crater and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains.
The diverse landscapes of Olympic National Park include glacier-capped peaks, old-growth rainforests, and rugged coastline. Hike to the top of Mount Olympus or explore the beaches of Kalaloch and Ruby Beach, which are famous for their tide pools and sea stacks.
Yellowstone is America’s first national park and a geothermal wonderland. Explore the bubbling mudpots of the Lower Geyser Basin, the colorful hot springs of the Midway Geyser Basin, and the famous Old Faithful geyser. Keep an eye out for wildlife like bison and elk.
The jagged peaks of the Grand Tetons rise dramatically from the surrounding valley, making it a favorite destination for hikers and climbers. Take a scenic drive through the park or hike to Hidden Falls for stunning views of the mountain range reflected in Jenny Lake.
Arches is famous for its otherworldly landscape filled with over 2,000 sandstone arches. Hike to Delicate Arch for a stunning sunset view, or explore the many trails that wind through the park, taking in views of Balanced Rock and the Windows Section.
The unique hoodoos of Bryce Canyon are a must-see for any nature lover. Hike the rim trail for panoramic views of the amphitheater or descend into the canyon for a closer look. At night, attend a stargazing program to see the universe come alive.
The red rock formations of Zion are a sight to behold. Hike to Angels Landing or the Narrows for stunning views, or take the scenic drive through the park. During the summer, cool off in the Virgin River that flows through the canyon.
Travelers on this itinerary will need to rent a car to get from destination to destination. The total cost of the rental car and gas will be approximately $600. Plan for long driving days between destinations, and remember that many of the national parks have limited parking and can become crowded during peak season.
If you have extra time, consider visiting nearby national parks or cities like Sedona or Durango. If you have less time, consider skipping a destination or combining nearby parks. Make sure to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
The nearest major airport for this itinerary is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) in Phoenix, Arizona. It is approximately a 3-hour drive from Grand Canyon National Park and a 4-hour drive from Bryce Canyon National Park. Other airports that could be considered include Denver International Airport (DEN) or Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), depending on the starting and ending points of the trip.