Grand Canyon Adventure from San Diego: 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Travel to Grand Canyon

San Diego, CA on May 23, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Start your journey with a delightful breakfast at The Cottage, known for their fresh pancakes and omelettes. The inviting atmosphere will give you the perfect send-off.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Grand Canyon

Begin your scenic drive from San Diego to the Grand Canyon, which takes approximately 8 hours. Enjoy the beautiful California landscapes as you pass through the desert.
USD0, 8 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at El Tovar Dining Room

Upon arrival, have dinner at El Tovar, which offers stunning views and delicious southwestern cuisine—a perfect way to celebrate your arrival.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Explore Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon, AZ on May 24, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Yavapai Lodge Restaurant

Fuel up at Yavapai Lodge with a breakfast buffet featuring fresh fruits, hot coffee, and a variety of traditional breakfast favorites.
USD15, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Grand Canyon South Rim Visitor Center

Start your exploration at the Visitor Center to gather information about trails and ranger programs to ensure you make the most of your visit.
USD0, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Hiking Bright Angel Trail

Embark on the Bright Angel Trail for breathtaking views and a thrilling hiking experience. Ensure you bring water and snacks as this trail can take 3 to 5 hours.
USD0, 3-5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at the Grand Canyon Village Market

Grab a quick lunch at the market's deli, offering sandwiches and salads perfect for hikers on-the-go.
USD12, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Mather Point

Experience one of the most famous viewpoints at Mather Point, where you can capture stunning photographs of the canyon's expansive landscapes.
USD0, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Head to Tusayane Montane Campground

Depart for Tusayane Montane Campground for your overnight stay, surrounded by nature and away from the usual hustle.
USD0, 30 minutes

6:00 PM

Dinner at Camp

Enjoy a simple camp dinner by grilling your favorite meals outdoors. Don’t forget to relax under the starlit sky and share stories.
USD15, 2 hours
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Day 3: More Canyon Explorations

Grand Canyon, AZ on May 25, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Camp

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at camp, perhaps oatmeal or granola with fresh fruit, to energize for another day of adventure.
USD10, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Grand Canyon Skywalk

Experience an exhilarating walk on the glass bridge at the West Rim. The stunning views will leave you in awe.
USD30, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Hiking Rim Trail

Explore the Rim Trail for an easy stroll with fantastic views along the canyon's edge. Perfect for relaxed photography and wildlife spotting.
USD0, 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Tusayan

Visit one of the nearby eateries, like the Big E Steakhouse, to grab a delicious lunch before continuing your explorations.
USD20, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Hermit Road

Spend the afternoon driving through Hermit Road with various viewpoints to stop, including Hopi Point and Pima Point, for breathtaking scenery.
USD0, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Camp

Return to camp for another delightful dinner. Consider making foil packets to cook on the campfire, a fun twist to camping dining.
USD15, 2 hours
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Day 4: Return Trip

Grand Canyon to San Diego, CA on May 26, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Camp

Enjoy a final breakfast at camp, sharing memories of the trip and contemplating the day's journey ahead.
USD10, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Pack Camp

Break down and pack your campsite, ensuring you leave no trace behind.
USD0, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive back to San Diego

Begin your drive back to San Diego, taking a different route if desired for new landscapes.
USD0, 8 hours

5:00 PM

Lunch Pitstop

Stop for lunch along the way at a diner like the Route 66 Diner, known for its classic American cuisine.
USD15, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Arrival in San Diego

Return to San Diego and conclude your adventure with views of the beautiful Pacific.
USD0, 0.5 hours
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Day 5: Relaxation Day

San Diego, CA on May 27, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Great Maple

Indulge in a rich brunch filled with Maple Bacon Doughnuts and their famous truffle fries at Great Maple—perfect post-trip indulgence.
USD25, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Relax at the Beach

Spend the rest of the day relaxing at one of San Diego's beautiful beaches like La Jolla or Coronado, soaking in the sun and the ocean.
USD0, 4 hours

3:00 PM

Dinner at Point Loma Seafood

End your trip with a meal at Point Loma Seafood, known for their fresh fish tacos and stunning harbor views.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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