10 Days American Southwest, USA Itinerary
This 10-day adventure takes you on a journey through the heart of the American Southwest, exploring iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Zion, and Bryce Canyon, with a starting and ending point in the vibrant city of Las Vegas. Experience the diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique culture of this unforgettable region.
Duration
10 days
Budget
$1200-2000
Best Time
Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant temperatures, making them ideal for hiking and outdoor activities
Activities
54
Daily Avg
$160/day
Pace
Fast
The American Southwest offers breathtaking landscapes, from the neon lights of Las Vegas to the majestic Grand Canyon and the otherworldly beauty of Monument Valley. This itinerary provides a balanced mix of natural wonders and urban excitement, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Your itinerary covers 3 of 10 must-have experiences
Ancient Puebloan Cliff Dwelling
e.g., Mesa Verde National Park (Cliff Palace), Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Iconic National Park Hike
Day 6: Drive to Zion National Park
Red Rock Scenic Viewpoint
Day 5: Horseshoe Bend
Southwest Culinary Experience
e.g., The Shed (Santa Fe, NM - Green Chile Stew), El Charro Café (Tucson, AZ - Carne Seca)
Native American Art & Craft Market
e.g., Santa Fe Plaza (Native American Vendors), Heard Museum Shop (Phoenix, AZ)
Old West Town Exploration
e.g., Tombstone, AZ (OK Corral), Oatman, AZ (Wild Burros)
Dark Sky Stargazing Spot
e.g., Lowell Observatory (Flagstaff, AZ), Big Bend National Park (TX)
Unique Geological Formation
e.g., White Sands National Park (NM), Petrified Forest National Park (AZ)
Desert River Rafting Adventure
Day 7: Riverside Walk
Quirky Roadside Attraction
e.g., Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, TX), Meteor Crater (Winslow, AZ)
The American Southwest offers a vibrant culinary landscape, blending Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences. Expect bold flavors, hearty portions, and unique regional specialties. From fiery chiles to savory stews, there's something to satisfy every palate.
Must-Try Dishes
A classic Southwestern burger topped with roasted green chiles and melted cheese. The chiles provide a smoky, spicy kick that's addictive.
📍 Local burger joints and diners throughout New Mexico
Corn tortillas filled with cheese, meat, or beans, smothered in a rich and flavorful red chile sauce. The sauce is made from dried red chiles and is often quite spicy.
📍 Traditional New Mexican restaurants
A flat dough fried until golden brown and puffy. It can be eaten plain, topped with honey or powdered sugar, or used as the base for Navajo tacos.
📍 Native American reservations and festivals
Frybread topped with beans, ground beef, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and salsa. A hearty and satisfying meal.
📍 Native American reservations and restaurants
Food Neighborhoods
Traditional New Mexican cuisine and historic ambiance
Diverse range of restaurants, including Sonoran-style Mexican food
Upscale dining and a vibrant arts scene
Vegetarian options are becoming more readily available, especially with the rise of plant-based cuisine. However, be sure to inquire about ingredients, as many dishes may contain lard or animal products. Gluten-free options are also increasing in popularity. When ordering, clearly communicate any allergies or dietary restrictions to your server.
Tipping is customary in the United States. 15-20% is the standard tip for good service. It's also polite to wait for everyone at the table to be served before starting to eat. Casual attire is generally acceptable in most restaurants.
Sedona Arts Festival
OctoberCelebrates visual arts with artist demonstrations, live music, and food vendors.
Navajo Nation Fair
SeptemberLargest Native American fair in the US, showcasing Navajo culture, traditions, and crafts.
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶Arrive at McCarran International Airport (LAS)$100 (hotel)
2:00 PM - Arrive at McCarran International Airport (LAS)
Pick up your rental car and check into your hotel on the Las Vegas Strip. Consider staying at Circus Circus or Excalibur for budget-friendly options.
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- 🚶Walk along the Las Vegas StripFREE
4:00 PM - Explore the Las Vegas Strip
Walk along the Strip, taking in the sights and sounds. Visit the Welcome to Las Vegas sign for a photo op.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk to the Bellagio Hotel & CasinoFREE
7:00 PM - Bellagio Fountain Show
Watch the spectacular Bellagio Fountain show. Shows run every 30 minutes in the afternoon and every 15 minutes in the evening.
Book on Klook - 🚶In-N-Out Burger has multiple locations on the Strip, easily accessible by walking$10
8:00 PM - Dinner at In-N-Out Burger
Enjoy a classic In-N-Out Burger for a budget-friendly and delicious meal.
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Las Vegas Strip
Central location, close to attractions, dining, and entertainment.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant temperatures, making them ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Spring sees blooming wildflowers, while Fall brings vibrant foliage to higher elevations. These shoulder seasons can still be crowded, especially during spring break or holiday weekends. Summer (June-August) is extremely hot in lower elevations, best for higher-altitude parks or water-based activities, but expect significant crowds. Winter (December-February) brings cooler temperatures, potential snow at higher elevations (like Grand Canyon North Rim), and fewer crowds, offering a different, serene experience.
Expect sunny days with comfortable temperatures, but evenings can be cool, especially at higher elevations. Rainfall is generally low during these months.
Spring and Fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds compared to summer, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Spring Break (March-April) and Labor Day (September) can lead to increased crowds and higher prices.
Getting Around
Car-centric; major cities have transit
City-specific
Uber/Lyft work nationwide. Rent a car outside major cities.
Travel
$200-400 (including rental car, gas, and flights)Accommodation
$500-700 (mix of budget hotels and Airbnb)Food
$300-400 (mix of restaurants and groceries)Activities
$200-500 (park entrance fees, tours)Pack your own snacks, lunch, and plenty of water for day trips; food options in national parks are limited and often expensive.
Consider camping or staying in smaller towns just outside of popular park entrances for significantly cheaper accommodation rates.
A scenic helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon or a hot air balloon ride at sunrise offers unparalleled views and a truly memorable experience.
Indulge in a fine dining experience in cities like Scottsdale or Santa Fe, which boast renowned culinary scenes and unique local flavors.
Visit national monuments and state parks as alternatives to the more crowded national parks; they often offer similar stunning landscapes with fewer fees and people.
Check local visitor centers for free cultural events, ranger programs, or lesser-known scenic drives that can enhance your trip without breaking the bank.
- Always carry plenty of water, especially when hiking or driving long distances; dehydration is a serious risk in the arid climate.
- Distances between towns and gas stations can be vast; always keep your fuel tank at least half-full and top off whenever possible.
- Be prepared for extreme temperature swings; days can be scorching, while nights can drop significantly, even in summer. Layering clothing is key.
- Respect Native American cultures and sacred sites; always ask permission before photographing people and understand that many areas require special permits or guided tours.
- Research national park entry requirements and timed entry systems in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment.
- Sun protection is paramount: wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and use high-SPF sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
- Watch for wildlife on roads, particularly at dawn and dusk. Drive carefully, especially on remote or unpaved roads.
- Cell service is unreliable in many remote areas and national parks; inform someone of your itinerary, especially if venturing off-grid.
- 1Reusable water bottles or hydration pack (at least 2-3 liters capacity)
- 2Wide-brimmed hat for comprehensive sun protection
- 3High-SPF sunscreen (at least SPF 30), applied frequently
- 4Sturdy, broken-in hiking shoes or boots with good ankle support
- 5Layered clothing: moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, and a wind/rain shell
- 6Sunglasses with UV protection
- 7Basic first-aid kit (blister treatment, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, insect repellent)
- 8Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries (for stargazing or early morning/late evening activities)
- 9Swimsuit (for hotel pools, hot springs, or lake activities)
- 10Camera and extra memory cards/batteries for stunning landscapes
Rental Car
Essential to book several months in advance, especially for peak season, as public transport is limited and distances are vast.
Accommodations
Book 3-6 months out for popular national park lodges (e.g., Grand Canyon, Zion) and major city hotels during peak season; otherwise, 1-2 months is usually sufficient.
National Park Pass (America the Beautiful Pass)
Purchase upon arrival at the first national park you visit, or online in advance if preferred, saving money if visiting multiple parks.
Antelope Canyon Tours
Book 2-4 months ahead; these guided tours often sell out quickly due to limited capacity and popularity.
Flights
3-6 months out for best prices, especially for peak travel times.
Backcountry Permits
Apply months in advance for lottery-based permits for popular trails (e.g., The Wave, Angels Landing).
Travel Insurance
Highly recommended to arrange before your trip to cover unforeseen cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
eSIM/SIM Card
Arrange before arrival or immediately upon arrival for reliable connectivity throughout your trip, especially for navigation.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo website or app
📍 T-Mobile stores or authorized retailers (e.g., Walmart, Best Buy)
📍 GlocalMe website or Amazon
Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, coffee shops, and restaurants in urban areas. However, WiFi can be spotty or unavailable in more remote areas, such as national parks. Consider downloading offline maps and resources before venturing into these areas.
Useful Apps
Download offline maps of the areas you plan to visit, especially if you'll be driving through remote areas with limited cell service. Purchase a portable power bank to keep your devices charged while on the go. Consider a mobile hotspot for reliable internet access, especially if you need to work remotely. Be aware that cell service can be unreliable in national parks and other remote areas.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two flat parallel pins + round ground
120V
60Hz
Tipping Etiquette
18–20% (before tax)
15–20%
$2–5 per bag; $2–5/night housekeeping
Tipping is expected. 18–20% is standard at restaurants.
Safety & Travel Advisories
The American Southwest is generally safe for tourists. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
911
911
911
911 for all emergencies
Payments
Cards preferred everywhere
Universally accepted
Common
Credit cards accepted everywhere. Apple Pay/Google Pay widely available.
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How was this itinerary?
Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) are ideal due to comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can be extremely hot, while winter can bring snow to higher elevations.
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