Signature: Southwest USA, Grand Canyon & Colorado River - 8 Days

Welcome to the dramatic desert landscapes of Utah. Your expedition begins in Moab, a vibrant red-rock oasis. You will be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel to unpack and unwind. As evening falls, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader, National Geographic Expedition Expert, and fellow travellers for an engaging welcome meeting. Afterwards, raise a glass and celebrate the beginning of this remarkable path of discovery over a delicious welcome dinner.

Let the sounds of the river engulf you as you embark on a half-day float trip along the Green River in Gray Canyon, stopping for a delicious lunch along the riverbanks. Afterwards, enjoy a private visit and presentation at the John Wesley Powell River History Museum. Step inside to explore historic watercraft, vivid photography, and the River Runners Hall of Fame. The museum's Curator brings the daring exploration history of the Colorado and Green Rivers to life. The remainder of your evening is yours, to relax at your own pace or explore the charming town and soak in the atmosphere.

Marvel at the sheer scale of Moab’s physical geography this morning in Canyonlands National Park. Take in the sweeping panoramic vistas from Grand Viewpoint, Green River Overlook, and the dramatic cliffs of Dead Horse Point. After darkness falls, leave the city lights behind and head toward Arches National Park for a stargazing experience just outside the park along the Colorado River. Beneath one of the world's most pristine dark skies, look up to see a brilliant canopy of stars and the Milky Way stretching across the seemingly endless desert.

Depart as the morning light stretches across the desert, driving south toward the Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum to view the largest collection of Ancestral Puebloan pottery in the region. Step outside to explore the ruins of a Chacoan Settlement and the great house. Continue into the heart of Monument Valley for a private tour in an open-air vehicle. Feel the warm breeze as you navigate between towering, iconic red monoliths on sacred Navajo land. Savour a delicious Navajo barbecue lunch in the Valley before leaving for the late afternoon drive toward Lake Powell where you check in and enjoy dinner.

Board a boat for a morning cruise into the sheer, sun-baked walls of Navajo Canyon. Look up at towering sandstone formations rising hundreds of feet above the water, admiring the dark streaks of desert varnish coating the vibrant rock faces. After lunch, slow down and soak in the views of Lake Powell from the resort, go for a swim or open a good book. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy.

After breakfast, experience a spectacular off-road excursion to Secret Antelope Canyon. Located on Navajo land, this hidden gem allows you to wander through swirling, light-infused sandstone corridors away from the crowded trails. Conclude with private access to a secluded overlook of Horseshoe Bend, feeling the absolute stillness as you gaze down at the Colorado River looping far below the desert cliffs. Imagine the original expedition seeing this for the first time. Later, travel toward the crown jewel of the Southwest: The Grand Canyon. Stop at Desert View and Grandview Point to gaze in awe and capture photographs of the immense, multi-layered gorge. Check into your lodge in the park, enjoy dinner at leisure.

Spend the day uncovering the secrets of one of the world's greatest natural wonders. Begin the morning with an inspiring walk along the rim trail alongside your National Geographic Expedition Leader, listening to the gentle rustle of the pines. Soak in sweeping views and the breathtaking, raw beauty of this colossal geological phenomenon. In the afternoon, take advantage of free time to further explore the canyon rim or relax at your hotel, letting the tranquil high-desert breeze ease your senses. Tonight, cap off your extraordinary expedition as you watch the fading sun paint the ancient rock layers in brilliant shades of violet and gold before gathering with your fellow travellers for a memorable farewell dinner.

Greet the morning with a sunrise walk along the canyon rim, watching the first light pierce the shadows of the deep abyss. After breakfast, transfer through the scenic ponderosa pine forests to the airport in Flagstaff. Bid farewell to your fellow travellers as your exploration of the American Southwest’s iconic landscapes and indigenous cultures comes to an end.