Death Valley Day Trip from Las Vegas — Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point & Artist's Palette (Private Small Group)
A full-day private small-group tour that takes you from Las Vegas into Death Valley’s most iconic sites—Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, Artist’s Palette and Mesquite Flat Dunes—blending geology, history and easy walks with manageable driving times.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate aggressively
Bring at least 3 liters of water per person and sip steadily—heat illness can set in before you notice symptoms.
Time your visit
Start early or choose shoulder seasons; mid-summer temperatures regularly exceed safe limits for prolonged outdoor exposure.
Dress for reflective light
Wear high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brim hat and UV sunglasses—the salt flats and light-colored rock intensify sun exposure.
Footwear for varied terrain
Closed-toe hiking shoes with good traction handle sharp salt crust, sand and short rocky scrambles better than sandals.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short walk to the lesser-known salt crust edges at Badwater for quieter photos
- •Stop at a roadside mining relic along Artist’s Drive for atmospheric close-ups
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Kit fox
Conservation Note
Visitors should stick to marked areas and avoid collecting geological or cultural artifacts; the fragile desert crust and rare spring habitats recover slowly from disturbance.
The Timbisha Shoshone inhabited the valley for centuries; 19th-century mining booms later reshaped settlement patterns and place names.
Photographer's Notes
- • Zabriskie Point overlook
- • Badwater Basin salt flats
- • Dante’s View rim
What to Bring
3L hydration pack or multiple water bottlesEssential
Keeps water accessible during long drives and short walks in exposed terrain
Wide-brim hat and high-SPF sunscreenEssential
Protection from intense sun and reflective surfaces is critical year-round
Sturdy closed-toe hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on salt crust, sand and rocky viewpoints
Light layers and windbreaker
Mornings and higher elevations can be cool; a wind layer helps for sunrise and evening stops
Common Questions
How long is the trip from Las Vegas to Death Valley?
Drive time is roughly 2.5 hours each way; expect a 10–12 hour total day including stops.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
Yes—this private small-group option accommodates families and is rated as physically easy for most stops, but some short walks involve uneven ground.
Can I walk out on the salt at Badwater Basin?
Yes—there’s a flat expanse suitable for walking, but wear closed-toe shoes and avoid the hottest hours.
What should I do in summer?
Avoid midday outside exposure, carry ample water, and follow guide instructions; operators may alter or cancel tours during extreme heat.
Are park entrance fees included?
Admission is included in this tour’s itinerary items as noted, but confirm at booking if any fees change.
Is pickup available from all Las Vegas hotels?
Pickup is offered across Las Vegas, Henderson and Boulder City areas—confirm your exact hotel at booking (extra charges may apply).
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–12 hours
Location
Furnace Creek, California
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to stand and walk short stretches on uneven ground and tolerate long vehicle transfers
Ready to Explore Furnace Creek?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now