Desert Dusk to Starry Skies: Death Valley Sunset and Stargazing Tour from Las Vegas
Drive out of Las Vegas for a long day in America’s hottest national park: Dante’s View, Badwater Basin and Artist’s Palette, wrapped by a remote stargazing session under some of the darkest skies in the U.S. This full-day tour pairs dramatic desert panoramas with practical guidance for comfort and photography.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring at least 2 liters of water
Bottled water is provided, but desert heat and long stretches without services mean you should carry your own supply to stay hydrated.
Layer for temperature swing
Daytime can be hot and nights cold; pack a lightweight insulating layer and windbreaker for the stargazing portion.
Check the moon phase
A bright or full moon will significantly reduce star visibility—new-moon nights offer the best Milky Way views.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Salt flats and badland viewpoints are uneven; good footwear makes short walks safer and more comfortable.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes for low-angle late-afternoon shots
- •Harmony Borax Works ruins—short historical stop with interpretive signs
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Kit fox
Conservation Note
Death Valley is a designated dark-sky area—keep lights low during stargazing, stick to established paths, and avoid disturbing fragile salt crusts and desert soils.
The valley carries layers of human history from Timbisha Shoshone seasonal use to the late 19th-century borax mining boom that shaped much of the area’s frontier heritage.
Photographer's Notes
- • Dante’s View overlook for wide panoramas
- • Edge of Badwater Basin for salt-crust foregrounds
- • Zabriskie Point ridge for layered badland compositions
What to Bring
2–3 liter water bottle or hydration bladderEssential
Keep fluids on hand throughout the day to avoid dehydration in the desert heat.
Warm jacket or insulated layerEssential
Temperatures drop sharply after sunset during stargazing; a warm layer is essential.
Sun protection (wide-brim hat, sunglasses, SPF sunscreen)Essential
Strong sun and reflective salt surfaces increase UV exposure—protect skin and eyes.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Provides traction and protection on salt flats, rocky overlooks and short walks.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and when does it return to Las Vegas?
The tour runs about 12 hours (start times vary seasonally); return to Las Vegas typically between 10:00 PM and 1:00 AM depending on pickup time and stargazing conditions.
Is stargazing guaranteed?
Stargazing happens roughly 1.5 hours after sunset but is weather- and moon-dependent; bright moonlight, clouds or rain can limit visibility and the guide may adapt locations accordingly.
Are park entrance fees included?
Most operator fees include park admission and guides list ‘All Fees and Taxes’ in inclusions, but confirm at booking if you need a receipt for a park pass.
Can children and older adults join?
The tour notes it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for those over 70 or people with serious health issues—check the operator’s age and health requirements.
Will there be restroom and food stops?
There are short stops at visitor areas and a rest stop in Pahrump; bring snacks and expect limited services inside the park.
What happens if a road is closed?
If a scheduled road or attraction is unavailable due to natural events, guides will substitute alternate viewpoints to maximize the experience.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
12 hours
Location
Furnace Creek, California
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic fitness; minimal walking but long periods standing and some short uneven-surface walks
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