Private 2-Day Death Valley Tour from Los Angeles: Zabriskie, Badwater & Mesquite Dunes
A private, guided two-day drive from Los Angeles into the dramatic extremes of Death Valley National Park—sunrises on Mesquite Dunes, sunset at Badwater Basin, volcanic Ubehebe Crater and colorful Artists Palette—designed for photographers and outdoor travelers who want context with their views.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early for light and comfort
Many highlights—Mesquite Dunes sunrise, cooler canyon hikes—are best early; leaving LA pre-dawn reduces heat exposure and gives you softer light for photos.
Carry ample water
Bring at least 3 liters per person per day and extra electrolytes—park services are limited and temperatures can spike quickly.
Footwear matters
Sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes with good traction handle sand, slickrock and pebbly canyon floors better than sandals.
Plan for long drives
Expect multiple 1–2 hour scenic drives between stops—bring snacks, motion-sickness remedies, and a charged phone with offline maps.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Late-afternoon flats near Mosaic Canyon for soft light and fewer crowds
- •Short rim walk at Ubehebe for panoramic perspectives less visited by day-trippers
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Kangaroo rats and various lizards (look for tracks at dawn)
Conservation Note
Death Valley’s fragile soils and cryptobiotic crust are easily damaged—stay on designated trails, pack out waste, and minimize vehicle off-roading to protect the landscape.
The Timbisha Shoshone have inhabited the region for thousands of years; 19th-century borax mining later shaped many roads and place names in the park.
Photographer's Notes
- • Zabriskie Point for sweeping badlands
- • Dante's View for valley panoramas
- • Badwater Basin on the salt flats at sunset
What to Bring
3L Hydration pack or multiple water bottlesEssential
Keeps water accessible during long hikes and drives in a water-scarce environment.
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on sand, scree, and polished canyon rock.
Wide-brim sun hat + sunscreenEssential
Protects against intense sun and reflected light on salt flats.
Lightweight insulating layer
Useful for cool mornings and desert nights, especially at elevated viewpoints.
Common Questions
Do I need a park entrance fee?
Yes—Death Valley has an entrance fee; the tour includes the admission fee in its inclusions.
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour typically starts with pickup in Los Angeles and can return to Los Angeles or end with a drop-off in Las Vegas by request.
Are accommodations included?
No—lodging is not included, but guides can assist with booking and recommend in-park options like Furnace Creek when available.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Families with children can join, but it’s not recommended for very young kids due to long drives and exposure; check age restrictions with the operator.
How strenuous are the hikes?
Most walks are short to moderate; Golden Canyon is the longest at about two hours—trail surfaces include sand and uneven rock.
What if the weather is extreme?
The operator may cancel or adjust the itinerary for extreme heat or storms; refunds follow the provider’s cancellation policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 days
Location
Furnace Creek, California
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to walk 2–4 miles over uneven terrain, tolerate long vehicle transfers, and handle short steep sections.
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