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The wilderness at the end of the earth
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Hidden treasures for those that look
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The Land of Kings
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Everything in one perfect package
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Safari and beyond in the Rainbow Nation
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The islands that changed the world
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Unforgettable encounters
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Head-spinning contradictions and character
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Landscapes and legendsTour northern California
For the more active traveller
![Destinations]()
Destinations
Yosemite National Park, San Francisco, Lake Tahoe, Sacramento
Destinations![Activity]()
Activity
Nature & Wildlife, Culture & History
Activity![Physical Level]()
Physical Level
Mild
Physical Level![Season]()
Season
January - December
SeasonExperience the best of northern California in a short time, beginning in San Francisco, famous for the Golden Gate Bridge, a lively nightlife and, of course, Alcatraz island. Explore by bike, segway or on foot before continuing your journey to Yosemite National Park, where you can spend days hiking, cycling, nature watching or even climbing. Continue on to the snowy Sierra Nevada to enjoy spectacular mountain views and historic Gold Rush towns before stopping at Lake Tahoe for a few days of hiking or relaxation. Finally, your journey comes to an end back in San Francisco.
Suggested Itinerary
Recommended route & experiences
Day 1–3
The coastal city and Alcatraz island
San Francisco
San Francisco
Enjoy the coastline of San Fran
Take a stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf, explore the Marina District before experiencing the lively city at night. Stop at the spectacular Golden Gate bridge that connects San Francisco Bay with the Pacific Ocean to enjoy a classic view of the skyline. Perhaps even take a boat to the infamous Alcatraz.
Day 4–6
Hike and spot wildlife
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park
There are 800 miles of trails through the mountains and woodlands of Yosemite, where you can spot black bears, coyotes, bobcats and mule deer among other wildlife. Get up close to the famous El Captan, Half Dome, Bridal Falls and Yosemite Falls which plunges a dramatic 739m.
Day 7–9
Kayak, cycle and cruise
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe
Explore the surroundings of this clear mountain lake by bike, kayak or cruise, or relax on one of its beaches to enjoy the unique views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Carson Range. Secret Cove is the ideal secluded spot to relax in.
Day 10
History from the gold rush days
Sacramento
Sacramento
Gold rush era Sacramento
You can easily spend a few hours at the 28-acre Old Sacramento State Historic Park learning about The California Gold Rush, which took place in 1848–1855. Perhaps even try panning for gold in the river! You can even step back to those historic days by taking a ride in a horse-drawn carriage.
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