📍 United States

DESERT EXTREMES: DEATH VALLEY DEPTHS TO MOJAVE SILENCE

Salt flats shimmering below sea level, badlands glowing gold at dawn, silence stretching toward distant ranges. Desert extremes humble.

≈ 6
Days
649
Km
4
Stops
📖 3 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Descend to Badwater Basin, below sea level, where salt glitters in heat. Admire Zabriskie Point at sunrise, cross the Mojave's joshua trees, and feel the extreme: here, surviving is already adventure, and desert teaches you the essential.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Las Vegas

air-conditioned oasis launches death valley desert expeditions

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3 photos
Day 1
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Discover

1
Las Vegas Springs Preserve — Desert ecology galleries and trails on the city’s historic water source; ideal orientation to Mojave flora and heat safety.
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Activities

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Evening supply run and early lights‑out for pre‑dawn desert starts.
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Next stop
Distance: 216.1 km
Travel time: 2h42
2
Day

Beatty

gateway town guards death valley's nevada entrance

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10 photos
Day 2
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Discover

1
Red Rock Canyon NCA — Aztec Sandstone cliffs along the 21‑km scenic loop; petroglyphs and Calico Hills striations from petrified dunes.
2
Drive US‑95 to Beatty via Amargosa Valley; wild burros occasionally along the verge — keep distance.
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Activities

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Short golden‑hour walk in Rhyolite ghost town for bottle‑house relics and open‑air sculptures.
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Next stop
Distance: 65.5 km
Travel time: 1h06
3
Day

Furnace Creek

resort oasis survives earth's hottest recorded temperatures

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10 photos
Day 3
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Discover

1
Death Valley National Park — Zabriskie Point badlands at sunrise reveal encaustic bands of borax‑stained clay; Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes ripple fields formed by prevailing winds.
2
Badwater Basin — Walk the polygon‑crusted salt pan at −86 m below sea level, the lowest point in North America; heed heat advisories.
3
Artist’s Drive & Palette — One‑way loop past mineral‑stained volcanic ash deposits, with overlooks to fan‑cut alluvial plains.
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Activities

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Evening ranger talk at Furnace Creek (seasonal).
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Next stop
Distance: 196.5 km
Travel time: 2h27
4
Day

Baker

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10 photos
Day 4
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Discover

1
Mojave National Preserve — Kelso Dunes hike onto booming star dunes; Aeolian sands climb 200 m above the desert pavement.
2
Cinder Cone Lava Beds & Lava Tube — Short ladder descent into a basaltic chamber lit by skylights; carry headlamp.
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Activities

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Kelso Depot visit for railroad history and park exhibits (hours vary).
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Next stop
Distance: 170.7 km
Travel time: 2h08
5
Day

Las Vegas

air-conditioned oasis launches death valley desert expeditions

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3 photos
Day 5
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Discover

1
Return to Las Vegas via Cima Dome Joshua tree woodland; observe recovery areas from recent wildfires and avoid off‑road travel.
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Activities

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Departure buffer; optional Neon Museum or Downtown Arts District.

🗺️ Itinerary map

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🛡️ Travel advice - United States

Check official recommendations

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❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Spring (April-May): Perfect weather across most regions (15-25°C) with blooming landscapes, moderate crowds, and excellent conditions for national parks and cities. Ideal for diverse activities nationwide.

Autumn (September-October): Excellent temperatures with spectacular fall foliage, harvest festivals, and comfortable weather. Perfect for outdoor activities, cultural events, fewer crowds than summer.

Summer (June-August): Peak season with warmest weather but highest crowds and prices. Excellent for northern regions, challenging in southwestern deserts, perfect for beaches and national parks.

Winter (December-February): Variable conditions from tropical Florida to snowy Colorado. Perfect for skiing, southern destinations, indoor attractions, lowest prices outside holiday periods.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 5 and 7 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in United States?

Continental diversity with iconic landmarks, cultural melting pot, and endless possibilities. Experience natural wonders, vibrant cities, and authentic American dreams from coast to coast. The country offers incredible diversity with modern amenities and cultural richness. United States provides life-changing experiences with natural beauty and cultural authenticity.