Compare Utah's National Parks from Las Vegas by Tours of Distinction vs An Outdoor Discovery of Puerto Rico’s History & Heritage by Road Scholar

Day 1 - Arrive Las Vegas, NV

Today, transfer to the airport for your flight to Las Vegas. Upon our arrival, we transfer to our hotel on the Las Vegas strip. This evening, there is a Tours of Distinction exclusive welcome reception with the remainder of the evening free to explore the vibrant nightlife that is Vegas.

Day 2 - Grand Canyon Village, AZ

After breakfast, we depart Las Vegas and travel past Lake Mead and Hoover Dam as we enter Arizona. We stop in Kingman to tour the Route 66 Museum, which highlights the glory days of cross country automobile travel. We travel Route 66 heading east through northern Arizona. This afternoon, we will see “One of the Wonders of the World,” Grand Canyon National Park. This 1.2 million acre national park hosts a vast variety of wildlife and scenic wonders. We will learn about the geology and history of the canyon while taking in its breathtaking beauty at all the best view points along the South Rim, including Grand Canyon Village. After, we check into our hotel just outside of the park. Dinner is included this evening.

Day 3 - Lake Powell, UT

Breakfast is included this morning before we make one more pass along the south rim of the Grand Canyon National Park. We include a stop at Desert View before exiting the park. Then, enter the Navajo Nation with a rest stop at Cameron Trading Post with time to explore the amazing gift shop.  Next travel past the Vermillion Cliffs as you make your way to Page for an included lunch.  Then take a spectacular tour through Antelope Canyon.  The mysterious and haunting beauty of Antelope Canyon awaits the adventurous traveler who seeks to discover one of the most spectacular attractions of the Lake Powell area.  A tour to this awe-inspiring sculpture set in stone is a must for amateur and professional photographers alike.  An optional short hike to Horseshoe Bend for a stunning view of the Colorado River is available.  Arrive Lake Powell Resort with the evening free to explore and have dinner on your own.

Day 4 - Monument Valley

The morning starts with breakfast and a scenic cruise on Lake Powell. The contrast of the red rock walls and emerald blue waters are a stunning sight as we glide through the canyons. After, there is time for lunch, on own. This afternoon, we depart Lake Powell and travel to famed Monument Valley, a sacred place to the Navajo. We will be immersed in the rich cultural heritage of the ‘Dineh’ people. Their arts, music and livelihood are all closely tied to the dramatic desert landscape that is their home. After checking in to our hotel, we meet our Navajo guide and board a 4-wheel drive vehicle for a scenic tour of Monument Valley; location for scores of famous western films, television programs and commercials. As we travel through the valley and visit famous locations, such as John Ford Point, Artist Point and The Totem Pole, we will also learn more of the Navajo traditions and way of life. This evening, we experience Navajo culture, food and entertainment at a Navajo Cookout. After a wonderful day, we settle into our hotel.

Day 5 - Arches National Park

After breakfast, we depart Monument Valley and head north, arriving at Dead Horse Point State Park for a picnic lunch and one of the most spectacular scenes in the southwest. We have the chance to see the expanse of Canyonlands National Park stretching to the south and the mighty Colorado River 2,000 feet below. From here, we are off to nearby Arches National Park for sightseeing. The 18,000 square-foot visitor center (with over 2,000 named arches within its 73,000-acre boundary) will introduce us to the unique geologic forces that created the highest concentration of natural arches in the world. We visit all of the park’s highlights including: Park Avenue, Balance Rock, The Windows and Delicate Arch. In the late afternoon, we embark on a fabulous experience, as we take a Jet Boat Ride on the mighty Colorado River through spectacular red rock canyons. As the sun dips in the west, the canyon colors come to life while we learn about the river’s ecosystem, geology and history. After the thrilling ride, we enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner served on the banks of the Colorado River. We later arrive at the beautiful Red Cliffs Adventure Lodge which is located on the bank of the mighty Colorado, and check in for a two night stay. This area has been the site of numerous classic western movies including Rio Grande with John Wayne.

Day 6 - Canyonlands National Park

Our day starts after breakfast by meeting our professional driver guide and board 4x4 vehicles for a Jeep Tour of Canyonlands National Park. The Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park is the focus of this outstanding tour. Set 2,000 feet above the canyon floor, we descend from the top of the mesa via the famous Shafer Trail. Using switchbacks, the tour will take us from atop the mesa to the meandering river corridor below. Throughout the tour, our guide will provide information on the Park and the scenery. What an exciting morning in Canyonlands! Enjoy free time in Moab to have lunch on own, and to do some shopping and exploring. This afternoon, we return to Red Cliffs where we have the rest of the day free to relax and soak in the scenery. There is time to visit the Utah Movie Museum and the Castle Creek Winery, both included, at your leisure. Dinner, this evening, will be served outside with the quintessential western scenery of Castle Valley in full view.

Day 7 - Bryce Canyon National Park

From breakfast, we depart Moab for Capitol Reef National Park. We pass through the town of Green River and the San Rafael Swell. We will see ancient petroglyphs, beautiful rock formations, deep canyons and pioneer history followed by a wonderful picnic lunch under towering cottonwood trees. We will drive scenic Highway 12, designated as an ‘All American Road,’ through Grand Staircase ~ Escalante National Monument, before arriving at Bryce Canyon National Park for sightseeing. Later, we check into our hotel for the evening. This evening is free to enjoy dinner, on own.

Day 8 - Zion National Park - Depart Las Vegas

We depart after breakfast on a short drive to see Utah’s oldest and most famous national park, Zion National Park. The Paiutes believed mischievous spirits lived among the 2,000-foot high towers and would not enter the canyon alone or remain there after dark. There will be time for lunch on own before crossing the desert returning to the glitz and glam of Las Vegas. After an amazing trip through some of our nation’s greatest natural treasures, we enjoy a farewell dinner before being transferred to the airport for your flight home.

Day 1 In Transit to Program, Check In, Orientation, Welcome Dinner San Juan

Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.

When you check in at the hotel and get your room assignment, ask the front desk for the location of the Road Scholar meeting room where we will have our Orientation session. Program Registration & Orientation: 5:00 p.m. As you register with the program staff, you will receive your welcome packet containing your name-tag, up-to-date schedule that reflects any last-minute changes, and other important information. If your arrival is delayed, please ask for your packet when you check in. The Group Leader will greet everyone with a warm welcome and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule and any changes, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer any questions you may have. Unless specified otherwise, transportation will be provided primarily by motorcoach and will require going up and down a few steps. Meals at local restaurants will be plated and include choices from select menus with standard beverages of coffee, tea and water with other beverages available for purchase. Free time is reserved for your personal independent exploration. Please note that program activities, schedules, and personnel may need to change due to local circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

At a restaurant within walking distance of the hotel.

Day 2 Old San Juan, Capitol Hill San Juan

Walking up to 1.5 miles with some periods standing; paved terrain.

We’ll board our motorcoach and transfer to Old San Juan where a local expert will provide an overview of Puerto Rico’s history from the Spanish colonial period to the present. Columbus made landfall here on his second voyage in 1493, claiming it for Spain — which might have come as a surprise to the inhabitants, indigenous Taíno Indians. The first Spanish settlers arrived on the island in 1508. Moving on with our local expert, we’ll learn about the history and explore Fort San Cristóbal, also known as Castillo San Cristóbal, the largest colonial Spanish fortress in the Western Hemisphere. Construction began in 1634 and it was not completed until 1790. European powers fought for hundreds of years to control the island due to its strategic location. San Cristóbal guarded the land entrance to Old San Juan. It is a magnificent and impressive structure covering 27 acres, now part of the San Juan National Historic Site.

Our next field trip will be to El Capitolio de Puerto Rico — Capitol Hill — with our local expert. The impressive building is home to the Legislative Assembly composed of the House of Representatives and Senate, a symbol of self-government to Puerto Ricans. The Neoclassical Revival design was by architect Rafael Carmoega. The interior features artwork illustrating highlights in Puerto Rico’s history by prominent artists. While here, a docent will provide a special presentation illuminating the inner workings of Puerto Rico’s governmental structures with some emphasis on the relationships these systems have with the United States.

At leisure. Prepare for check out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel, the breakfast buffet includes choices such as eggs, breakfast meats and breads, cereals, milk, juice coffee, tea, water.

At a local restaurant, we’ll have sandwiches and/or salads from a select menu and standard beverages.

At a local restaurant, we’ll have a plated meal with standard beverages.

Day 3 Ponce, Tibes Indian Ceremonial Center, History Museum Ponce

Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; some periods of standing. The drive is about 77 miles, approximately 2 hours.

After checking out of the hotel, we’ll board the motorcoach and begin our transfer via the Luis A. Ferre Highway over La Cordillera Central — the island's main mountain range — into the southern part of Puerto Rico. We'll venture first to the Tibes Indian Ceremonial Center, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Caribbean, for an expert-led field trip focusing on the area’s history before Christopher Columbus’ arrival. Its discovery resulted from a hurricane in 1975 when torrential rains and flooding revealed remnants of indigenous cultures that had been long buried. Archaeologists began excavations in 1976 and eventually uncovered the oldest and largest Indian ceremonial complex in Puerto Rico, consisting of nine ball courts and three plazas. There was also a cemetery with nearly 200 human skeletons. The oldest artifacts and structures from pre-Taíno Indians date back more than 1,000 years.

Riding on, we’ll reach the city of Ponce and embark on a field trip via trolley and walking through Ponce to admire its stunning architecture including the beautiful and unique historic Ponce Firehouse, Ponce Cathedral, and Delicias Square. We’ll then go on an expert-led field trip to the Museo de la Historia de Ponce — Museum of the History of Ponce. Inaugurated in 1992, it is now one of the city’s most active cultural centers, preserving and presenting important aspects of Puerto Rican and Ponceño history and culture. The majority of its artifacts have been donated by local citizens. Permanent exhibits include Ecology, Human Panorama, Politics, Economic Activity, Architecture and Urban Development, Health and Medicine. The museum is housed in the beautiful Casa Salazar that combines Moorish, neoclassical, and Ponceño architectural elements. We’ll ride on to the hotel for a mid-afternoon check-in.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

Local restaurant plated meal.

At a local restaurant, we’ll enjoy an interactive dinner, learning about the foods we’re eating from one of the chefs and specialties such as Mofongo (pickled plantains) and other local fare.

Day 4 Hacienda Buena Vista, Music of Puerto Rico Ponce

Walking up to 2 miles on some uneven terrain. The drive is about 15 miles, approximately ½ an hour.

Our first field trip today will be to the Hacienda Buena Vista, a 19th century coffee plantation turned museum. Restored to its former glory by a team of Smithsonian specialists and island artisans, its location is indeed a buena vista (beautiful view), with just under 500 acres in the Rio Canas Valley. We may be able to see hummingbirds as the Hacienda's trails take us past cascading waterfalls. With our local expert, we will explore some of the plantation’s grounds and visit the on-site museum while learning about the development of the coffee industry in the area.

On our next stop, we’ll learn how the music of Puerto Rico has evolved as a heterogeneous and dynamic product of diverse cultural resources through a performance by a local musician.

At leisure. Prepare for check out and transfer in the morning.

Hotel buffet.

Local restaurant plated meal.

This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Day 5 Transfer to San Juan, Serralles Castle Museum, PR Art Museum San Juan

Walking up to 2 miles with some periods of standing; paved terrain. The drive is about 80 miles, approximately 2.5 hours.

We will check out of the hotel, we’ll board our motorcoach and depart for San Juan. En route, we will stop at Castillo Serralles Museum.This castle is the family home of the best selling rum brand in Puerto Rico, Don Q. This incredible castle and much of the entire city of Ponce, was build as part of the vast Serrallés family fortune. Built in 1930, this four story concrete castle sits on top of a hill overlooking downtown Ponce, Puerto Rico. The former family mansion turned museum is Spanish Revival or Spanish Moroccan architecture designed in the 1920’s.

We will continue towards San Juan, taking the Luis A. Ferre Highway back over La Cordillera Central. Upon arrival in the city, we will visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (MAPR), the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico. Inaugurated in July 2000, the museum has managed to develop quite a large permanent collection of Puerto Rican art ranging from the 16th century to the present. The works are thoroughly researched and documented, with the exhibits often including an interpretation of the masterpieces on display. Our local expert will lead us through the exhibits of carefully selected artworks helping to give us insight into Puerto Rican art. As a popular museum, it also provides local artists with access to visual art from other parts of the world thereby encouraging artistic expansion. We’ll then go to the hotel for check-in.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

Local restaurant plated meal.

At a local restaurant within walking distance of the hotel, we’ll enjoy a plated meal with standard beverages.

Day 6 El Yunque Rain Forest, Pinones Village San Juan

Walking up to 1.0 miles on some uneven terrain with minor elevation change.Due to the effect of hurricane Maria the trails at El Yunque are very limited .

After boarding our motorcoach, we’ll transfer to El Yunque National Forest for a field trip including a short hike with our Group Leader and a local expert. This is the only tropical rain forest in the U.S. National Forest system. Located on the eastern end of the Island, El Yunque features a variety of unique plant and animal species with many well-marked trails, making it easy to explore.

Our next field trip will be to Pinones in the town of Loiza at the north of the island. Driving into Pinones you are instantly transported back in time to another era.It is the home to many modest families making a living selling typical local food from kiosks along the beach. Their traditions span back 400 years and beyond that to the time when the Spanish conquered the land and brought in the first roots of African people to the island.

At leisure.

At the hotel, the breakfast buffet includes choices such as eggs, breakfast meats and breads, cereals, milk, juice coffee, tea, water.

At a pleasant spot in the El Yunque Rainforest, we’ll have a tasty and healthy picnic buffet lunch including salads, sandwiches, and fruit.

On your own to enjoy what you like in San Juan.

Day 7 Caguas City, Free Time, Farewell Dinner San Juan

Walking up to 1.5 miles; hilly terrain, wear comfortable walking shoes.

We will board our motor coach to transfer to Caguas City. In Caguas we will take a walking field trip to Ruta del Corazón Criollo — Route of the Creole Heart. Along the way, we’ll spot at a few points of interest and familiarize ourselves with the artistic culture of the area. Our historical journey through the heart of Caguas will provide a unique view into the cultural influence of this important city in the valley as we visit small craft shops and museums with our Group Leader.

Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most at your own pace in Old San Juan. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. The cobblestone streets are rich in architectural delights and the tree-shaded squares more reminiscent of Europe than America. We will regroup and a designated time and place and return to the hotel.

At leisure. Say farewells and prepare for departure in the morning.

Hotel buffet.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

At a local restaurant, we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner. Share your favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends.

Day 8 Program Concludes San Juan

Hotel check-out by 12:00 Noon.

Hotel buffet. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!