Joshua Tree & Nixon Library Day Tour

From$219
12 hours
Los Angeles, USA

About this activity

Discover the natural beauty of Joshua Tree and the historical significance of the Richard Nixon Library on this full-day tour from Los Angeles.

Highlights

  • Explore the unique landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park
  • Visit the Richard Nixon Library and Museum
  • Enjoy a scenic drive through Southern California
  • Learn about the history of the 37th U.S. President
  • Experience a full-day adventure from Los Angeles

Full description

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Los Angeles to the stunning Joshua Tree National Park, renowned for its unique rock formations and iconic Joshua trees. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you'll explore the park's diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to expansive deserts. Afterward, delve into American history with a visit to the Richard Nixon Library and Museum, where you'll gain insights into the life and legacy of the 37th U.S. President. This comprehensive day trip offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical exploration, all within a comfortable 12-hour itinerary.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip transportation from Los Angeles
  • Guided tours of Joshua Tree National Park and the Richard Nixon Library and Museum
  • Lunch at a local restaurant
  • Gratuities for the guide and driver

Itinerary

1

Pass by: Escape the buzz of Los Angeles and cruise into a surreal desert dream. In just two hours, the cityscape melts into wide-open skies, rugged mountains, and the twisted silhouettes of Joshua trees. Along the way, we will pass quirky roadside diners, vintage gas stations, and cinematic desert vistas that beg for a photo op. Whether you're chasing sunrise over boulders or stargazing under pitch-black skies, this drive is more than a route—it's a rite of passage into California’s wild heart.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

These giant roadside landmarks are one of Southern California’s most recognizable attractions and a classic roadside stop reminiscent of historic Route 66. Take photos with the towering dinosaurs and enjoy views of the surrounding desert landscape before continuing toward Joshua Tree National Park.

Duration: 20 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Pass by: pass by Mojave Desert

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

Pass by: You’ll catch a glimpse of the Morongo Casino resort as you travel past Cabazon, one of the most memorable sights on the drive toward Joshua Tree.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

Pass by: Enter the remarkable landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park, where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. The park is famous for its distinctive Joshua trees, dramatic rock formations, and wide-open desert scenery.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Joshua Tree National Park Entrance Sign: Stop for photos at the iconic Joshua Tree National Park entrance sign, a must-visit landmark for travelers entering the park. It’s the perfect spot to capture your first photo in this famous desert landscape.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: YES
7

This scenic location is a great place to walk among the iconic Joshua trees and enjoy the park’s dramatic landscape. Picnic-style lunch surrounded by Joshua Tree’s iconic desert landscape.

Duration: 40 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8

Pass by: Pass by one of the Joshua Tree National Park’s most iconic peaks –Ryan Mountain, offering the travelers breathtaking views on the journey.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
9

Pass by: Pass through Quail Spring – a memorable landmark demonstrating the raw beauty of the Mojave Desert.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
10

One of Joshua Tree’s most recognizable natural rock formations. The rock resembles a giant skull and has become one of the park’s most popular photo spots.

Duration: 20 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
11

Cap Rock - Stop 40 mins

Duration: 40 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
12

Pass by: You will pass by Intersection Rock, a unique, striking boulder formation near the heart of the park.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
13

Pass by: Pass by Jumbo Rocks Campground, named after the massive boulders that define this area of the park.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
14

Keys View offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic viewpoints in Joshua Tree National Park. From here, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs, and the surrounding desert mountains.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
15

Pass by: Travelers will be dropped off at their original boarding locations once we return to LA.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • This tour involves moderate walking; ensure you're comfortable with this level of activity.
  • The tour operates rain or shine; cancellations due to weather are rare.
  • Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult; please inform the operator in advance if bringing a child.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes suitable for outdoor activities.
  • Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as temperatures can vary.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Infants Required On Laps
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Stroller Accessible

Good to know

  • Travelers under 18 must be with an adult. Pregnant travelers allowed if under 24 weeks.
  • Tour duration includes visit times, travel, traffic, and driving between locations.
  • Please verify your name and contact details; errors may incur additional costs.
  • Please note: Cash is required during the tour for certain attractions, shops, and tickets. Guests are advised to prepare sufficient cash in advance.
  • For multiple bookings, please provide all confirmation numbers after booking to ensure you travel on the same bus.
  • By selecting an option and completing your booking, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to the tour's full product description, including all details about itinerary, included and excluded fees. Your payment indicates your acceptance of these terms.
  • Tickets & Admission: Third-party attraction tickets or city passes are not accepted. All admission tickets must be purchased during booking or from your guide on the day of the tour.
  • Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, cash, and water for hydration. A valid reachable phone number is required for safety and trip communication.
  • For individual special needs, tour operator may not be able to guarantee it. For special reasons, please confirm with the tour operator whether your special request is feasible after your booking is confirmed.
  • Please note: Starting from March 18, 2026, the itinerary has been updated to allow more time for exploring Joshua Tree National Park. The previous stop at Nixon has been removed as part of this enhancement. As part of this upgrade, complimentary bottled water, deli-style lunch, and snacks are now included to enhance the service. We believe these enhancements provide a more relaxing and in-depth travel experience. Thank you for your understanding.

Traveler reviews

4.6
7 reviews
5
6
4
0
3
0
2
1
1
0

Less than meh

Our trip said it included water and a deli lunch. On the way to the park, our tour guide said we were stopping at McDonald’s at 9:30 am and we could save something from there for lunch. We paid for our meal. Whenever I go on similar tours, the guide has a cooler of water and lunch for everyone if it’s included. He had no water for us as we walked around Joshua tree. We also didn’t eat all day besides our morning McDonald’s trip. We were all starving by the time we got dropped off. He also didn’t seem to know much about the park and didn’t tell us where to go for pics. It wasn’t the best experience by far.

jessicajewel8May 23, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Escape to a different world

A lovely tour at the main spots of Joshua tree under the daylight. It is a unique natural environment close to LA that shouldn’t be missed. My guide Chelsea was very helpful and always with a smile.

507christosaMay 22, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Fantastic!

Lei Song is an awesome tour guide.

N382UMbentMay 16, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Joshua tree national park trip

Very lovely day! Nice guide, water and food provided, would definitely recommend! Really enjoyed it

monikapQ1234ODMay 2, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Great tour of Joshua Tree

Chris was very friendly, informative and kind to help take photos of all the guests. The tour itself was well organised and had beautiful desert landscapes.

redsockspugieMay 2, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Tickets & Admission: Third-party attraction tickets or city passes are notaccepted. All admission tickets must be purchased during booking or fromyour guide on the day of the tour. Children under 6 may require a booster seat by law. Coachbuses usually do not need one, but winter tours using vans/minivans may. Please contact the operator in advance if needed; rental available on request. Hotel rooms accommodate 1–4 guests with either two doublebeds or one king/queen bed (subject to availability). For groups over 4 orneeding multiple room types, please book separately and provide allconfirmation numbers after booking. Please verify your name and contact details; errors may incur additional costs. Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun hat, sunglasses,sunscreen, cash, and water for hydration. A valid reachable phone number isrequired for safety and trip communication. Pickup time may differ from voucher start time. Confirm with operator afterbooking. Check “Meeting & Pick-up” for details. Arrive 5–10 mins early. Travelers under 18 must be with an adult. Pregnant travelers allowed if under 24 weeks. Tour duration includes visit times, travel, traffic, and driving between locations. By selecting an option and completing your booking, you confirm that youhave read, understood, and agreed to the tour's full product description,including all details about itinerary, included and excluded fees. Your paymentindicates your acceptance of these terms.