Yosemite National Park, with its soaring granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoias, is a crown jewel of the American West. Below are six standout tours departing from San Francisco in 2025—each offering fresh itineraries, current pricing, and insider details to help you pick the perfect Yosemite adventure.
1. Small‑Group Yosemite & Giant Sequoias Day Trip (14 hrs)
Why go: Efficient, full‑day highlight hit with just a handful of travelers (max 15), ideal for comfort and conversation.
Itinerary:
- Pick‑up from SF hotels early morning.
- Drive through the Central Valley; stop at Tunnel View to photograph Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Falls.
- Short stroll to Bridalveil Falls base.
- Picnic near Yosemite Falls or in the Valley.
- Wander the ancient Tuolumne Grove—towering sequoias over 1500 years old.
- Return to SF by evening.
Perks: Guided commentary, small group vibes, park permit included.
Price: Approx US$230–$260 (₹19,000–₹21,500).
2. Full‑Day Yosemite Park Tour (5 hrs inside park)
Why go: Best for travelers on tight schedules—get key vistas without committing the full day.
Itinerary:
- Early‑bird entry via guided bus or shuttle with hotel pickup.
- Stops include Valley Visitor Center, Lower Yosemite Fall, El Capitan Meadow, and Tunnel View.
- Live guide, onboard Wi‑Fi, multilingual geo‑audio available.
- Return midday to early afternoon.
Perks: Permit & park fees included; expert-led with solid photo ops.
Price: Around US$200–$220.
3. 2‑Day Yosemite & Sequoia National Park Combo
Why go: For those wanting more time in nature and a split itinerary.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Depart SF, explore Yosemite Valley, Bridalveil, Tunnel View, Elephant or Tuolumne Grove.
- Overnight lodging inside or near the park.
- Day 2: Head to Sequoia & Kings Canyon for giant trees or scenic hikes, then back to SF.
Perks: More immersive than a day trip, relaxed pace, lodging included.
Price: From US$379–$500 per adult.
4. Yosemite Camping Escape – 3 Days
Why go: Enthralling for hikers and those craving deeper park access.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: SF to Yosemite—Valley, Falls, and El Capitan.
- Day 2: Hike the Mist or Panorama Trails—see Vernal/Nevada Falls, Glacier Point.
- Overnight camping under the stars.
- Day 3: Sunrise hike + return to SF.
Perks: Camping gear provided; guided excursions; nearly full trail immersion.
Price: Around US$795.
5. Ultimate 5‑Day Yosemite Vacation Package
Why go: Luxurious, all‑inclusive, relaxed exploration with premium amenities.
Itinerary:
- Journeys through Yosemite’s top areas: Valley, Glacier Point, Tuolumne Meadows, Mariposa Grove.
- Mix of guided hikes, optional climbs, lodge‑based evenings.
6. Scenic Aerial Yosemite Tour (Historic Inspiration)
Why go: For a new perspective, though such flights aren’t yet standard today—this nods to a nostalgic ’70s service.
Itinerary:
- Originally, small planes from SF flew over Yosemite Valley before landing nearby for ground tours.
- Today, you can arrange scenic charter flights out of Bay Area airports for aerial views of Half Dome, El Capitan, and the valley floor.
Experience: Combines thrill of flight with scenic exploration on land.
Price: Variable—likely a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.