Waterfalls of Yosemite - Customizable Private Tour

Yosemite National Park , United States of America

Waterfalls of Yosemite - Customizable Private Tour

Active

(19 reviews)

6h - 8h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on an extraordinary adventure exploring Yosemite's legendary waterfalls with a local expert:

BRIDALVEIL FALL
HORSETAIL FALL
ILLILOUETTE FALL
NEVADA FALL
ROYAL ARCH CASCADE
RIBBON FALL
SILVER STRAND FALL
SENTINEL FALLS
VERNAL FALL
YOSEMITE FALLS

This experience is exclusively for you and the people in your party.

Meet your guide in the morning for a fully customizable experience tailored to your preferences, whether for a hiking or car-based tour. Your guide will expertly navigate routes to awe-inspiring viewpoints, ensuring an immersive exploration of Yosemite's natural wonders. Spanning 6 to 8 hours, this experience is sure to ignite your sense of wonder and leave you in awe of Yosemite's majestic beauty!

Please note, the prime time to witness waterfalls is spring, with peak flow in March, April, May & June. Some, like Yosemite Falls, may diminish by August. Late fall storms revive some falls, while winter nights coat them in frost, offering a magical winter scene.

Available options

Waterfalls of Yosemite - Customizable Private Tour

What's included

Reservation into Yosemite on day of activity

Private customizable guided adventure

Knowledgeable guide with expert local insights and safety tips

Trekking poles can be requested

Option to explore up to 8 hours, or adjust to a shorter adventure

Detailed itinerary

During the first fifteen minutes of our "Waterfalls of Yosemite - Customizable Private Tour," you'll meet your expert guide who will provide a warm welcome and introduce themselves. They'll take some time to get to know you, discussing your interests and preferences for the day. Based on your preferences, your guide will present different options for the itinerary, highlighting the stunning waterfalls you can visit and any other activities or sights you might enjoy. Additionally, your guide will introduce Leave No Trace (LNT) principles, emphasizing the importance of responsible outdoor behavior and conservation ethics during your tour. They'll also cover any safety precautions or essential information for the tour. Finally, your guide will answer any questions you have and ensure you're comfortable and excited to embark on this customizable adventure in Yosemite National Park.

Stop 2

Explore the majestic beauty of Yosemite Valley's iconic waterfalls, including Bridalveil Fall, Horsetail Fall, Illilouette Fall, Nevada Fall, Royal Arch Cascade, Ribbon Fall, Silver Strand Fall, Sentinel Fall, Vernal Fall and Yosemite Falls. Led by a local expert guide, this immersive experience offers incredible views of these natural wonders. Please note that waterfall accessibility may vary based on seasonal conditions, ensuring each tour is a unique and unforgettable adventure.

What's not included

Optional Gratuities (10-20% is standard)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

12 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Disclaimer: While our "Waterfalls of Yosemite - Customizable Private Tour" includes ten stunning waterfalls, please note that the ability to see all of them is subject to various factors such as seasonal conditions, weather, trail accessibility, and participants' health and physical abilities. We strive to provide the best possible experience, but we cannot guarantee that all waterfalls will be visited on every tour.

Food and drinks are not provided.

Hotel pickup and drop-off is not provided.

Private transportation is not provided.

Meeting point

From the Curry Village Shuttle Bus stop 14, head southwest for 200 feet towards the Mountain Shop. Then, follow the walkway around the building, passing by the Gift Shop, until you reach the Pizza Deck. Your guide will be holding a map and excited to meet you.

Important notes

9AM meeting at Curry Village pizza deck

Please bring your entry ticket or receipt to show the park entrance gate workers for your reservation into the park.

Disclaimer: While our "Waterfalls of Yosemite - Customizable Private Tour" includes ten stunning waterfalls, please note that the ability to see all of them is subject to various factors such as seasonal conditions, weather, trail accessibility, and participants' health and physical abilities. We strive to provide the best possible experience, but we cannot guarantee that all waterfalls will be visited on every tour.

About Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including giant sequoias, granite cliffs, and waterfalls. It offers a unique blend of natural wonders and outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Top Attractions

Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, with a total height of 2,425 feet (739 meters). It consists of three sections: Upper Yosemite Fall, Middle Cascades, and Lower Yosemite Fall.

Nature 1-2 hours to explore Free

Half Dome

Half Dome is one of Yosemite's most iconic landmarks. The granite dome rises 4,800 feet (1,463 meters) above the valley floor and offers a challenging hike and a thrilling rock climb.

Adventure 10-12 hours for the hike Free (permit required for the cables route)

Glacier Point

Glacier Point offers one of the most breathtaking views in Yosemite, overlooking Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the high country. It's a popular spot for photography and sunset viewing.

Nature 1-2 hours to explore Free

Mariposa Grove

Mariposa Grove is home to one of the largest concentrations of giant sequoias in the world. The grove features over 500 mature sequoias, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.

Nature 2-3 hours to explore Free

Tunnel View

Tunnel View is one of the most famous and photographed viewpoints in Yosemite. It offers a stunning panorama of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome.

Nature 15-30 minutes to explore Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Acorn Bread

A traditional Miwok dish made from acorns, a staple food of the indigenous people of Yosemite

Appetizer Vegetarian, gluten-free

Elk Burger

A delicious and sustainable burger made from locally sourced elk meat, often served with local produce and artisanal cheeses

Main Course Contains meat, gluten (if served with a bun)

Yosemite Granola

A homemade granola made with local honey, nuts, and dried fruits, often served with yogurt or milk

Breakfast Vegetarian, can be made vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking Rock climbing Backpacking Mountain biking Skiing Snowshoeing Picnicking Photography

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Yosemite for hiking, camping, and exploring the park's attractions. The weather is warm, and most facilities and roads are open.

10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F) 50°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Pacific Time Zone (PT, UTC-8)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but visitors should be aware of potential hazards and take necessary precautions

Yosemite National Park is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of potential hazards such as wildlife encounters, extreme weather, and challenging terrain. By taking necessary precautions and following park guidelines, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Important Precautions:

• Stay on marked trails and follow park guidelines.
• Carry plenty of water and snacks, especially when hiking.
• Be aware of wildlife and store food properly to avoid encounters.

Getting there

By air

Fresno Yosemite International Airport • 135 miles (217 km)
San Francisco International Airport • 175 miles (282 km)

By train

Merced Station

By bus

Merced, San Francisco

Getting around

Public transport

The free shuttle service operates in Yosemite Valley, making it easy to explore the park's attractions without a car. The shuttle runs frequently and stops at major trailheads, campgrounds, and visitor centers.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Yosemite Valley High Country Wawona

Day trips

Mono Lake

40 miles (64 km) from Yosemite Valley • Half day to full day

Mono Lake is a unique and ancient saline lake located east of Yosemite, known for its striking tufa towers and diverse birdlife. It offers a unique contrast to the park's granite cliffs and waterfalls.

Hetch Hetchy Valley

35 miles (56 km) from Yosemite Valley • Full day

Hetch Hetchy Valley is a stunning and lesser-known area of Yosemite, offering a mix of waterfalls, granite cliffs, and alpine meadows. It's a great destination for hiking, photography, and nature enthusiasts.

Grove of the Ancient Giants

25 miles (40 km) from Yosemite Valley • Half day

The Grove of the Ancient Giants is a lesser-known sequoia grove located near Yosemite, offering a peaceful and less crowded alternative to Mariposa Grove. It's a great destination for hiking, photography, and nature enthusiasts.

Festivals

Yosemite Facelift • September Yosemite Winter Wildlife Festival • February Yosemite Valley 10-Mile Trail Run • May

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
Check road and trail conditions before visiting, as some areas may be closed or limited due to weather or maintenance.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers, as weather and temperatures can change quickly and unexpectedly.
Consider hiring a local guide or joining a ranger-led program to gain a deeper understanding of the park's natural and cultural history.
Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially when hiking or exploring remote areas.