Frequently Asked Questions
What time do your Yosemite One Day Tours begin?
6:00 a.m.
Why so early?
Yosemite is crowded, especially in summer. Therefore, we need an early departure time to enjoy the sights properly. And even with an early departure, traffic may cause delays, so we always recommend staying longer in the park. Please contact us to determine your best option.
May we reserve a tour beginning in Yosemite?
Unfortunately, no – all of our private tours begin in San Francisco. For tours starting in Yosemite (such as for families wishing to drive themselves to the park), we recommend contacting the Yosemite Conservancy, the park’s non-profit organization.
Do you offer private tours from Yosemite’s surrounding communities such as Groveland, Mariposa or Oakhurst?
Yes, for corporate groups of 30-50 guests.
What is the best airport for visiting Yosemite?
We recommend flying into San Francisco International Airport for all private tours reserved with us.
What Yosemite hotels do you recommend?
We recommend staying in the Valley, which includes the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite Valley Lodge and Curry Village, where, of course, you will pay for location. The next closest upscale hotels are Rush Creek Lodge toward San Francisco and Tenaya Lodge towards Los Angeles.
Do you reserve our hotel rooms for us?
Yes, for private groups of 30-50 guests.
Are your tours private, only with us?
Yes. It will be your private group and our guide(s) only.
What do we bring for Yosemite?
We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, a hat to protect yourself from the sun and sunblock (as needed). In winter, obviously dress warmly.
If you plan to dine at the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, please note a dress code is required for dinner. Gentlemen are asked to wear long pants and a shirt with a collar, and ladies are asked to wear a dress, skirt or long pants with a blouse. Children over the age of four are asked to dress for the occasion as well. Breakfast, brunch and lunch are always casual.
In addition, please only bring items and luggage that are needed for your tour. Your larger bags can be safely stored with your hotel concierge in San Francisco. Our other requirements can be found on our Reservation Policy page.
When is the best time of year to visit Yosemite?
For hotel stays, we recommend visiting in late April or early May when the waterfalls are gushing and before the summer crowds arrive. For backcountry hikes, such as to the top of Half Dome, we recommend visiting in September when the summer heat has diminished. For more information, please contact us.
How far do we hike on the Yosemite Digital Detox Trek?
Each Yosemite backcountry hike is planned for your skill level, ranging from 15-40 miles in hiking distance.
What is included in your Yosemite Digital Detox Trek?
Everything. We supply your rucksack, warm sleeping bag, water filters, ultralight tent setup and even your choice of organic hiking meals. The adventure also includes a luxury ride to and from Yosemite from your front door in San Francisco. You only need to land in the city, ready and limber and with your hiking shoes.
I have never camped before. Can I still hike in Yosemite’s backcountry?
Yes. Our expert guides will take you through the nuances of Yosemite hiking and the details involved, the way John Muir experienced it, so you’ll feel like a local in no time. All backcountry hikers also are required to complete our wilderness screening form before gaining approval.
Do you offer private Half Dome hikes in one day?
No. Yosemite’s Half Dome deserves more time and respect than one day. We only offer Half Dome hikes for 3 nights and 4 days beginning in San Francisco.
May we shorten our Private Half Dome Hike by one day?
No. Our Half Dome hikes are for 3 nights and 4 days beginning in San Francisco, no exceptions.
I’m traveling alone. Can you pair me with another guest to hike Half Dome?
Unfortunately, no. All of our tours are private and require minimum departure numbers. You can read more on our rates page.
Do you offer private tours to more national parks such as Joshua Tree?
Yes, for private groups of 30-50 guests.
Do you offer one-way private tours from San Francisco to Los Angeles?
Yes, although we charge for empty car time for our private guides to return home safely. Please see our Private California Coast Tour for more details.
Do you offer commissions?
Unfortunately, no. We publish our rates openly and honestly, with everyone paying our standard rate. Direct communication with guests also is required before each tour. We do, however, offer group rates based on volume. Please call us with any questions.
What’s your cancellation policy?
If you cancel your tour…
- More than 31 days prior to departure: 90% refund (except for Yosemite Digital Detox Hikes and Private Corporate Offsites — 120 days and subject to third-party cancellation fees)
- Within 7-30 days prior to departure: 75% refund
- Within 2-7 days prior to departure: 50% refund
Canceling less than 48 hours before your tour date will result in full loss of tour
funds.
Do you tour Napa Valley and Sonoma?
For Napa Valley & Sonoma wine tours, please contact our friends & partner tour company, Bin 415 Private Tours.
