San Francisco

Yosemite National Park: Full Day Tour from San Francisco

San Francisco, USA
  • 14 hours
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

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Overview

Visit Yosemite National Park on this day trip from San Francisco. Upon arrival in the state's most famous national park, embark on a bus tour of highlights from Half-Dome and Bridalveil Falls to El Capitan, with plenty of photo opportunities. In the afternoon, have free time to hike or explore the Yosemite Valley before returning to San Francisco on your comfortable coach.
  • Day trip to Yosemite National Park from San Francisco
  • Explore the park independently and enjoy a guided bus tour
  • Driver­-guide and commentary in English
  • See all of Yosemite's top scenic highlights in one excursion

What's Included

  • Transport by air-conditioned luxury motor-coach
  • Driver-guide and commentary in English
  • Yosemite National Park entrance fees
  • Guided bus tour of Yosemite Valley and free time in Yosemite Valley
  • Choose from two departure locations in San Francisco: Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square
  • Gratuities
  • Additional food and drinks
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting points

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Start time

06:20 AM

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Board your luxury vehicle for the trip to Yosemite National Park. Cross the Bay Bridge and travel through the Central Valley, where you'll stop to buy picnic supplies, and then into the foothills of the Sierra.

Upon arrival at Yosemite, embark on a guided bus tour of Yosemite Valley's best-known attractions. Then, enjoy free time to explore on your own. Rent a bike (own expense) to cruise the valley floor, visit the Ansel Adams Gallery, or hit up the rangers station for informative lectures and guided walks. Peruse the Indian Village of Ahwahnee or stroll along the banks of the Merced River.

Afterward, meet back at the bus to return to San Francisco.

Financial District (Pass By)

San Francisco Bay Bridge (Pass By)

Oakdale

20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Yosemite National Park

5 hours • Admission Ticket Free

Tunnel View

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Bridalveil Fall

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Yosemite Valley

3 hours • Admission Ticket Included

Ansel Adams Gallery

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Lower Yosemite Fall Trail (Pass By)

Valley Visitor Center (Pass By)

Sentinel bridge (Pass By)

El Capitan

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Yosemite Falls

1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 1 day of travel. In this case confirmation will be received as soon as possible, subject to availability
  • The Yosemite tour takes all day. We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and bring a pillow to sleep on the drive back.
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Infants must sit on laps
  • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 45 travelers

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Traveler Photos

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Featured review
Nick_S
The park itself was absolutely beautiful, even more so that I imagined. One of those experiences that exceeds expectations, even when those were already high. Our guide, Bryan, contributed a lot to the experience. He was very knowledgeable and always so kind and helpful to anyone who needed it. Nothing was too much trouble. Fantastic guide and incredible trip. Would highly recommend.

Reviews

4.0
840 reviews
Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
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Reviews by Viator travelers.
Showing 1-10 of 840 reviews
Nature’s life
Jaime_H, Apr 2024
Its was a great experience every stopover it nice and the best part the winding road , its so amazing when you reach the top road..
A long ride but definitely worth it.
Diane_M, Apr 2024
The bus ride was long but it's 150 miles to Yosemite. Thomas made the ride very enjoyable. Once we got to Yosemite park, he stopped several times for us to take pictures. The park was beautiful and it was snowing so that made it even more spectacular. Thomas is a nature lover like me and my daughter so that really made the trip special. I can't praise Thomas enough. He even gave us a good recommendation for dinner when we got back.
Great tour of the top Yosemite sites!
Emma_M, Apr 2024
Joseph was a very knowledgeable tour guide giving us information / history throughout the trip. He suggested some good places to walk in the park. Dan the driver was great - a smooth ride so I didn't suffer from travel sickness on the trip like I do with some drivers. It was Easter weekend so cold. It was snowy on the return journey. There was plenty of melt water flowing over the waterfalls and the park wasn't too busy. We did exactly what was described in the details plus a couple more photo stops along the way. It is a long way from San Francisco so it is a long day but worth it if you don't have long in the area.
Just not a good use of time
Samuel_G, Mar 2024
The itinerary of this tour just doesn’t make for a good use of your time: 4.5 hours driving there 20 minutes to get food on the way there 3.5 hours actually doing stuff in Yosemite 4.5 hours driving back 20 minutes to get food on the way back That means you spend almost 3x the time traveling as you do actually enjoying the park
Awesome Vistas!!!
George_K, Mar 2024
Jerry was an excellent tour guide and shared some good insight on the tour and on the drive to the park. The views are spectacular and truly awesome. I didn’t have to worry about paying attention to the road and good really enjoy the hills and valleys of California. Well worth the price! I highly recommend Gray Line tours for this fantastic adventure!
A 5/5 experience!
Rafat_Q, Feb 2024
The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and very kind. The trip was great fun! If you want to do more strenuous hiking though this likely isn't the trip for you just because 3 hours is not enough time to go out and take the shuttle and do a hike and make it back in time.
Response from Host, Feb 2024
Hi Rafat_Q I really appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback and being so open with us. We hope you'll come and see us again soon!
A memorable trip indeed
Saikrishnan_R, Feb 2024
On time service, the tour guide was great and knowledge Yosemite itself in snow was outstanding Great trip - really enjoyed. Good coach bus
Response from Host, Feb 2024
Hi Saikrishnan_R Thank you for sharing your experience! I am truly glad to learn you enjoyed your experience and the tour guide was great. Best,
Not worth it
Francisca_G, Jan 2024
It is not worth the price. There was a big line to get in so, we had just 2h 30m in Yosemite. It is not enough time!!! They do not recommend using the free buses in the park because they take a long time. Therefore your only option is to walk to the low yosemite falls and the museum. They should give you more time there to make it worth the money or just lower the price.
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Hello Francisca_G, Thank you for sharing your feedback about the Yosemite National Park day tour. We understand your concerns about the limited time and the long lines. Yosemite National Park is indeed a vast and beautiful area, and time constraints can be challenging. Your input is valuable. We appreciate your insights and hope you have more positive travel experiences with us in the future.
Great guide and driver, shsring lots of info about the Region!
Urszula_K, Jan 2024
I had a great guide who explained a lot about Yosemite and the Region. Also very professional driver!
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Hello Urszula_K, We're glad to hear that you had a great guide who provided valuable insights about Yosemite and the region, along with a professional driver. We appreciate your positive feedback and hope you have many more wonderful adventures in the future.
All worked perfectly
Romina_P, Dec 2023
Great Day! A Llfe lasting memory! Bryan Is a knowledgable and funny guide. I'll keep the feelings, the view and the info for ever in my mind and heart.
Response from Host, Dec 2023
Hi Romina_P, We're thrilled to hear that you had a great day and that Bryan's knowledge and humor added to your experience. Creating lasting memories is what we strive for, and we appreciate your positive feedback. Thank you for choosing us for your tour. Come back soon and allow us to serve you again!
Peaceful and spontaneous
Gabriel_O, Dec 2023
I loved Yosemite water falls, it was my favorite part of the trip cause it just gives you piece of mind by just looking at it. I highly recommend visiting all the water falls.
Response from Host, Dec 2023
Hi Gabriel_O, We're thrilled to hear that you had such a wonderful experience at Yosemite National Park and that the waterfalls left a lasting impression on you. Yosemite is indeed a breathtaking destination, known for its stunning natural beauty, and the waterfalls are a true highlight. Please come back and allow us to serve you again.
Amazing December Experience
Helena_A, Dec 2023
I loved the entire experience! I went to Yosemite for the first time with my family. Here are some highlights: The bus was comfortable. The pick up and drop off went smoothly. I never was worried about the travel because the bus driver and guide (Brian) were knowledgeable and competent. The views were amazing! We stopped at 3 points plus a 3 hour free period and got great pictures. The weather was wonderful for December! Not too cold, in the 50's. My family had a great experience and it was worth every penny!
Response from Host, Dec 2023
Hi Helena_A, It sounds like you had a fantastic experience at Yosemite with your family! We are glad to hear that everything, from transportation to the weather, went smoothly and contributed to a memorable trip. Yosemite National Park is truly a breathtaking destination, and it's wonderful that you were able to capture some amazing views and create lasting memories. Having a knowledgeable and competent driver, and guide like Brian can greatly enhance the overall experience, providing valuable information and ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. It's also a bonus that the weather cooperated, allowing you to fully enjoy the beauty of the park without extreme cold temperatures. It's great to hear that your family had a positive experience and that the trip was worth every penny. Yosemite has a way of leaving a lasting impression on visitors with its stunning landscapes and natural wonders. If you have any specific highlights or favorite moments from your trip that you'd like to share, feel free to do so!
Driver and speaker were perfect
Reda_J, Nov 2023
The bus broke down in the middle of nowhere, been waiting more than 3 hours for another bus. When we arrived to the national park we just had one hour or sunlight to enjoy the area, it was incredible. Later for the return we agreed for a pickup at 17h30, the bus did not arrive before 19h. (Probably to get another bus) At total or partial refund is more than reasonable cause I almost lost a day.
Response from Host, Nov 2023
Dear Reda Thank you for taking the time to tell us your feedback on our Yosemite tour and please accept our sincerest apologies for your negative experience during the trip. Please, know that we take your feedback seriously and will address these issues to ensure a better experience for our future guests. Be informed that we processed a 50% refund for your booking. This may delay between 3/5 business days. I´m glad to hear our driver and tour guide were good. Thank you Gray Line San Francisco.
Incredible
Lisa_G, Oct 2023
A great trip to Yosemite stopping at fantastic view points with ample time to explore and take photos. Yosemite is a beauty that can’t be matched
Response from Host, Oct 2023
Hih Lisa_G, We're delighted to hear that you had a great trip to Yosemite with ample time to explore and capture beautiful moments. Yosemite's natural beauty is indeed unmatched. If you ever plan to visit more stunning destinations we'd be thrilled to be your guide.
TRY ANOTHER TOUR...
Nikky_G, Oct 2023
Booked my tour well in advance, when I arrived we were greeted with we will not be having a tour guide due him falling ill. There were no plan B or even an audio recording. We got a 10% back. I basically paid for a shuttle service to and from Yosemite National Park and if I could, I would have done another tour. It is a long drive, my siggestion is to make some nice scenic stops- San Pedro Lake is a good one for persons to stretch their legs. Note there is an 8 mile stretch with sharp curves and high elevations which was a little intense for me. Not recommended...
Response from Host, Oct 2023
Dear Nikky_G, We're sorry to hear about your disappointing experience. Your feedback is important, and we appreciate your suggestions for scenic stops and the challenging aspects of the trip. We'll pass this information along to help improve the tour for future guests. If you have any other concerns or if there's anything we can do to address your dissatisfaction, please let us know. Your feedback helps us make necessary improvements.
Completely wonderful
Nick_S, Oct 2023
The park itself was absolutely beautiful, even more so that I imagined. One of those experiences that exceeds expectations, even when those were already high. Our guide, Bryan, contributed a lot to the experience. He was very knowledgeable and always so kind and helpful to anyone who needed it. Nothing was too much trouble. Fantastic guide and incredible trip. Would highly recommend.
Response from Host, Oct 2023
Hi Nick_S, It's fantastic to hear that your visit to the park exceeded your already high expectations. Bryan, your guide, sounds like he made the experience even more memorable with his knowledge and exceptional customer service. We greatly appreciate your recommendation, and we hope you'll have the opportunity to enjoy more incredible trips in the future.
Great tour for 1st time visitors to Yosemite.
Irfat_A, Oct 2023
Good full day tour. Three hours trekking time wasn’t enough as Yosemite is huge and I didn’t want to go too far in case I got lost. The tour group overall were lovely and the driver was friendly and very informative. The only downside was that the bus was delayed in picking us up in the morning and a little heads up via email or text would have been nice.
Response from Host, Oct 2023
Hi Irfat_A, We're glad to hear that you had a good full-day tour to Yosemite. It's true that Yosemite is vast, and more trekking time can be beneficial. We appreciate your feedback about the bus delay, and we will work on improving our communication process to provide a smoother experience in the future. Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to hosting you again for more adventures in the future.
Can't recommend this tour enough
Adam_B, Oct 2023
Jerry was an incredible guide, absolutely loved her personality. We came from the UK and learnt a lot from his narration. We had plenty of stops and time at the stops for pictures and to just take in the scenery. It was helpful to stop on route at a super market to get drinks and food but the prices at Yosemite itself weren't as bad as I thought. I would definitely do the same trip with this company again if I came back to San Fran and would love to have Jerry as our guide again. Both myself and my partner had an unforgettable day.
Response from Host, Oct 2023
Hi Adam_B, Thank you for your wonderful review. We're delighted to hear that Jerry provided an incredible tour experience for you and that you enjoyed his narration and personality. It's great to know that you found the stops, scenery, and shopping options convenient. We'd be thrilled to have you back with us on another trip to Yosemite, and we'll certainly pass on your kind words to Jerry. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to providing you with another unforgettable day in the future.
Great experience
Eric_R, Oct 2023
Beautiful sights and it was so nice to not worry about the details. Just show up and enjoy. Travis and Bryan were amazing!
Response from Host, Oct 2023
Hi Eric_R, We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed the beautiful sights without worrying about the details. Travis and Bryan truly love making experiences amazing. We aim to provide a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for our guests, and we're grateful for your kind words. We look forward to having you join us again for more wonderful adventures in the future.
We were thrilled seeing...
JuanSalvador_D, Oct 2023
We were thrilled seeing Yosemite Park. Absolutely breathtaking views. Commendations to our tour guide Bryan and driver Travis. They were geniunely concerned in our safety and enjoyment. We got lost and a bit late to return and they took the effort to wait and find us. We also experienced seeing a wild bear and same manager fire which made the tour unforgetable.
Response from Host, Oct 2023
Hi JuanSalvador_D, We love that you had an unforgettable experience at Yosemite Park, and we appreciate your commendations for our tour guide Bryan, and driver Travis. Their genuine concern for your safety and enjoyment is truly commendable. It's wonderful to hear that they went the extra mile to ensure you were taken care of, and the sighting of a wild bear and a managed fire only added to the adventure. Thank you for choosing us, and we hope to welcome you back for more memorable journeys soon.
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