Geography trip to West Coast USA: 8 days, 6 nights

Subject range: Cultural, History

What you’ll experience: Alcatraz operated from 1934 to 1963 and is best known as one of the world’s most legendary prisons. Alcatraz was once home to some of the USA’s most notorious criminals such as Al “Scarface” Capone, and the “Birdman”. A must see opportunity whilst in this part of the globe! (Please see supervisory ratio restrictions below).
Select says: Special note – One adult leader (aged 21 years or older) is required for every nine students.

Subject range: Cultural, Geography

What you’ll experience: A local expert guide will escort you on your coach, whilst delivering valuable knowledge of the area and attractions. You’ll be able to hop on and off wherever you please. Santa Monica, Beverly Hills and Hollywood are always group favourites.
Select says: This is a half day tour with a guide.

Subject range: Cultural

What you’ll experience: This LA visit is a great way to reward your pupils and provide them with a well-earned break from learning.
Select says: We can offer you reduced prices for school groups for this exciting theme park which offers many impressive rides and shows and includes the world famous back-lot tram tour.

Subject range: Science, Geography

What you’ll experience: For groups staying for two nights in Vegas, a visit to the famous Hoover Dam is a must. You can take a 30 minute tour of the Hoover Dam power plant and take a look around the visitors centre.
Select says: You can also opt for the hour long guided tour, which includes the 30 min option plus a tour of the passageways of the dam itself.

Subject range: Cultural, Geography

What you’ll experience: An ideal location for the study of water resources, conflict, supply and management. This glitzy city, built in the middle of the desert, is a testimony to man’s ability to overcome the challenge of the physical environment.
Select says: Groups can stay centrally near the main ‘strip’.

Subject range: Geography

What you’ll experience: This vast chasm is arguably one of the most spectacular geographical sites in the world. Opt to take one of several set walks to explore this awe-inspiring canyon. A once in a lifetime opportunity!
Select says: Stay over in nearby Tusayan.

Subject range: Geography

What you’ll experience: Pupils can experience first-hand Death Valley’s harsh, arid environment, dramatic scenery and landscapes. Your group will cross over the 5,000ft Towne Pass before taking a closer look at the desert.
Select says: One of the hottest places on earth, this region is contrasted by the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Subject range: Geography

What you’ll experience: A wilderness park renowned for the mountain and valley scenery, waterfalls, grand meadows and forests containing the groves of giant sequoias.
Select says: Main route through Yosemite is shut November to April, but can still visit areas of the National Park.

Subject range: Cultural, Geography

What you’ll experience: Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf is a shopping centre and popular tourist attraction built on a pier in San Francisco. At Pier 39 there are shops, restaurants, a video arcade, street performers, an interpretive centre for the marine mammal centre, the aquarium of the bay and virtual 3D rides.
Select says: A highlight is the views of California sea lions on the docks of Pier 39’s marina.

Subject range: Science, Geography

What you’ll experience: An opportunity to observe a truly remarkable ecosystem, only 30 minutes from San Francisco! On your morning coach excursion, pupils will observe the diversity of flora and fauna.
Select says: The giant Redwood Sequoia trees will provide an excellent opportunity to enhance understanding of ecosystems.

Subject range: Science, Cultural, Geography

What you’ll experience: San Francisco city lies on the world-renowned San Andreas Fault, and is well documented for its approaches to hazard management. Admire the amazing view of the city from Twin Peaks, opt for a San Francisco Bay cruise under Golden Gate Bridge, visit Alcatraz, or head down to the famous Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39.
Select says: We highly recommend a visit to the new California Academy of Sciences. The Academy recently opened a new 400,000 square foot facility which houses an aquarium, a planetarium, a natural history museum, and a four-storey rainforest all under one roof.