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Welcome to the land of dreams and diversity: the United States of America. From the iconic skylines of New York City to the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska and the many national parks, the USA offers a world of experiences. Discover the best places to visit and plan your unforgettable journey. Tick off some major bucket list items when you book a holiday package to the USA.

Heading to North America ? Why not head further north to Canada and experience the Great White North for yourself? Or take in the magic of Disney World and the bright lights of New York City.

Travel to the United States of America

If you're a nature enthusiast, immerse yourself in the USA's natural beauty, whether it's witnessing geysers and wildlife in Yellowstone National Park, hiking in the Grand Canyon, or basking on Hawaii's stunning beaches.  

Dive into American culture by attending a Broadway show in New York , exploring Nashville's vibrant music scene, or immersing yourself in Native American heritage at cultural centres across the country.  

For the adventurous at heart, the USA offers thrilling activities like skiing in Colorado, hiking the Appalachian Trail, or experiencing the wonders of the Florida Everglades. Your journey starts here, where dreams become reality. 

• City Adventures: Explore the vibrant cities of the USA. Discover the hustle and bustle of New York City , the glitz and glam of Los Angeles, and the rich history of Washington, D.C. Each city has its unique charm and attractions.
• Nature Escapes: Immerse yourself in the USA's natural beauty. Visit Yellowstone National Park for geysers and wildlife, hike in the Grand Canyon, or relax on the beaches of Hawaii. The options are endless for nature enthusiasts.
• Cultural Experiences: Dive into American culture. Attend a Broadway show in New York, explore the music scene in Nashville, or immerse yourself in Native American heritage at cultural centres across the country.
• Outdoor Adventures: For adventure seekers, the USA offers activities like skiing in Colorado, hiking in the Appalachian Trail, or experiencing the thrill of the Florida Everglades.
• Visa and Entry: If you're wondering, “Can I travel to the USA from South Africa ?” Yes, you can, but you'll need a valid U.S. visa. Check the U.S. Embassy website for specific visa requirements. 
• COVID-19 Information: Stay updated on the latest travel advisories and requirements due to COVID-19. As of 2023, travellers may need to show proof of vaccination or a negative test result. 
• Best Time to Visit: The USA is vast, so the best time to visit depends on your destination. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for most regions. Summer can be a wonderful time to experience the many beaches and beach towns, and winter is a great time to ski and indulge in winter wonderlands. 
• Transportation: The USA has an extensive network of flights, trains, and buses. Distances are vast, bigger than you may think, so make sure you know how long it will take to travel from place to place, especially when travelling inter-city or from State to State. Renting a car can be convenient for exploring less urban areas, and there are some cities without great public transport, so do your research on your specific destination. 

The United States is known for its cultural diversity and size. It's the third-largest country in the world by land area and offers an array of experiences, from world-class cuisine to stunning natural wonders. 

Can I travel to the USA from South Africa? 

Yes, South African travellers can visit the USA, but they need to obtain the required visa and adhere to entry regulations set by the U.S. government. 

Do you need a COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the USA? 

As of 2023, travellers to the USA may need to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result. It's essential to stay updated on the latest requirements. Talk to your Pentravel agent for up-to-date information on required vaccines. 

What are the requirements to visit the USA from South Africa? 

To visit the USA from South Africa, you'll typically need a U.S. visa. Specific visa requirements and application processes can be found on the U.S. Embassy website for South Africa. 

Plan your USA adventure, explore its diverse landscapes, and embrace the culture that makes this country an extraordinary destination. Your American dream awaits! 

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Destinations

Local destinations, themed holidays, about thompsons, north america travel.

Everything is bigger and better in North America! The continent is home to some of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, including New York City and Walt Disney World.   The man-made attractions in North America are equally breathtaking: The Statue of Liberty, the Guggenheim Museum and the Brooklyn Bridge are just some incredible sights you can see in NYC alone. Planning a holiday package to North America with Thompsons Holidays will not only save you money, but it will also take the hassle out of planning your trip. We have a wide range of package deals available to suit your budget and needs.

Why we love North America 

• You can live the American dream on holiday in  the USA , where anything is possible, and there’s so much to see and experience.  
• North America’s fun-filled theme parks make kids’ (and adults’) dreams come true , especially Walt Disney World in Florida.  
• There are more than 35,000 fantastic museums in the USA, including Washington’s Smithsonian Institute and New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).  
• North America’s famous attractions like  L os  A ngeles ’  Hollywood sign, the  Las Vega s  strip and Washington’s White House are a must for your Instagram!  
• We can’t get over the continent’s  impressive and vast beauty.

From the West Coast beaches, deserts and cities of the USA to the glacial lakes and mountains of Canada, North American countries offer holidays to suit every possible taste and budget, whether you’re travelling solo, with your partner, family or friends.  Start your North American tour today and browse our holiday packages.  

What to do in North America

North America offers a treasure trove of delightful places to visit, from its famous cities, like glittering Las Vegas, star-studded Los Angeles, and gritty New York to some of the most incredible natural wonders in the world. Whether you’re keen to sightsee, laze on a beach, meet Mickey Mouse, dine on a variety of exciting cuisines – or do a little bit of each of these, you can experience them in North America.  It’s  difficult  to narrow down the myriad experiences awaiting you in this exciting destination. Still, we’ve put together  a  travel guide  of  our  top  things to do when you’re visiting the continent. Take a look.  

North America sightseeing 

• Visit the White House and the incredible Smithsonian Institute in  Washington .  
• Sail past the Statue of Liberty ,   explore Central Park and watch a live show on Broadway in  New York .  
• Visit the  otherworldly   hot springs and pools in Yellowstone National Park, USA.  
• Traverse  San Fran cisco ' s narrow, hilly streets.  
• Take a stroll down Sunset Blvd. in Los Angeles.  
• Unleash your inner child at Walt Disney World in   Florida .  
• Marvel at the Grand Canyon.  
• Experience the neon- coloured  city of Las Vegas.  

North America is a world on its own. Let Thompsons Holidays take you on a voyage of discovery to a variety of amazing destinations in North America. Whatever activity or place is on your bucket list, we can help you tick it off with one of our stunning travel deals. Book now!

Know before you go...

What must i pack.

• The weather in North America varies according to the season you’re travelling and where you’re going, so always check the weather forecast. 
• Depending on when and where you visit, be sure to pack comfortable clothing for the times you will spend in transit, whether you are travelling by plane or by coach. 
• Some handy items to include: a lightweight raincoat, flip flops and scarf (for the plane or cooler weather). 
• Comfortable walking shoes are a must. 
• For summer holidays in North America, don't leave home without sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.
• For flights and public transport, be sure to have hand sanitiser handy. Don't forget a mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.  
• Camera (or just use your phone) and charger. Some noise-cancelling earphones will come in handy too.
• Bring along a US travel adaptor.  

Getting around

• There are frequent flights from South Africa to all major North American destinations. Often  you will have to c atch a connecting flight from  another city or country.  
• You can travel from one state or country to another by plane, train or hiring a car. Be aware of visa and paperwork requirements if crossing borders.   
• North American cities, especially in the USA and Canada, have excellent transport systems as a whole, including taxis, subways, buses, trains and where relevant, ferries.   
• Other cities in outlying areas throughout the continent may have less sophisticated transport infrastructure – it depends where you are going.  

Language & phrases  

• The most widely spoken languages in North America are English and Spanish.   
• English is the official language in the USA, while Canada has 2 official languages, English and French. 

What can I do to be a responsible traveller?   

• Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans .  
• North America is very environmentally aware, so   be mindful of your impact on the environment.  
• Avoid single-use plastic; instead, take fabric shopping bags with you and use refillable water bottles (when local drinking water is available).  
• Respect each other's cultures and customs.   

Safety tips

• Always have a map (or app) on hand, especially when travelling at night.  
• Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.  
• Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for passports and valuables.  

What do I do in an emergency?  

• Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist.  

Out of season

We’re sorry! The holiday you’re looking for is not in season. Luckily, we have loads of other exciting options. Take a look!

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"With 50 states to choose from, your US holiday can be anything you want it to be. I love showing our guests all sides of the country, from the beautiful national parks to the buzzing city streets".

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Explore the neighbourhoods of New York

You’ll feel like you’re hopping between countries as you roam the streets of New York. Wander Central Park in Manhattan, experience the city’s cultural diversity in Chinatown and Little Italy, see some of the oldest architecture in the Historic District, and ‘Dive into Culture’ with a visit to Brooklyn’s vibrant hip hop scene.

Take in the beauty of the Grand Canyon

We’ll reveal the majesty of the Grand Canyon in ways you could never imagine, with our Local Specialists sharing a different story at every viewpoint. As you pause to soak up the sunset over one of the world’s seven natural wonders, watch how the light dances over the cascading cliffs - it’s a truly mesmerising experience.

Embark on a boat ride to the base of Niagara Falls

You have to see it to believe it, and we’ll take you up close to the mighty Niagara Falls, the biggest waterfall in North America. We’ll take you on a cruise to Horseshoe Falls where you can see both the American and Canadian sides, and watch over 680,000 gallons flow over the falls every second.

Visit Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco

Set on the scenic waterfront, Fisherman’s Wharf is filled with treasures. Stroll along Pier 39, sample fresh seafood like the famous Dungeness crab and clam chowder, watch the resident sea lion colony lounging on the docks, visit the quirky museums, or take a ride on the San Francisco Carousel.

Take a helicopter ride over Las Vegas

See Vegas in style with a dazzling helicopter ride at night. You’ll get a bird's eye view of the city illuminated in lights, with your pilot pointing out the iconic casinos and resorts along the Las Vegas Strip. You’ll also get an incredible view of the 1,1490-foot Stratosphere Tower and the Luxor space beam.

Our top 5 things to do in the United States

Our USA tour packages will show you all the iconic highlights plus the unexpected gems, from the streets of New York to the vast depths of the Grand Canyon.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Known as ‘the Met’, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is the world’s third most-visited art museum and the biggest art museum in the United States. Founded in 1870, the Met houses over two million works, from antique weapons and ancient Egyptian art, to European sculptural masterpieces and contemporary American art.

Art Institute of Chicago

Founded in 1879 in Chicago’s Grant Park, the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the largest and oldest art museums in the United States. With a permanent collection of around 300,000 works, from Pablo Picasso’s The Old Guitarist to Grant Wood’s American Gothic, you can spend hours wandering the collections.

American Museum of Natural History

Located in Theodore Roosevelt Park across from Central Park in New York, the American Museum of Natural History is a massive display, with 45 exhibition halls, a planetarium and a library. The museum has over 33 million specimens, ranging from plants, animals, fossils and meteorites to human remains and cultural artefacts.

Best museums in the United States

When you tour the states with Trafalgar, we’ll show you the best museums and galleries across the country, from the famous ‘Met’ to the art of Chicago.

New York Bagels

Boiled then baked and fluffy yet dense, with a glossy, crunchy crust, the New York bagel has been perfected to an art. Our Local Specialists will take you to a 100-year old Jewish deli in the Upper West Side, where you can sample the best of these New York delicacies.

The American lobster is a species found on the Atlantic coast, with the state of Maine being the largest suppliers. The lobster is steamed or boiled and commonly served whole, and you’ll be given a lobster bib and a set of nutcrackers for your glorious lobster eating experience.

Beef Burger

A juicy beef patty, served with cheese, onion, pickles, lettuce, tomato, and all the special sauces you could want for - burgers are the quintessential American dish. They’re big business in the United States, and we’ll show you where to find the best burgers in town.

Best food in the United States

With a blend of influences from the finest cuisines from all over the world, American food is absolutely yummy. We’ll show you our favourite places for a feast of classic burgers, bagels, peanut butter sandwiches, cakes and more.

What to pack for United States

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

Comfortable shoes

From roaming the endless streets of New York, to exploring the Grand Canyon, you’ll need a sturdy pair of shoes on your adventures.

Dollar bills

Tipping is customary in the United States, and you’ll be expected to tip at least 15% (although 20 - 25% is appreciated), so be sure to keep some US bills on hand.

Big appetite

The United States is the land of the supersized, and their diverse cuisine comes in big portions with big flavour and plenty of soul.

Adaptor plug

In the United States, the standard voltage is 120 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type A and B. The standard frequency is 60 Hz.

Layered clothing

From the snowy east to the sunny west, the United States experiences a myriad of seasons and climates, so come prepared with layered and versatile clothing.

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USA Tours & Holidays

With coastlines, forests, deserts and mountains, the United States is an explorer's paradise.

Magical moments are waiting around every corner in The States. From the rugged wilderness and glacial fjords in Alaska to the winding coastal highways in California , the wide array of national parks to the musical streets of New Orleans , this country is simply sprawling. So whether you're hiking, biking, toe-tapping or road-tripping, you can't go wrong exploring the USA the Intrepid way.

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Usa departures by month, browse usa trips by region, browse usa trips by state, browse usa national park tours, usa at a glance, capital city.

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Learn more about USA

Best time to visit united states.

Being such a large country, the weather in the US is different depending on which area you are in. Summer (June to August) is the peak travel season due to school holidays, but it can be uncomfortably hot in the desert areas and the south. 

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are generally considered to be the best times to visit, but the weather is still highly variable and these may be the wettest times in some parts of the country (such as the  Pacific Northwest ). Winter can be cold and snowy in the northern states, and many people head south in search of warmer temps.

Read more about the best time to visit the United States

Culture and customs

With immigration playing a major part in the development of America, today the country is made up of many different cultures. It’s no wonder modern America is rich with a variety of cultural traditions, cuisines, religions and festivals. Because of this, a large diversity of holidays are celebrated in America. Annual holidays like Independence Day and Thanksgiving are usually celebrated by all regardless of religion or political persuasion, and give people a chance to reconnect with family and friends around the dinner table or grill.  From sports to soul music, popular culture to philosophy, and fine art to folk art, the tastes and desires of Americans vary around the country. A love of sport unifies the nation - it doesn’t matter if you live in a city loft or out in the country, sports like ice hockey, basketball, baseball and football all attract a strong following. Many Native Americans live on reservations and fight to retain their traditions and preserve their heritage, although when visiting reservations don’t be surprised to see Native Americans wearing modern clothing. With much of the language and many of the customs lost over the years, Native Americans strive to live a life of deep spirituality and in connection with the earth, as their ancestors did for centuries.

Check out our range of experiences in the United States that amplify BIPOC cultures .

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring cheap eats or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. 

With a variety of international influences, try Creole cuisine in New Orleans, traditional Jewish fare like bagels and pastrami sandwiches in New York, and barbecue in Texas. America’s got everything, from burger joints to taco shacks, organic cafes to refined Michelin-starred restaurants.

Learn more about food in the USA

Geography and environment

From the lush everglades of Florida, through the red-hot deserts of Nevada to the urban jungles of New York and Philadelphia, the United States has many different environments and ecosystems within its boundaries. Sharing borders with Canada in the north and Mexico in the south, the United States has deserts, glaciers, freshwater lakes, rapid-filled rivers, mountain ranges, sprawling plains, forested national parks, beaches and bays.

The major national parks of America – Yellowstone, Zion, Yosemite, Bryce Canyon, Denali and Joshua Tree offer a glimpse into what much of America looked like before development. Lush vegetation, majestic mountains and sparkling lakes give deer, moose, bears, bison and many other species of wildlife a fertile home to live in. 

When travelling, you’re likely to see modern cities filled with traffic, skyscrapers and high-density housing, as well as sleepy towns, and Native American reservations. A complex network of highways connect the major cities, making overland travel a popular choice with visitors and locals alike. The great American road trip is still alive and well.

History and government

As one of the world’s most influential nations, major moments and events in American history ripple throughout the rest of the world. The American people are known for their resilience and irrepressible nature, and it is this spirit that allows them to continue to contribute to the world economically, scientifically and creatively.

In recent history, America has enjoyed the historic highs of the moon landings and the devastating lows of Hurricane Katrina. The world has seen American companies like Apple, Facebook, Microsoft and Starbucks change the face of the world. And people like Steven Spielberg, Lance Armstrong, Maya Angelou and Sidney Poitier create masterpieces, break records and win countless awards.

Top 10 must-see cities in the US

1. new york.

You can be anyone you want to be in NYC. Indulge your artistic side at MoMA, mingle with the Gordon Geckos on Wall Street, cheer like a pro at a Yankees game or kick back at a bar with a Manhattan and a new pair of Jimmy Choos.

2. San Francisco

San Francisco is made of sunshine, seafood and a whole lot of hills. This is the place to embrace your inner (or outer) bohemian. But it's not all 'flowers in your hair' and free thinking, be sure to take a ferry to Alcatraz and scoff down a clam chowder at Fisherman's Wharf.

3. New Orleans

The Caribbean meets France and Africa in New Orleans. Music is everywhere, and so are the friendly faces. The city comes to life after dark so have an afternoon nap, get some comfortable shoes on and get ready to bar hop the night away.

4. Las Vegas

Hello Lady Luck! Days somehow disappear in the hedonistic blitz of colour, light, showgirls, casinos and offers too good to refuse. Try to escape the endless buffets to catch a real Las Vegas show; there's everything from death-defying acrobats to Elvis on offer.

The financial and political powerhouse of Chicago has been the home of two of the most influential people in the world - President Obama and Oprah. Famed for its distinctive architecture, booming performing arts scene and sports-mad locals, the 'Windy City' shouldn't be missed.

The air is warmer, the clothes smaller and the colours are somehow brighter in Miami. Jewish, Latin and Caribbean cultures blend to make a heady mix of great food, even better music and a nightlife filled with the spirit of fiesta. Hang out on perfect beaches, spot classic cars and gaze at the beautiful people as they strut their stuff.

7. Los Angeles

Search beyond the stardust of Hollywood and the excessive price tags of Rodeo Drive, to find the true essence of Los Angeles. Home to a melting pot of cultures, uber-cool restaurants, a hip art scene and the eclectic vibe of Venice Beach, LA is so hot right now!

The birthplace of grunge music and iconic super-companies like Microsoft, Boeing and Starbucks, Seattle offers so much more than great coffee. Markets packed with fresh produce, a harbour perfect for boating, vibrant public art and a thriving live music scene combine to make Seattle a must-see city.

History comes alive in the heritage-filled streets of Memphis. Whether it's at Elvis Presley's Graceland, the lively blues clubs and restaurants of Beale Street or the moving Civil Rights Movement Museum, it could be said that the soul of America lives in Memphis.

One of America's oldest cities, Boston is evolving. Working class neighbourhoods are being gentrified, the industry is giving way to tech start-ups and modern architectural treasures sit alongside brown-stone buildings. Despite the change, get chatting to locals about the Red Sox and you'll soon find you're definitely in Boston.

It’s no wonder many people choose to do their clothes shopping in the United States. With iconic department stores offering a wide range of labels, and vintage/charity stores stocking American fashion classics like distressed denim jeans and leather cowboy boots, shopping in America is fun. Known for having great sales and even better customer service, it’s well worth leaving room in your backpack for a few extras. Please note that unlike in many other countries, tax isn’t included in the ticketed price. It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Festivals and events

Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, marks the end of the Carnival season in New Orleans. Witness a chaotic collision of lively music, colourful costumes, masquerade masks, soul food and joyful 'krewes' at the parades, parties and masquerade balls in late February every year.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday

Presidents' Day

Memorial Day

Independence Day

Indigenous Peoples' Day

Veterans' Day

Thanksgiving Day

Please note dates of  United States public holidays  may vary.

Top USA travel highlights

1. venture to the wilds of alaska.

Alaska may be part of the USA, but it feels like another world. With stunning mountain ranges, eclectic wildlife, immense glaciers and an interesting history, this off-track destination is well worth the journey north. Whether you want to go hiking in Denali, snowshoe across Matanuska Glacier, kayak in Kenai Fjords or see the northern lights, adventure awaits.

2. See San Francisco through local eyes

With vibrant, multi-cultural neighbourhoods and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is a city you could spend weeks exploring. But to really get a feel for the place, you need to explore with a local. Sample the freshest seafood in Fisherman's Wharf, discover the North Beach and Little Italy districts, and dine at some of the locals' favourite spots for dinner.

3. Explore phenomenal national parks

From larger-than-life Yosemite to the great gaping chasms of the Grand Canyon, national parks in the States are big, bold and beautiful. Escape the hustle of everyday life and uncover the natural beauty, diverse wildlife and Native American history in the likes of Bryce Canyon, Zion and Yellowstone. Whether you want to hike or cycle, stay in comfy lodges or camp in the wilderness, US national parks offer something for all kinds of adventurers.

4. Track wolves in Yellowstone National Park

The world’s first national park positively brims with more hot springs, mud pots and geysers than you can possibly see in one trip. But one of the most memorable things you can do is rise before dawn to join a wolf-tracking excursion with a local guide. As well as learning about one of nature's most intriguing animals, if you're lucky, you may see multiple wolves playing together, eating, or looking after young cubs..

5. Visit the legendary Sun Studio in Memphis

Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins… what legend hasn’t recorded here? Sun Studio in Memphis is one of the pinnacles for music lovers travelling in the States. It’s where rock and roll was born, and where soul music hit the big time via Stax Records. After checking out the studio, head to Beale Street to grab a drink and have a boogie in traditional blues clubs.

6. Take a Navajo jeep tour of Monument Valley

Learn about the cultural heritage and sacredness of Monument Valley from those who know it best. After a jeep adventure with a local Navajo guide, join the locals for an authentic Navajo dinner around a campfire and listen to traditional songs and stories passed down through the generations.

Further reading

Usa travel faqs, do i need a visa to travel to united states.

It depends on where you’re from. Many countries now operate under the United States Visa Waiver Program, meaning a visa isn’t required for stays of up to 90 days for travel purposes. There are 40 participating countries, including the United Kingdom , Australia , New Zealand, Germany and Spain.

If you're eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you must obtain a letter of authorisation before you travel to the States. This can be obtained by submitting an application through the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation ( ESTA ).

If you’re a national from a non-participating country of the Visa Waiver Program, you must apply for a non-immigrant visa. Please see the Department of State website for more information.

If you have travelled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen or the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on or after 1 March 2011, you are ineligible and must apply for a non-immigrant visa instead.

People from a participating country who are also citizens of Cuba, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Syria or Sudan must also apply for a non-immigrant visa.

Last updated: 6 March 2024 

Is tipping customary in the US?

Tipping is very much a part of the culture in the United States. Tips are expected at restaurants, cafes and diners, as well as by taxi drivers, valet attendants, porters and hotel maids.

People working in the service industry generally receive low wages and therefore rely upon tips as a major source of income.

In general, leave 15 to 20% of the bill at places serving food and a few dollars to bartenders and hotel staff who provide a personal service like carrying bags or cleaning your room.

What is the internet access like in the US?

Internet access is excellent in the US, and internet cafes and Wi-Fi hot spots are easily found in most cities and major towns.

Can I use my mobile phone while in the US?

Mobile phone coverage is excellent in most parts of the US although coverage may be patchy in remote, mountainous areas like national parks and canyons. Ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive.

What are the toilets like in the US?

Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in the US.

Can I drink the water in the US?

Drinking water from taps in the US is considered safe unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in the US?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores in the US. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in the US?

ATMs are common in the US, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities.

What kind of transport will I use in the United States?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun. 

Be amazed by enormous glaciers and stunning, icy landscapes while travelling on a ferry in Alaska.

Use pedal power to see the best of Venice Beach and Santa Monica. Cycling is a great way to see the sights and be active at the same time.

Take in the sights while enjoying a ride on one of San Francisco’s icons – the streetcar .

What sort of accommodation will I stay in while travelling in the United States?

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible. 

When travelling with us in the US you may find yourself staying in a:

Spend a night sleeping in a hogan – a traditional Navajo structure made of logs, mud and stone and built with an open roof to view the sparkling night sky.

Reconnect with nature and enjoy staying in quaint log cabins throughout the country's beautiful national parks. Fall asleep to the rustling of trees and wake up to the sounds of birds.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip to the United States support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to the United States directly support our foundation partners, C ultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA) and t he Grand Canyon Conservancy .

Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA)

Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA) create inclusive, equitable opportunities for small Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) tourism businesses in the USA. Donations help CHEA provide access to industry-specific technical assistance, capacity building, and industry networks for small BIPOC travel and tourism businesses through their Diversity Tourism Academy (DTA). Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Find out more or make a donation

The Grand Canyon Conservancy

The Grand Canyon Conservancy is on a mission to protect the Grand Canyon National Park for future generations. With almost 6 million visitors to the park annually, the Grand Canyon Conservancy runs educational programs and immersive experiences that teach people about the park's cultural and environmental significance. Donations support trail restoration and maintenance, conservation and preservation of native vegetation and wildlife, and educational programs. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

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Popular Tours Of The Americas

The rugged frontiers and unique cultures of North, South and Central America make it an unforgettable place to discover and explore. With a wide selection of tours taking you everywhere in the Americas you want to go, at Flight Centre, we can take the guesswork out of your next holiday. Perfectly tailored to fit your budget, interests and leave duration, we can help you choose the best Americas tour for you.

Inca Discovery *SAVE 30%*

G ADVENTURES : WAS R24 099 - SAVING of R7230 Included!

Costa Rica Quest

G ADVENTURES : Nature called you to Costa Rica - now here you are, suspended in the jungle canopy, locking eyes with a curious monkey.

The Inca Trail

G ADVENTURES : We'll admit it, no one does the Inca Trail quite like us. We combine the cultural highlights of the Sacred Valley with the challenge...

Peru Explorer

COSTSAVER : SAVING of R2331 Included! | Book with Confidence - FREE 3 day Booking Hold | R3000 Deposit | Flexible Change Options and RAND PRICE...

Costa Rica Adventure

COSTSAVER : Book with Confidence - FREE 3 day Booking Hold | R3000 Deposit | Flexible Change Options and RAND PRICE GUARANTEE - once you've paid your...

Best of the Western US from San Fran

ON THE GO : This 7-day escorted tour begins in San Francisco, with guided sightseeing of highlights such as the Golden Gate Bridge and a San...

The Big Apple Niagara and Washington DC *SAVE R3820*

COSTSAVER : WAS R38 225 - SAVE R3820 PLUS Receive a R1000 Choice Optional Experience Credit on all 2025 Departures! | Book with Confidence - FREE 3...

South America Samba

Sacred Land of the Incas *20% SAVING - EXCLUSIVE TO FLIGHT CENTRE*

INTREPID : SAVING of R12 222 Included! | See Machu Picchu from all angles on a high-flying Peruvian adventure

Rhythms of the South

LA to The Bay *18-35 YEARS ONLY - SAVE R13 095*

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Mexico Grande *18-35 YEARS ONLY - SAVE R12 843*

CONTIKI : CYBER SALE - WAS R67 595 - SAVE R12 843! | Book with Confidence - No Booking Fee, No Change Fee | Secure your Spot from R1000 | RAND PRICE...

Tastes & Sounds of the South

TRAFALGAR : Book with Confidence - FREE 3 day Booking Hold | R3000 Deposit | Flexible Change Options and RAND PRICE GUARANTEE - once you've paid your...

Peru with Machu Picchu

INSIGHT VACATIONS : Book with Confidence - FREE 3 day Booking Hold | R3000 Deposit | Flexible Change Options and RAND PRICE GUARANTEE - once you've...

East Coast USA & Canada

About american tours.

Experience all the familiar sights of North America and uncover incredible moments in some of the most famous cities in the world. Get lost in an endless maze of skyscrapers in New York City, feel the tropical breeze in Miami, watch the sunset over Arizona’s Grand Canyon and witness the incredible power of Canada’s Niagara Falls. No matter if you’re drawn to the buzz of Hollywood or the rugged forests of the Rocky Mountains, we can help you choose the perfect tour for you.

Discover Central America’s fascinating secrets and dive into new cultures rich with history. Take a journey through the bustling streets of Mexico City, relax on the white sand beaches of Costa Rica or cross over the great Panama Canal. No matter if its adrenaline pumping sports, untouched natural beauty or the hectic streets of cosmopolitan cities, our experienced tour operators can bring the best of Central America to you.

Dive into vibrant cities of South America and experience a beautiful world of incredible new places. Whether you dream of finding your way through the brightly coloured buildings of Buenos Aires, swimming with the fish in the Galapagos Islands or samba dancing in Rio de Janiero with a Flight Centre tour through South America, we can help you to get the most out of your holiday time.

Looking for a tour or need expert advice?

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