California Explorer

Eagle flying over the Golden Gate Bridge
El Capitan rock in Yosemite National Park
Giant redwood trees
The Spanish Mission in Carmel
Waterfall in Yosemite National Park

Guided Walking

Guided Touring in California

Holiday reference: SFWHW

Print general information

Passport

A full passport is required and must be valid for at least six months from date of entry.

Visas

No visa is required by British citizens with full right of residence in the UK under the Visa Waiver Program. Other nationals should check with their nearest United States embassy or consulate for details of entry requirements.

Visa Waiver Program travellers entering the United States by air or sea carrier are required to register under the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/.

Health advice

Before booking, you should check with your doctor to see if any health precautions are needed. The following websites provide a wealth of information on travelling and health: www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk www.traveldoctor.co.uk

Visitors must pay for all medical services. Adequate health insurance is therefore essential.

Climate 

Monterey climate chart Yosemite climate chart

California famously enjoys a very agreeable year-round climate. We visit in early summer and in the autumn when temperatures are at the most agreeable and days on the whole should be sunny and dry. There may be some rain, particularly in the mountains, although it usually passes quite quickly.  

Money

The local currency in the United States of America is the US Dollar.

Tipping

Tipping is not compulsory, but is a means of recognising good service in most countries. Previously we have included tipping in the price of our holidays, but guest feedback has shown that guests would prefer this to be at their own discretion – to give more, or less, as a reflection of the service.

As guidance, we would recommend you allow £50 per person for tips on this holiday to cover local staff and services.

For flights information please see the Dates and Prices tab 

Next steps

Book online

Or call our travel experts:
0845 470 8558

International customers please call:
+44 20 8732 1250

Our lines are open:
Monday to Friday 09:00 - 19:00
Saturday 09:00 - 13.00

Our brochures

2012 Walking & Outdoor holidays brochure

View online or order our brochures here.

Talk to us

Telephone

Call our reservations team:

0845 470 8558
or email reservations

Mon to Fri 9am - 7pm
Sat 9am - 1pm

Or, Contact us

Keep in touch

Find out more

Get the latest special offers, interesting news and competitions straight to your inbox in our monthly e-newsletter.

Recommend a friend

Recommend a friend 2

Recommend someone new to HF Holidays and you both can save £50.

Join us: