USA Travel Guide: The Ultimate California Road Trip for Kiwi Travellers
Everything you need to know about USA travel and a California road trip.
Your complete USA travel guide for Kiwi road trippers.
Planning USA travel from New Zealand is about more than ticking off famous landmarks - it’s about embracing the open road, epic landscapes and cities that feel larger than life. If you’ve ever dreamed of a classic USA road trip, the Golden California route is the perfect place to start.
Designed with Kiwi travellers in mind, this guide blends inspiration and practical advice to help you confidently plan your travel to America. From California’s coastal icons to desert highways and natural wonders, here’s how to turn your American roadie into reality.
Why the USA is a top destination for New Zealand travellers.
The United States remains one of the most popular long‑haul destinations for Kiwis - and for good reason. With direct flights from Auckland to major hubs like Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York, travel to America is easier than ever.
What makes USA travel so appealing?
- Enormous variety - beaches, cities, deserts and national parks in one trip
- World‑class road infrastructure, ideal for self‑drive holidays
- Iconic destinations that feel familiar yet exciting through movies and pop culture
- Endless options for families, couples and adventure seekers
The USA offers the space and scale to truly slow down and explore.
The Golden California route: a classic USA road trip.
If you’re new to USA road trip planning, California is the perfect starting point. This route links some of America’s most famous cities with jaw‑dropping natural scenery, making it perfect for a 10 to 14 day holiday.
San Francisco: start your journey in style.
Your USA travel adventure begins in San Francisco, a city known for its rolling hills, diverse neighbourhoods and iconic landmarks.
Highlights include:
- Walking or cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge
- Riding historic cable cars through the city
- Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39
- Taking a ferry to Alcatraz Island
Spend two to three nights here to adjust to the time difference and soak up the West Coast vibe before hitting the road.
Los Angeles: lights, camera, action.
Drive south along Highway 101 or the scenic Pacific Coast Highway to Los Angeles. This leg of your California road trip showcases classic coastal scenery and laid‑back beach towns.
In LA, you can:
- Wander the Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Visit Griffith Observatory for city views
- Relax at Santa Monica or Venice Beach
- Shop in Beverly Hills or explore local food markets
Los Angeles delivers everything you could imagine when you think about travel to America.
Through the Mojave Desert to Las Vegas.
Leaving the coast behind, your USA road trip heads inland through the Mojave Desert. The landscape shifts dramatically as palm trees give way to wide‑open desert roads.
Stop along the way at:
- Joshua Tree National Park for unique desert scenery
- Route 66 landmarks for classic Americana photo ops
Before long, the neon lights of Las Vegas appear on the horizon.
Las Vegas: the entertainment capital of the world.
Las Vegas is more than just casinos. While trying your luck is part of the fun, the city also offers:
- World‑class live shows and concerts
- Award‑winning restaurants by celebrity chefs
- Unique attractions and luxury shopping
- Poolside relaxation and spa experiences
Two nights is usually perfect before continuing your USA travel adventure.
Grand Canyon: a must‑see American icon.
No travel to America feels complete without seeing the Grand Canyon. A short drive from Las Vegas, this natural wonder delivers a sense of scale that photos simply can’t capture.
Top experiences include:
- Walking the South Rim viewpoints
- Hiking into the canyon for adventurous travellers
- Scenic helicopter flights
- Sunset photography over the canyon walls
This is often the highlight of a USA road trip .
Optional detours for extra adventure.
If time allows, consider adding:
- Zion National Park - dramatic cliffs and hiking trails
- Bryce Canyon - striking rock formations and cooler temperatures
- Palm Springs - retro desert style and relaxation
These additions add depth to your USA travel experience without straying too far from the main route.
Practical tips for USA travel from New Zealand.
Entry requirements
New Zealand passport holders can travel to the USA under the Visa Waiver Program for up to 90 days. You’ll need an approved ESTA before departure. Be sure to stay up to date with government travel advice as this can be subject to change.
Driving in America
- Automatic cars are standard
- Roads are well‑signposted and easy to navigate
- Plan fuel stops carefully when driving through desert areas
A self‑drive itinerary is one of the best ways to travel through America at your own pace.
Best time to visit
For California and the Southwest, the best months are:
- April to June
- September to October
These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds and better value - Perfect for a California road trip.
What to pack
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light layers for changing temperatures
- Sun protection for desert and coastal areas
- International driver licence (recommended)
Why book your USA holiday with a House of Travel Specialist.
Planning USA travel can feel overwhelming because of the sheer size of the country. Working with a knowledgeable travel expert ensures:
- Well‑paced itineraries suited to Kiwi travellers
- Access to competitive flight and accommodation deals
- Insider tips you won’t find in generic guides
- Peace of mind if plans change
A tailored approach makes travel to America smoother and more enjoyable.
Turn your USA travel dreams into reality.
From the hills of San Fran to the neon glow of Vegas and the awe‑inspiring Grand Canyon - a USA road trip captures the essence of American adventure. Explore our latest USA holiday deals or speak with your local House of Travel USA expert today, and start planning your ultimate holiday to America.
Explore our USA holiday deals 19
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Route 66 - Eastbound – Suggested Self Drive
Highway 1 Classic: San Diego - San Francisco – Suggested Self Drive
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Route 66 and Texas Hill Country – Suggested Self Drive
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Pacific Northwest by Rail
The Californian - by Rail
Rhythms of the South – Suggested Self Drive
Great North Music Tour – Suggested Self Drive
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The Civil Rights History Trail – Suggested Self Drive
The Laylow Waikiki, Autograph Collection
Music Cities of America
Connect with a USA specialist
Cheryl Edwards
House of Travel Albany
I’ve been fortunate to
travel extensively and live in some amazing cities.
I'd love to inspire you to travel more by drawing on my personal experiences
& knowledge to make your dreams a reality
As a travel agent with 30+ (gulp) years of experience, I’ve learned that
no two journeys are ever the same—and that’s what keeps this job exciting.
While travel is one of life’s greatest pleasures, planning it can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s where I come in. I’ll take care of every detail so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories.
"Because life’s too short not to see the world"
Cheryl
Wendy Harrison
House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing
I am an adventure seeker with a passion for exploring the world and experiencing everything it has to offer. I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting experiences and have a particular love for small group tours and adventures. Whether it's cruising in the Galapagos Islands or exploring new cities, I love the intimacy and camaraderie that comes with traveling in small groups.
When I'm not adventuring, you can often find me at live sports and events, cheering on my favourite teams and soaking up the excitement of the crowd. Or I'm equally at home soaking up the sun during a beautiful island beach holiday.
I also have a love for cruising and have had the opportunity to explore new destinations such as the Mediterranean, the coastlines of Spain and Portugal, the Rhône and Saône Rivers in Southern France, canal boating in England, and cruising across the Tasman. All while enjoying the comforts and amenities of life on the water.
One of my favourite pastimes is people watching whether it's from a cafe in Paris or on the streets of New York. For me, there is nothing more fascinating than observing the unique and diverse cultures of the world and the interactions of the people within them. I'm always seeking out new experiences and adventures, driven by a deep curiosity and a thirst for knowledge and understanding.
Wendy
Carly Dorrington
House of Travel Papamoa
As a passionate globetrotter, I've explored the corners of the world with my three adventurous children and alongside friends and family, indulging in everything from backpacking escapades to luxurious resort retreats and exhilarating cruises.
My journey through the tapestry of travel experiences has been enriched by my upbringing in England and my time spent living amidst the captivating landscapes of Western Australia. It's these diverse backgrounds that have instilled in me a profound love for travel and a deep understanding of the intricacies of exploring different cultures and landscapes.
My journey through countless destinations has ignited a fervent dedication to curating unforgettable travel experiences, not just for myself, but for fellow wanderlust souls seeking to fulfil their travel dreams. Whether you're yearning for the rugged thrill of backpacking, the tranquil family getaways, the opulence of fancy resorts, or the serene luxury of cruising, I'm here to weave together the perfect itinerary tailored to your desires.
I want to take the stress out of the planning so you can focus on the excitement of your trip. I am highly organised and like to ensure everything has been thought of and accounted for. Communicating clearly along the way with you so you feel confident and reassured.
I would love to help you with your next journey....wherever it may be!
Alisha Lockie
House of Travel Ferrymead
As a travel expert with over 10 years experience in the industry, and a personal passion for adventure, I'm dedicated to helping you create truly unforgettable journeys.
Having travelled to 47 countries (and still counting), I bring a wealth of personal experience and industry know-how to help you cut through the noise and explore the world in a way that's tailored just for you.
Travel isn't just about booking flights and hotels, it's about navigating the unexpected, something that's more important than ever in today's post-COVID world. With disruptions becoming more common, having an expert on your side can make all the difference. Whether it's rebooking flights, rearranging plans, or finding local solutions, I'll ensure your trip is smooth and stress-free, so you can enjoy every moment.
To me, travel is more than seeing new places, it's a chance to connect, learn and grow. Wherever your next adventure takes you, I'll be here to make sure it's stress-free, seamless, and everything you've dreamed of.
Alisha
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