Death Valley rewards careful planning: huge distances, minimal services, and unforgettable vistas. A well‑prepared rental gives you freedom and safety.
Start with a LAS car rental or in‑town car hire. Top off fuel in Pahrump or Amargosa Valley, carry extra water, and download offline maps — mobile signal is inconsistent in and around the park.
Safety First
- Check road and weather updates on the official park channels before you depart.
- Avoid overexertion in heat; plan short walks around sunrise and late afternoon.
- Keep the A/C efficient by parking in shade where possible and using windshield sunshades.
- Stay on paved roads unless your rental agreement explicitly allows maintained dirt routes.
- Tell someone your route and expected return time if traveling solo.
Photo Plan (East to West)
- Zabriskie Point: Sunrise over the badlands — classic first stop as you enter from Death Valley Junction.
- Badwater Basin: Walk the salt flats; hat and sun protection are essential even on cooler days.
- Artist Drive: One‑way spur to Artist’s Palette; colors pop in late‑day light.
- Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: Low‑angle light shapes the dunes beautifully; tread lightly on soft sand.
- Optional: Dante’s View (if roads are open) for a sweeping look across Badwater Basin.
Trip Notes
- Fuel is limited and can be expensive inside the park — fill up before you enter and reset your trip odometer.
- A national‑parks annual pass can pay off if you’re also visiting Zion, Bryce, or Lake Mead this week.
- International visitors should carry their home license, passport, and an IDP for clarity if stopped.
- Keep snacks and 2–4 liters of water per person; electrolytes help on warm days.
Sample Day from Las Vegas
- 07:00 Depart via NV‑160 to Pahrump for a top‑off and coffee.
- 09:30 Enter via Death Valley Junction toward Zabriskie Point and Furnace Creek.
- 12:00 Badwater Basin walk; lunch in the shade or picnic in the car.
- 15:00 Artist Drive loop.
- 17:00 Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes for golden hour; return via Beatty or Pahrump.
Loop back to Vegas or continue west to LAX or southeast to PHX for one‑way returns. Northern itineraries can route via Utah pick‑ups during cooler months.
Why Hola Car Rentals
Choose the right vehicle and coverage in a few clicks. Hola Car Rentals shows transparent pricing, includes the protections travelers value most, and supports flexible changes if the park issues weather or road advisories.
- Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
- All‑Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage on most itineraries.
- No additional fees — save up to 60% compared with counter rates.
- Free travel insurance up to US$150,000 on selected plans.
- Cashback on tolls to keep road costs down.
FAQs
- Is a high‑clearance vehicle required? Not for the classic paved sights above; remote backroads often require high‑clearance and are usually excluded by rental contracts.
- Can I visit in summer? Yes, but plan very early/late stops, carry extra water, and avoid long mid‑day hikes. Consider winter or spring for milder conditions.
- Is cell coverage available? Expect dead zones; download maps and pack a car charger.
Ready to drive? Book with Hola Car Rentals for transparent pricing and total peace of mind.
What to Pack
- 2–4 liters of water per person for the day, plus electrolytes in hot months.
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen; lip balm and moisturizer help in dry air.
- Portable battery and car charger; offline maps already downloaded.
- Light jacket — desert weather can swing 20°F between day and night.
- Closed‑toe shoes for overlooks and short trails.
Vehicle & Coverage Tips
- Compact cars work great for paved routes and easy parking at viewpoints.
- Choose a midsize sedan or SUV if you’re carrying coolers, camera bags, or hiking gear.
- Add an additional driver for long days so you can switch safely.
- Select the All‑Inclusive+ rate on Hola Car Rentals for maximum protection and fewer surprises at the counter.
