Death Valley National Park California, USA Travel Guide
This airport measures approximately a 2 to 2.5-hour drive to the eastern park entrance (Furnace Creek). This is the most common and convenient gateway for many visitors, notably those arriving from international destinations or the eastern United States. LAS offers a wide range of car rental options.
This airport requires approximately a 4.5 to 5-hour drive to the western park entrance, or slightly longer to the central Furnace Creek area. LAX has extensive international connections, making it a good option for travelers coming from Asia, Europe, or other global hubs who plan to explore more of California before or after Death Valley.
All major U.S. Domestic airlines serve LAS and LAX, including Southwest, American, Delta, United, Spirit, and Allegiant. International carriers also fly into LAX and LAS from global hubs.
Flight availability generally remains consistent. Prices fluctuate based on demand. Peak travel seasons (holidays, spring break, Death Valley's cooler peak season) typically see higher fares. Flexibility with dates helps.
Standard international airport facilities are available at LAS and LAX, including car rental, dining, shopping, currency exchange, lounges, and Wi-Fi.
Not applicable. Death Valley National Park exists entirely within the United States. No international border crossings relate to reaching the park.
No passenger train service directly connects to or near Death Valley National Park. Amtrak serves California and Nevada, but routes do not extend into the park's remote area.
No long-distance bus service directly serves or operates within Death Valley National Park. Buses serve gateway cities like Las Vegas or Los Angeles.
Self-driving represents the most useful and practical way to explore Death Valley National Park. The park is vast, with significant distances between attractions. Public transportation is non-existent within the park. A personal vehicle has the freedom and flexibility for seeing diverse landscapes at your own pace.
Understand the roads and drive safely in the park.
Prepare your vehicle for the desert environment.
All major car rental companies operate at LAS and LAX.
No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing Death Valley National Park. Standard U.S. Departure taxes, if any, are typically included in your airfare.
Plan your departure as carefully as your arrival.
Factor in sufficient time for airport check-in and security procedures, especially for international flights, which often recommend arriving 3 hours before departure.
Major airports like LAS and LAX offer a wide array of dining establishments, from fast food to sit-down restaurants, for departing travelers.
Duty-free and retail shopping, along with various airline lounges, provide comfort and convenience before your flight.
Planning internal movement is as important as your arrival and departure. Death Valley's vastness requires careful consideration of transportation within its boundaries.
