Best of the South: Atlanta to New Orleans
Trip Code: SSKYC
Why we love it
Learn about Charleston's rich and complex past with an expert guide, visiting historic landmarks hearing the stories behind the city., Take a guided tour of Bonaventure Cemetery where you'll hear stories of the fascinating people interred here among the live oaks dripping with Spanish moss., Earn your place in the Country Music Hall of Fame as you take part in a recording session with a professional sound engineer at the iconic Studio B in Nashville., Visit Biltmore House and Garden, the United States’ largest home, and perhaps stop for lunch at the on-site winery., Enjoy plenty of free evenings to explore the many musical venues of Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans., It doesn’t get much better than Southern food – learn how to cook a classic New Orleans Cajun feast, sample the local food of Savannah on a walking tour and end your trip on a high note at a a jazz brunch.
Is this trip right for me?
The South gets mighty steamy in the summertime. Pack appropriately, drink plenty of water and you might even grow to love it. September through to November is rainy season, so if you’re travelling over this period you should pack a rain jacket and waterproof shoes.
You're in the Deep South of the USA, so expect a lot of (delicious) fried food and barbecue. Vegetarians may have fewer options, as a lot of southern cuisine is meat-based.
With plenty on included city tours, this trip can involve a lot of walking. Please ensure you bring sturdy walking shoes and comfortable clothes.
You'll be travelling in a private vehicle with your group. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. It’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.
Important information
1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm on Day 1. Please make your own way to the Joining Point Hotel listed in the Essential Trip Information for this itinerary.
2. On the last day the included Jazz brunch is expected to finish around 12pm. Please do not book flights that depart before 3pm if you wish to participate in the brunch.
3. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
What to bring/pack
All luggage is carried in trailers or inside the vehicle so please don't bring more than one medium sized bag, backpack or suitcase (20kg/44lb maximum) per person. Your suitcase/rucksack may get some rough handling, so make sure it's a tough one. A small daypack with your water bottle and camera may be carried with you inside the vehicle.
ESSENTIAL:
Reusable water bottle. We recommend at least a 1.5 litre capacity. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. Tap water in the USA and Canada is safe to drink and there are many places to fill up along the way, so please save plastic by bringing your own water bottle.
Sun protection - hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
Lightweight, breathable clothing you can layer. No matter the season, you should be prepared for changing temperatures and weather conditions. Make sure to have a warm outer layer even in summer months as well as a waterproof jacket.
Closed-in walking/hiking shoes. We highly recommend that you take a pair of comfortable, closed-in/closed-toe walking shoes. Closed-in shoes will help to protect your feet from cuts and scratches when walking through bush/grass-lands, and will also act as a barrier protection in rare cases against bites or stings from dangerous animals in this environment.
Personal travel documents which may include a passport, visa, driver's license, travel insurance, flight tickets and your Essential Trip Information. Photocopies of these documents stored separately from the originals will be handy. While not valid, a photocopy of your identification makes it much easier to obtain replacements if necessary.
RECOMMENDED:
Cell phone, camera with spare batteries, charger, and power/plug adaptor (Types A & B are used in the USA and Canada. Voltage is 120V)
Insect repellent (insects are present intermittently all over the USA and Canada depending on recent rainfall.)
A cotton bandana or scarf. Can be wetted and worn around the neck to facilitate evaporative cooling in high temperatures, used as sun protection, or used to protect your neck and head from cold/rain.
Swimwear
Comfortable sandals/Recovery shoes. To put on after a day of hiking or during a long ride in the van.
Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes, anti-diarrhoeal, antibacterial gel, wet wipes, bandaids/plasters etc.
OPTIONAL:
Travel pillow if you like to sleep during long drives
Lip balm and extra moisturizer if traveling to arid desert areas.
Ear plugs to guard against a snoring roommate
A good book, a journal or headphones to listen to music with.
WINTER:
If you are travelling on one of our winter trips in North America be prepared for temperatures to drop to well below zero (Celsius). We recommend you bring shoes for walking across snow or ice (good waterproof walking boots with a good grip), a warm wind and waterproof jacket and trousers, gloves or mittens, thermals and base layers, fleece, good head wear and sunglasses.
If you need some further tips for packing, you can always check out our ultimate packing list here:, https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list
Physical rating
Joining your group
Hyatt Place Atlanta Downtown, 330 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta. Georgia, United States., Atlanta, 30308, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Phone: +1 4045771980
Alternate Joining Point
For trips departing on the following dates
use this joining point.
20 Mar 2025 (SSKYC250320)
03 Apr 2025 (SSKYC250403)
08 May 2025 (SSKYC250508)
15 May 2025 (SSKYC250515)
29 May 2025 (SSKYC250529)
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07 Aug 2025 (SSKYC250807)
14 Aug 2025 (SSKYC250814)
04 Sep 2025 (SSKYC250904)
11 Sep 2025 (SSKYC250911)
02 Oct 2025 (SSKYC251002)
23 Oct 2025 (SSKYC251023)
06 Nov 2025 (SSKYC251106)
04 Dec 2025 (SSKYC251204)
19 Mar 2026 (SSKYC260319)
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07 May 2026 (SSKYC260507)
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28 May 2026 (SSKYC260528)
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25 Jun 2026 (SSKYC260625)
09 Jul 2026 (SSKYC260709)
23 Jul 2026 (SSKYC260723)
06 Aug 2026 (SSKYC260806)
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03 Sep 2026 (SSKYC260903)
10 Sep 2026 (SSKYC260910)
01 Oct 2026 (SSKYC261001)
22 Oct 2026 (SSKYC261022)
05 Nov 2026 (SSKYC261105)
03 Dec 2026 (SSKYC261203)
Hyatt Place Atlanta Downtown
330 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta. Georgia
United States.
Atlanta
30308
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Phone: +1 4045771980
Joining instructions
Finishing your trip
Best Western Plus French Quarter Courtyard Hotel, 920 N Rampart Street, New Orleans, New Orleans, 70116-3011, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Phone: +1 (504)5243333
New Orleans, Louisiana is a mecca of great food, culture, music and history. Our French Quarter location is the main reason many guests choose us, but we offer more than an unbeatable location. Our tropical courtyard features an outdoor swimming pool, the perfect place to cool down after a day of adventure or Mardi Gras festivities. A free hot breakfast is our staple, and it includes waffles, fresh fruits and pastries, choice cereals and yogurts, along with 100% Arabica coffee and juices.
Alternate Finish Point
Taxi: A cab ride costs approximately US$40.00 from the airport to the hotel. There may be an additional charge for extra baggage.
Shuttle service is available from the airport to hotels and various other locations in the New Orleans for $30.00 (per person, one-way) or $56.00 (per person, round-trip). These fares include three (3) bags per person. Additional baggage may be subject to additional fees. Passengers can purchase tickets at the Airport at the Airport Shuttle ticket booth located on Level 1 Baggage Claim between Doors 3 and 4.
Meals & dietary information
Breakfasts included: 13
Lunches included: 3
Dinners included: 2
While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let your booking agent know prior to departure.
Climate & seasonal information
WEATHER IN NORTH AMERICA
Due to the size and topography of the US and Canada, there's a huge amount of variation in the climate. We recommend you consider both the season and the part of North America you intend to visit, so that you can best pack for your adventure. We recommend you check the weather in your destination 10 days prior to your arrival to help guide your packing choices.
SOUTHEAST USA
The Southeastern USA generally experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers, mild winters, and a significant amount of rainfall.
Summer (June to August):
Temperature: Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching above 90°F (32°C) and high humidity levels. Heatwaves are common, so it's important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Rainfall: Thunderstorms are frequent during the summer months, and rainfall can be heavy. Be prepared for sudden downpours and the possibility of flash floods.
Fall (September to November):
Temperature: Fall brings milder temperatures, with highs ranging from the 60s to 80s°F (15-30°C). Humidity levels generally decrease, making it a more comfortable time to visit.
Hurricane Season: The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30 with its peak from September to October. While not every part of the southeastern USA is directly affected by hurricanes, it's essential to be aware of weather updates during this period.
Winter (December to February):
Temperature: Winters are relatively mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s°F (4-20°C). However, cold snaps can occur, particularly in northern parts of the region.
Occasional Frost: Some areas may experience occasional frost or freezing temperatures, especially in inland and northern locations.
Spring (March to May):
Temperature: Spring brings warmer temperatures, with highs ranging from the 60s to 80s°F (15-30°C). It's a popular time for outdoor activities and festivals.
Pollen: Pollen levels can be high during spring, causing allergies for some individuals. Consider this if you have allergies.
USA NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
The following national holidays are observed in the US, which can affect our itinerary as traffic can be extreme, and shops, restaurants and attractions can be closed:
New Year's Day (01 January)
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday of January)
Washington's Birthday (third Monday of February)
Memorial Day (last Monday of May)
Independence Day (4 July)
Labor Day (first Monday in September)
Columbus Day (second Monday of October)
Veterans Day (11 November)
Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday of November)
Christmas Day (25 December)
In case of emergency
POLICE AND AMBULANCE
In case of an emergency, local authorities can be contacted by calling 911 – this is the toll free phone number for the police, fire department and the ambulance in the USA and Canada. In case of doubt, call the operator on 0.
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time.
For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us
In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below:
Intrepid local operator : Available for phone call on +1 435-231-9696
Intrepid local operator : Available for phone call on +1 435-231-9696.
Accommodations
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
Transportation
AIRPORT TRANSFERS IN THE USA & CANADA
We recommend taxis and rideshare services like Lyft and Uber when traveling to and from hotels in the USA and Canada. These services are widely available across North America, offering convenient and accessible transportation options. Private transfers in North America incur high costs and present an increased risk of missed connections due to their fixed schedules. In contrast, taxis and rideshares offer both cost-effectiveness and flexibility, ensuring a smoother journey. With transparent pricing, GPS tracking, and on-demand availability, we believe that taxis and rideshare apps not only offer a reliable alternative to private transfers but also provide a secure, trustworthy, and budget-friendly transportation option for our customers.
NORTH AMERICA VEHICLES
Our large fleet of 15-passenger vans are fully equipped with air-conditioning system, V8 engines and any camping or cooking equipment needed for your trip. Most have cloth-upholstered seats and carpeted interior with radio or CD players. Your luggage is typically transported in a trailer which is towed behind the van.
The vans are regularly serviced by a well-established network of maintenance and service facilities throughout the continent. However, unforeseen maintenance problems can still occur while on the road and we appreciate the patience of our travellers as we make necessary repairs as quickly as possible.
While your group will have a van for all included activities on the trip, the services of the van and leader may not be available for your use during free time, or after you have arrived for the day. If you need a special trip into town you may need to arrange transport or a taxi.