Located right in the heart of California’s Central Valley, Bakersfield is the perfect starting point for unforgettable adventures both nearby and beyond state borders. Whether you’re planning a group getaway, school trip, corporate outing, or bachelorette weekend, a charter bus rental offers comfort, convenience, and flexibility for your travel plans. Here’s a guide to some of the best destinations you can explore with a Bakersfield charter bus rental.

Nearby Destinations in California

1. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (Approx. 2 hours)

Experience breathtaking natural beauty at these iconic national parks. Known for their towering sequoia trees, stunning mountain views, and outdoor activities like hiking and camping, this is the perfect spot for both adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. A charter bus provides an easy transportation solution to this must-see destination.

2. Los Angeles (Approx. 1 hr 45 min)

Take a trip to the City of Angels to explore endless attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, Universal Studios, and Santa Monica Pier. Whether you’re traveling with a school group or planning a weekend escape with friends, a charter bus ensures everyone arrives hassle-free.

3. Wine Country Getaway in Paso Robles (Approx. 2 hours)

Discover Paso Robles, an up-and-coming destination for boutique wineries and farm-to-table dining. A charter bus ensures that you and your group can enjoy the wine tastings responsibly and in style, making it perfect for bachelorette parties or romantic group getaways.

4. Pismo Beach (Approx. 2 hours)

Savor a relaxing day at the beach along California’s picturesque Central Coast. A trip to Pismo Beach comes with opportunities for surfing, dining on fresh seafood, or riding ATVs along the Oceano Dunes.

5. Death Valley National Park (Approx. 4 hours)

Adventure awaits in one of the most unique landscapes in North America. Marvel at surreal sand dunes, vibrant canyons, and star-filled night skies in Death Valley. Comfortable seating and climate control in a charter bus don’t just ensure a smooth ride—they make even the desert heat more manageable.

Longer Getaways Across State Borders

6. Las Vegas, Nevada (Approx. 4.5 hours)

Travel to the entertainment capital of the world in comfort and style. Whether your group wants to hit the casinos, catch a live show, or enjoy the luxury shopping and dining scene, a charter bus ensures the trip is just as fun as the destination.

7. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona (Approx. 9 hours)

Have a longer weekend? Bask in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon. Perfect for educational trips, photography clubs, or family reunions, the private comfort of a charter bus makes this incredible destination worth the ride.

8. Lake Tahoe, Nevada/California Border (Approx. 6.5 hours)

A year-round destination offering skiing, hiking, and kayaking, Lake Tahoe is perfect for groups looking to immerse themselves in outdoor adventures. Relax on the ride there with ample room for your gear and a safe, reliable route.

1. Type and Size of the Bus
   • Type: Different types of buses (charter bus, minibus, executive coach, party bus, etc.) have varying costs based on their amenities and features.
   • Capacity: Larger buses generally cost more due to their size and the number of passengers they can accommodate.
2. Distance and Duration
   • Mileage: Costs increase with the total distance traveled.
   • Trip Duration: Longer rental periods, such as multi-day trips, result in higher charges, especially if overnight stays for the driver are required.
   • Route Complexity: Multiple stops or routes with high traffic can add to the cost.
3. Timing and Season
   • Time of Year: Demand during peak seasons (summer, major holidays) typically raises prices.
   • Day of the Week: Weekend rentals often cost more than weekday trips.
   • Time of Day: Night or off-hour bookings can sometimes involve additional fees.
4. Pick-Up and Drop-Off Location
   • “Garage time” to your starting point may incur extra costs.
   • Special accommodations for remote or hard-to-reach locations could also increase expenses.
5. Driver and Staff
   • Driver fees, which include wages, per diem, and overnight accommodations (if needed), are often factored into the total price.
   • Additional staff, such as tour guides or assistants, may involve extra charges.
6. Fuel Costs
   • Fluctuations in fuel prices can affect the overall rental cost, especially for long-distance trips.
7. Permits and Tolls
   • Road tolls, parking permits, and special city permits (if required for your route) can raise the total price.
8. Insurance and Liability
   • Extra coverage beyond the federal minimum for insurance coverage or liability waivers.
9. Special Requests
   • Custom itineraries, last-minute bookings, or changes to the schedule may involve additional charges.

Tips to Manage Costs

• Book in advance to secure better rates.
• Choose a bus that meets your exact needs without unnecessary extras.
• Consolidate routes and stops to minimize time and distance.

Let us know if you’d like help with specific estimates or further advice!

We only partner with bus operators who share our steadfast commitment to safety and service. We vet all of our operators through a process that includes:

• Safety Records: We examine safety records in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Safer database to ensure the operator in question is fully compliant with the DOT.
• Assessing On-Time Performance: Not being late is crucial, so we select partners that have successfully delivered for us numerous times in the past.
• Customer Reviews: Ratings from past customers helps us gauge overall satisfaction and service quality.

We also require our partners to uphold high standards in cleanliness and customer service, ensuring all trips are as pleasant as they are safe. Our thorough approach guarantees that from the moment you get on board, you can relax knowing that safety is our top priority.

Planning your charter bus trip has never been easier! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you secure a bus rental for your trip:

1. Contact a Reservation Specialist:
   • Reach out to one of our reservation specialists by calling 866-205-5197! They’re available to assist you with all your travel needs and answer any questions you may have.
2. Identify Your Destination:
   • Decide where you want to go, and from where- perhaps enjoy an interactive experience at Murray Family Farms? Or see a show at the Fox Theater or have a relaxing day at Pismo Beach?
3. Discuss Your Travel Requirements:
   • Provide details about your travel dates, passenger count, and any other special requirements. This will help our specialist recommend the best bus options for your group.
4. Select Your Bus Type:
   • Choose from a variety of charter buses, such as minibuses for smaller groups or full-sized coaches for larger parties. Each type offers different amenities, so be sure to discuss your preferences.
5. Receive a Quote:
   • Get a free price quote based on your travel itinerary, group size and date. This will ensure you have a clear understanding of the costs involved.
6. Finalize Your Booking:
   • Once you’re satisfied with the arrangements, confirm your booking with your account executive. The account executive will finalize your itinerary and provide any additional information you need.
7. Prepare for Your Trip:
   • Pack your bags, gather your group and get ready for an exciting adventure!

By following these steps, you’ll have a memorable experience booking a charter bus for your next trip. Happy trails!

When you book a charter bus rental, understanding the payment process is important to ensure there are no misunderstandings. Here’s a breakdown of how it typically works:

1. Get a Quote: After you have selected the perfect bus for your trip and shared your itinerary, you’ll receive a detailed quote. Once you accept this quote, you can move forward to the payment stage.
2. Secure Your Booking with a Deposit: To lock in your reservation, a deposit of 20% is required if the trip is more than 30 days away. This will ensure that your bus is reserved exclusively for your trip.
3. Payment Confirmation and Dates: When the deposit is processed, you’ll get a confirmation. This will include important information, such as the deadline to pay the remaining balance- always 30 days prior to the trip.
4. Payment Methods: A credit card is generally required to finalize the reservation. This will ensure that any future payments can be processed efficiently. We also accept payment by ACH, wire and check.

By following these steps, your North American Charter Bus rental will be secured, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.