yosemite private tours yosemite private tours
Premier Yosemite Private Tours Specialist
yosemite private tours yosemite private tours
Yosemite Private Tours L.L.C


Introducing Our All-Star Team of Yosemite National Park Tour Guides - Your Adventure Awaits!


Welcome to the realm of Yosemite National Park Private Tour Guides, where the intersection of adventure and luxury is meticulously crafted in every moment. Envision embarking on a journey to Yosemite National Park, guided by specialists committed to transforming your exploration into an unforgettable masterpiece. Our team is not only dedicated but passionately driven to ensure every detail surpasses your expectations. Anticipate a seamless fusion of excitement and reassurance as we extend an invitation to rediscover Yosemite like never before. Your extraordinary adventure commences with us – where each step signifies a commitment to unparalleled excellence. Join us and acquaint yourself with our Yosemite National Park expert guides! Our team is poised to transform your adventure into a journey of joy and discovery. Brace yourself for a thrilling exploration led by guides who possess an intimate knowledge of Yosemite. Let the excitement unfurl!



Meet Bud Bates: Our Passionate President Leading the Way to Yosemite's Wonders! Traveling to Yosemite is not a right, but a privilege," affirms Bud Bates, President of Yosemite Private Tours. With an unwavering commitment to conservation and a deep-rooted love for Yosemite, Bud invites you to experience the magic of this pristine destination. A true lover of nature and a staunch advocate for environmental preservation, Bud's connection with Yosemite dates back to 1978. His enduring support for conservation efforts shines through his contributions to esteemed organizations like the Sierra Club and Yosemite Conservancy.
Originally hailing from Florida, Bud's fascination with Yosemite's unique biology and ecology led him to make California his permanent home after a decade of international travels. His diverse background as an international student has enriched his understanding of literature, art history, and languages—he speaks an impressive six languages fluently. Beyond his role as president, Bates is a seasoned artist, photographer, and dedicated community volunteer. With a heart for exploration and a keen eye for capturing the beauty of Yosemite, Bud brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to our team.


Jonathan: Meet Jonathan, the Rugby Enthusiast Turned Yosemite Maestro!

Originally from Auckland, New Zealand, Jonathan kickstarted his journey as a professional rugby player during his college years. His passion for adventure and exploration led him across the globe, landing him in New York City in 1998. There, he began his career as a vibrant tour guide, igniting his love for showcasing the world's wonders.

Jonathan's quest for discovery took him to the vibrant city of Las Vegas, where he led small groups on enthralling expeditions to iconic destinations like Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, Brice Canyon, and more. His enthusiasm for exploration only grew, leading him to Los Angeles, where he continued his role as a tour guide for five exhilarating years.

In 2004, Jonathan found his true calling amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite National Park, joining Yosemite Private Tours L.L.C. His dedication and unwavering passion for Yosemite have reached new heights, as he recently celebrated an incredible milestone of conducting 1000 tours to this mesmerizing haven.
With Jonathan, you get the best of both worlds: an unwavering love for rugby matched only by his deep affection for the awe-inspiring beauty of Yosemite. Join him on an adventure that seamlessly combines his two great loves into an unforgettable experience.


Meet Leo: The Yosemite Guru with an Artistic Twist! A true Yosemite enthusiast, Leo might as well call the stunning landscapes of Yosemite his second home. Hailing from the San Francisco Bay Area, he's immersed himself in the wonders of this majestic park more than his hometown. As a seasoned tour guide, Leo specializes in backpacking and hiking, navigating Yosemite's iconic landmarks and uncovering its hidden treasures effortlessly.

His knack for guiding extends beyond just pointing out famous sights; Leo's unique style and exceptional service have garnered him a stream of glowing 5-star reviews from delighted adventurers.

Beyond the trails, Leo's artistic talents shine brightly. When not leading tours, he channels his creativity as a professional artist and sculptor, infusing his passion for nature into his art. Currently, he's steering his aspirations toward becoming a national park ranger, fueled by his unwavering dedication to Yosemite and its preservation.

Leo's commitment goes above and beyond. He's always ready to take that extra step, ensuring each visitor relishes an unforgettable and unparalleled Yosemite experience. Join Leo on a journey that seamlessly blends art, nature, and adventure into an unforgettable escapade!


Adam: Your Fun-loving Yosemite Maestro

Hailing from the enchanting streets of Paris, Adam's love for art and literature led him to study at the prestigious Sorbonne University. He began his journey as a certified tour guide, showcasing masterpieces in renowned Parisian museums like the Musee d'Orsay and Le Louvre. His passion for exploration took him across Europe, guiding tours through France's iconic landmarks and beyond, weaving tales across Belgium, Holland, the UK, and beyond.

In 1996, he ventured across the pond to volunteer at the Atlanta Olympics, kickstarting his American adventure. Exploring the nooks and crannies of the US, he found his place in San Francisco, diving into a new chapter. Since 1998, Adam's been a whirlwind tour guide, navigating California, Oregon, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Colorado, painting vivid pictures of these diverse landscapes.

In 2000, he discovered his niche, specializing in private tours to Yosemite, Sierra Nevada, and the San Francisco Bay Area. With his wealth of experience and an infectious personality, Adam breathes life into Yosemite tours, making them not just informative but absolutely exhilarating! His easy-going nature, genuine care for his customers' well-being, and a deep-seated passion for his work ensure that your Yosemite escapade will be nothing short of magical. Join Adam for an adventure that's informative, engaging, and incredibly fun!


Meet Dylan: your ultimate adventure accomplice and the mastermind behind the most electrifying tours in the Bay Area! A true native of the city by the bay, Dylan's spirit thrives on exploration and delight. But Dylan is no ordinary guide; he's a whirlwind of energy, a connoisseur of excitement, and an enthusiast for outdoor escapades. From the vibrant streets of San Francisco to the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite, Sequoia National Park, Redwood National Forest, Lake Tahoe, Mammoth Lakes, and beyond – Dylan is your ticket to an exhilarating world.

Imagine soaring through the Redwoods on a zipline, surrounded by Dylan's contagious laughter echoing through the forest, or engaging in a snowball showdown amidst the stunning Mammoth Lakes – all orchestrated by the maestro who turns each tour into a memory-making extravaganza. With his knack for adventure, Dylan doesn't just display the beauty of destinations; he invites you to experience them with all your senses. His tours are more than sightseeing; they're an immersive journey into the essence of each place, fueled by Dylan's passion to make every moment as thrilling as the last.

So, if you're ready for an adventure that's as memorable as it is thrilling, hop on board with Dylan for a tour that'll craft lasting memories. Prepare to laugh, explore, and bask in the magnificence of the great outdoors with the Bay Area's beloved guide – Dylan, where every tour is an adventure waiting to unfold!


Maryanne: Your Lively San Francisco Explorer!

Meet Maryanne, a proud San Franciscan with a splash of Irish charm! With a whopping 25 years of guiding experience under her belt, she's a certified tour guide and an absolute gem in the travel world.

Maryanne's not just knowledgeable—her sparkling personality and wit make her a tour guide extraordinaire! She effortlessly connects with any group, especially families with little adventurers. Her passion lies in crafting private tours to the most stunning destinations: Yosemite National Park, the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe, the majestic Redwood National Park, the seaside wonders of Monterey and Carmel, the enchanting drive along Big Sur, and the iconic Hearst Castle.

Join Maryanne for a tour that's not just informative, but an absolute blast! She's your go-to gal for an adventure sprinkled with fun, facts, and a whole lot of laughter.


Tom: Hailing from western Ireland and seasoned with decades of experience, Tom's journey to becoming a top-tier guide started when he settled in Louisiana in the early '80s, where his two sons were born. Later, he found his way to San Francisco, where his passion for leading private guided tours and motor coach trips to Yosemite and Lake Tahoe truly ignited.

With over a thousand tours under his belt, Tom is the epitome of professionalism—meticulous, organized, and dedicated to his craft. His leadership extends beyond the tours themselves; he served as the president of the San Francisco Guild, the very organization that molds aspiring guides into certified professionals.

Tom's expertise isn't confined to specific routes or destinations. He orchestrates escorted vacation packages across the western USA states, particularly reveling in the national parks. His knowledge spans the biological, geological, and ecological facets of these natural wonders in the Wild West. Among them, Yosemite National Park holds a special place in his heart, drawing him at least thrice weekly to revel in its grandeur.


Denis: Adventure Enthusiast & Expert Guide

Denis is more than just an outdoor enthusiast—he's an avid biker, professional ski instructor, and dedicated cyclist. His expertise lies in leading guided biking tours across Yosemite, the Eastern Sierra, and Lake Tahoe, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of these renowned destinations.

His passion truly comes alive during winter, particularly when guiding tours to Yosemite, Mammoth, and Lake Tahoe. As a seasoned ski instructor, Denis finds joy in unveiling the beauty of the white-capped mountains in Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and Mammoth Lakes to our esteemed customers. His deep knowledge of the Sierra Nevada Mountains enriches every journey, making each tour a thrilling and informative experience.


Gerard: A Parisian Guide in Northern California

Originally from Paris, France, Gerard led escorted group tours across iconic French destinations—from the historic Normandy and Châteaux of the Loire Valley to the prestigious Champagne wine region. Since 1980, he has called Oakland home and embraced his role as a professional tour guide.

Gerard boasts an intimate understanding of Northern California's diverse landscapes and attractions. However, his true passion lies in guiding tours through the awe-inspiring Yosemite National Park. Known for his patience, extensive knowledge, and professional driving skills, Gerard approaches every tour with dedication and passion, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for all adventurers.


Marina: Your Irish Local Tour guide in California!

From the vibrant heart of Dublin, Ireland to the enchanting City by the Bay, Patricia brings the Irish charm to her role as a tour guide. Passionate and ever-friendly, she leads daily guided tours to a multitude of destinations, including San Francisco, Alcatraz, Silicon Valley, Marin County, Redwood National Park, Oregon attractions, California wine country, Monterey, Carmel, Lake Tahoe, and Yosemite.

When she's not guiding, you'll find her ardently preserving the enchantment of Yosemite. Pat volunteers her time to delve into Yosemite's biology, geology, and beyond, ensuring its beauty remains a treasure for all future adventurers. With Pat, your journey is not just an adventure—it's a magical exploration!


Meet Antony: Your Globetrotting Guide from Spain!

Originally from Bilbao, in the heart of northern Spain, Antony's been a San Franciscan for over 25 years. With his foundation in teaching, Antony seamlessly transitions into an exceptional tour guide and driver. But wait, there's more to Antony than meets the eye! He's also a seasoned actor and comedian, gracing movies alongside famous names like Nicole Kidman, lighting up TV commercials, and bringing laughter to the stage with stand-up comedy.

His zest for international cultures and cuisines is unmatched, adding a flavorful twist to every journey. With Antony, expect a delightful blend of professionalism, entertainment, and a side of international flair!


Peter: Originally from London, Peter relocated to California in the early 1990s. He’s deeply enamored with Yosemite and has introduced countless travelers to the park’s lesser-known treasures. Renowned for his wit, extensive knowledge, and unwavering passion, Peter is not only a top-notch hiking guide but also a skilled photographer."


Jimmy: : Hailing from the historic town of Mariposa, steeped in Gold Rush history since its settlement in 1849, Jimmy's roots run deep in Yosemite's wilderness. His childhood days were spent trout fishing in Yosemite's rivers, igniting an enduring love for the park and propelling him into the role of a professional tour guide. Having Yosemite as a neighbor throughout his life, Jimmy possesses unparalleled knowledge of the park, often spending more time within its boundaries than in his own home. An enthusiastic hiking guide, Jimmy delights in sharing his boundless passion with visitors, leading them to hidden and enchanting spots off the well-trodden trails.


David: : A dedicated U.S. veteran, David served actively in the U.S. Armed Forces overseas before transitioning to his love for touring. With a decade-long tenure as a tour guide, he exudes a profound passion, knowledge, and genuine appreciation for showcasing the wonders of California. While his specialty lies in California wine country VIP tours, his heart craves the adventure of exploring Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe. A lover of the outdoors, David finds solace in fishing, hiking, painting, and the thrill of exploration, making every tour an unforgettable journey.


Luis: Hailing from Argentina, Luis's passion for tourism and hospitality led him to become a certified tour guide, offering captivating tours across Argentina. He then ventured to Chile, guiding thrilling whitewater rafting tours and orchestrating multi-sport vacation experiences.

Arriving in San Francisco in 2005, Luis found his home at Yosemite Private Tours. With an extensive understanding of the region and a deep love for Yosemite, Luis excels in Spanish-guided tours, bringing an infectious energy to every adventure. An incredible guide, spending time with Luis is sure to make your journey unforgettable!