CALL US! 1-415-766-2722 Fun@SanFranciscoJeepTours.com
CALL US! 1-415-766-2722 Fun@SanFranciscoJeepTours.com

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions

Exclusively Yours: Every Journey a Private Tour, Tailored Just for You!

All San Francisco Jeep Tour Experiences are exclusively private, guaranteeing that each tour is personalized for you and your group only.

Your group will enjoy the privacy of the vehicle without sharing it with others, providing us with the maximum flexibility during our time together.This allows us to customize the day according to your interests and preferences. Our objective is to ensure you have a day that is both relaxing and enriching, optimizing your valuable time while you explore the highlights of San Francisco and the Bay Area.

 

FAQ All Tours

Is there an opportunity to get out of the vehicle along the tour? Stop for photos?

Yes, all of our tours have multiple opportunities to get out of the Jeep, take lots of pictures, or walk around the attractions and sites.

These are all custom private tours and the pace and stops are adjected to what you want. 

Other than Muir Woods we do not enter the attractions or museums. 

Do The Tours include going over the Golden Gate Bridge?

All of our Tours (other than food tours) include crossing the Golden Gate Bridge.

The bridge views from our convertible Jeeps make for a great experience and plenty of amazing photos. 

Depending on traffic and parking lot closures we will stop at one of these amazing view spots.  All are great for photos.

  • North Tower visitor overlook 
  • Marin Headlands overlook 
  • Historic Fort Point (located under the South End of the Bridge)
  • Fort Baker (located near the North End of the Bridge)  

With lots of stops, places to visit, and limited time there will not be time to walk out onto the bridge sidewalks. 

Are reservations required?

Please book as far in advance as possible. Reservations are required. We are occasionally able to accommodate walk up reservations when space and tour guides are available. Best plan is to always call in advance confirm availability. 

We suggest you either book online or call 415-474-3130 or toll-free 1-877-474-3130.

Our tours sell out during the busy Summer travel season in San Francisco.

How many guests can seated in the Jeep?

Our Jeeps seat 6 people total plus the driver/guide.

Jeeps are small vehicles – for everyone’s comfort, we suggest 4 adult riders per Jeep plus 2 children/teens in the smaller 3rd-row seating.

Please -No Children or Infants under age 3 on any tour.

Please remember to bring or request the required car seat(s) for any young children. We are not set up for rear-facing car seats for infants.

We do have Child Seats and Booster Seats available by prior request. 

No children seated in laps.

The 3rd row is great for older children (age 10 up) and teens. There is more wind in the last row of seats so it is not a great seating spot for young children.

Can I be picked up or dropped off at my hotel or other location?

Meet in Fisherman’s Wharf at our start location or we offer hotel pick-up in some areas of the city: 

Hotel Pick Up and Drop Off: 

City Tours and Sunset Tours:

  • Fisherman’s Wharf area hotel pick up / drop off $20.00
  • Union Square, Nob Hill, Financial District or SOMA area hotels $40.00 

Muir Woods Tours and Combination Muir Woods and City Tours:

  • Fisherman’s Wharf area hotel pick up / drop off $32.00
  • Union Square, Nob Hill, Financial District or SOMA area hotels $78.00  

 

We do not offer South San Francisco or Airport area hotel pick-ups at this time.

OR Meet at our Fisherman’s Wharf location. 

  • Meet your guide at 757 Beach Street San Francisco CA 94109 Cross street is Hyde St. Near Ghiradelli Square and the Buena Vista Cafe.
  • Our tours start and end at Umbrella Alley. There is a Wells Fargo ATM at the entrance to the Alley.   
  • Please arrive early to make sure you are at the correct departure location.

 

Are children allowed on a Jeep Tour? Is this tour good for children?

Here at San Francisco Jeep Tours, we strive to be a family-friendly operation! Our guides are trained to ensure everyone is safe as well as having a great time!

 

Our Jeeps seat 6 people total plus the driver/guide.

Jeeps are small vehicles – for everyone’s comfort, we suggest 4 adult riders per Jeep plus 2 children/teens in the smaller 3rd-row seating.

Please -No Children or Infants under age 3 on any tour.

Please remember to bring or request the required car seat(s) for any young children. We are not set up for rear-facing car seats for infants.

We do have Child Seats and Booster Seats available by prior request. 

No children seated in laps.

The 3rd row is great for older children (age 10 up) and teens. There is more wind in the last row of seats so it is not a great seating spot for young children.

Are guide gratuities / tips included in the tour price? I Don't Carry Cash—How Can I Tip My Tour Guide?

Guests from around the world ask us about the U.S. custom of gratuities.

Is tipping expected on a private tour?

In the U.S., gratuities are a common way to show appreciation for great service, especially for tour guides. While tipping is completely optional, it is always appreciated as a way to recognize your guide’s effort in making your experience special.

Is the tour guide’s gratuity included in the tour price?

No, guide gratuities are not included in the tour price. We keep our tours affordable by not adding a fixed gratuity, allowing guests to tip at their discretion.

How can I tip if I don’t have cash?

We understand that many guests don’t carry cash, so we offer a quick and secure digital tipping option called TipDirect.

You can tip your guide via:
Apple Pay
Google Pay
Any major credit card

All gratuities go straight to them, and your support is greatly appreciated!

Thank you for supporting our amazing team of guides, and we hope you had an unforgettable San Francisco adventure!

Note: Gratuities are included as part of the pre-paid cost for our private group tours and corporate team building events.

What happens if it rains or Karl the Fog makes an appearance during the tour?

For those chilly foggy days all of our vehicles have warm blankets aboard! We have ponchos for light rain or drizzle.

Jeeps cary a lightweight rain top that can be installed to keep some of the rain off. 

During the rainy winter months we may install the hardtop if rain is in the forecast.

Our top priority is passenger safety, so in the event of a huge rain storm, we will cancel the tour and provide you with a full refund or reschedule.

What if I have to Cancel, Change Date or Arrive Late?

City Day and Evening Tours can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

No-shows and late arrivals (more than 30 minutes late) are not refunded or rescheduled.

Muir Woods & Sausalito Tours can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a partial refund. The cost of the Muir Woods National Park admission tickets (currently $15.00 per adult) are not refundable and cannot be transferred to another date.

Muir Woods is a National Park. Exchanges, refunds, discounts or cancellations are not offered.

Alcatraz Combo Packages 

Alcatraz Tickets Packages Important:

All Alcatraz Combo sales are finalAbsolutely no changes, refunds, or cancellations are allowed. Combo tickets must be booked at least 96 hours in advance. This combo requires participation in both the Jeep City Tour and the Alcatraz portion.

NOTE: Alcatraz sells out 2 weeks in advance during busy summer and holiday periods.

National Park Pass does not apply to Alcatraz Tickets. All Alcatraz orders are limited to 8 tickets. Alcatraz is a National Park. Exchanges, refunds, discounts or cancellations are not offered.

 

What days are you open?

We are open seven days a week.

If you plan to be in the Bay Area during 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, Fleet Week (Early October) or other Holidays please call for schedule changes.

We are closed December 25th.

Please check each tour page for current tour times.

Important: Please be ready to depart on time so we can cover as many sites as possible. 

Where are the free pictures from my tour?

Free guest pictures can be found on our Facebook page. 

facebook.com/SFJeepTours

Albums are generally displayed in date order. Occasionally the folders are slightly out of order or pictures are uploaded under the wrong date.

These are free pictures that we take when we can and there is no guarantee that there will be pictures of your group.

We appreciate you booking a tour with us. Thanks again.

What should I wear? Can I bring back packs or luggage?

It is Cold in San Francisco! Dress Comfortable and in Layers.

Suggested: An extra layer of warm, wind resistant clothing.

With the chilly wind, wet fog and damp environment along the waterfront and in the national park shorts and a t-shirts are NOT a good fashion idea.

Backpacks and Large Bags: 

Please leave bulky backpacks at home. All personal items must be stored in your lap. We do not have storage aboard for backpacks or luggage. 

Can I Book for One Guest?

We take solo travelers on our private tours regularly. Our minimum $ to operate our tours is a reservation for 2 seats. If you want to book a reservation please select 2 seats for any of our tours. It helps to add a note that you are a solo traveler. 

We get asked if a solo traveler can join another private tour group. We are not set up to combine private groups. 

 

Are the vehicles equipped to handle storage of strollers, wheelchairs, luggage or walkers?

Unfortunately not. Also, please keep in mind our vehicles have a side step to get in and out of them.

Does the tour require any strenuous activity?

No on the City Tours, however, the vehicles do have a high step, so tour participants must be able to step in and out of the vehicles. 

The Muir Woods tours do require walking. The entrance and entry trail in Muir Woods National Parks are boardwalks. 

Why should I travel with SF Jeep Tours vs a Hop on Hop off Tour Bus?

Well, obviously, our Jeeps are way more cool than those behemoths! But if that’s not a compelling enough reason, consider this: Hop On Hop Off buses are not allowed in most of the city. That means you will see only major tourist sites rather than the hidden gems that only a Jeep Tour can get to.

Plus you and your group are the only ones aboard the Jeep. Tour at the pace you want. 

FAQ San Francisco City Tours

Choosing Between a 2-Hour vs. 3-Hour Private San Francisco Jeep Tour

Choosing Between a 2-Hour vs. 3-Hour Private San Francisco Jeep Tour

What is the main difference between the 2-hour and 3-hour tour?

The 2-hour tour provides a fantastic overview of San Francisco’s top landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and other must-see sights. The 3-hour tour extends your adventure, allowing extra time for additional stops, in-depth exploration, and scenic detours to hidden gems.

What additional sights are included in the 3-hour tour?

The 3-hour tour offers all the highlights of the 2-hour tour plus more time to explore iconic spots such as:

  • Twin Peaks – A breathtaking 360° panoramic view of the city (weather permitting).
  • The Mission District – Colorful murals and a vibrant neighborhood culture.
  • Haight-Ashbury – The heart of San Francisco’s 1960s counterculture.
  • Golden Gate Park – A lush escape with historic landmarks and beautiful landscapes.
  • More photo stops – Extra time to capture unforgettable moments!

Which tour is best for me?

  • Choose the 2-hour tour if you’re short on time but want to see San Francisco’s major landmarks.
  • Opt for the 3-hour tour if you want a deeper dive into the city’s diverse neighborhoods and more photo opportunities.

Does the tour still include the Golden Gate Bridge?

Yes! Both the 2-hour and 3-hour tours include a drive across or a stop at the Golden Gate Bridge, perfect for stunning photos.

Can I customize my tour?

Absolutely! Both tour lengths allow some customization, but the 3-hour tour offers more flexibility to tailor stops based on your interests.

What makes a Private Group Jeep Tour different from a bus tour?

Why Choose a Private Group Jeep Tour Over a Bus Tour?

A Private Group Jeep Tour offers a personalized, small-group experience, while a bus tour is a large-group, fixed-itinerary tour. With a Jeep tour, you enjoy flexibility, exclusive access, and a more immersive adventure through San Francisco.

What are the benefits of booking a Private Group Jeep Tour?

Customizable Itinerary – Unlike bus tours with a set schedule, you can tailor your Jeep tour to visit the places that interest you most.
Intimate Experience – Your private Jeep seats up to 6 guests, making the tour personal and interactive instead of crowded and impersonal.
Access to More Places – Jeeps can go where big buses can’t! Explore hidden gems, scenic overlooks, and charming neighborhoods buses must skip.
More Photo Stops – Stop whenever you want for the perfect shot! Bus tours have limited designated stops.
Fun & Engaging Guide – Your dedicated tour guide makes the experience engaging with local stories, recommendations, and insider tips.
No Waiting, No Crowds – No long lines, no waiting for other passengers—just your group and your adventure.

Can I still see the major landmarks on a Jeep tour?

Absolutely! Your private Jeep tour covers all the must-see sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and more, plus unique stops most bus tours miss.

Is a Private Group Jeep Tour worth the extra cost?

Yes! While bus tours may be cheaper, a Jeep tour gives you a VIP experience with flexibility, comfort, and a personal touch—making it the best way to explore San Francisco.

Still have questions? Contact us—we’d love to help you plan your perfect San Francisco adventure

Can I Add Extra Sightseeing Time and More Stops During the Tour?

Can I Add Extra Sightseeing Time and More Stops During the Tour?

Can I extend my tour and add more stops?

Yes! You can extend your Private Jeep Tour to include extra sightseeing time and additional stops. Whether you want more photo opportunities, a food stop, or to explore more neighborhoods, we can customize your experience.

How much extra time can I add?

You can add additional time in increments of 30 minutes or more, depending on availability. Just let your guide know during the tour, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request.

What extra stops can I include?

Some popular additional stops include:

    • Twin Peaks – Incredible panoramic views of San Francisco
    • Golden Gate Park – Visit hidden spots like the Japanese Tea Garden or Stow Lake
    • The Mission District – Explore vibrant murals and enjoy a local food stop
    • The Presidio – More time for scenic overlooks and history
    • Haight-Ashbury – Experience San Francisco’s counterculture history
    • Local Cafés & Shops – Stop for a quick coffee, snack, or souvenir shopping

How do I add extra time to my tour?

  • Before your tour: Contact us in advance to request an extended tour.
  • During your tour: Ask your guide if additional time is available, and we’ll make it happen if possible!

Is there an extra cost for adding time?

Yes, additional time will be charged per 30-minute increment. 

$ 80.00 for an additional 30 minutes

$ 160.0 for an additional hour 

Is tipping expected on a private tour? I Don't Carry Cash—How Can I Tip My Tour Guide?

I Don’t Carry Cash—How Can I Tip My Tour Guide?

Is tipping expected on a private tour?

In the U.S., gratuities are a common way to show appreciation for great service, especially for tour guides. While tipping is completely optional, it is always appreciated as a way to recognize your guide’s effort in making your experience special.

Is the tour guide’s gratuity included in the tour price?

No, guide gratuities are not included in the tour price. We keep our tours affordable by not adding a fixed gratuity, allowing guests to tip at their discretion.

How can I tip if I don’t have cash?

We understand that many guests don’t carry cash, so we offer a quick and secure digital tipping option called TipDirect.

You can tip your guide via:
Apple Pay
Google Pay
Any major credit card

All gratuities go straight to them, and your support is greatly appreciated!

Thank you for supporting our amazing team of guides, and we hope you had an unforgettable San Francisco adventure!

FAQ Muir Woods Tours

Do the Tours Ride Over the Golden Gate Bridge? Where do we stop?

We cross the Golden Gate Bridge as part of the tour route. 

Depending on traffic and parking lot closures we will stop at one of these amazing view spots.  All are great for photos.

  • North Tower visitor overlook 
  • Marin Headlands overlook 
  • Historic Fort Point (located under South End of Bridge)
  • Fort Baker (located near North End of Bridge)  

With lots of stops, places to visit and limited time there will not be time to walk out onto the bridge sidewalks. 

Is Muir Woods National Park Admission included in the price?

No -Muir Woods National Park Admission is not included in the price of the tour. 

$15.00 – Adult

Free – Children (15 years of age and under)

National Park Passes can be used at Muir Woods. 

We can pre-purchase the admission tickets for you – It is easy to add them to your reservtion.

OR you can purchase admission tickets at the entrance to the park.  

What is the weather In Muir Woods?

The coast redwood forest is cool most times of the year with temperatures ranging from 40-70 degrees F (4-21 degrees C).

Expect rain from late October to early May, and slightly warmer and dryer weather from June to August. Many say September and October are ideal months to visit.

If you are dressed for the elements and wearing sturdy shoes, you will enjoy your visit.

What trails are available in Muir Woods?

Muir Woods National Monument contains 6 miles of trails. There is a 1/2 hour loop, a 1 hour loop, and a 1 1/2 hour loop as well as longer hikes on trails that extend into surrounding Mount Tamalpais State Park. 

View a map of Muir Woods and its vicinity. All of these walks afford views of old-growth coast redwoods, the tallest living things in the world.

With the Jeep Tour schedule we suggest either the 30 minute loop “Main Trail to Bridge 2 and back” or 1 hour “Main trail to Bridge 3 and back ” loop.

Please check with your tour guide to plan the perfect lenghth visit.

0.5 mile/ 0.8 km Main Trail: Bridge 2 and back: Muir Woods’ main trail begins at the National Parks Visitor center and follows Redwood Creek on both sides of the stream. Enjoy views of old growth redwood forest from a stroller and wheelchair accessible boardwalk.

 

1 mile/ 1.6 km Main Trail: Bridge 3 and back: Muir Woods’ main trail begins at the National Parks Visitor center and follows Redwood Creek. Continue past Cathedral Grove for 0.5 m Bridge 4. Cross the bridge and walk uphill, then turn left on the Hillside Trail. This dirt path will return you to Bridge 2 and offers a different view of the forest.

Does the Jeep tour guide lead the tour inside Muir Woods?

No, Muir Woods is an amazing self guided experience with well marked trails. The National Park Service does not allow outside guides to conduct tours inside the park.

The tour guide will stay with the Jeep and be ready to depart for the next stop on your adventure.  

Bonus Items: Attend a Tree Talk: 15-minute talks and guided one-hour tours are presented when staffing permits. Check the program board at the park entrance for times. No reservations necessary.

NOTE: There is NO cell phone service or WiFi at or around Muir Woods National Monument. 

What and where is Muir Woods National Monument?

Muir Woods National Monument is in Marin County, California, just a few miles north of San Francisco. The 558-acre monument preserves one of the last remaining ancient redwood forests in the Bay Area. Some of the redwoods are nearly 1,000 years old and reach heights of more than 250 feet.

Named for conservationist John Muir, it was the 10th national monument to be designated under the Antiquities Act of 1906, the first to be in proximity to a major city, and the first to consist of formerly privately-owned lands.

Today, Muir Woods National Monument is home to more than 380 different plants and animals, including 27 species of mammals, 50 species of birds, 12 species of reptiles, and 5 species of amphibians.

Redwood Creek, the principal stream in the monument, runs clean and clear beneath the towering trees. Its waters are home to Coho salmon and steelhead trout—keystone species in many Pacific ecosystems.

Muir Woods National Monument is managed by the National Park Service as a distinct park unit within Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Established by Congress in 1972, Golden Gate National Recreation Area is one of the largest national parks in an urban area, spanning three counties: Marin, San Francisco and San Mateo. With more than 19 million annual visitors, the park is both an international destination and a local treasure for the 7 million people who call the Bay Area home. The park includes world-renowned destinations like Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods National Monument, and the Presidio, as well as sites of regional and national importance, including the Marin Headlands, Stinson Beach, Fort Mason, Ocean Beach, Fort Funston, Sweeney Ridge, and Mori Point.

FAQ Alcatraz Combo Tours

How does the Alcatraz Combo Package Timing Work:

How the Combo Package Works:

City Tour Schedule:

  • Choose a private 2  or 3-hour city tour, departing at 9:00 AM and finishing at 11:00 AM or 12:00 PM.

Alcatraz Ferry Timing:

  • If your Alcatraz ferry departs within 1 hour of the end of your city tour, we will drop you off at Pier 33 (Alcatraz Landing) 30 minutes to an hour before departure. Return transportation from Pier 33 to your hotel or other SF destination is not included. The activity ends at Pier 33

  • If your Alcatraz ferry departure is more than 1 hour later, we’ll drop you off at PIER 39—a perfect spot to relax and grab a bite before walking to nearby Pier 33.

 

How long is the Alcatraz portion of the combo?

Alcatraz Tour Length:Expect to spend 2 to 3 hours on Alcatraz Island. Return ferry from Alcatraz to Pier 33 is on your schedule.

IMPORTANT: Return transportation from Pier 33 to your hotel or other SF destination is not included. The activity ends at Pier 33

What is the Change and Cancel policy for Alcatraz Combo Packages?

  • Alcatraz ComboChange / Cancellation Policy:
    Important: All Alcatraz Combo Sales are Final. No refunds or changes. Alcatraz combo package tickets must be booked 96 hours prior to departure.

    Other Details: 

    National Park Pass does not apply to Alcatraz Tickets. All orders are limited to 8 tickets. Alcatraz is a National Park. Exchanges, refunds, discounts or cancellations are not offered.

    Alcatraz Cruises a concessionaire of the National Park Service and provides the Alcatraz ferry and Cellhouse audio tour portion of these combo tickets.

    Alcatraz rates subject to change without notice.

This combo requires participation in both the Jeep City Tour and the Alcatraz portion. 

Where does the Tour End?

Tour End Location: 

The Tour ends at Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing.

Return transportation from Pier 33 to your hotel or other SF destination is not included. The activity ends at Pier 33

How does the booking and Alcatraz Ticket Pick-up work?

Booking Instructions and Alcatraz Ticket Pick-up

When Booking please select your preferred time for the Alcatraz Ferry Departure. All Alcatraz departure times are subject to availability and seasonal departure schedules. Most Ferry departures will be between 11:30 am and 3:30 pm on the same day as your city tour.    

After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your Jeep city tour details and the Alcatraz ferry and tour departure time. There are no paper tickets for Alcatraz.

Your Alcatraz tickets will be held at the Will Call ticket booth at PIER 33. To pick up your Alcatraz Tickets and board the Alcatraz ferry guests must present a ID matching the lead traveler’s name on the reservation. 

FAQ Charters, FAM Trips and Influencers

Can I book Jeeps for a Convention Charter or Special Event?

Yes – We offer amazing Private VIP tours, Multiple Jeep Group Tours and Craft Beer Crawls (in 2021) for company functions and families.

Whether it’s a family vacation or company conference. Private tours can be reserved for 2 to 18 guests.

We offer custom routes, flexible tour times and other add on items to create the perfect group tour experience. 

Book our Bright Green Jeeps For Your Next Event

Please call  415-766-2722 and ask for one of our group tour experts.  

How do I schedule interviews, media visits, or FAM tour?

We are very media / FAM friendly and have handled Media and FAM visits from all over the world.

Please contact us here with your request.

We also have high res / web ready images available for publication in our media section.

Call Us (415) 766-2722

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