Arizona’s main jumping off point for the Grand Canyon is the pleasant town of Flagstaff, where you can take one of these top guided tours to visit the natural wonder.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
The Grand Canyon, a stellar specimen of the earth’s geological might, is certainly one of the most magnificent sights on the planet. Finding the right Grand Canyon tour can feel like a bit of a slog, therefore here at TravelMag we’ve carved out a list of the top five from Flagstaff. This list takes into account various factors, including the value for money, health and safety, itinerary and previous customer reviews of each tour.
Grand Canyon full-day tour
Even on the drive between Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon, you will begin to see the signs that this is a remarkable part of the world. Pass by the San Francisco Peaks, a series of dormant volcanoes, before heading through the forest plateau that expands south from the Grand Canyon. This guided tour takes you to the South Rim’s best, and least crowded, viewpoints. There’ll be some free time to explore Grand Canyon Village and the Watchtower Observatory, too. From $159 per person.
Small group Grand Canyon day-tour from Flagstaff
Tours are usually much better experienced in smaller numbers, allowing for a more personalized experience. During this eight-hour excursion you will visit the Grand Canyon’s South Rim first, before making an additional three stops at sites of particular interest, including Yavapai Geology Museum, to add context to the majestic canyon views, and the Native American ruins at Tusayan Museum. Lunch is provided here with options for both meat eaters and vegetarians. From $185 per person.
(Photo: Viator.com)
From Flagstaff: Grand Canyon National Park tour
This popular day-trip from Flagstaff is a comprehensive exploration of the main sights and experiences to be had along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. You will stop by the Desert View Watchtower, a 70-foot (21-meter) building on the canyon’s edge offering expansive views of the canyon. Take a picnic in the forest, where deer and elk roam, then continue on to more remote viewpoints, each one offering a fresh perspective on the vast chasm. As with all tours on this list, daily departures are available. From $189 per person.
Grand Canyon South Rim tour from Flagstaff
The ultimate tour is an eight-hour, fully narrated tour of Grand Canyon National Park, with a hotel pick-up service in the morning. Walk a little section of the Rim Trail, known for its classic US wildlife, such as black bears. Further exploration of the South Rim is then possible before heading onto the Navajo Indian Reservation for lunch, which is included in the price. Here you can learn more about the Navajo life and customs. From $215 per person.
(Photo: Viator.com)
Grand Canyon Railroad full-day guided tour
Just to the west of Flagstaff is Williams, where a historic train runs a 65-mile route to the Grand Canyon. This whimsical themed railroad trip includes roving musicians who play tunes as they move through the carriages. When you arrive at Grand Canyon Village, you will have time to explore on your own before joining your guide for a four-hour tour of the South Rim’s best viewpoints. Uniquely, the return trip takes in views from points along the East Rim of the canyon too. From $219 per person.