Situated a two-hour drive north of the Arizona capital, Sedona makes for a popular organised tour excursion from Phoenix.
(Photo: Arizona Scenic Tours / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
Not least because the drive between the two is incredibly scenic, with a tons of great places to stop and explore along the way. From ancient archeological sites to wildlife to spiritual sites, there’s something for everyone on the road to Sedona. And then there’s everything to discover when you arrive in the scenic desert town itself. Below are 5 of the best guided Sedona tours that start in Phoenix.
Sedona and Grand Canyon Day Tour
This extended day-trip combines a visit to the Grand Canyon with a look around the desert town of Sedona. Meeting in Sedona, your guide will show you all the local sights, including the Chapel of the Holy Cross for spectacular views, before enjoying some free time in the rustic, old-west district of Uptown to shop or visit an art gallery. After departing Sedona, you’ll take in the scenery on one of Arizona’s most scenic drives as you pass through Oak Creek Canyon. On arrival at the Grand Canyon South Rim National Park, you’ll stand at two of the most rewarding viewpoints of the canyon before some more free time to explore and round off your tour before the return journey. From $243 per person.
Montezuma Castle, Jerome and Sedona Day Tour
(Photo: Wandering Heart Adventures / Courtesy Viator)
Discover Arizona’s rich history and fascinating Native American heritage on this private full-day tour. Over the course of eight hours, you’ll visit two of America’s best-preserved National Monuments – Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot – and learn about the Sinagua people as you admire the incredible ancient ruins. Afterwards, you’ll explore the former mining town of Jerome and enjoy a hearty in lunch in Sedona before the chance to take in magnificent views of Arizona’s Red Rock landscapes. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your Phoenix hotel. From $227 per person.
Sedona Hiking & Wine Tasting Tour
Experience Sedona on foot on a scenic hike through Red Rocks State Park before wining and dining your way through the region at the area’s best restaurant and vineyards on this extended all-day tour. During the immersive tour, you’ll get to see Sedona from all of the best vantage points during a hike through the town’s beautiful surrounding countryside, before stopping for a well-earned lunch at a renowned local eatery. Later, you’ll visit two premier vineyards for a wine tasting and tour of the premises before being driven back to your Phoenix hotel. From $273 per person.
Horseback Riding & Sedona Tour
(Photo: DukOUT Adventures / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
A full day of action-packed outdoor adventure awaits you on this thrilling private guided tour that includes a horseback ride and a visit to Sedona. The fun begins with an early morning pick up from your Phoenix hotel, as you’re driven to the Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Here, you’ll embark on a scenic horseback ride through the Verde Valley, affording you stunning views of Sedona. After the ride, you’ll head into town for a delicious lunch at an acclaimed local restaurant, followed by a fully guided tour of Sedona and the surrounding areas to round off your trip. The experience ends with a transfer back to your hotel. From $328 per person.
One-Day Private Grand Canyon National Park/Sedona Tour
This full-day tour from Phoenix begins with a hotel pick-up and a magical drive, passing through San Francisco Peaks and the Navajo Reservation, before stopping for lunch at the Cameron Trading Post. Once in the Grand Canyon, and in the company of your experienced and knowledgeable guide, you’ll traverse the South Rim, taking in Grand Canyon Village, the historic El Tovar Hotel, and several lookout points on South Rim Drive. During your time in the park, you can see how many species of wildlife you can spot with the help of your guide. The tour ends on return to your Phoenix hotel. From $162 per person.