3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon With Entrance Gate Detour

Let’s dive into an exciting 3-hour off-road sunset safari that’ll take us deep into the Grand Canyon’s breathtaking backcountry. We’ll venture through the entrance gate for an extra thrill, then witness the vibrant colors of the setting sun from stunning viewpoints like Yavapai Point and Grandview Point. Along the way, we’ll explore unique geological formations, spot diverse wildlife, and uncover the canyon’s rich history – an unforgettable journey you won’t want to miss. But that’s just the beginning…

Key Points

• This 3-hour off-road sunset safari to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim includes stops at Yavapai Point, Pipe Creek Canyon, and Duck on a Rock Overlook.
• The tour arrives at Grandview Point timed for sunset viewing, offering breathtaking vistas and insights about the canyon’s geology and history.
• The tour has a maximum group size of 12 for a personalized experience, and may include wildlife sightings such as javelinas, elk, and California condors.
• The tour departs from the parking lot in front of the Tusayan Fire Department, between the IMAX Theater and Wendy’s, two hours before sunset.
• The tour includes bottled water, park entrance fees, transportation, and a guided experience, but excludes meals, gratuities, and personal expenses.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This 3-hour off-road sunset safari takes us on a scenic journey to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, allowing us to experience the park’s spectacular views without the crowds.

We’ll stop at Yavapai Point, Pipe Creek Canyon, and Duck on a Rock Overlook before arriving at Grandview Point just in time for the sunset.

With a maximum group size of 12, we’ll enjoy a personalized experience led by knowledgeable and friendly guides.

Along the way, we might spot wildlife like javelinas, elk, and California condors, while learning about the canyon’s unique features through informative commentary.

Logistics and Meeting Information

To begin our off-road sunset safari, we’ll conveniently meet at the parking lot in front of the Tusayan Fire Department, located between the IMAX Theater and Wendy’s in downtown Tusayan, Arizona.

Our tour departs two hours before sunset, ensuring we arrive at the Grand Canyon’s Grandview Point just as the sun is setting. The experience lasts approximately three hours, concluding back at our meeting point.

Please note this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. Certain medical conditions may also make the off-road driving unsuitable, so be sure to check with us beforehand.

Tour Inclusions and Pricing

The tour includes bottled water for your convenience. For pricing, the lowest price guarantee is $123.08 per person. Check out this breakdown of what’s included:

Included	Not Included
Bottled Water	Meals
Park Entrance Fees	Gratuities
Transportation	Personal Expenses
Guided Tour

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a reserve now, pay later option. With these inclusions and pricing, you can enjoy this off-road sunset safari with peace of mind.

Guest Experiences and Guide Feedback

What do guests have to say about the experience and the tour guides?

According to reviews, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, with travelers highlighting informative commentary and personal stories.

Notable wildlife sightings during the tour include javelinas, elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and even California condors.

Guests appreciated the beautiful sunset views and unique vantage points accessed through the off-road routes.

While some felt the tour didn’t offer entirely unique experiences compared to self-guided visits, many emphasized the value of the tour for insights and access to less-trafficked areas of the Grand Canyon.

Critiques and Recommendations

While some guests felt the tour didn’t offer entirely unique experiences compared to self-guided visits, many reviews emphasize the value of the tour for insights and access to less-trafficked areas.

Here are some key points to consider:

• The tour provides a unique perspective and access to viewpoints that may be difficult to reach on your own.

• Guides offer informative commentary and personal stories that enhance the overall experience.

• Seeing wildlife like javelinas, elk, and bighorn sheep can be a highlight.

• The sunset timing and less-crowded viewpoints make this tour a great starting point for a Grand Canyon visit.

Sunset Viewing at Grandview Point

Arriving at Grandview Point, we’re treated to a breathtaking sunset display over the vast expanse of the Grand Canyon. The vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple paint the sky as the sun dips below the horizon.

We position ourselves to capture the perfect shot, marveling at the ever-changing colors reflected on the canyon walls. Our guide shares insights about the unique geology and history of this iconic site, enhancing our appreciation for this natural wonder.

As the last rays of sunlight fade, we linger, soaking in the serene beauty before heading back, our senses filled with the magic of the Grand Canyon sunset.

Exploring Yavapai Point and Pipe Creek Canyon

After experiencing the grand finale of the sunset at Grandview Point, we venture forth to explore the next stops on our off-road safari – Yavapai Point and Pipe Creek Canyon.

Our guide leads us to Yavapai Point, where we take in the stunning panoramic views of the canyon.

We then descend into the winding Pipe Creek Canyon, marveling at the vibrant red rocks and lush vegetation.

Along the way, our guide points out:

• Unique geological formations
• Signs of wildlife, like animal tracks and nests
• Remnants of ancient Native American settlements
• Breathtaking vista points to capture the perfect photo

Spotting Wildlife on the Scenic Backcountry Drive

As we venture deeper into the scenic backcountry, our eyes eagerly scan the landscape for any signs of wildlife.

We’re rewarded with sightings of javelinas grazing in the distance, their rounded snouts and distinctive shoulder stripes unmistakable.

Mule deer peek out from behind the juniper trees, their large ears twitching as they watch our approach.

Occasionally, we catch a glimpse of a bighorn sheep scaling the rocky cliffs, its curved horns a testament to its agility.

The highlight comes when we spot a majestic California condor soaring overhead, its massive wings casting shadows across the desert floor.

These unexpected wildlife encounters make our journey all the more memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Restroom Facilities During the Tour?

We don’t have any scheduled restroom stops during the tour, but we recommend using the facilities at the meeting point before departure. If you have any concerns, please let our guide know, and they’ll do their best to accommodate your needs.

How Long Is the Drive Each Way?

The drive each way takes about 30-45 minutes, allowing us to access scenic backroads and viewpoints that aren’t accessible on our own. This gets us to the canyon in plenty of time to enjoy the sunset views.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks along on the tour. The tour only includes bottled water, so having additional refreshments on hand can help fuel your adventure around the Grand Canyon.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Beyond 3 Hours?

While the standard tour is 3 hours, we don’t offer an option to extend the experience. However, the route and timing are designed to maximize your sunset viewing at the Grand Canyon’s less-crowded viewpoints. We recommend planning extra time on your own before or after the tour.

What Should I Wear for the Best Experience?

We recommend wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes for the best experience on this off-road sunset safari. Layers are a good idea to account for changing temperatures. Don’t forget sun protection like a hat and sunglasses.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the Grand Canyon’s breathtaking beauty on this unforgettable 3-hour off-road sunset safari. Witness the vibrant hues of the sunset from stunning viewpoints, explore unique geological formations, and spot diverse wildlife. This guided tour is a must-do experience for any adventurer seeking to discover one of nature’s most spectacular landscapes.