The 3 Best City Tours in Sedona
Sedona’s rugged landscapes, striking red rocks, and mysterious energy vortexes make it a magnet for travelers. But beyond the stunning scenery, Sedona offers a fascinating blend of legend, spirituality, and history that’s best experienced through guided tours. Whether you’re intrigued by ancient legends or want a deeper spiritual connection, Sedona’s tours provide a unique window into this colorful desert town. With options ranging from mystical vortex explorations to comprehensive city and landscape tours, there’s something for every curious visitor.
The key to choosing the right tour lies in understanding what each offers. Do you want a deeply spiritual journey with mystical stories? Or are you more interested in a comprehensive sightseeing experience that covers the highlights? Maybe you’re seeking a private adventure with personalized attention. Below, I’ve broken down three top-rated Sedona tours, highlighting what makes each one special and who it suits best.
1. City of the Star People Tours
During this private mystical tour with Mark Amaru Pinkham, author of Sedona: City of the Star People, you’ll get an immersive experience into Sedona’s legendary Star People and ancient vortexes. This 4-hour tour goes beyond the usual sightseeing, focusing on the lore of the Palatkwapi “Red City”, built and inhabited by the Kachina Star People from the Pleiades. Mark shares stories about Star People carvings, temples, and statues created thousands of years ago, blending legend with spiritual insight.
The itinerary includes stops at Sedona Airport Overlook to view iconic formations like Standing Eagle Rock and Chimney Rock, as well as visits to the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park for meditation at the Vortex. You’ll also see Bell Rock, Sedona’s 7th Chakra, and the Throne of Ganesh, along with sacred sites like the Court of Masau’u and the Sphinx. This tour is ideal for those interested in metaphysical energy, ancient legends, and the mystical side of Sedona.
Reviewers praise Mark’s knowledge, describing the tour as “impressive,” “very interesting,” and “deepening your understanding of the universe.” With a moderate price point of $189 per person, it’s a premium experience that offers profound insights and access to sacred vortex sites.
Bottom Line: If you’re drawn to mysticism, ancient legends, and spiritual energy, this private tour offers an immersive and enlightening experience that’s well worth the price.
2. The Best Private Vortex and City Tour of Sedona
For around $76, the Private Vortex and City Tour delivers a comprehensive tour of Sedona’s highlights in just a couple of hours. This fully narrated experience dives into Sedona’s geology, history, and energy vortexes, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
This tour is the only one that includes a visit to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, one of Sedona’s most recognizable landmarks. You’ll learn about the early settlers, including J.J. Thomson and the Schnebly family, as the guide takes you up Oak Creek Canyon—one of the top scenic routes in North America. The tour emphasizes local stories and offers a great overview of Sedona’s cultural landscape, along with a stop at a vortex site to experience the energy firsthand.
Guests consistently mention how much they learn about Sedona in just a short trip—some say “more than locals who’ve lived here decades.” It’s perfect for travelers who want a cost-effective, informative introduction without sacrificing depth. The reviewers say it’s “great for first-timers,” and that the guide’s recommendations are “extremely helpful.”
Bottom Line: This tour offers exceptional value for an overview of Sedona, combining scenic drives, historic insights, and vortex visits—ideal for those seeking a quick but rich introduction.
3. Sedona’s #1 Vortex and the City Tour
At $134.10 per person, Sedona’s #1 Vortex and the City Tour offers a personalized, private experience that blends sightseeing with spiritual exploration. The tour typically lasts 2 to 3 hours, starting with a pickup from your accommodation, which means no worries about navigating unfamiliar roads.
This tour spends time at Sedona’s famous Vortex sites like the Chapel of the Holy Cross, where the energy is palpable, and includes a stop at the Sedona Airport Scenic Overlook to enjoy sweeping views. A unique aspect is the inclusion of a stop at Lacuna Sedona—a place that serves non-alcoholic, plant-based elixirs designed to promote euphoria, energy, or relaxation, adding a relaxing, sensory element to the experience.
What sets this tour apart is the personal attention from your guide, who shares insider stories about Sedona’s natural wonders and spiritual energy. The guide’s expertise and the inclusion of a personalized video after the tour make it a memorable, tailored experience.
Reviewers mention that the guide is “wonderful” and that the knowledge and personal insights made the trip the highlight of their visit. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a more intimate and flexible experience.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a private, customizable tour that combines spiritual sites, scenic views, and personal stories, this is a top pick for a meaningful visit.
How to Choose the Right Sedona City Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and time constraints. If you’re fascinated by mystical legends, ancient sites, and vortex energies, the City of the Star People Tours offers a deep, mystical experience. For those wanting a quick, rundown of Sedona’s highlights without the spiritual focus, the Private Vortex and City Tour provides excellent value and broad insights. If you’d prefer a more personalized, relaxed experience that combines sightseeing with special stops like Lacuna Sedona, the Sedona’s #1 Vortex and the City Tour is your best bet.
Practical considerations include budget—the private vortex tour is more affordable—and time—the shorter tours suit those with limited schedules. Think about your fitness level as well; some tours involve walking through sacred sites or scenic overlooks. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons when tours can fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Sedona’s tours range from mystical explorations of ancient legends and vortex sites to comprehensive city sightseeing. The City of the Star People Tours stands out for anyone eager to connect with Sedona’s spiritual energy on a private level. Meanwhile, the Private Vortex and City Tour offers a well-rounded introduction at a reasonable price. For travelers seeking a more intimate experience with tailored stops, Sedona’s #1 Vortex and City Tour provides a personalized adventure.
Whichever you choose, early booking will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Use your interests and schedule to guide your decision, and enjoy the magic that only Sedona can offer.