Colorado Springs: Garden of the Gods & Manitou Springs Tour

If you’re looking to explore Colorado Springs with a touch of adventure and plenty of photo stops, this guided Jeep tour offers a fantastic way to see two of the area’s most iconic spots. From the towering red rock formations of Garden of the Gods to the charming streets of Manitou Springs, this experience promises scenic views, local stories, and a comfortable ride—all for $95 per person.

What really makes this tour stand out are the knowledgeable guides, the stunning views, and the well-paced itinerary. But, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the designated location. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick, informative, and visually stunning overview of Colorado Springs’ highlights without the hassle of driving or navigating on their own.

Three things we love about this experience are the quality of the guided commentary, the relaxed small-group setting with up to 8 participants, and the variety of photo opportunities. The tour’s stops at Rainbow Falls and Manitou Springs add a special touch of local charm and natural beauty.

A possible consideration is that the duration is only two hours, so if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration, you might want to complement this with other activities or longer tours. But for a quick, scenic overview, this tour hits all the right notes.

This tour suits travelers who want a fun, informative, and scenic introduction to the Colorado Springs area—especially those new to the region or short on time but eager to see the highlights.

Key Points

• Scenic Jeep Experience: Explore Garden of the Gods in style, with expert narration and great photo stops.
• Charming Town Visit: Discover the quaint atmosphere of Manitou Springs, with mineral springs and local flavor.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness, enriching the experience.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for mule deer and bighorn sheep along the way.
• Flexible & Comfortable: Small groups of up to 8 ensure a personalized experience, with transportation included.
• Good Value: The combination of scenic views, local insights, and the small group size offers solid value at $95.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at 101 El Paso Blvd, a convenient central location in Colorado Springs. Since hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll need to make your way there, but parking is free—an appreciated detail for those arriving by car. The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, with check-in times varying depending on availability.

The small group size, limited to 8 participants, ensures that everyone can ask questions, get personalized attention, and have ample opportunities for photos. The use of a Jeep adds a fun, rugged touch, giving you a more immersive feel compared to bus tours.

Exploring Garden of the Gods

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the Garden of the Gods, a National Natural Landmark famous for its towering red sandstone formations set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The guided Jeep ride allows you to comfortably gaze at these geological marvels while your guide shares stories about their formation and the area’s ecology.

Guests have raved about the informative narration—”our guide was very helpful, friendly, and shared so much knowledge about each stop,” one reviewer mentions—indicating that you’ll leave with more than just pretty pictures. Expect to stop at notable viewpoints, where you can snap stunning photos of the dramatic formations and ponder how these natural sculptures have been shaped over millions of years.

Rainbow Falls and Natural Beauty

Among the stops, Rainbow Falls stands out as a must-see. The waterfall, cascading over rock ledges, provides a picturesque setting for photos and a refreshing break amidst the scenery. While the tour doesn’t specify a detailed stop at the falls, the itinerary indicates it’s a significant highlight, and guests can expect to get a good look and plenty of chances for pictures.

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Visiting Manitou Springs

Next, the tour takes you to Manitou Springs, a small but lively town known for its mineral springs and quirky shops. Here, visitors can taste the naturally mineral-rich water from free-flowing springs—an experience travelers have enjoyed and found unique. The town’s streets are lined with art galleries, cafes, and historic buildings, making it an ideal spot for leisurely exploration.

Reviews note that guides not only share interesting facts about the area but also offer helpful recommendations for places to check out afterward, adding value to the visit. The town’s atmosphere is charming and relaxed, providing a nice contrast to the expansive natural beauty of Garden of the Gods.

The Scenic Drive and Wildlife Spotting

As you travel between stops, your guide will point out local flora and fauna. Travelers have reported spotting mule deer and big horn sheep, adding an element of excitement to the ride. The drive through mountain landscapes offers panoramic views that are best appreciated from the comfort of the Jeep, making it accessible for all ages and mobility levels.

Value and Pricing

At $95 per person, this tour offers a good balance of cost and experience. The inclusion of transportation, a guide, and snacks like granola bars and water makes it a convenient option for visitors not wanting to worry about additional expenses. Considering the quality of guiding and the scenic locations visited, many find this to be a worthwhile investment, especially for first-time visitors or those short on time.

What Reviewers Say

Guests consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to help capture photos. One reviewer shared that their guide, Joe, was “patient, nice, and made our time exploring and picture taking a lot of fun.” Others appreciate how easy it was to understand the history and ecology of the area, making the experience both fun and educational.

A common theme in reviews is the well-organized nature of the tour: “It’s a terrific way to take a tour! So easy to see everything, great information, and highlights,” notes one guest. Slight hiccups like locating the meeting point were quickly remedied by staff, emphasizing good communication.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This Jeep tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic drives paired with storytelling from knowledgeable guides. It’s well-suited for those seeking a comfortable way to see natural landmarks, with minimal walking involved. Families, first-timers, and small groups will appreciate the intimate setting and personalized attention.

Those who want a deeper cultural or historical experience might want to supplement this tour, but for quick sightseeing and great photo opportunities, it’s hard to beat. It also appeals to visitors who prefer guided experiences over self-guided driving, especially in a region as visually striking as Colorado Springs.

The Sum Up

This guided Jeep tour of Garden of the Gods and Manitou Springs offers a practical, engaging way to experience Colorado Springs’ most beloved sights. With friendly guides providing informative commentary, the chance to see wildlife, and stunning natural scenery, it’s a well-rounded outing for explorers of all ages.

The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the inclusion of snacks and transportation at an affordable price point makes it excellent value. The tour’s main strength lies in its blend of scenic beauty and expert insight, turning a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable adventure.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to see some of Colorado’s most iconic natural features without sacrificing comfort or engagement, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially perfect for those short on time but eager to get a taste of what makes Colorado Springs special.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Participants meet at the designated starting point at 101 El Paso Blvd.

What should I bring?
You should bring a jacket, as weather can change quickly in Colorado’s mountain areas. Comfortable shoes and camera are also recommended.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a quick yet rundown of the area’s highlights.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation via Jeep, a guide, granola bars, and water. It doesn’t include hotel transfers.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the small group setting and scenic nature make it suitable for families, but check with the provider if traveling with very young children.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides as being very informative, friendly, and helpful, with many guests praising their storytelling and photography tips.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Guests have reported sightings of mule deer and bighorn sheep along the route, adding a wildlife element to the experience.

Is there an age limit or physical requirement?
The information doesn’t specify, but given the nature of the ride and stops, it’s suitable for most ages and mobility levels. For specific needs, contact the activity provider directly.

This guided Jeep tour of Colorado Springs’ key sights offers a balanced mix of scenery, expert commentary, and comfort—making it a memorable and practical choice for a quick introduction to the area.

You can check availability for your dates here: