Sedona and Grand Canyon Full-Day Tour

Review of the Sedona and Grand Canyon Full-Day Tour

Planning a day trip from Phoenix that hits both Sedona and the Grand Canyon sounds ambitious, but this full-day tour makes it surprisingly doable. We’ve looked into what travelers are saying and what the experience actually offers to help you decide if it’s worth the $279.

What we love: First, the small-group size capped at five means you get plenty of one-on-one time with the guide and less of the “tour bus” feeling. Second, the expert guides like Will, Rena, and Jon are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the long day feel engaging and personal. Third, the stunning views at each stop—especially the Grand Canyon’s vistas—are breathtaking enough to make every minute worth it.

A possible consideration is the long duration—approximately 14 hours—so this isn’t for someone looking for a quick, light excursion. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for a quick bite during your free time in Sedona.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Arizona’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple trips or transportation. It’s perfect for those who love scenic drives, impressive vistas, and small-group adventures with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Visit Sedona and the Grand Canyon in a single day
• Small group: Max of five travelers for a more intimate tour
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their friendliness and knowledge
• Included fees and bottled water: No hidden costs for park entry
• Hassle-free: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Phoenix
• Long but rewarding: About 14 hours, perfect for dedicated day-trippers

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and a Long Drive

The tour kicks off at 7:00 am, with the provider, Arizona Scenic Tours, picking you up directly from your Phoenix hotel. This eliminates the stress of logistics and means you can start the day relaxed. The journey itself is made more enjoyable thanks to the air-conditioned minivan and the friendly driver who often doubles as your guide.

The drive from Phoenix to Sedona takes around two hours, but it’s far from boring. The scenery along the route is stunning, and you’ll appreciate having a guide to share insights and stories about Arizona’s landscape. Reviewers mention the comfort and resourcefulness of the driver, especially when they stop at multiple scenic points along the way.

Stop 1: The Chapel of the Holy Cross – A Visual Treat

Our first stop is the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which is about a 30-minute visit. This architectural gem carved into the red rocks offers stunning views of Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock. Visitors consistently praise this stop for its photogenic qualities, and it’s a great way to kick off your day with some memorable images.

Inside, the chapel isn’t just a beautiful building—it provides sweeping vistas and artwork that add to the spiritual and artistic appeal. As one reviewer put it, it’s a “lovely and scenic spot that is great for photos.” It’s small, so don’t expect to spend hours here, but it’s a perfect introduction to the region’s natural beauty.

Stop 2: Uptown Sedona – Shopping, Strolling, and Lunch

Next, you’ll explore Uptown Sedona for about an hour. This area offers a lively vibe with plenty of shops, galleries, and cafés. Reviewers love how friendly and accommodating the guide is, often sharing tips for the best spots to browse or grab a quick bite.

Here, you can pick up souvenirs or enjoy some local art and jewelry. Many travelers mention that they appreciated the chance to get a go-to lunch or a snack during this time. While the tour doesn’t include lunch, guests often note the convenience of grabbing something to go, making the most of the limited time.

Scenic Drive Through Oak Creek Canyon

After Sedona, the journey continues through Oak Creek Canyon, often described as one of the most scenic drives in Arizona. This stretch offers stunning red rock formations and lush greenery, making for excellent photo opportunities. Reviewers say the drive itself is a highlight, providing a peaceful, picturesque transition from Sedona’s red rocks to the grandeur of the Grand Canyon.

The Grand Finale: The South Rim of the Grand Canyon

The star of the trip is the Grand Canyon, with a visit to at least two major viewpoints on the South Rim. The Vista points are carefully chosen for their breathtaking panoramas, and you’ll have approximately three hours here to soak it all in.

Guests report that the views are “breathtaking,” and the time on your own allows for flexibility—whether that’s snapping photos, sitting quietly, or simply soaking up the scale of the canyon. The guides are praised for their knowledge, explaining formations, geology, and history, making the experience more meaningful.

One reviewer shared that their guide, Will, was full of information and made each stop exciting, highlighting the importance of having a guide who enriches the sightseeing experience.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What You Should Prepare For

The tour fee covers national park fees and bottled water, removing surprises or extra costs. Transportation is by comfortable air-conditioned minivan, ideal for the long day.

A key perk is the hotel pickup and drop-off, making it extremely convenient, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The tour is designed for a moderate physical fitness level, so it’s suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with some walking and standing.

Since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to purchase something during your free time in Sedona. Reviewers mention that some guides are helpful in suggesting great local spots or packing options.

Personalized Experience and Small Groups

With a group size capped at five, you get a much more personalized experience. Many reviews highlight how this makes the stops more flexible and allows for better interaction with the guide. Guides like Rena, Jon, and Darian are frequently praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and deep knowledge.

The small-group format also means fewer crowds at the viewpoints, giving you more time and space to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

The Long Day: Is it Worth It?

Yes, most reviewers agree that the long day is worth every minute. While it’s about 14 hours from pickup to return, the stunning vistas and the comprehensive nature of the trip justify the time investment. Reviewers like Shelby and Kim mention how the guide made each stop exciting and educational, turning the long drive into part of the adventure.

Some, like Eileen and Margaret, highlight the guides’ ability to keep the entire journey engaging, with conversation, music, and expert insights. The key is to be prepared for a full day, with comfortable shoes, snacks, and a sense of adventure.

Who Should Opt for This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to squeeze in both Sedona and the Grand Canyon without multiple bookings. It’s perfect if you value expert guides, personalized service, and stunning vistas. Those who dislike long bus rides might find the small-group setting more appealing.

It also suits travelers with moderate physical fitness who can handle some walking and standing, as there are sightseeing stops and walking at viewpoints. If you’re on a tight schedule or want to see these highlights in a single day, this tour covers a lot of ground efficiently.

The Sum Up

This Sedona and Grand Canyon full-day tour offers a fantastic way to experience two of Arizona’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail. The combination of expert guides, beautiful scenery, and small-group intimacy results in a memorable, educational journey that feels personalized and relaxed.

While it’s a long day, the breathtaking views and the chance to learn about the area’s geology and history make it well worth the effort. It’s especially suited for travelers who love scenic drives, appreciate good company, and want a comprehensive snapshot of Arizona’s natural wonders.

If you’re looking for a thoughtfully organized, value-packed day trip with knowledgeable guides and scenery that will stay with you, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off in Phoenix, making your day seamless from start to finish.

How long is the total tour duration?
The trip lasts approximately 14 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning in the evening.

What’s included in the tour price?
The fee covers national park fees, bottled water, transportation in a comfortable minivan, and the driver/guide service.

Do I need to bring lunch?
Lunch isn’t included, so it’s recommended to bring snacks or plan to purchase something during your free time in Sedona.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour requires a moderate physical fitness level, so it’s best for families with kids comfortable with some walking.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to five travelers for a more personal experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are advised. Bringing a water bottle and some snacks can keep you energized throughout the day.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Arizona’s natural beauty, perfect for those who want to see a lot in one day without sacrificing quality or comfort.