Sedona Helicopter Tour : Dust Devil Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing Sedona’s iconic red rock formations from a perspective most of us only see in movies or postcards, this helicopter tour might just be your ticket. The Dust Devil Tour by Guidance Air promises to elevate your experience—literally—by offering a 20 to 25-minute flight that showcases the area’s most stunning sights, from ancient cliff dwellings to dramatic canyon vistas. While we haven’t personally flown with them, the overwhelming praise and 5-star reviews suggest this is one adventure worth considering.

What we love about this experience? First, the intimacy of a small-group tour—max three people—means you get personalized attention and unobstructed views. Second, the expert guides and pilots, like Jake and Ken, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, add a layer of confidence and engagement. Third, the clear value for money, especially considering the impressive sights you’ll see in such a short time. On the flip side, potential travelers should note the tour’s duration is relatively brief, so if you’re craving a longer flight, this could feel a bit rushed.

This tour is perfect for those who want a quick but impactful way to see Sedona’s highlights without breaking the bank or spending hours in the air. It’s suitable for most travelers, especially those with limited time but eager to tick off the unforgettable aerial view of Sedona’s landscape. If you’re a first-time helicopter rider or traveling with someone who prefers a more intimate experience, this tour could be a highlight.

This experience made our article of Sedona’s 8 Top Helicopter Flights & Tours (With Prices).

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers a more personalized, unobstructed view.
• Expert guides and pilots like Jake and Ken are highly praised for their knowledge.
• Breathtaking scenery includes ancient cliff dwellings, Devil’s Bridge, Secret Canyon, and Mogollon Rim.
• Value for money given the short duration and exclusive experience.
• Convenient timing and location, fitting easily into a busy Sedona itinerary.
• Includes beverages and live commentary, enhancing the overall experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Dust Devil Helicopter Tour

The Booking and What to Expect

Starting at 1200 Airport Rd, this tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of three travelers per flight. The price, at $309 per person, might seem steep for just 20-25 minutes in the air, but reviews consistently highlight the incredible value through the sights and personalized service. Most book about 24 days in advance, indicating strong interest and a well-organized scheduling process.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See

The tour kicks off with a brief safety briefing and check-in, where the staff’s friendliness and professionalism quickly put guests at ease. Once airborne, you’ll soar over the 700-year-old Anasazi cliff dwellings, which remain as a haunting testament to a mysterious civilization. One reviewer, Tracy, raved about how everything was “organized, on time, and safe,” and noted the pilot was “wonderful,” pointing out the natural wonders Sedona offers.

From here, your bird’s-eye journey takes you toward Devils Bridge—an iconic natural rock formation connecting two cliffs—perfect for those impressive photos that make friends jealous. The flight continues over Secret Canyon, providing views of hiking trails and wildlife—something you simply cannot access by car or on foot. Ascending toward the Mogollon Rim, you’ll witness vast desert vistas and sweeping canyon views that seem to stretch forever.

Highlights of the Experience

Intimate Small-Group Setting: Limiting the tour to just three guests means fewer heads in the way and a more immersive experience. Many reviewers, like Joanne, appreciated sitting next to the pilot, giving them a full tour experience and a sense of connection you don’t get on larger tours.

Educational and Entertaining Guides: Guides like Jake and Ken are recognized for their thorough explanations and friendly demeanor. Mark, one reviewer, mentioned how knowledgeable Jake was, answering questions while pointing out areas you’d never spot from the ground.

Spectacular Scenery: From ancient dwellings to natural bridges and canyon walls, the views are jaw-dropping. Bruce wished the flight lasted longer, and many others echoed that sentiment—it’s hard to get tired of such breathtaking sights.

Beverages and Live Commentary: The tour includes coffee, tea, bottled water, and even alcoholic beverages for those who want to toast the experience. The live commentary keeps you engaged and provides context, making the flight both beautiful and educational.

Ease and Flexibility: The tour is straightforward to fit into a busy schedule, and the mobile ticket process makes it simple to plan your day. Plus, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.

The Practical Details

Duration and Timing

At approximately 20 to 25 minutes, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of Sedona’s splendor without committing to longer tours. The flight time is just enough to see several highlights but leaves room for other activities on your schedule.

Price and Value

While $309 per person might seem on the higher side for a quick flight, reviews point out that the experience’s intimacy, quality, and stunning views make it worth the cost. Many reviewers highlight the professionalism of staff and the safety measures taken, which add to the overall value.

Group Size and Comfort

Limited to three travelers, this tour ensures you won’t be cramped or distracted by large groups. Guests like Joanne appreciated the chance to sit next to the pilot, which adds a personal touch.

Additional Amenities

Beverages are included, and the tour allows for some adult beverages to be enjoyed mid-flight—ideal for celebrating special occasions or just to add a little extra fun to the experience.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Reviewers

The feedback from past guests paints a vivid picture: “Our pilot Jake was very knowledgeable and a pleasure to ask questions,” said Mark, highlighting the personal engagement. Tracy highlighted the organization and safety, “Everything was organized, on time and safe,” emphasizing the professionalism of Guidance Air.

Joanne called it a “Memory of a lifetime,” expressing how the helicopter provided views unreachable by ground, making this an unforgettable experience. For first-timers, Bruce shared how they “never had been on a helicopter before, and it was awesome,” showing that this is accessible to those new to aerial adventures.

Many reviewers also appreciated the option to sit next to the pilot, which added an extra layer of enjoyment and learning. The overall sentiment was that this tour offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a chance to connect with the landscape and learn about its secrets from passionate guides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter experience is best suited for travelers who want a quick, high-impact view of Sedona’s most famous sites. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small, personalized tours and professional guides. If you’re celebrating a special occasion like a birthday or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this tour’s intimate setting and stunning scenery are sure to impress.

It’s also ideal for people with limited time but who still want an authentic, visually spectacular experience. The inclusion of beverages and the opportunity to sit close to the pilot make it a great choice for couples or small groups looking for a private, memorable outing.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For the price, you’re paying for more than just a helicopter ride—you’re investing in a carefully curated experience that combines breathtaking views, expert commentary, and a sense of intimacy that larger tours often can’t match. The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see Sedona’s highlights from above make this a compelling option for travelers craving a memorable, scenic adventure.

If your priority is seeing the iconic red rocks from an unbeatable angle, and preferring a relaxed, personalized experience, this tour is well worth considering. It’s a fantastic way to turn a brief moment into a lifelong memory, especially if you’re traveling with someone who appreciates spectacular landscapes and intimate encounters with nature.

FAQ

Is this helicopter tour suitable for children? Yes, children can participate if they are accompanied by an adult. Most travelers can take part, but the maximum weight per passenger is 300 pounds.

How long is the flight? The flight lasts about 20 to 25 minutes, offering a quick but comprehensive look at Sedona’s highlights.

What beverages are included? The tour provides bottled water, coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages, making it perfect for a celebratory toast or just staying refreshed.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins and ends at 1200 Airport Rd in Sedona, making it easy to integrate into your day.

Is there a minimum number of people required? Yes, a minimum of 2 people per booking is needed, and the tour is limited to 3 travelers for a more personalized experience.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Dust Devil Helicopter Tour offers a rare chance to see Sedona’s stunning landscapes from a viewpoint only a few get to enjoy. With its intimate size, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking scenery, it’s a top pick for travelers looking to add a dash of adventure and awe to their Sedona trip. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking unforgettable vistas, this helicopter flight is a memorable way to elevate your vacation.