9 Hours Sightseeing Tour in Sedona

Discovering Sedona: A 9-Hour Sightseeing Tour from Scottsdale

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Scottsdale to experience the natural beauty and unique vibe of Sedona, this 9-hour sightseeing tour might catch your interest. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, it offers a pretty comprehensive look at some of Sedona’s most famous spots, blending scenic drives, cultural highlights, and a little spiritual energy.

What we like about this tour is that it includes a well-rounded itinerary—covering the iconic Chapel of the Holy Cross and the charming Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village—plus some of Sedona’s famed vortex sites. It’s also nice that bottled water, WiFi, and air-conditioned transport are included, making it more comfortable than some day trips. The price of $189 per person isn’t bad when you consider the length of the trip and the sightseeing packed into it.

One thing to keep in mind is the group size, which is limited to 14 travelers, making it fairly intimate. However, the tour requires a minimum of four guests to operate, so if you’re traveling alone or in a small group, you might need to check if private options are available, as they seem to be a good alternative. Also, be prepared for a long day on the road with about a 2-hour drive just to the first stop—something to consider if you’re not a fan of lengthy bus rides.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want to hit the highlights of Sedona efficiently, enjoy some scenic views, and appreciate a mix of cultural sights and natural beauty. It’s not a deep dive into Sedona’s lesser-known corners but offers a solid overview for first-time visitors or those short on time.

Key Points

• Convenient full-day tour from Scottsdale, covering key Sedona highlights.
• Includes iconic sites like the Chapel of the Holy Cross and Vortex energy spots.
• Comfortable transport with WiFi, bottled water, and air conditioning.
• Visits arts and shopping at Tlaquepaque, perfect for browsing or grabbing lunch.
• Long drive time (about 2 hours each way) to reach Sedona; good to keep in mind.
• Small group size enhances the experience but requires minimum booking.

What You Can Expect on the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at a convenient location in Scottsdale around 9:00 am. From there, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi—handy if you want to check emails or local info on the go. The group stays small, with a maximum of 14 travelers, which helps keep the experience friendly and less rushed. Keep in mind, though, that if there aren’t enough participants (at least 4), the tour might be rescheduled or canceled—so it’s worth planning some flexibility into your day.

The Drive to Sedona

The first couple of hours are spent traveling to Sedona, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the Arizona scenery. The drive is straightforward but quite lengthy—around two hours—so it’s a good idea to bring snacks or entertainment. Once you arrive, the first stop is the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a striking Roman Catholic chapel built into the red rock buttes. The structure, built from 1954 to 1956, has become a symbol of Sedona’s spiritual side and offers incredible views. Admission is included, so you can step inside and appreciate its architecture.

Exploring Sedona’s Art and Shopping

Next, you’ll head to Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, a charming outdoor market with cobblestone paths, art galleries, and craft shops. It’s a great spot to browse, soak in local art, or grab a bite. Since lunch isn’t included in the tour, you’re free to explore the many restaurants and cafes here—some might even consider this a highlight for the ambiance and variety of options.

Experiencing the Vortex Energy

The tour also includes a visit to one of Sedona’s famous Vortex sites. These are believed to emit special energies that promote healing and spiritual awakening, with some spiraling upward and others downward. Even if you’re skeptical, many visitors say that these spots have a palpable sense of energy, making this part of the tour quite unique. Expect about 30 minutes here, enough to take some photos and maybe meditate a little.

Scenic Beauty at Oak Creek Canyon

One of the most beautiful stops is Oak Creek Canyon, a 45-minute visit to a stunning stretch of nature, where Navajo and Hopi artisans sell exquisite jewelry. The scenery here is postcard-worthy, with winding creek views and towering cliffs. The jewelry vendors are a highlight for many visitors, offering handcrafted pieces that make nice souvenirs.

Final Thoughts and Return

The day wraps up with a return drive to Scottsdale, expected to end around sunset. The entire experience spans roughly 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day filled with sightseeing, driving, and some walking.

How This Tour Offers Value

The price of $189 includes transportation, admission to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, Tlaquepaque shopping, and the vortex experience. While it may seem steep, it consolidates several key sights and activities into one day, which can be very convenient for busy travelers. Plus, the small group size can enhance the feeling of a personalized adventure.

However, the long drive and packed schedule mean you’re mostly sitting on a bus, which might not appeal to those looking for a more leisurely or in-depth exploration. Reviewers have mentioned feeling grateful for a safe and caring driver, which helps make the long journey more pleasant.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is well-suited for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Sedona’s most famous spots in one day. It’s also a good choice if you prefer guided trips that handle all logistics so you can just enjoy the sights and scenery. Keep in mind, it’s not the best fit if you’re looking for a quiet, deep-dive experience or prefer to explore at your own pace.

Travelers who appreciate arts, spirituality, and stunning landscapes will find plenty to enjoy here. But if you’re a seasoned Sedona veteran or prefer off-the-beaten-path adventures, you might want to seek out more personalized or extensive options.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the stops like the Chapel and Oak Creek Canyon are quite family-friendly. Just keep in mind the long bus ride and that it’s more suited to older children who can sit comfortably for extended periods.

What’s included in the price?
Bottled water, admission to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, and access to attractions at Tlaquepaque and Oak Creek Canyon are included. WiFi and air-conditioned transport are also part of the package.

How long is the drive to Sedona?
It’s approximately two hours each way, so expect about 4 hours of driving total, spread across the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included. You’re encouraged to browse or dine at Tlaquepaque, giving you flexibility.

What if the minimum number of guests isn’t met?
If the required minimum of 4 isn’t reached, you’ll be contacted with options, which might include rescheduling or private tours.

Are there options for private tours?
Yes, private tours are available and can be more flexible, ensuring your trip goes ahead regardless of group size.

What is the duration of the tour?
It runs for about 9 hours from start to finish, including travel time and sightseeing.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is near public transportation and generally accessible, but it’s best to check directly with the operator for specific needs.

Final Thoughts

This Sedona tour from Scottsdale offers a well-organized way to see some of the area’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s a practical choice for those who want to experience the nature, art, and spiritual energy in one day, especially if you value a guided approach and small group intimacy.

The long drive and busy itinerary mean this isn’t for everyone, particularly if you prefer a more relaxed pace or off-the-beaten-path adventures. But if you’re looking for a rundown that hits many highlights, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for a full, scenic, and culturally enriching day.

Happy travels, and may your Sedona adventure be filled with awe and inspiration.