Small Group or Private Sedona and Native American Ruins Day Tour

If you’re planning a day trip from Phoenix to explore some of Arizona’s most iconic sights, the Small Group or Private Sedona and Native American Ruins Day Tour might catch your eye. With a top rating of 5.0 based on over 500 reviews, it clearly hits the mark for many travelers. But is it the right fit for you? Let’s break down what this tour offers and what you can realistically expect.

What I really appreciate about this experience is the balance between stunning scenery and cultural insight. You get to see the breathtaking red rock formations of Sedona, including Bell Rock and Airport Mesa, along with the chance to walk through ancient native ruins at Montezuma Castle. Plus, the small-group setting means more personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is a full day—around 11 hours—so it requires a bit of stamina, and the time spent at each stop varies. Some might find the travel time in the van a tad long, especially if you prefer a more leisurely pace. Still, if you’re eager to see a lot in one day with expert guidance, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

This experience seems best suited for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Sedona’s natural beauty and Native American sites without the hassle of organizing multiple stops themselves. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided tours, are okay with a packed schedule, and love capturing photos of dramatic landscapes.

Key Points

• Small-group setting limits the tour to just 13 people for a more intimate experience
• Includes visits to iconic landmarks like Montezuma Castle, Chapel of the Holy Cross, and Bell Rock
• Balance of history, scenery, and culture offers a well-rounded day
• Professional guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness
• Long day with lots of travel but with plenty of sightseeing and free time in Sedona
• Price point offers good value considering all the stops and guided insights

What’s Included and What’s Not

Starting with the basics, this tour offers hotel pickup, which adds a lot of convenience. All taxes and fees are covered, along with bottled water—taking care of many logistics so you can focus on soaking in the sights. The cost is $179 per person, which might seem steep for a day trip, but considering the stops, transportation, and guided commentary, many find it reasonable.

On the flip side, food is not included, so plan to bring snacks or grab something in Sedona during your free time. You’ll want to bring your camera, comfortable clothes, and perhaps a hat or sunblock, especially since Arizona can get quite hot and sunny.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Montezuma Castle National Monument

This is the first stop, and it’s a good one. The ruins are some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America. You’ll see a 20-room, five-story structure built into a limestone cliff about 70 feet off the ground. Many reviews highlight how impressive and accessible this site is, with one traveler mentioning: “It is a really interesting place,” and appreciating how close-up and well-preserved the ruins are.

Chapel of the Holy Cross

Next, you’ll visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a modern yet iconic building carved into the mesas. According to reviews, it’s amazing to go inside and admire the architecture, with many calling it a “must-see” in Sedona. Because it’s built into the landscape, it offers spectacular views from the inside and outside, perfect for photos.

Bell Rock

One of Sedona’s most recognizable formations, Bell Rock is a favorite for visitors. It’s a free stop, about 20 minutes, offering a chance to get close and maybe even snap some great pictures. The reviews mention how gorgeous and well worth seeing this spot is, providing that classic Sedona red rock backdrop.

Airport Mesa

This vortex site offers breathtaking views of Sedona’s red rocks and is often praised for its panoramic vistas. Visitors report that this stop is a highlight, with some describing it as “stunning” and perfect for a quick photo session.

Uptown Sedona

Finally, you get about 2 to 3 hours to wander through Sedona’s charming town center. Filled with shops, galleries, and eateries, it’s a chance to stretch your legs, pick up souvenirs, or just soak in the vibe. One traveler noted they appreciated having plenty of time to explore and enjoy the local ambiance.

What We Loved About This Tour

From the reviews, a recurring theme is the guides’ knowledge. Several mention guides like Bruce, Dan, Han, and Mark as being friendly, well-informed, and attentive—making the experience more enriching. A good guide can turn a scenic drive into a story-filled journey, and this tour seems to have several of those.

The scenery is another major highlight. The vivid reds of Sedona’s rocks and the ancient structures at Montezuma Castle offer really memorable visuals. Many reviewers describe the views as amazing and breathtaking, with some saying they took hundreds of photos.

Plus, travelers appreciate the value for money. For $179, you get a full day of sightseeing, expert guides, entrance fees at Montezuma Castle, and comfortable transportation. Several reviews praise how well-organized and hassle-free the whole experience is, allowing them to relax and enjoy rather than worry about logistics.

Some Notable Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, a few travelers mention the long travel times in the van, which can be tiring if you’re not used to extensive bus rides. If you prefer a slower, more relaxed day with less time in transit, this might not be your ideal choice.

Another point is that free time in Sedona is around two hours, which some found a bit short to explore thoroughly. If you’re someone who loves to linger and explore at your own pace, you might wish for more time here. However, for most, it’s enough to get a sense of the town and pick up souvenirs.

The weather can influence the experience too. Since the tour relies on outdoor stops, poor weather might limit some of the sightseeing options or affect visibility.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided taste of Sedona’s most iconic spots without the stress of planning individual excursions. It suits those who appreciate history, culture, and stunning landscapes wrapped into one package.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a mix of outdoor scenery and cultural sites, this tour covers all bases. Also, if you’re eager to learn from guides passionate about the area, you’ll find this tour rewarding. Just keep in mind that it’s a full day, so good stamina and preparation are key.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Small Group or Private Sedona and Native American Ruins Day Tour offers a solid balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and convenience. The guided component enhances the experience, making it accessible and informative, even for first-timers.

The price is reasonable considering the stops, transportation, and expert guidance, especially if you value comfort and small-group intimacy. It’s a great pick for anyone wanting a “big picture” day of Sedona, with enough free time to explore but not so much that the day feels aimless.

If you’re someone who loves breathtaking landscapes, appreciates learning about native history, and enjoys a guided experience, this tour ticks many boxes. Just be prepared for a long day and a fair amount of time in transit, and you’ll likely walk away with fantastic memories and plenty of photos.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup is included for select hotels, making it convenient to start your day.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire tour lasts approximately 11 hours, with a full day of sightseeing, stops, and free time in Sedona.

How many people are in the tour group?
This tour is limited to just 13 travelers, offering a more intimate experience and personal attention from guides.

Are entrance fees included?
Admission to Montezuma Castle is included, but other stops like the Chapel of the Holy Cross and Bell Rock are free.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 8 need a child seat or booster, which you must bring yourself. The minimum age is 3 years, and mobility concerns should be communicated beforehand.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and enough water. Food is not included, so plan accordingly.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after a day filled with incredible scenery, meaningful sights, and knowledgeable guides, this Sedona tour offers a well-rounded way to experience some of Arizona’s best. Just come prepared for a full day and plenty of photos!