Sedona Red Rocks Outback Tour: Scenic with mild off-roading

If you’re considering a tour to experience Sedona’s iconic red rock scenery without the roughest rides, the Sedona Red Rocks Outback Tour might be just what you’re after. With a stellar 5.0-star rating from over a thousand reviews, this two-hour adventure offers a great balance of scenic beauty, gentle off-roading, and insightful commentary. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to see the landscape up close without feeling like they’ve signed up for an extreme off-road challenge.

What we love about this tour is how it combines beautiful vistas and engaging storytelling — the guides are praised repeatedly for their knowledge and friendly attitude. Plus, the fact that it’s rated highly by travelers who found it both fun and informative makes it feel like a well-rounded experience. The mild off-road driving means you’ll get a taste of Sedona’s rugged terrain without the bumps and jolts that can turn some tours into an uncomfortable ride. On the flip side, if you’re hoping for a more adrenaline-pumping adventure, this might not be the tour for you.

This trip is best suited for those who want a comfortable, scenic journey with a touch of adventure, ideal for people who appreciate learning about geology, ecology, and local stories. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with a group that includes seniors or those preferring a less intense ride, but it still offers plenty of stunning views and fun facts to keep everyone engaged.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: A scenic tour with gentle off-road driving, ideal for travelers seeking comfort and beauty.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.
• Beautiful Perspectives: Provides close-up views of Sedona’s famous red rocks and geological features.
• Good Value: At just over $110 per person, it’s a reasonably priced way to see Sedona’s highlights.
• Family-Friendly: Not recommended for kids under 3, but suitable for most others, including dogs over 25 lbs with prior notice.
• Weather-Ready: Operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Sedona Red Rocks Outback Tour

If you’re wondering what makes this tour stand out, it’s the combination of scenic vistas and accessible off-road driving. The tour begins at the Arizona Safari Jeep Tours office on Jordan Road, and from there, you head into the Western Canyons desert area of Sedona. This area is filled with dramatic red rock formations, canyons, and geological features that are best appreciated up close.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour lasts approximately two hours, which is just enough time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. The itinerary is straightforward: after meeting at the designated starting point, your guide will take you into Sedona’s desert landscape, stopping at various scenic points.

The first stop is typically near the base of Sedona’s famous red rocks. Here, you’ll be introduced to the area’s fascinating geology — many reviews mention guides being very knowledgeable about how the rocks formed and their significance. One reviewer, Margo_B, highlighted how Carmine made the experience fun and interactive, sharing insights into local plants and the history of the land, making the trip both educational and lively.

The Scenic Stops

Throughout the ride, you’ll visit spots like Bear Canyon and Echo Canyon, where the views are breathtaking. Don, one of the guides, is frequently praised for his personable manner and ability to explain complex geological concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. You’ll also get opportunities for photo stops, which many guests appreciated — especially those who want to capture the stunning landscape to look back on later.

Mild Off-Roading and Comfort

The tour is specifically described as having “not too rough” off-roading, which appeals to those who want a touch of adventure without the jolts of a more vigorous ride. The reviews reinforce this: many mention how comfortable and smooth the ride was, with some guides like John even providing heated seats and blankets to stay warm in cooler weather.

The Guides and Their Stories

The guides seem to be the real stars of this experience. They’re described as knowledgeable, friendly, and often humorous. For example, one review mentions Cowboy Bob, an “original cowboy” who knew the land’s history well, while others rave about guides like Carmine and CK, who shared fascinating tidbits about the rocks, the area’s history, and even local flora and fauna.

The Experience for Different Travelers

Many reviews highlight how this tour is suitable for a broad audience — from first-time visitors wanting a gentle introduction to Sedona’s scenery, to those interested in geology and local lore. It’s not aimed at thrill-seekers but at those who enjoy a relaxed yet immersive outdoor experience.

The Practicalities: Pricing, Group Size, and Booking

At $111.86 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the length, scenery, and guides’ expertise. The tour operates with a maximum of 10 travelers, fostering a more intimate atmosphere and allowing guides to connect better with each guest.

Most travelers book about a month in advance (around 29 days ahead on average), which is worth noting if you’re planning your trip during busy seasons. The convenience of a mobile ticket helps streamline the process, and the tour starts at 11:00 am, giving you plenty of time for other activities in Sedona.

The tour’s flexible cancellation policy—free if canceled 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind when planning your trip.

What’s Not Included and Additional Considerations

Gratuities are not included, but most reviews suggest tipping guides for their excellent service. Parties of six or more are charged an 18% gratuity, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with a larger group.

If you’re bringing a dog over 25 pounds, you’ll need to notify the company beforehand, as they do charge a child’s rate for large dogs. Children under three are not recommended for this tour, likely due to the open-air vehicle and mild off-road terrain.

Weather and Clothing

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly. Some reviews mention that it can get chilly, especially with wind, so bringing a jacket or blanket is advised. The heated seats and blankets offered by guides help make cooler days comfortable.

Authentic Experiences: What Travelers Say

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that guides like Carmine, Don, CK, and Cowboy Bob have made a difference for many guests. Guests often mention how knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging the guides are, which enhances the overall quality of the tour.

One traveler, Reynaldo_S, appreciated how the guide explained volcanic activity, flora, and local recommendations, making the experience feel personalized and informative. Others loved the chance to see and hear about the geological processes that created Sedona’s famous formations.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for visitors who want to see Sedona’s scenic red rocks comfortably and safely. It suits those who prefer a mild off-road experience over rugged, adrenaline-pumping rides. Families with children over 3 years old, small groups, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy learning about geology and local stories will find this engaging.

It’s especially well-suited for older travelers or those with mobility concerns because of its comfortable pace and gentle terrain. But even the most seasoned adventurers will appreciate the stunning views and knowledgeable guides, making it a universally appealing option for a quick but memorable Sedona outing.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, balancing enough time for sightseeing without feeling too long.

What’s the price?
It’s about $111.86 per person, which includes local taxes, bottled water, and the guide’s expertise.

Is it suitable for kids?
Not recommended for children under 3 years old. Kids over 3 can participate, but always check with the company if you have specific needs, especially if bringing a large dog.

Are pets allowed?
Yes, dogs over 25 pounds are welcome, but you need to give advance notice and pay a child’s rate.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing. The tour operates in all conditions, but bringing layers or a blanket is wise if it’s chilly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 10 travelers, making it more intimate than large bus tours.

Is off-roading rough?
No, it’s described as “not too rough,” suitable for those wanting a mild adventure.

How do I book?
You can purchase tickets online through platforms like Viator, with most travelers booking about a month ahead.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic adventure in Sedona with knowledgeable guides and beautiful views, this Red Rocks Outback Tour checks many boxes. It offers a good mix of easy off-road driving and stunning vistas, making it ideal for those who want a taste of Sedona’s landscape without the jarring bumps or intense rides.

Travelers who value informative storytelling and comfortable experiences will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s a great way to learn about Sedona’s geology, see iconic formations, and enjoy a memorable outdoor outing that won’t leave you sore or exhausted.

While it may not satisfy adrenaline junkies or those craving an intense off-road experience, it’s a solid choice for most visitors wanting an authentic, engaging look at Sedona’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple, or part of a small group, this tour offers a friendly, scenic way to appreciate Sedona’s famed red rocks.

Happy adventuring!