Scottsdale: Grand Canyon National Park and Sedona with Lunch

If you’re looking to see some of Arizona’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail, this guided tour from Scottsdale might just be worth considering. It promises a full day of breathtaking views, interesting stops, and insightful commentary—all packed into around 13 hours. Based on the feedback from travelers, it’s clear this experience has a lot to offer, especially if you’re eager to tick off the Grand Canyon and Sedona in one go.

What really caught our eye are the expert guides, who seem to make all the difference with their knowledge and friendly attitude. We also appreciate the thoughtful pacing, which allows visitors to enjoy the scenery without feeling hurried. However, keep in mind that this is a long day with early starts, and weather can sometimes obscure the canyon views—so a good dose of patience and flexibility is key.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the stress of DIY planning. It’s perfect for those who enjoy engaging guides, scenic drives, and a well-organized itinerary. If you’re okay with spending a good part of the day on a bus and want to see both the Grand Canyon and Sedona in one trip, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Convenient all-in-one trip covering both the Grand Canyon and Sedona in one day.
• Expert guides who provide detailed, engaging commentary.
• Beautiful viewpoints and free time to explore the Grand Canyon Village.
• Delicious included lunch that adds to the overall value.
• Small group size (limited to 12 participants), fostering a more intimate experience.
• Flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour kicks off early, with pickup times starting between 5:00 and 6:00 AM, depending on the season. Yes, it’s a long day, but that early start means you’ll maximize your time at some of the most spectacular sights in Arizona. The drive itself is part of the experience, with scenic views along the way, giving you a chance to settle into the landscape as you head toward the canyon.

Exploring the Grand Canyon

Once at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, you’ll spend around three hours exploring. This includes visits to two of the most prominent viewpoints, where the views are absolutely unforgettable—vast, layered, and seemingly endless. The guided portion of the trip is particularly useful here, as your guide will share insights into the canyon’s geology, history, and significance.

Travelers seem especially happy with the timed stops and the free time at the Grand Canyon Village, allowing for personal exploration or some quick souvenir shopping. Elizabeth mentioned how Kody (the guide) was very informative and shared a lot about Arizona’s history, which adds depth to the experience.

Lunch Break

After soaking in the canyon views, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch—a welcome break after a few hours of sightseeing. The precise menu isn’t specified, but reviews highlight how well-organized and tasty the meal was, with Cody ordering ahead to ensure everything was ready upon arrival.

Sedona and Red Rock State Park

Post-lunch, the journey continues to the charming desert town of Sedona. The lively “uptown” area gives you a taste of local art and atmosphere, perfect for a quick stroll or some photos of the famous red rock formations. The stop at Red Rock State Park allows for more scenic pictures and a chance to enjoy Arizona’s unique desert landscape.

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End of the Day

The return trip features plenty of rest stops and opportunities to enjoy the scenery along the way back. The entire experience is spaced out comfortably, which many reviewers appreciated, especially those traveling with limited patience for long drives.

The Value of This Tour

At $243 per person, this tour offers a lot—transportation, guided commentary, park entry, and lunch. Considering the hassle of organizing your own trip, this all-inclusive approach means you don’t need to worry about tickets or directions. The reviews consistently mention how well-planned and smooth the day is, with Cody and the team making sure everyone has a memorable experience.

Many travelers, including Anne from Canada, emphasize how knowledgeable guides like Cody make all the difference. The small group setting (max 12 people) creates a more personal, relaxed atmosphere—perfect if you prefer a more intimate tour. Plus, the flexibility of canceling up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind if your plans change.

Practical Considerations

Keep in mind that weather can influence what you see. Some reviews note that fog might sometimes obscure the canyon views, but that’s simply out of the tour’s control. Dressing in appropriate layers is advisable, especially since the canyon’s temperature can be 30 degrees cooler than Scottsdale or Phoenix. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll likely want to explore the viewpoints and the village area a little on foot.

The early pickup means you’ll be tired by the end of the day, but most find that the experience is worth the long hours. If you’re someone who enjoys learning about the places you visit and appreciates well-organized trips, you’ll get plenty of bang for your buck here.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Arizona who want to see the highlights without the hassle of driving themselves. It’s also good for small groups and those who prefer a more personal touch, thanks to the limited size. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy scenic drives, stunning vistas, and engaging guides, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

However, if you have very young children or mobility issues, keep in mind the long hours and walking involved—this may not be the best fit for very young kids, but older children used to travel might enjoy it.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Scottsdale-based day trip offers a solid, well-rounded way to experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon and the charm of Sedona. The combination of expert guides, beautiful viewpoints, and a relaxed schedule makes it a popular choice for those who want to make the most of a single day.

While it’s a long haul—starting early and ending late—the effort pays off with unforgettable scenery and insightful commentary. The included lunch, small group atmosphere, and flexible cancellation policy add to its appeal.

If you’re after a convenient, comprehensive, and engaging Arizona adventure**, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s particularly suited for travelers eager to soak in some of the state’s most iconic sights with a knowledgeable guide and a comfortable setup.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts roughly 13 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks, with pickup between 5:00 and 6:00 AM depending on the season.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour of the Grand Canyon, the entrance fee to the park, and a provided lunch.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While it is family-friendly for older children and teenagers, very young kids might find the long hours and walking challenging. Always consider your child’s comfort with early mornings and long days.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers, as the canyon can be 30 degrees cooler than Scottsdale. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring viewpoints and the village.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The itinerary involves some walking and exploring viewpoints, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility concerns. It’s best to check with the tour provider for specific accommodations.

What if the weather is foggy or overcast?
Views of the canyon can be obscured by fog or clouds, which is beyond the tour’s control. It’s a good idea to be prepared for this possibility, and sometimes the experience still remains worthwhile.

This guided day trip from Scottsdale offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, expert insight, and convenient logistics. If you’re ready to see some of Arizona’s most stunning landscapes without the stress of planning, it might be just the ticket.

You can check availability for your dates here: