Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV – Centipede Tour

If you’re thinking about adding a bit of adrenaline to your Phoenix trip, the Guided Arizona Desert ATV Tour by Centipede might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this tour ourselves, based on the glowing reviews and detailed information available, it seems like a well-organized adventure that offers a genuine taste of the rugged Sonoran Desert. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete newbie, this experience promises plenty of scenic vistas and fun stories from your knowledgeable guides.

What really catches our eye about this tour is the combination of guided instruction and plenty of riding time—you don’t just sit and watch; you get to actually drive through the desert’s rocky trails. Plus, the stellar reviews praising the friendly guides and stunning landscapes give us confidence that you’ll be in good hands. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s not a beginner-friendly course, especially if you’re unfamiliar with ATVs—so some prior comfort with riding might be helpful. This tour seems best suited for those who love outdoor adventures, enjoy scenic drives, and are ready to handle a bit of rugged terrain.

Key Points

• Guided experience with safety training ensures you’re comfortable and prepared before hitting the trails.
• Riding through the Sonoran Desert offers unique views and a chance to see local flora and fauna.
• Helmets, goggles, and bottled water are included, making it convenient and safe.
• Tours are available multiple times daily, which helps fit into various schedules.
• The tour is best for physically fit travelers due to the nature of off-road riding.
• Price reflects a solid experience with knowledgeable guides and a good amount of riding time.

What to Expect from the Tour

This two-hour guided ATV adventure is a combo of preparation, scenic riding, and storytelling. You start at the Arizona Outdoor Fun Adventures & Tours location in New River, Arizona. After a brief check-in and safety training—an important step that many reviews highlight as thorough and helpful—you’ll be suited up with safety gear like helmets and goggles, plus bottled water to stay refreshed during the ride.

The Ride and Trail Highlights

Most of the tour is spent riding off-road in the Sonoran Desert, with the rugged trail weaving through the Bradshaw Mountains. The trails are rocky and occasionally challenging, which is why some reviews suggest this is not ideal for absolute beginners. If you’re experienced, you’ll appreciate the thrill, while newcomers might find it a fun challenge, especially if they take the time to listen to their guides.

One of the standout features is crossing the Aqua Fria River, a scenic part of the journey that adds a splash of water and variety to the ride. The guides share stories about the area’s plant life, wildlife, and history—adding a layer of local flavor that makes the experience more than just a thrill ride.

The Guides and Instruction

According to numerous reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, with some reviewers mentioning Jesse and Sam by name. They’re attentive, helpful, and make sure everyone is comfortable before setting out. The instructions are clear, and the safety training is quite comprehensive, which many reviewers appreciated, especially those new to ATV riding.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour caps at 50 travelers, but most reviews suggest the group size feels manageable, especially during the earlier, cooler morning times. Smaller groups mean more personalized attention, which adds to the overall enjoyment and safety of the experience.

The Value of the Experience: Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $107 per person, this tour offers a good deal, considering it includes safety gear, bottled water, and expert guidance. The reviews consistently praise the value, with many mentioning how much fun they had and how the experience exceeded expectations. It’s a decent price for about two hours of riding, especially given the scenic value and the safety measures in place.

Some reviews note that the experience is not just about the riding but about the stories and local insights shared by the guides, which enriches the trip further. The fact that you get a full safety briefing and gear makes it feel secure, and the scenic landscape justifies the cost for most.

What about the downsides?

A few travelers pointed out that credit cards and IDs are held at the beginning until the activity ends—a small inconvenience for some, but worth mentioning. Also, the tour is not suited for open-toed shoes or dresses, so come prepared with proper attire. The physical aspect means you should be in good shape, as some parts can be physically demanding. And if you’re planning to rent a vehicle or need transportation, that’s not included in the price, so plan accordingly.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

The tour begins with check-in and safety instructions, which take about an hour. During this time, you’ll learn how to operate the ATV or UTV—reviews mention Jesse and others making this step feel relaxed and clear. Once suited up, you’ll head out into the desert for around two hours of riding.

The trail is designed to showcase the desert’s rugged beauty, with rocky paths, scenic river crossings, and panoramic views of the Bradshaw Mountains. The guides share stories about the desert’s flora and fauna, making the experience educational as well as fun. Many reviewers have commented on how the guides help them take photos, ensuring they can capture memories of the adventure.

Authentic Guest Experiences

One of the best parts of this tour is the variety of reviews praising the guides and the scenery. Alec, a featured reviewer, mentions Sam as an excellent guide, emphasizing the ride’s fun but also noting it’s not a beginner course—so if you’re inexperienced, UTVs might be a better choice. Jaylon enjoyed the learning curve, noting that Jesse’s help made the experience more enjoyable.

Others appreciated the beautiful desert views and the chance to experience the local terrain firsthand. Many mentioned that switching to UTVs was a smart move if you’re new to ATVs, as it’s easier to handle and more relaxed, allowing you to focus on the scenery rather than the mechanics.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for those physically fit and ready for a rugged ride. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a scenic, guided off-road experience with plenty of riding time and educational stories from knowledgeable guides. Families with older teens (16+) can join, especially if they’re comfortable with ATV riding.

If you’re after a laid-back sightseeing trip, this might not be suitable due to the rugged terrain and physical demands. But if you crave a thrilling ride through a stunning desert landscape, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Guided Arizona Desert ATV Tour by Centipede offers a compelling mix of adventure, scenery, and local insight. With consistently high ratings and rave reviews about the guides and landscape, it’s clear that this experience can be a highlight of a trip to Phoenix. You get a good balance of safety, fun, and educational storytelling—all in a manageable two-hour window.

This tour is especially ideal for travelers who love outdoor activities, enjoy scenic views, and are comfortable on an ATV. The price is fair for the quality of the experience, and many reviews confirm that it’s worth every penny. Just remember to come prepared with appropriate footwear, and be ready for a physically engaging adventure.

If you’re seeking a memorable way to explore the Sonoran Desert, this tour hits most marks—offering a genuine, fun, and scenic ride that you’ll talk about long after your trip ends.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the tour includes safety training and instructions, it’s generally not a beginner’s course. If you’re new to ATV riding, a UTV might be easier to handle, and guides are helpful in making sure you’re comfortable.

What should I wear?
Avoid dresses and open-toed shoes. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must, and dressing in layers is wise since early mornings are cooler. Bringing a bandana or face covering is recommended for protection against dirt and dust.

Are safety gear and water included?
Yes, helmets, goggles, face masks, and bottled water are provided, which helps keep you safe and hydrated during the ride.

How long is the actual riding time?
The riding portion lasts about two hours, with additional time allocated for check-in, safety training, and briefing.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own or coordinate with the tour provider.

What is the group size?
The tour can host up to 50 travelers, but many reviews suggest smaller, more manageable groups, especially during early tours.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and genuinely guided outdoor adventure in Phoenix’s desert, this ATV tour seems to be a solid pick. Just prepare for a physically engaging ride, and you’ll likely come away with a new appreciation for the desert landscape—and some great stories to tell.