Private Tour Colorado Plateau from Sedona

Exploring the Private Tour Colorado Plateau from Sedona: An Honest Look

If you’re planning a trip to Sedona and looking to see the broader vistas of Arizona’s iconic landscapes, there’s a good chance you’ve come across this Private Tour Colorado Plateau. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, we’ve examined its details and reviews to give you an honest, practical overview.

What immediately catches the eye are the stunning scenery and personalized experience—two things we really appreciate in a day trip like this. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you’ll probably avoid the crowds and have a guide who can tailor the experience a bit.

That said, it’s worth mentioning that at over $1,380 per person, this isn’t a cheap outing. The price reflects the private nature and the comprehensive itinerary, but it’s important to weigh whether the value matches your expectations. Also, since it’s a private tour, flexibility in timing might be limited by factors outside your guide’s control, such as traffic or special events.

Overall, if you’re someone who loves beautiful landscapes and personalized service, this trip could be a great fit, especially if you’re eager for a full day of scenic exploration with minimal hassle.

Key Points

Stunning vistas: The tour offers multiple scenic stops, including Mogollon Rim and Schnebly Hill Vista, promising plenty of picture-perfect moments.
Private, personalized experience: Only your group participates, which translates to a more tailored and relaxed day.
Comfortable transportation: Modern, air-conditioned private vehicles make the journey more pleasant, especially in the Arizona heat.
Flexible free time: The two hours of free time in Sedona give you a chance to stretch your legs, explore at your pace, or grab a bite.
In-depth guide: A professional local guide adds context and stories to enhance the scenery, making the experience more meaningful.
Price considerations: The cost is high, but it includes private transportation, hotel pickup, and a full-day itinerary—worth considering if comfort and exclusivity matter to you.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Sedona

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is a nice touch, saving you the hassle of finding a meeting point. You’ll then hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle for the roughly 90-minute drive through Sedona’s stunning terrain. This initial stretch is a good chance to settle in, chat with your guide, and get your camera ready.

Scenic Drive Along SR 89A

Your first stop is at 2900 W State Rte 89A, a route famed for its sweeping views through Oak Creek Canyon. You’ll get a brief 15-minute stop here, but it’s enough to take in the scenery and snap a few photos. This highway is a highlight for many visitors, offering views of rugged cliffs and lush vegetation.

Approaching the Mogollon Rim

Next up is the Mogollon Rim, a major geological feature that stretches across northern Arizona. Over approximately two hours, you’ll explore this impressive edge where high desert meets towering cliffs, providing a dramatic backdrop. The Rim forms the southern boundary of the Colorado Plateau and is famed for its breathtaking vistas.

Your guide will likely share insights about the area’s geology, making the visit more than just a sightseeing stop. This stretch might include some gentle walks or overlook stops, depending on conditions and your group’s preferences.

Free Time in Sedona

After the guided part of the day, you’ll be dropped off with two hours of free time. This is your chance to explore Sedona at your own pace—whether you want to wander the shops, find a cozy café, or just relax and take in the views. The guide will ensure you’re dropped off at a convenient location, so you can make the most of this flexible period.

Return Journey

The tour wraps up with a private vehicle transfer back to your hotel. The scheduled 1.5 hours allows for a comfortable, unrushed return, giving you time to reflect on the day or even start planning your next adventure in the area.

What We Like About This Tour

One of the biggest perks is the personalized feel. Being a private tour, there’s less worry about large groups or noisy buses, which can sometimes detract from the scenery. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll gain insight into the geological and natural history of these landscapes—something that can make your trip more enriching.

We also appreciate the scenic diversity packed into the day. Starting with Sedona’s red rocks, passing through scenic highways, and ending at the Mogollon Rim, there’s a good variety of landscapes and viewpoints. The two free hours in Sedona give you flexibility, which is often a big plus for travelers wanting a relaxed pace.

The modern transportation is another highlight. Air conditioning and private vehicles mean comfort, especially if you’re traveling in the warmer months.

Things to Consider

The main consideration is the cost—over $1,380 per person is a significant investment. For some, the price is justified by the exclusivity and convenience, but others may find it steep, especially if they’re traveling on a budget.

Also, since the tour is non-refundable and cannot be amended, you’ll want to be confident in your plans beforehand. Weather or traffic could affect the timing, but the tour doesn’t offer refunds if it has to be shortened.

Finally, keep in mind that while the stops are scenic and leisurely, the actual walking or exploring time is limited, so if you’re seeking a more extensive hike or adventure, this may not be the best fit.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private excursion suits travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention. If you’re a couple, a small group of friends, or even a family with older children who can appreciate scenic overlooks and geological features, this could be perfect.

It’s especially good if you want a luxurious, hassle-free day that covers a lot of ground without cramming everything into a rushed schedule. If you’re looking for a straightforward way to see the highlights of the Colorado Plateau with a local guide, this tour checks those boxes.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more active adventures, you might want to explore more affordable or different types of tours—perhaps ones that include hikes or longer walks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel, making it very convenient and saving you the hassle of finding meeting points.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes, including driving, sightseeing, free time, and transportation.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll be riding in a modern, air-conditioned private vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey through Arizona’s scenic landscapes.

Are there any entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included, so if there are any park or monument fees at specific stops, you should budget for those separately.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, your guide is likely flexible to some extent, but the itinerary is carefully planned. Check with the provider if you want to customize.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is a full-day experience that involves some driving and sightseeing; it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who can handle the schedule comfortably.

What if there’s bad weather?
Weather conditions could impact the tour route or duration, but since the tour is non-refundable, it’s wise to plan for typical weather and be prepared for possible changes.

Is the tour worth the price?
If you value comfort, personalized attention, and access to scenic viewpoints without the hassle of planning logistics, many would say yes. The views and flexibility are attractive perks.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic drives, geological highlights like Mogollon Rim, and the free time in Sedona make it a comprehensive and relaxing way to experience the area.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking an easy, scenic, and private day trip from Sedona, this tour offers a pretty compelling package. The scenery is stunning, the comfort level high, and the personalized guide adds a layer of depth to the experience. While the price might give some pause, the convenience and exclusivity could well be worth it for travelers looking to splurge a bit or celebrate a special occasion.

If you’re someone who dreams of expansive views and the rugged beauty of Arizona’s landscape, and you prefer not to deal with the logistics yourself, this private tour could be a memorable way to see the Colorado Plateau. Just weigh the cost and your travel style—sometimes, the most relaxing days are the ones where everything is taken care of for you.

Remember: Always confirm the latest details directly with the tour provider, including availability and any current restrictions or conditions. Happy travels!