Secret Wilderness Sedona Helicopter Sunset Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing Sedona’s iconic red rock formations from a perspective that truly highlights their grandeur, the Secret Wilderness Sedona Helicopter Sunset Tour might be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally flown with this particular operator, I’ve researched this experience thoroughly and can share what makes it stand out—and what you should consider before booking.

What really caught my eye about this tour are its extensive coverage of over 45 miles and how it offers a relaxed, detailed look at Sedona’s most famous sights. Plus, the timing around sunset promises that golden hour glow for those perfect photos. On the downside, a 35-minute flight isn’t a long time, so it’s definitely a flyby rather than an in-depth exploration, but often that’s enough to get a real sense of the landscape’s scale and beauty.

This tour seems best suited for travelers seeking a memorable, scenic overview rather than a full-day adventure. If you’re after something that combines a bit of thrill with legendary views, and don’t mind the price tag, it could be a great choice. Keep reading to see if this is the right way for you to experience Sedona from the sky.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: You’ll get wide-ranging vistas of Sedona’s most iconic rock formations and deep canyon passages.
• Comprehensive Route: The flight includes many highlights like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and the Sinagua Cliff Dwellings.
• Sunset Timing: Flying at sunset provides warm, glowing light that enhances the scenery and photo opportunities.
• Comfort & Safety: Noise-canceling headsets and air conditioning in a small group of six seats make for a comfortable experience.
• Duration & Value: At around 35 minutes, the flight is a quick but scenic way to see the area, with a price that reflects this premium experience.
• Weather Dependency: As with all helicopter tours, good weather is essential; cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t ideal.

What to Expect from the Tour

A Well-Paced Flight Through Sedona’s Famous Landmarks

Starting from the helicopter pad at 1225 Airport Rd, you’ll be greeted and fitted with noise-reducing headsets—these are a small but appreciated touch, helping you hear your pilot and stay connected to the stunning sights outside.

The flight kicks off with a view of Cathedral Rock, arguably Sedona’s most-photographed natural wonder. From there, the route meanders past Bell Rock, with its distinctive shape, and circles around the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a striking structure set against the red cliffs. The pilot’s narration (via microphone) typically points out details about these formations, adding context to the views.

Deep into Canyons and Cliff Dwellings

As the helicopter glides further, you’ll venture into several canyons—Secret Canyon, Boynton Canyon, Long Canyon—each offering a different perspective on Sedona’s rugged terrain. These canyons not only showcase the area’s natural beauty but also house ancient Sinagua Cliff Dwellings, lending a touch of history to the high-altitude experience.

You’ll also fly over Gunsight Pass and Thunder Mountain, with the latter providing a dramatic, rugged silhouette at sunset. The inclusion of natural features like Steam Boat Rock and Cockscomb Butte adds to the diversity of scenery. Before heading back, the route takes you past Boynton Vortex and Chimney Rock, more of Sedona’s famous energy spots and geological marvels.

The Return and Final Views

As the helicopter turns back toward the starting point, the views continue to impress. The pilot often circles over Seven Canyons Golf Course—a surprisingly lush contrast to the arid landscape—and points out noteworthy features like Cox Comb and other prominent formations.

The Experience in Perspective

While only 30 minutes of flying time (plus a few minutes for takeoff and landing), this tour manages to pack in a lot of scenery. You’ll come away with a sense of Sedona’s vastness and the astonishing variety of its formations. The sunset light will make everything glow, transforming familiar sights into something almost surreal.

How It Compares to Other Sedona Tours

Touring Sedona by helicopter is a different beast from day hikes or jeep tours. It’s more about getting a sweeping overview than an up-close encounter. Compared to other sightseeing options, this experience offers a bird’s-eye view that’s hard to match — especially at sunset, when the landscape gets a warm glow.

While it’s pricier than some land-based tours, the cost reflects the exclusivity and beauty of flying over such a scenic area. Plus, with only six seats, the experience feels intimate rather than crowded.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is highly recommended if you’re interested in a detailed, leisurely pace that allows the pilot to point out key landmarks. You’ll also appreciate the air-conditioned cabin and noise-canceling headsets, making the experience more comfortable, especially during the warm Arizona evenings.

Keep in mind that most travelers can participate, with a maximum weight per passenger of 229 lbs. If you’re prone to motion sickness or have specific medical conditions, it’s best to check with the operator beforehand.

The tour is weather-dependent. Poor weather can lead to cancellations, but they’ll offer a different date or full refund, which is a fair policy.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $601 per person, this isn’t a casual splurge, but for a unique view of Sedona’s stunning landscape at sunset, many find it worth the cost. The experience combines visual wow factor with a sense of adventure, which can be quite memorable. Consider how much you value aerial views and whether a short but spectacular flight fits your travel plans.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This helicopter sunset tour is great for travelers who love scenic vistas, photography, and a touch of luxury. It’s also well-suited for those who want to see a lot without hiking or driving. If you’re traveling with someone who prefers a relaxed, guided overview of Sedona’s most famous sights, this could be a perfect fit.

However, if you’re on a strict budget or afraid of flying, you might want to explore land-based tours or hikes instead. This isn’t an in-depth exploration but an aerial highlight reel.

Final Thoughts

The Secret Wilderness Sedona Helicopter Sunset Tour offers a quick, breathtaking window into one of America’s most photogenic landscapes. The combination of vast canyon views, iconic rock formations, and the golden glow of sunset makes it a memorable way to experience Sedona from above.

It’s best for those who are comfortable with a relatively short helicopter ride and want to capture incredible photos or simply enjoy the scenery without the effort of hiking. The small group size, comfort features, and comprehensive route are definite pluses that make it stand out among aerial tours.

If you’re looking for a special way to cap off your Sedona visit, and the price aligns with your travel style, this tour could very well be a highlight of your trip. Just be prepared for the weather dependency and book in advance to secure a sunset slot.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
It lasts about 35 minutes total, with roughly 30 minutes of flight time.

What does the tour cover?
It covers over 45 miles, including famous formations like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and several canyons with ancient cliff dwellings.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, with a maximum weight of 229 lbs. If you’re prone to motion sickness or have medical concerns, check with the operator.

What amenities are included?
Noise-reducing headsets with microphones and an air-conditioned cabin in a small group setting (6 seats).

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. Cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or can be rescheduled.

Can I see Sedona’s energy spots from the air?
Yes, the route includes popular vortex points like Boynton Vortex and Chimney Rock, which are well-known for their energy and scenic views.

Is this a good option for photography?
Absolutely. The sunset light enhances the landscape, and the helicopter provides wide, unobstructed views perfect for photos.

How does this compare to land-based tours?
While land tours let you explore closely, this helicopter flight offers unmatched panoramic views and a sense of scale that’s hard to beat.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuity is not included, so consider tipping if you appreciated the experience.

How do I book?
You can book through the provider, Apex Air Tours, and confirm your slot in advance—especially for sunset times, which are popular.

If you’re craving a spectacular overview of Sedona’s red rocks at sunset, this helicopter tour could be exactly what you need. It’s a memorable way to see the landscape from a different perspective, and the views will stay with you long after the flight ends.