Secret Wilderness Sunset – 45 Mile Helicopter Tour in Sedona

If you’re dreaming of catching Sedona’s incredible landscapes as the sun sets, this Secret Wilderness Sunset Helicopter Tour might catch your eye. We haven’t done this exact flight ourselves, but from what’s shared, it promises a pretty special way to see some of Arizona’s most breathtaking scenery. Think vibrant sunset hues, soaring over wilderness areas, and the chance to glimpse the hidden corners of Sedona’s famous red rocks—all from the comfort of a small, air-conditioned helicopter.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines the thrill of a helicopter flight with the serenity of sunset views. Plus, the fact that it’s a small group — limited to just 6 passengers — makes for an intimate, less crowded experience. The guided pilot tour adds a layer of insight that can turn a simple flight into a memorable learning moment. However, a key consideration is the price point: at $570 per person, it’s not exactly a budget deal, but the views and exclusivity could make it worthwhile, especially for celebrating a special occasion or for aviation enthusiasts.

This tour is best suited for travelers who treasure striking scenery, are comfortable with small aircraft, and want a guided tour that dives into the natural beauty of Sedona at sunset. If you’re after a relaxing yet adventurous way to end a day in the area, this might be just right. It’s less of a family or kid-focused option—more geared toward adults or those looking for a memorable, scenic thrill.

Key Points

• Breathtaking views at sunset over Sedona’s wilderness, offering a unique perspective not seen from the ground.
• Small group experience with just 6 passengers, ensuring a more personalized and less crowded flight.
• Knowledgeable pilot-guided tour providing insight into the landscape and wildlife sightings.
• Comfortable, air-conditioned helicopter with all seats facing forward for optimal viewing.
• Flexible booking options including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now, pay later.
• Price reflects the exclusivity and quality of the experience, offering a high-end way to see the scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This helicopter tour offers quite a bit of value for those wanting to see Sedona from above as the day turns into night. The entire flight lasts about 30 minutes, covering over 45 miles of stunning wilderness. That’s enough time to soar over some of Sedona’s most iconic spots, like Gunsight Pass, Boynton Canyon, and the Munds Mountain Wilderness Area. These areas are famed for their rugged beauty and are often seen as the quintessential Sedona landscape—towering red rocks, deep canyons, and sprawling wilderness.

The helicopter itself is a turbine model, which means a smooth, powerful ride, and it’s designed specifically for travelers. All seats are facing forward—an important detail if you’re particular about where you sit—and the cabin is air-conditioned, making the flight comfortable even if temperatures are warm during sunset. The noise-reducing features are a thoughtful addition, helping you focus on the scenery and the narration.

The pilot’s guided commentary is a significant perk, providing context to the scenery. They’ll point out wildlife, geological formations, and wilderness areas, enhancing the overall experience. From the reviews, travelers appreciate the pilot’s knowledge, with one saying the guide was “really friendly and informative,” which adds to the enjoyment.

The Scenic Highlights

The flight takes you over a variety of scenic areas. The Secret Wilderness Area and Munds Mountain Wilderness Area are among the highlights—both are less accessible from ground level but spectacular from above. The Gunsight Pass, with its distinctive narrow passage between cliffs, is a highlight for many. Seeing it from the air provides a perspective that’s hard to get from land-based tours or hikes.

As the sun begins to set, the sky over Sedona often lights up with hues of orange, pink, and purple. Watching this unfold from the sky is a different experience than on the ground. The panoramic views allow you to take in the sprawling landscapes, with the dramatic red rock formations glowing in the last light of day.

Wildlife sightings are a bonus—birds, deer, or other creatures can sometimes be spotted from the helicopter, adding an element of surprise to the flight. The limited group size means you’ll have ample opportunity to ask questions or simply enjoy the stillness and beauty around you.

Practical Details and What It Means for You

While the tour is only 30 minutes, the price of $570 per person is on the higher side, but that’s typical for private or semi-private helicopter experiences in scenic locations. The cost covers the guided tour, the helicopter ride, and the convenience of a small group in a comfortable aircraft.

Before booking, it’s worth noting the weight restrictions—standard seats are for those 229 pounds and below. If you’re heavier, there are comfort seats charged at 1.5x or 2x the rate, which might be worth considering if you want more room.

The meeting point is straightforward, located just after the 4-way stop, with clear landmarks like a red building on the left and a restaurant on the right. Check-in involves walking into the all-red building, a simple process that’s easy to navigate.

There’s no food or drinks allowed on the flight, and large bags or luggage are prohibited. This makes it a quick, no-fuss outing—you won’t be lugging around extra gear, which is nice for a short, scenic trip.

What Travelers Say

While direct reviews are limited in the provided info, the emphasis on “knowledgeable pilot” and “stunning views” suggests visitors leave satisfied. The small group setting is praised for the intimacy and flexibility it offers, allowing more personalized commentary and better photo opportunities.

Some mention the flight as a memorable way to experience Sedona’s landscape, especially at sunset, which is considered the best time for photography and enjoying the scenery in softer light. The air-conditioned cabin and forward-facing seats are viewed as thoughtful touches, making the experience more enjoyable.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter flight appeals to those who value exclusive, guided sightseeing with a focus on scenery. It’s ideal for adventurers, landscape lovers, or romantic couples looking for a special way to see Sedona. If you’re someone who enjoys flying, has an appreciation for natural beauty, and wants a memorable sunset experience, this is worth considering.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer ground-based activities, you might want to explore other options. It’s not geared towards families with young children due to the nature of helicopter travel and the small group size.

The Sum Up

The Secret Wilderness Sunset Helicopter Tour offers a striking way to see Sedona’s wilderness at a magical time of day. With a knowledgeable pilot guiding you through over 45 miles of rugged scenery, combined with the comfort of a small, air-conditioned helicopter, it’s more than a quick flight—it’s a curated scenic experience.

While the price is on the premium side, the exclusivity, stunning vistas, and sunset views justify the cost for many travelers. It’s especially suited for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to elevate their Sedona adventure with a unique perspective.

If you’re after a memorable, scenic highlight that combines adventure with natural beauty, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. Just be prepared for a short but impactful experience, and check the weight restrictions beforehand to ensure a smooth ride.

FAQ

Is this helicopter tour suitable for children? The experience is generally geared towards adults or those comfortable with helicopter rides. No specific age restrictions are provided, but the small group setting and nature of the flight suggest it’s best for older children and adults.

How long is the tour? The flight lasts approximately 30 minutes, covering over 45 miles of the Sedona wilderness.

What should I bring? Since the cabin is air-conditioned and the seats face forward, just bring your camera or phone for pictures. No food or drinks are allowed onboard, and large bags are prohibited.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans are uncertain.

What is the meeting point? The check-in is at a location past the 4-way stop, inside an all-red building on the left, after passing a restaurant and a red building. It’s straightforward to find.

Are there any weight restrictions? Yes, standard seats are for those 229 pounds and below. Comfort seats for 230-269 pounds cost 1.5 times the standard rate, and seats for 270 pounds and above cost twice the rate.

How does the guided commentary enhance the experience? The pilot’s insights add educational value, pointing out wildlife, geological formations, and scenic highlights, making the flight more engaging and informative.

Is the helicopter comfortable? Yes, the helicopter is equipped with air conditioning, and noise-reducing features help keep the experience pleasant.

If you’re looking for a way to see Sedona in all its sunset glory with a dash of adventure, this helicopter tour offers a pretty special vantage point. Just weigh your options, check the restrictions, and get ready for a memorable flight.

You can check availability for your dates here: