Sedona Highlights Scenic Jeep Tours

If you’ve been dreaming of Sedona’s iconic red rocks but are short on time, a scenic jeep tour like the Sedona Highlights might be just what you need. We’ve looked into this experience to help you decide if it fits your travel style. It’s an approachable way to see some of Sedona’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

What immediately stands out about this tour are two things: the expert guides and the stunning, accessible viewpoints. The guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, offering insights that add a layer of understanding to the scenery. Plus, the tour hits several key spots, like Airport Mesa and the Seven Canyons area, giving you a great overview of Sedona’s natural beauty.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite relaxed and mostly on paved roads. If you’re expecting an adrenaline-pumping off-road adventure, this might not be the right fit. It’s more about the views, the stories, and a comfortable ride—perfect if you want a smooth, scenic overview rather than a rugged experience. It’s especially well-suited for visitors with limited time who want a snapshot of Sedona’s highlights.

This tour appeals to a wide range of travelers, from first-time visitors wanting a quick orientation to those who appreciate a comfortable, informative ride. Families with children over five will find it accessible, though those seeking intense off-road thrills might look elsewhere. Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone seeking a balanced, scenic introduction to Sedona.

Key Points

• Comfortable, all-paved journey perfect for those with limited time
• Expert guides who share interesting stories and insights
• Breathtaking viewpoints at Airport Mesa and other scenic spots
• Family-friendly, with provisions for children over five
• Affordable price for a two-hour, guided scenic tour
• Booking well in advance (about 15 days on average) suggests popularity

What You Can Expect from This Tour

The Sedona Highlights Scenic Jeep Tour is designed for travelers who want a relaxed, visually stunning overview of Sedona’s famous red rock landscape. The tour lasts around two hours, making it an easy addition to any day in Sedona. It’s hosted by Arizona Safari Jeep Tours, known for their friendly approach and knowledgeable guides.

The tour begins at 335 Jordan Rd, Sedona, and involves transportation in a comfortable, open-air Jeep, accommodating up to 12 travelers. The small group size means you won’t be lost in a crowd, allowing for more personalized attention from your guide.

The Itinerary and Key Stops

Airport Mesa (10 minutes)

Your first stop is the Airport Mesa, a viewpoint that offers sweeping 360-degree views of the surrounding red rocks. This spot is perfect for snapping photos and taking in the scenery. The climb to the overlook is manageable, and the vista is one of Sedona’s most iconic. The stop is brief but well worth the time, especially with the chance to see the landscape from a high vantage point.

Drive Through Sedona Town (15 minutes)

Next, your guide will cruise around Sedona’s town, pointing out the characteristic red rocks and various features. This part of the tour is informative, with your guide sharing stories about the area’s formations. There’s a quick stop for about 10-15 minutes to stretch your legs and take photos of the landscape right from the roadside. Travelers have noted that this drive offers a great “quick hit” of Sedona’s charm—without the need to leave your vehicle.

Seven Canyons and Beyond

The tour also ventures toward the Seven Canyons area and other scenic viewpoints. Though the itinerary is primarily on paved roads, you’ll get a sense of the vast, rugged terrain that makes Sedona famous. Expect your guide to highlight natural features, vortex sites, and the geology that creates this surreal landscape.

What Travelers Are Saying

One reviewer, Elizabeth_D, found the tour “a little uninspiring,” feeling that the guide’s knowledge about vortex energy and plants was interesting but wished for more history and hike recommendations. This points to a common theme—the tour prioritizes scenic views and general info over deep historical or hiking insights. If you’re after a thorough hike or detailed history, you might want to supplement this experience.

Conversely, Valerie_S raved about her day, calling her guide Joe “phenomenal” and appreciating the off-the-beaten-path stops. She mentioned that the company is family-owned and provides blankets, which adds a cozy touch—especially if the weather dips cool during certain seasons.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are bottled water, transportation in a Jeep, and a professional guide. These are straightforward and add to the value, especially considering the small group size and the relaxed pace. Dogs over 25 lbs are welcome with prior notice, which is great for pet owners—though there’s a note that they pay a child’s rate, which is fair.

Gratuities aren’t included, and for groups of six or more, a minimum 18% gratuity is added. This is typical for guided tours and should be factored into your budget.

The tour’s price of roughly $99 per person is reasonable for a two-hour guided experience, especially considering the personalized service and the access to key viewpoints. You’re paying mainly for the guide’s insights, the vehicle, and the convenience.

Group Size, Duration, and Booking Tips

Limited to 12 travelers, the small group size makes for a more intimate experience. It also means less time waiting around and more time enjoying the scenery. Since most travelers book about two weeks in advance, if you’re set on this experience, it’s wise to reserve early to secure your spot.

The tour includes almost all the essentials, but keep in mind that gratuities are extra, and weather can affect plans—though cancellations are fully refundable if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comfortable and informative overview of Sedona’s highlights without a strenuous hike or off-road adventure. It’s perfect for those who appreciate good storytelling, scenic views, and a relaxed itinerary. Families with older children will find it suitable, especially if they’re interested in sightseeing rather than adventure sports.

If you’re after a quick, visually impressive experience that leaves you feeling satisfied without fatigue, this is a solid pick. However, if you’re seeking in-depth geological, historical, or hiking experiences, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Sedona Highlights Scenic Jeep Tour offers a balanced, scenic introduction to Sedona’s breathtaking landscape. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning viewpoints, and comfortable transportation makes it a reliable choice for many travelers. It’s a good way to get your bearings and snap some memorable photos, especially if you’re pressed for time or prefer a more relaxed pace.

While it may not satisfy those looking for a deep dive into Sedona’s history or an adventurous off-road ride, it provides a solid, enjoyable overview. The small group size and inclusion of bottled water add to the comfort factor, making it a friendly, accessible outing.

In the end, if you want a friendly guide to show you the highlights in a relaxed, scenic way, this tour will serve you well. It’s most suited to travelers who want an easy, informative experience that respects both their time and desire for beautiful views.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over five are welcome. If your child is five or younger, you’ll need to provide a full car seat. It’s a family-friendly option, especially for those who enjoy scenic drives.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, including travel time. It’s designed to be a short but memorable experience, perfect if you’re fitting in multiple activities.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers bottled water, transportation in a Jeep, and a professional guide. Gratuities are extra and not included in the ticket price.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs over 25 lbs are allowed with advance notification and a fee that’s equivalent to a child’s rate. Make sure to let the company know beforehand.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 335 Jordan Rd, Sedona. The whole experience is centered around this meeting point.

Is this tour on paved roads only?
Yes, the tour is primarily on paved roads, making for a smooth, comfortable ride. It’s not an off-road adventure.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions lead to cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Check the weather forecast before booking.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 15 days ahead. Since the tour is popular, early booking helps secure your preferred date.

This tour fits well if you’re after a relaxed, scenic overview of Sedona’s famous red rocks, guided by friendly experts who keep the experience engaging without overwhelming. It’s a practical choice, especially for those with limited time but a desire to see some of Sedona’s best sights comfortably and safely.