Phoenix is a surprisingly good base for exploring some of the most stunning landscapes in Arizona. With its central location, you’ll find a variety of tours that fit different interests and budgets. Whether you’re after a comprehensive day at the Grand Canyon, a quick scenic flight, or a night hike to see bioluminescent creatures, Phoenix offers options that make it easy to experience nature without long travel times. Our favorites include a private, in-depth Grand Canyon tour from Scottsdale and an intimate small-group day trip that balances comfort with adventure. These tours showcase the region’s iconic scenery, and many include insider stops like the Navajo Reservation or Cameron Trading Post, adding cultural context to the natural beauty.
For those wanting a bit more thrill, a helicopter ride over the Canyon or an evening glow hike in the Sonoran Desert combine adventure with awe-inspiring views. We also appreciate tours suited for different budgets and fitness levels, from luxury private experiences to active guided hikes. No matter what you are after, Phoenix’s proximity to these spectacular landscapes means you can have a memorable and hassle-free trip.
1. One-Day Private Grand Canyon National Park/Sedona tour from Phoenix-Scottsdale
At number one, this full-day private tour offers a personalized experience of the Grand Canyon and Sedona, with a convenient pickup from Phoenix or Scottsdale. It’s priced at $980 per person for approximately 13 hours of exploration, making it a premium option for those who want an intimate, tailored adventure. The tour starts with a scenic drive passing through the San Francisco Peaks and the Navajo Reservation, offering a glimpse of native culture and volcanic remnants. The stop at the Cameron Trading Post is a highlight, providing opportunities for shopping and relaxing over a Navajo-style lunch.
Inside the Grand Canyon, you’ll travel 25 miles along the South Rim, stopping at the historic El Tovar Hotel and various lookout points. Your guide will share stories and insights, making the vast views more meaningful. Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s flexibility and knowledge, with one saying, “Howard went above and beyond!” This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, stress-free day with pickup and drop-off included.
Bottom Line: If you’re seeking a private, in-depth experience with personalized attention, this tour delivers all the highlights along with cultural stops—perfect for those willing to invest a bit more for a tailor-made adventure.
2. Small Group Grand Canyon National Park Day Tour from Phoenix
At number two, this small-group tour offers an authentic, intimate experience with a limit of just 13 people. For $199 per person, the roughly 12-hour journey combines comfort and expert guidance, making it a great value for travelers interested in a more personal touch. The drive from Phoenix takes about four hours, with comfort stops along the way, and the highlight is spending about three hours at the South Rim, where you can walk along the rim, enjoy panoramic views, and take photos.
The guide’s local knowledge shines through, with reviews mentioning how much they learned about Arizona and the Canyon itself. One guest noted, “Our tour guide was very knowledgeable,” emphasizing the educational value. This tour balances guided time with free time for personal exploration, perfect if you prefer to set your own pace.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-organized day with a small group and a good balance of guided and free time, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable Canyon experience.
3. Phoenix: Grand Canyon National Park Tour & Helicopter Flight
Number three on our list combines ground exploration with aerial adventure. For $599, this approximately 13-hour tour includes a scenic drive and a 45-minute helicopter flight over the Canyon. The helicopter ride is the real showstopper, giving you a breathtaking perspective of the deep gorges and layered cliffs that define the Grand Canyon.
The tour also takes you through the Sonoran Desert and Coconino National Forest, adding diverse scenery to the experience. The helicopter elevates this trip into the realm of once-in-a-lifetime, especially for those who want a bird’s-eye view of this natural wonder. Tour guides are experienced professionals, ensuring safety and informative commentary along the way.
Reviewers highlight the spectacular scenery and the unique perspective offered by the helicopter, with one mentioning it as “a must-do for any canyon lover.” It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy combining land and air experiences or want a more memorable, photo-rich day.
Bottom Line: For an unforgettable adventure that combines ground views with a stunning helicopter flight, this tour is hard to beat—though it’s priced accordingly for the wow factor.
4. Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike
Number four is a different kind of adventure—an evening glow hike in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve. For $75, this 1.5-hour experience reveals the desert’s nocturnal life in a fun, engaging way. Armed with a UV flashlight, you’ll look for bioluminescent creatures like scorpions, minerals, and fossilized algae. The desert comes alive under the stars, with city lights twinkling in the distance.
Your guide will lead you into the desert at dusk, sharing insights into Sonoran flora, fauna, and Native American history. One reviewer said, “This night glow hike was absolutely amazing,” emphasizing the special glow-in-the-dark environment and the storytelling element. It’s perfect for night owls, families, and anyone curious about what the desert hides after sunset.
This tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with a short hike and those interested in seeing the desert’s night-time spectacles. Be prepared for a unique, slightly spooky experience that beats staying indoors.
Bottom Line: A fun, short night adventure suitable for all ages, especially if you’re interested in bioluminescence and desert ecology under the stars.
5. Scottsdale: McDowell Sonoran Preserve Hiking Tour
Number five is a classic guided hike in the scenic McDowell Sonoran Preserve. For $150, you’ll spend around 2.5 hours exploring the trails of Granite Mountain, with a focus on desert flora, fauna, and Native American history. This tour offers a more active experience, perfect for those who love to stretch their legs and learn about the natural and cultural landscape.
Your guides are friendly and knowledgeable, helping you capture great photos and understand the desert ecosystem. The trail offers panoramic views, and the hike itself is suitable for most fitness levels. It’s a nice way to combine exercise with education, enjoying the splendid scenery without spending a full day.
While reviews are limited, the focus on natural beauty and native history makes this a solid choice for active travelers who want to learn as they hike. It’s also a good option if you prefer a shorter, more focused outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: An active, educational hike in the Sonoran Desert, ideal for those wanting a healthy and informative outdoor experience close to Scottsdale.
$150 per person
How to Choose
When deciding on the best tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate. If you want an all-inclusive, private experience with personalized attention, the One-Day Private Grand Canyon and Sedona Tour is ideal. For a more affordable, intimate group experience, the Small Group Grand Canyon Day Tour balances comfort with a good overview.
If you’re craving a once-in-a-lifetime view from the sky, the Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour offers spectacular aerial vistas. For something more adventurous, the night glow hike provides a chance to experience the desert’s nocturnal wonders in a fun, accessible way. Finally, active hikers can enjoy the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which combines exercise with education on local flora and Native American history.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours in peak seasons. Think about what kind of experience suits your interests and physical readiness, and then pick the one that promises the most memorable moment for you.
To sum it up, Phoenix offers a surprisingly diverse array of National Park tours, from private luxury trips to small-group adventures, airborne views, and night hikes. Whether you want to marvel at the Grand Canyon from every angle or explore the desert after dark, there’s something here for every traveler. We suggest choosing based on your budget, interests, and activity level—just don’t wait too long to book, especially during busy seasons. These tours are a fantastic way to see Arizona’s remarkable landscapes without the hassle of long drives or complicated planning.