Private Grand Canyon with Sedona Tour from Phoenix

When we think of Arizona, two sights immediately come to mind: the breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon and the striking red rock formations of Sedona. This private tour from Phoenix offers a seamless way to experience both in one day—perfect for those wanting a personalized adventure. At $2,450 per group (up to 12), it’s an investment in an intimate, guided journey that promises stunning views, cultural highlights, and a hassle-free experience. The duration clocks in at about 11 hours, making it a full but comfortable day of exploration.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances iconic sightseeing with personal touches. Visiting two of Arizona’s most impressive natural wonders, with time to explore each, ensures you don’t just see the sights but get a sense of their scale and beauty. Plus, having a guide like George, who is praised as honest and joyful, makes the experience more engaging and memorable.

One thing to consider, though, is the vehicle size—some reviews mention it being a bit small and uncomfortable, especially for longer rides. If you’re prone to discomfort or traveling with larger groups, this is worth noting. Still, if you’re after a deeply personal, relaxed trip with knowledgeable guiding, this tour could be just right. It’s best suited for travelers who want an all-in-one, thoughtfully curated experience without the hassle of self-driving or navigating crowded spots alone.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size (up to 5 travelers) ensures attention from your guide and flexibility.
• Stunning Views: From the Grand Canyon South Rim to Bell Rock in Sedona, expect spectacular panoramas.
• Thoughtful Stops: Includes iconic sites like the Chapel of the Holy Cross and Yavapai Point, plus free time to explore.
• Comfort and Convenience: Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off in a climate-controlled vehicle.
• Value for Money: Combines transportation, guide expertise, and scenic stops, making it a good option for a full-day nature escape.
• Limitations: The vehicle may feel cramped for some, and lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

Starting with Sedona: The Chapel of the Holy Cross

Our day begins in Sedona, a town famous for its vivid red rock formations and spiritual aura. The highlight here is the Chapel of the Holy Cross, built into the rocks in 1956. The setting is as peaceful as it is striking—standing at the chapel’s windows, you’ll be treated to vistas of crimson canyons and layered desert landscapes.

Travelers like Aftab_S praised the experience, noting, “George is a great guy! Very honest and joyful person. We liked the whole trip and visited nice locations that probably we will not be able to see if we would have gone by ourselves.” That sentiment underscores the benefit of guided tours—getting insider stories and access to sites you might miss on your own.

The chapel itself is free to enter and offers ample time for reflection or simply soaking in the scenery. It’s an excellent start that combines spiritual calm with natural beauty.

Exploring the Grand Canyon South Rim

After about three hours in Sedona, we head towards the Grand Canyon South Rim—the most famous and accessible section of the canyon. The views here are truly jaw-dropping: wide, panoramic vistas that stretch for miles. From the Grand Canyon Village to Yavapai Point, each stop offers unique perspectives on this natural marvel.

The scale of the canyon is difficult to capture in photos; it’s best experienced firsthand. According to reviews, the views are “almost surreal” and have the power to leave visitors feeling changed forever. The South Rim’s expansive outlooks make it perfect for taking in the canyon’s layered rock formations, vibrant colors, and sheer magnitude.

You’ll have roughly five hours at this site—ample time to walk around, take photos, or just sit quietly and absorb the silence and grandeur. The only minor drawback is that this is a busy area, so some might find the crowds a bit overwhelming, but with a small group, you can still find peaceful spots.

Lunch and Free Time

While lunch isn’t included in the tour, you’ll have access to the facilities at the Grand Canyon Village or nearby options. Packing a snack or picnic might enhance the experience, allowing you to enjoy a meal while soaking in the views.

Return Journey and Hotel Drop-off

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour concludes with a relaxing drive back to Phoenix, with hotel drop-off included. The three-hour ride offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights or doze off after a long but rewarding adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and a private vehicle—which contributes significantly to the comfort and hassle-free nature of the experience. Being able to relax in a climate-controlled van, especially in Arizona’s heat, is a definite plus.

However, lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The tour is designed for up to 12 people, but most reviews suggest a smaller, more intimate experience—some even mention groups as small as five.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Reviews reveal a mix of impressions—most notably, praise for the knowledgeable guides. One reviewer called George “a great guy,” emphasizing his honesty and joyful demeanor, which made the trip more engaging. Another reviewer, Huntllccjj, appreciated the driver but noted the vehicle’s small size, which could be less comfortable on longer rides.

Multiple travelers appreciated the stunning views and felt that the tour offered good value for an all-inclusive, guided experience. The flexibility to explore at your own pace, especially at key sites like the Grand Canyon and Bell Rock, is highly valued.

Practical Tips for Potential Travelers

• Bring water and snacks, especially since lunch isn’t provided.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around viewpoints.
• Prepare for the weather—Arizona can be hot, especially in summer, but mornings in fall can be cooler.
• Book in advance—most travelers find the tour is booked about 35 days ahead.
• Consider your comfort with vehicle size if you’re prone to discomfort; the vehicle might be small for some.

This private day trip caters best to travelers seeking an intimate, personalized experience. If you crave stunning scenery, flexibility, and insightful guidance from someone passionate about Arizona’s natural wonders, this tour will deliver. It’s particularly suited for small groups—families, couples, or friends—who value a relaxed pace and the chance to explore without the hassle of self-driving.

It’s a great option for those who want to see both Sedona and the Grand Canyon in a single day but prefer a guided, comfortable approach rather than navigating alone. If you’re looking for a value-driven, scenic journey with knowledgeable guides and customizable stops, this tour checks many boxes.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off in Phoenix, which saves you time and hassle.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time at the sites.

What’s the group size? It’s a private tour with a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 5 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

Are the sites accessible? The tour visits popular viewpoints like Yavapai Point and the Grand Canyon Village, which are designed for visitor access. However, some walking might be needed.

What’s the cost for the tour? It’s $2,450 per group, which includes transportation, guide services, and scenic stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

This private Grand Canyon with Sedona tour offers a carefully curated way to see some of Arizona’s most awe-inspiring sights. With personalized service, stunning views, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace, it’s a great choice for travelers who value comfort and authentic experiences. Whether you’re a first-timer wanting to tick off the highlights or a seasoned traveler craving a deeper connection to the landscape, this tour provides a memorable, scenic escape from Phoenix.