Phoenix isn’t just a city of sprawling desert landscapes and fiery sunsets — it’s also a hub for unique and memorable tours that showcase its natural beauty and cultural gems. Whether you’re soaring over the Sonoran Desert in a hot air balloon, exploring ancient ruins in a UTV, or hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, Phoenix offers a surprising variety of experiences. We especially love the Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise for its stunning 360-degree views and champagne toast, and the Ancient Ruins Tour by UTV for its blend of history and adventure. No matter your style, there’s a tour here to help you see the desert in a whole new way.
Quick Overview
Phoenix’s tour scene covers everything from aerial adventures in hot air balloons (see more) and scenic bike rides (see more), to off-road explorations like UTV and ATV tours (see more), and cultural walks through street art and Native American sites (see more). There’s also plenty of options for full-day trips to the Grand Canyon and Sedona (see more), making Phoenix a perfect starting point for exploring the wider Arizona landscape.
1. Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise
This 4-hour sunrise hot air balloon ride offers an unforgettable way to start your day. You’ll drift over the vast Sonoran Desert, getting panoramic views of the rugged landscape, cacti, and distant mountains. The experience begins early, with transportation included, and culminates in a traditional champagne toast — which feels very Arizona. The pilots are experienced and the reviews consistently praise the smoothness and safety of the flight. Guests often mention how breathtaking the 360-degree views are, especially at dawn when the desert comes alive with color. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity or a peaceful escape above the desert floor.
Bottom Line: For around $209, this is a top choice for romance, adventure, and stunning vistas — plus a great way to check “hot air balloon ride” off your bucket list.
2. Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride in Phoenix with Breakfast
Similar to the sunrise flight but with the added bonus of breakfast in the desert, this tour is a favorite for its leisurely pace and elegant finish. You’ll meet just north of Phoenix before dawn and watch as the balloon is inflated, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at ballooning in action. The flight lasts about 45 minutes, with views spanning the desert and nearby mountains. After landing, you can celebrate with champagne and a hearty breakfast, often featuring local specialties. Guests love the knowledgeable pilots, especially pilot Scott, who makes the experience educational and fun. It’s a wonderful option for those who want a peaceful yet memorable morning adventure.
Bottom Line: At $199, this tour offers excellent value, combining breathtaking views with a delicious breakfast in a serene setting.
3. Ancient Ruins Tour – Guided Arizona Desert Tour by UTV
For 3 hours of off-road adventure, this guided UTV tour takes you deep into the Bradshaw Mountains. You’ll navigate rugged trails, cross the Agua Fria River, and visit the ancient Hohokam ruins, a civilization that thrived in this area centuries ago. The tour is designed for travelers who want a blend of history and adrenaline. The reviews highlight the stunning scenery and the knowledgeable guides who share insights about local history and desert ecology. The rugged terrain offers a sense of exploration that’s hard to match with standard sightseeing.
Bottom Line: This tour provides a perfect mix of desert history and off-road fun, making it ideal for adventure-seekers interested in Arizona’s ancient past.
4. Small Group or Private Sedona and Native American Ruins Day Tour
This 11-hour guided tour combines Sedona’s stunning red rocks with visits to Native American ruins and iconic sites like the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Traveling in a small, comfortable van, you’ll have plenty of time to explore on foot, visit art galleries, or get a psychic reading — if you’re into that sort of thing. Highlights include Montezuma Castle, a well-preserved cliff dwelling, and Bell Rock, a favorite for photographers. Tour guide Bruce’s commentary is often praised, and small group sizes mean a more personalized experience. Guests love the flexibility and the diverse itinerary, which makes this a well-rounded day trip.
Bottom Line: For $179, this tour offers a personalized, in-depth look at Sedona’s natural beauty and Native American history.
5. 2-Hour Arizona Desert Guided E-Bike Tour
If you prefer pedal power with a boost, this eco-friendly e-bike tour is perfect. It lasts 2 hours, taking you through the Saguaro Desert Preserve, with views of Black Mountain and Elephant Mountain. The Bosch and Yamaha mid-drive e-bikes make tackling desert trails accessible, even for beginners. Tour guide Brandon is praised for his friendly demeanor and knowledge. Guests have raved about the scenery and how manageable the bikes are, making it an excellent choice for families or anyone wanting a gentle yet exhilarating adventure.
Bottom Line: At just over $130, this tour delivers a fun, environmentally friendly way to see the desert, with plenty of photo opportunities.
6. Sidewinder ATV Training & Centipede Tour Combo
This 3-hour adventure is tailored for first-timers or those wanting a solid introduction to ATV riding. It begins with professional training on a beginner-friendly test track, then moves into the stunning Sonoran Desert for an off-road ride. The guides are enthusiastic and safety-conscious, providing helmets and goggles. Reviewers mention the challenging terrain and the fun of mastering turns and hills. It’s a great option if you want to learn and then immediately put your skills to the test in Arizona’s rugged landscape.
Bottom Line: For $179.65, this combo offers a safe, exhilarating introduction to ATV riding with expert guidance.
7. Self-Guided Centipede Desert UTV Rental
Want total freedom? This self-guided UTV rental lets you explore the Black Canyon desert at your own pace. After a quick safety briefing, you’re set to roam for 2 hours in a single-passenger or small group UTVs. The included map helps you navigate the trails, and reviews note how much fun it is to explore independently. It’s ideal for confident drivers who want to customize their adventure without a guide.
Bottom Line: For $107.74, this rental is perfect for independent explorers who enjoy flexibility and fresh desert air.
8. One-Day Private Grand Canyon National Park/Sedona tour from Phoenix
This 13-hour private tour is tailor-made for those who want to see the Grand Canyon and Sedona in a day. Your guide whisks you from Phoenix in a comfortable vehicle, stopping at key spots like the Cameron Trading Post and South Rim viewpoints. The small group or private setup ensures a personalized experience. Guests appreciate the flexibility and the chance to skip the crowds during the busy season. The tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a full, curated day of exploration with all logistics taken care of.
Bottom Line: For $980, this exclusive experience offers a comprehensive and private way to see Arizona’s most iconic sights.
9. Stunning Sunset or Sunrise Guided Hiking Adventure in Phoenix
Whether you choose sunrise or sunset, this 2-hour guided hike offers a customized experience through the Sonoran Desert. Guides tailor the route to your fitness level and terrain preferences, and include essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen. The highlight is reaching a mountain viewpoint, perfect for photos. Reviewers mention their guides’ local knowledge and photography skills, which enhance the experience. This tour is ideal for nature lovers wanting a peaceful, scenic hike that’s safe and accessible.
Bottom Line: For $125, this is a flexible, intimate option to experience Phoenix’s desert at your own pace, with stunning views.
10. From Phoenix: Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Oak Creek Day Trip
This full-day guided tour combines three Arizona highlights: Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Oak Creek Canyon. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day without the hassle of planning. The itinerary includes stops at iconic viewpoints, scenic drives, and photo ops. The air-conditioned van makes the long day comfortable, and guests praise the knowledgeable guide for making history and geography come alive. It’s well-suited for those with limited time but big curiosity about Arizona’s diverse landscapes.
Bottom Line: At $220, this tour offers a great overview of Arizona’s most famous natural sights with ease and convenience.
11. Self-Guided Centipede Desert ATV Rental
This 2-hour self-guided ATV adventure is similar to the guided version but offers ultimate freedom. Riders can explore the trails at their own pace, with safety gear and a training session provided. The trails are described as fun and manageable, with options to challenge yourself on hills or enjoy scenic photo stops. Many reviews highlight the thrill of the ride and the fun of driving your own ATV.
Bottom Line: This rental is perfect for confident drivers seeking a personalized desert exploration for just over $107.
12. From Phoenix: Grand Canyon with Sedona Day Tour
This 13-hour tour hits two big sights — Grand Canyon and Sedona — in one day. Traveling in a comfortable vehicle, you’ll visit major viewpoints, explore Sedona’s red rocks, and learn about local geology and history. Reviews highlight the friendly guides and the chance to see both key destinations without the stress of planning. It’s suitable for travelers with a full day to spare and a desire for a well-rounded Arizona experience.
Bottom Line: At $219, it’s an efficient way to sample two of the southwest’s most popular spots.
13. RoRo Street Art Tour in Phoenix
Explore Phoenix’s vibrant street art scene with this 2-hour guided tour. Led by a local guide, you’ll see murals and graffiti around the city, visit The Churchill food court, and learn about the artists behind the colorful works. Reviewers mention the engaging guide and the opportunity to see art you wouldn’t discover on your own. It’s a great choice for art lovers or anyone interested in urban culture.
Bottom Line: For just $28, this tour offers a lively, insider look at Phoenix’s modern art scene.
14. Custom Grand Canyon Day Trip
This private, tailor-made tour allows you to customize your day at the Grand Canyon. With a guide handling logistics, you can focus on the viewpoints, short hikes, or photography. It includes round-trip transportation and visits to key spots like the Cameron Trading Post. Guests love the flexibility and personalized service, with reviews noting the knowledgeable guides and well-planned itinerary.
Bottom Line: For $259, this is the ideal choice if you want a private, flexible day at the canyon with expert guidance.
15. Epic Camelback Mountain Guided Hiking Adventure in Phoenix
This 3-hour guided hike to the top of Camelback Mountain is for those seeking a physical challenge. Your guide, often an EMT or wilderness first responder, will lead you up a trail with hands-on bouldering sections. The views from the summit are spectacular, with 360-degree vistas of Phoenix and the desert. Reviewers praise guides like Liz and Michael for their motivation and tips, making the climb both safe and rewarding.
Bottom Line: For $145, this is a great pick for active travelers wanting an adventurous hike with expert support.
16. Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix
Cap off your trip with a 3.5-hour sunset balloon ride. As the sun dips, you’ll drift over the desert, capturing the changing colors of the landscape. After landing, enjoy a champagne toast and a commemorative certificate. The reviews are glowing about the breathtaking scenery and the expert pilot Kyle, who makes safety and fun a priority. It’s perfect for a romantic evening or a memorable family experience.
Bottom Line: For $250, this sunset flight offers a peaceful, scenic way to end your visit to Phoenix.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, physical ability, and interests. Want a romantic sunrise experience? The Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise is hard to beat. If history and adventure call your name, the Ancient Ruins UTV Tour offers a rugged journey into the past. For those pressed for time but eager to see Arizona’s highlights, the Full-Day Private Grand Canyon and Sedona or the Grand Canyon with Sedona Day Tour are excellent options. Budget travelers might prefer the Street Art Tour or self-guided ATV rentals (see more) for maximum flexibility.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities like hot air balloon rides or private tours, to secure your preferred date and time.
In Summary, Phoenix’s tour options are diverse enough to suit every traveler. For a peaceful ascent above the desert, the Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride is hard to beat. For rugged explorers, the Ancient Ruins UTV Tour offers history and adventure in one package. And if you want a deeply personalized experience, the private Grand Canyon trips provide tailored exploration. Whatever your style, getting outside and experiencing Arizona’s natural wonderland is a must — don’t forget to book ahead!