Full-Day Grand Canyon Tour from Sedona — Desert View, Sinagua Ruins & Sunset Crater
This full-day coach tour from Sedona links Sunset Crater’s lava fields and Sinagua ruins with the sweeping panoramas of the Grand Canyon’s east and south rims. Expect an 11-hour day of history, geology and rimside walking with time to shop Navajo art at Cameron Trading Post.
The Experience
Before You Go
Stay hydrated
The tour provides bottled water but carry an extra refillable bottle—the dry air and long walks at the rim dehydrate quickly.
Sun protection is mandatory
Bring a broad-brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen and UV sunglasses—shade is minimal at Desert View and the south rim.
Wear sturdy shoes
Rim paths can be uneven and dusty; closed-toe shoes with good tread make walking overlooks and stairs far more comfortable.
Bring local-cash for the trading post
Cameron Trading Post accepts cards, but small purchases and tips are easier with cash—support local artisans directly.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short walk to the top of Desert View Watchtower for fewer crowds than main village overlooks
- •Small viewpoint east of Cameron offers unobstructed sunrise colors on the Painted Desert (if up early)
Wildlife
- •California condor (rare)
- •Mule deer
Conservation Note
The Grand Canyon area is fragile; stick to marked trails, respect Navajo Nation lands and minimize single-use plastics—buying local art supports regional communities.
The route links Sunset Crater’s volcanic landscape with Sinagua archaeological sites—evidence of pre-Columbian farmers and traders in the region before the 13th century.
Photographer's Notes
- • Desert View Watchtower (360° vantage)
- • South Rim overlooks near Grand Canyon Village
- • Cameron Trading Post exterior for cultural portraits
What to Bring
1. Refillable water bottleEssential
Reduces waste and keeps you hydrated between provided bottled-water stops.
2. Sun hat & sunscreenEssential
Protects against strong high-desert sun during midday rim visits.
3. Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Needed for uneven rim paths, stairs and gravel viewpoints.
4. Lightweight insulating layerEssential
Temperatures can swing from cool mornings to hot afternoons—layer for comfort.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and when does it depart?
The tour is approximately 11 hours and departs daily from Sedona between 7:00 and 7:30 AM, returning around 6:00–6:30 PM.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included; the itinerary has a break for food and shopping—bring cash or plan to purchase at Cameron Trading Post or the Grand Canyon Village.
Are car seats provided for children?
No—Arizona law requires children eight and younger to be in a car seat/booster; guests must provide their own.
How much walking is involved?
Expect 1–3 hours of walking on paved or gravel rim trails and stairs; the tour is suitable for those who can manage moderate walking at altitude.
Can I buy Native-made art on the tour?
Yes—stops at Navajo Nation land and Cameron Trading Post offer authentic Native art; ask about provenance and artist information when purchasing.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs in most conditions; cancellation policy allows a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure—check with the operator for specific weather-related changes.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
11 hours
Location
Sedona, Arizona
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for an all-day tour with periods of standing and 1–3 hours of walking across paved and uneven surfaces
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