Grand Entrance Grand Canyon Sunset Tour: Open-Air Jeep Sunset Experience from Tusayan
Watch the canyon ignite. This open-air Jeep tour from Tusayan brings you to Grandview Point and Pipe Creek Vista for a compact, expert-led sunset experience — complete with IMAX access for deeper context.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for Temperature Swings
Evenings on the rim cool fast; wear a windproof layer and bring a warmer mid-layer to stay comfortable after sunset.
Bring a Headlamp
Short rim walks after sunset mean hands-free light for footing and camera adjustments.
Mind the Lens Glare
Use a lens hood or polarizer to manage glare during golden hour and protect your camera from dust in the open vehicle.
Hydrate Before You Ride
High desert air is dry — drink water before departure to avoid dehydration during stops.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Shoshone Point — a quieter rim overlook within the park great for late-afternoon light
- •Lipan Point side trails — offers a less-crowded perspective if you have extra time
Wildlife
- •California condor
- •mule deer
Conservation Note
The park encourages leave-no-trace practices and limits on night lighting; small-group tours help reduce congestion at key viewpoints.
The South Rim has long been used by Indigenous peoples; later 19th–20th century railroads and lodges turned it into a major tourist destination.
Photographer's Notes
- • Grandview Point (wide panorama)
- • Pipe Creek Vista (sunset color & layered walls)
- • Short Rim Trail walk near the visitor center (foreground interest)
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Blocks chill after sunset and the breeze in an open Jeep.
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Provide stable footing for short rim walks and uneven viewpoints.
Water bottle (at least 1L)Essential
Desert air dehydrates quickly—bring water for the tour and drive time.
Camera with wide-angle lens
Captures expansive canyon views in low light; a tripod or monopod helps but can be cumbersome in the Jeep.
Common Questions
Where do I check in?
Check in 30 minutes before departure at the National Geographic Visitor Center, 450 AZ Route 64, Tusayan, AZ.
Is this tour suitable for children and infants?
Yes—infant seats are available and the tour is rated easy; reserve infant seating when booking.
Can I bring a service animal?
Service animals are allowed; notify the operator in advance of any special requirements.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled for bad weather; you can cancel for a full refund if done at least 24 hours in advance.
Is park entrance included?
Yes—the tour includes park entrance fees and round-trip transportation from the visitor center.
Will I have time to watch the IMAX film?
You can watch the 34-minute IMAX film either before or after the tour, based on your preference and schedule.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Tusayan, Arizona
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal walking; suitable for most fitness levels but requires ability to step in/out of a Jeep and walk short paved sections
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