Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon: Grandview Point & Wildlife Detour
Board a custom safari vehicle in Tusayan and skirt the south entrance lines on a permitted backroad detour, chasing elk, rare birds, and one of the most dramatic sunsets at Grandview Point. This 3-hour tour pairs geology, native history, and unhurried light for photographers and first-timers alike.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early for Check-In
Be at the Tusayan Fire Dept parking lot 15 minutes before departure to secure your seat and allow time for briefings.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can drop quickly after sunset on the rim—bring a warm jacket even in summer.
Bring a Mid-Range Zoom
A 24–200mm range covers canyon vistas and wildlife without swapping lenses in low light.
Not Recommended for Certain Conditions
This tour isn’t advised for people with spinal injuries, serious heart problems, or pregnant travelers—check health restrictions before booking.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pipe Creek viewpoint for quieter canyon lines and intimate geological layers
- •A backroad pullout on the Forest Service detour that often holds elk at dusk
Wildlife
- •Elk
- •Raptors (e.g., red-tailed hawk)
Conservation Note
Stay on designated viewpoints and avoid disturbing wildlife; the operator’s permitted detour avoids sensitive habitats and minimizes congestion at popular overlooks.
The South Rim area sits within the ancestral lands of Puebloan peoples and has long been traversed by Hopi, Navajo, and other tribes; early mule trails and 19th-century exploration opened the rim to modern visitors.
Photographer's Notes
- • Grandview Point for expansive light shifts
- • Pipe Creek viewpoint for layered rock formations
- • Duck on a Rock overlook for isolated rock features
What to Bring
Warm Layer (fleece or insulated jacket)Essential
Evening rim temperatures fall fast after sunset, so a warm layer keeps you comfortable.
Comfortable closed-toe shoesEssential
Short walks at overlooks require stable footing on uneven surfaces.
Water bottle (refillable)Essential
The dry high desert dehydrates you—carry at least 1 liter and refill when possible.
Camera with mid-range zoom
A 24–200mm zoom captures wide canyon vistas and distant wildlife as light fades.
Common Questions
Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at the parking lot in front of the Tusayan Fire Dept (408 AZ-64), between the IMAX theater and Wendy’s; arrive 15 minutes early.
Does this tour enter Grand Canyon National Park?
Yes—the route includes a south entrance gate detour and authorized Forest Service backroads before stopping at park viewpoints like Grandview Point.
Is food provided?
Bottled water is provided; bring snacks if you need them as the tour is short and there are no meals included.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes—infant seats are available and strollers may be used; the operator notes minimum age/size limits for safety on off-road sections.
What should I wear?
Layered clothing, closed-toe shoes for short walks, and a windproof jacket for evening chill are recommended.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled for severe weather; the company offers full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance or for unsafe conditions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Tusayan, Arizona
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; brief, flat walks at viewpoints only
Ready to Explore Tusayan?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now