6 Best Day Trip Grand Canyon Tours From Sedona In 2024
Are you looking for the best Sedona to Grand Canyon day trip tours?
Well, you’re in the right place! As a van lifer who has traveled up and down the West Coast for years, how could I not go to the second-most-visited National Park in the US and one of the deepest and largest canyons in the world?
When people think of America, they automatically think of NYC, California, Miami, and the Grand Canyon. And it’s definitely worth the trip. After a beautiful sunset, I was even invited to stay over at a ranger’s place for some incredible stargazing.
After driving to all the landmarks, hiking deep into the rim (in ice!), and deep chats with a ranger, here are my top 6 tours from Sedona or Flagstaff, complete with pros and cons to help you pick the best adventure.
Just want the best? This is my top recommendation. This Grand Canyon Complete Tour from Flagstaff or Sedona offers both small-group or private options and received over 1,400 5 star reviews!
But if you’d like to see all your guided options, here are 6 other tours with near perfect 5-star ratings below. Check them out!
Top 3 Picks: Sedona Grand Canyon Tours
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Grand Canyon Complete Tour
✅ Grand Canyon South & East Rim
✅ Small-Group & Private Options
Grand Canyon Railroad Excursion
✅ Historic Railroad Ride
✅ Onboard Commentary
✅ Guided South Rim Tour
Sunset in the Grand Canyon
✅ Evening Sunset Tour
✅ Dinner at Grand Canyon Village
6 Best Grand Canyon Bus Tours From Sedona
This list of top picks for Sedona Tours to the Grand Canyon have been chosen based on the must-see spots on the itinerary, their uniqueness, their reviews, and cool tour features.
Almost all tours from Sedona will go to the South Rim, which is both the most popular overall but also the closest. There are many trails and highlights here, such as Mather Point, Bright Angel Trail, and Desert View Drive.
Tip! The Grand Canyon can get quite crowded during peak season, so book your tour in advance.
1. Grand Canyon Complete Tour from Sedona or Flagstaff
Best Overall Sedona to Grand Canyon Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11 Hours |🏜 Book it!
Of all the options available, this Grand Canyon Complete Tour stands out as the top pick in value, positive reviews, and comprehensive experience. On this Grand Canyon day trip from Sedona, you’ll see all the highlights of a South to East Rim Tour.
This tour is perfect for those who want to cover a lot of ground in and around Grand Canyon National Park but with a small group size capped at 14. And if you’re looking for an even more exclusive experience, you can upgrade to a private tour for only $100 per person with a minimum of four people.
Start your journey early in the morning with pickup from your Sedona area hotel via mini-coach. Your first major stop is the Wupatki National Monument, home to the ancient Native American civilization of Sinagua for 400 years.
As you drive along the South Rim and East Rim, you will encounter the vibrant colors of the Painted Desert and pass the lava fields of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.
But that’s not all. Stroll through the Grand Canyon Village for shopping and views, and have lunch at the historic Cameron Trading Post on the Navajo reservation.
As a solo woman traveler taking a guided tour of the Grand Canyon was a smart idea…I wouldn’t have been able to do this on my own. Highly recommend. Totally worth it.
– Katrina (Read more reviews)
A tour guide will pick up and drop you off at your Flagstaff or Sedona hotel. You’ll get a gratis lunch and a full day of amazing views and photo ops.
2. Private Grand Canyon Day Tour + Lunch at El Tovar
Best Grand Canyon Private Tours from Sedona
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 Hours |🏜 Book it!
Want to see the Grand Canyon with the comfort of just your friends and family? Then, this Private Day Tour of the Grand Canyon is tailored just for you. With round-trip transportation included, this personalized tour allows you to explore the Grand Canyon on your own schedule with no unexpected costs.
As you travel via mini-coach, look out your window to the Painted Desert and Little Colorado Gorge. Drive through Oak Creek Canyon, voted one of the prettiest roads in America, and take in the sights of the world’s largest Ponderosa Pine forest.
When you reach Grand Canyon Village, your guide will escort you to your first view of this enormous canyon. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the historic El Tovar Lodge while appreciating the gorgeous scenery.
The rest of the day will have you going from overlook platforms to hidden gems along the South Rim. Take a short walk from Mather Point to Yavapai Point, take amazing photos at the Duck on the Rock, and visit the impressive Desert View Watchtower.
Would highly recommend this trip to the Grand Canyon, especially if you have only one day – it was a very efficient way to see the best sights and learn a lot in a short time.
– Samantha (Read more reviews)
This private trip includes an expert guide, transportation, lunch, and snacks.
3. Grand Canyon Railroad Excursion from Sedona
Best Unique Grand Canyon Tour by Train
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 Hours |🏜 Book it!
Experience a nostalgic adventure through Arizona’s landscapes with this historic Grand Canyon Railroad train ride! The train has operated since 1901 and is an iconic symbol of American history.
Settle into reserved seats in the restored passenger cars and enjoy onboard commentary from your knowledgeable guides. As you travel through the beautiful countryside, feel transported back to the golden age of travel.
Get off at the southern station to join a guided tour of the south rim. During the tour, an experienced guide will share insights into the history of this natural landmark and look down into the best canyon views.
Stop at the Cameron Trading Post during your return, where you can shop for authentic Native American artwork and souvenirs.
The railroad was a fun way to travel to the Grand Canyon. Our van tour guide Al was very informative and took extra care to make sure we had opportunities to visit additional views along the South Rim.
– Amanda (Read more reviews)
This full-day package includes transportation from your hotel within the city limits and a one-way Northbound Arizona Coach Class ticket.
4. Sunset in the Grand Canyon from Sedona
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 12 Hours |🏜 Book it!
Watch the changing hues of sunset disappear into the Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, on this full-day Sunset Canyon Tour from Sedona.
Sit back and unwind as you rumble along the scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon and admire the beauty of the Painted Desert and San Francisco Peaks. Experience a delightful dinner at Grand Canyon Village, explore a historic Navajo trading post, and admire several scenic overlooks to watch the changing light.
Watching the sun set against the walls of the Grand Canyon is beyond words…There is so many positive comments that could be made and so many beautiful pictures one can take, but they don’t compare to the experience of standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon.
– Hank (Read more reviews)
Tip! Remember to bring layered clothing because the temperature in the desert can change significantly once the sun sets.
5. Grand Canyon Whitewater Rafting Tour
Best Adventure Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 17 Hours |🏜 Book it!
Go on a wild ride down the majestic Colorado River, carving through the Grand Canyon on this Guided Whitewater Rafting Tour. Experience the adrenaline rush as you tackle challenging class 3 to class 6 rapids covering 40 miles down the Colorado river.
Begin your adventure in the Native American community of Peach Springs, Arizona, and be greeted by your skilled Hualapai guides. Following a brief safety briefing and preparation of whitewater equipment, vigorously paddle alongside your experienced guides as they steer you through the river’s bends and unveil hidden canyons and natural waterfalls.
During the day, hike to a travertine waterfall and enjoy a boxed lunch in the peaceful canyon.
We had a great trip! Dale was safe, knowledgeable and fun guide. The views were spectacular, the rapids were exhilarating!…It was the best day of our vacation.
– Marian (Read more reviews)
No worries, local expert guides will be with you the whole trip to keep things safe and fun. Feel free to bring your own car, or if you want, you can add on hotel pickup and drop-off service.
Take this Guided Hiking Tour that will lead you below the rim to the core of one of America’s greatest national wonders. Heading out on a 3 to 5-mile trek with a certified naturalist guide, you’ll stumble upon some cool geological wonders and all sorts of plants in the canyon.
Descend below the rim, where every turn reveals a gorgeous view. Your experienced guide will share the region’s remarkable history and geology crafted over several million years.
As you ascend back to the surface, appreciate a complimentary lunch, as well as snacks and drinks throughout the tour.
Fantastic guide Sheldon Finkelstein ; excellent organization of the trip; ideal way to combine a wealth of information with a personalized amount of physical exertion.
– Andrei (Read more reviews)
This hiking tour hosts a maximum of 7 participants to make sure everyone can hike at their own pace with no one left behind.
Where to Stay in Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning red rock formations and spiritual energy. Uptown Sedona is where most shops, restaurants, and galleries are located, while West Sedona and Oak Creek Village are quieter area with outdoor activities like jeep touring nearby.
L’Auberge de Sedona
⭐ RATING: 8.4 out of 10 Stars | $$$
Welcome to L’Auberge De Sedona, where 5 Star Luxury is as high as Cathedral Rock. Picture yourself lounging in their outdoor pool, sipping a drink from the bar while soaking up the sun with unparalleled views of the red rocks. Every room is individually decorated and designed with your comfort in mind. There is even a free shuttle to uptown Sedona.
Amara Resort & Spa
⭐ RATING: 8.3 out of 10 Stars | $$
Discover Sedona with a more affordable luxury stay at the Amara Resort & Spa. This 4.5-star hotel offers beautiful views of the Red Rocks and Oak Creek and a full-service spa. Guests can enjoy the infinity-edged pool, fitness center, and hot tub. Free in-room WiFi, free bicycle rentals, and tour/ticket assistance are just a few of the many perks offered at this hotel.
Cedars Resort
⭐ RATING: 8.3 out of 10 Stars | $
Looking for budget-friendly accommodation that offers views of Oak Creek Canyon? Cedars Resort is just that, and only a 5-minute walk from the restaurants and shops of downtown Sedona. They also have a seasonal outdoor pool, garden, and on-site fitness center.
A Bit About The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the largest and deepest canyons in the world. As the sun sets, the canyon walls are illuminated with a beautiful blend of orange and pink hues that offer a breathtaking horizon view. It’s a must-see landmark in Arizona that’s truly worth seeing in person.
The Grand Canyon is a vast area that covers hundreds of miles and is divided into three main sections: the North, South, and West Rim, all separated by an undrivable canyon. Getting from one section to another involves a long drive.
How Long is the Drive Between Grand Canyon and Sedona?
Your journey from Sedona to the Grand Canyon depends on which rim you plan to visit. The south rim is the closest and arguably best.
- Sedona to South Rim Grand Canyon Distance: 113 miles, ~2 hours one way
- Sedona to West Rim Grand Canyon Distance: 238 miles, ~4 hours one way
- Sedona to North Rim Grand Canyon Distance: 227 miles, ~5.5 hours one way
Which Rim of the Grand Canyon is Best?
The South Rim is the most popular area of the Grand Canyon and is conveniently located just 113 miles from Sedona. It has numerous trails and scenic drives, including Mather Point, Bright Angel Trail, and Desert View Drive.
The North Rim is best if you are looking for seclusion and a rugged adventure, while the West Rim is famous for the Skywalk, but their both too far to do on a day trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re considering taking a day trip from Sedona to the Grand Canyon, here are some answers about the cost or other transportation options.
If you’re looking for an informative and stress-free way to experience the Grand Canyon, then a guided tour is definitely worth it. You’ll learn more about the history and geology of the canyon and be taken to the best viewpoints. A guided tour is also best for those who want to avoid driving themselves.
The cost of a Grand Canyon tour varies depending on the type of tour you choose and the company you book with. However, on average, a full-day Grand Canyon tour from Sedona can range anywhere from $180 to $350 per person.
If you are short on time and want to experience the place fully, we recommend taking a tour. Self-guided tours offer flexibility to explore and allow you to choose how much time you want to spend in each location. However, more planning and organization are required with self-guided tours.
Yes, there are numerous tour companies in Sedona offering Grand Canyon tours. You can choose anything from bus, hiking, and train tours.
While Sedona is an excellent base for exploring Northern Arizona, there are more convenient locations for visiting the Grand Canyon, like Williams or Grand Canyon Junction. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is about a 2-hour drive from Sedona.
It’s definitely possible to visit both Sedona and the Grand Canyon in one day, but it’s a long day of driving and sightseeing. Focusing on just one destination might be better if you’re short on time.
Phoenix is closer to central – southern Arizona. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is further from Phoenix taking 3.5 hours to drive compared to 2 hours from Sedona.
No train runs directly from Sedona to the Grand Canyon. However, there is a train that runs from Williams, which is about a 45-minute drive from Sedona. The cost of the train varies depending on the class of service and time of year, but on average, tickets range from $33.50 to $113 one way per adult person.
🤩 Don’t let your phone die on the long bus ride on the road! I never leave home without this 20,000 mHa portable charger that can charge your phone 5+ times
Final Thoughts: Sedona Tours to Grand Canyon National Park
With so many transportation options at varying price points, you can find a Grand Canyon tour from Sedona or Flagstaff that fits your budget and interests. Or if you’re looking for the best trips from Las Vegas, check out this post.
In case you’ve just scrolled to the end:
- For the best overall South Rim Grand Canyon Tour with hotel pickup included, join this tour from Sedona.
- For a unique option, book this Grand Canyon Railway Excursion.
- Sleep in later if you want to sign up for this Sunset Canyon Tour.
No matter which way you go, you can’t miss the Grand Canyon, and I’m sure you’ll love the place just as much as I did!
Where to Next?
If you’re interested in other posts about Arizona, check out these other activities, road trips, and tour posts!
- 11 Heart-Stopping Adventurous Things to do in Page, AZ
- 17 Adventures On A Las Vegas To Page AZ Road Trip
- A Champion’s Northern Arizona Road Trip Guide: 15 Best Detours
- Southern Arizona Road Trip Guide: 17 Detour-Worthy Things to Do
- 11 Best Sedona Jeep Tours For Adventure Seekers
- What Is Arizona Known For? (25 Things It’s Famous For)
- 6 Best Day Trip Grand Canyon Tours From Sedona
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Catherine Xu is the founder and author of Nomadicated, an adventure travel blog that helps travelers cross off their bucket list. Since discovering traveling in 2015, she has lived and journeyed to 65 countries across 5 continents and vanlifed the west coast USA for 2+ years. These days, she splits her time in Southeast Asia and California while sharing her travel stories and resources based on first-hand experiences. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.