Desert View Watchtower Attractions & Things to do

Your tour beings at the Grand Canyon airport in Tusayan, Arizona. Fly over the ponderosa pines of Kaibab National Forest on a 45-minute helicopter excursion from the Grand Canyon South Rim. Upstream on the Colorado River are views of the Painted Desert and Desert View Watchtower. View Marble Canyon and Point Imperial as you fly through the Canyon and climb above the North Rim to head south through the Dragon Corridor, the Canyon’s widest and deepest section.
Duration: 45 minutes.

Witness the most striking scenery located throughout the Grand Canyon National Park aboard this South Rim airplane tour, available both in the morning and afternoon. You'll fly over the eastern part of the canyon, where you'll find aerial views of incredible landmarks like Zuni Point, Imperial Point, Painted Desert, and the lush forestry of the Kaibab National Forest.

Your sightseeing airplane is equipped with oversized windows for photography as well as in-flight narration to provide facts and historical anecdotes about the sights below you. This scenery-packed tour provides an excellent overview of the Grand Canyon in a short amount of time.

You'll also have the opportunity to upgrade your adventure to include a ground excursion aboard a customized open-air Hummer vehicle, so you can visit several of the most world-famous viewpoints along the canyon's edge.
Duration: 40 minutes.

You get so much more than you can experience on your own! Our local guides create an enriching experience.

What takes more people two days on their own, you can experience in a single day! By not having to worry about busy parking lots, the right route and by skipping the lines.

All the major highlights in a single day. jam packed with local knowledge. We love how often our guests comment, "I can't believe how much I saw and learning about about the Grand Canyon!".

Beautiful outdoor group lunches.

The Grand Canyon’s natural wonder is unlike anything on earth, and Scenic Sedona Tours is your local guide to this phenomenal experience.

This is an all day tour departing and returning to our office in Sedona.
Duration: 9 hours.

This guided Grand Canyon tour makes the most out of your visit to the Grand Canyon. Tour the South Rim at Grand Canyon National Park in a custom, open-air Pink Jeep®. Capture amazing photos, learn about canyon geology, and see the Desert Watchtower designed by Mary Coulter.
Duration: 3 hours.

The Grand Canyon is the most stunning of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and to see it in the magical light of sunset is an unforgettable experience. View stunning landscapes on your trip up to the Grand Canyon such as Oak Creek Canyon, the San Francisco Peaks, the Navajo Nation and parts of the painted desert as well as the Little Colorado River Gorge. Dinner is included.
Duration: 10 hours 30 minutes.

Grand Canyon's real views are deep below the Rim. Getting away from the crowds and having a real adventure, is what we have planned for you! Classic temple views, pastel colors, giant drop-offs, world class 360 views and some of the best hiking on Earth await you. First timers and experienced canyoneers are welcome. From the best food (above or below the rim) to the best equipment, we have you covered. All inclusive ,next level guides, and professional gear ensure your visit to Grand Canyon will be an experience of a lifetime. Let us pick you up at your Northern Arizona hotel and leave the day to us. We will get you that insane holiday photo and you can cross Grand Canyon off the bucket list!
All hikes are private and tailored to you to make a unforgettable experience. Your guide will explain the history and geology of the canyon while we eat delicious snacks and wonder through the rocks. I take great pride in making sure your Grand Canyon adventure will deliver your dreams!
Duration: 5 hours.

Explore Grand Canyon with an informative guide on this popular one day excursion. The tour includes a beautiful scenic drive through Flagstaff area, and up to Grand Canyon National Park, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Marvel at your first scenic views immediately upon arrival at Grand Canyon National Park. Then you will have time for a stroll along the rim or have the opportunity to explore shops and historic buildings at Grand Canyon Village. You will be given time to enjoy lunch on your own (lunch not included)*, and then be astounded by multiple scenic vistas along the south and east rim, including the historic Desert Tower. On your way back, you will visit to the Navajo Indian Reservation and Historic Cameron Trading Post along the Little Colorado River Gorge. On the drive back, take in the views of the Painted Desert Cliffs.

PRIVATE UPGRADES REQUIRE MINIMUM OF FOUR PASSENGERS
Duration: 11 hours.

Grand Canyon's real views are deep below the Rim. Getting away from the crowds and having a real adventure is what we have planned for you! Classic temple views, pastel colors, giant drop-offs, world class 360 views and some of the best hiking on Earth await you. First timers and experienced canyoneers are welcome. From the best food (above or below the rim) to the best equipment, we have you covered. All inclusive ,next level guides, and professional gear ensure your visit to Grand Canyon will be an experience of a lifetime. Let us pick you up at your Northern Arizona hotel and leave the day to us. We will get you that insane holiday photo and you can cross Grand Canyon off the bucket list!
All hikes are private and tailored to you to make a unforgettable experience. Your guide will explain the history and geology of the canyon while we eat delicious snacks and wonder through the rocks. I take great pride in making sure your adventure will deliver dreams!
Duration: 5 hours.

See the desert landscapes of the Western United States! On this three-day tour, depart from Las Vegas to see Arizona’s Grand Canyon and Lake Powell, and Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park. Discover the natural beauty of these canyon rock formations and the surrounding bodies of water as you tour the scenic areas with your expert guide. Sit back and relax as this comprehensive tour covers all of the must-see areas of the deserts of the Western US!

Help create a better planet for everyone to travel and explore. We have partnered with One Tree Planted to plant one tree for every passenger that travels with us along with an extra tree for anyone that books multiple trips.
Duration: 3 days.

Come and see the amazing wonder of the world at sunset. Watch the colors and shadows change throughout the afternoon and then set the sky ablaze as the evening comes. This breathtaking Grand Canyon excursion features an outstanding overlook at the Grand Canyon. Dinner is included. Also a stop in the beginning at the Navajo historic Cameron Trading Post.
Duration: 10 hours 30 minutes.

Experience the U.S West Coast's most well known sites on this 7-day tour from Los Angeles. Visit Santa Barbara, Cruise San Francisco's bay, Yosemite National Park, tour the Grand Canyon and more! Round-trip transportation, continental breakfast and 6-nights accommodations are included.

Help create a better planet for everyone to travel and explore. We have partnered with One Tree Planted to plant one tree for every passenger that travels with us along with an extra tree for anyone that books multiple trips.
Duration: 7 days.

Enjoy a carefree day at the Grand Canyon with an experienced, professional guide! You will travel from Flagstaff to the south rim in a 2022 Ford Transit Passenger Van.

You will stop at the most breathtaking viewpoints throughout Grand Canyon National Park, and your guide will use a high-powered spotting scope to show you amazing up-close views of the Colorado River, whitewater rapids, rock formations, hikers, mules and wildlife. Your guide will interpret what you are seeing, as well as the geology, history, and native people of the region. You will explore our favorite viewpoints, away from the crowds!

A picnic-style lunch on the rim is provided by Wildflower Bread Company, and is included in the price of the tour. Snacks and drinks will also be provided in the vehicle throughout the day. Please let us know if you have any food allergies.

We can't wait to show you the wonders of the Grand Canyon and Northern Arizona!
Duration: 7 to 8 hours.

Explore one of the 7 wonders of the world with our top-rated Grand Canyon Guided Tour—rated the #1 Grand Canyon sightseeing tour from Flagstaff on TripAdvisor! Leave the logistics and driving to us, and enjoy a tour that covers nearly 25 miles along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Departing in the morning from Flagstaff, Arizona, enjoy a comfortable ride through the Ponderosa Pine forests as you make your way to the Grand Canyon. Once we arrive, our guides will ensure you don’t miss a thing with multiple stops along the rim, including all of the best viewpoints and historic places. Explore famous and historic buildings, such as the El Tovar Hotel, Desert View Watchtower, and the amazing Tusayan Ruins.

Rain or shine, our professional guides are helpful, knowledgeable, and eager to answer all of your burning questions about the Grand Canyon. On our tour, we make it our duty to give you a unique experience at one of the most beautiful destinations in the country.
Duration: 8 hours.

Visit the very attraction that gives Arizona it's nickname and enjoy a breathtaking exploration of the Grand Canyon on this day trip from Flagstaff. You'll begin your day in the canyon with immediately stopping at one of the many astounding vistas you will see on your tour. You will have an opportunity to explore the historic buildings and have time to enjoy lunch on your own at Grand Canyon Village*. Afterwards, you'll stop at several overlooks such as Yavapai Point, Lipan Point and the Desert View Watchtower. Learn about the history, geology and adventures of the canyon and also spend time at the historic Cameron Trading Post to take in the Native American artwork.

*Due to Covid-19, lunch options at the Grand Canyon are very limited, Cameron Trading Post may be an option for lunch.
Duration: 9 hours.

See it all on this full-day Grand Canyon tour from Flagstaff. This tour combines a visit to Ancient Sinagua Pueblo Ruins, Sunset Crater and its Lava Fields, the majestic Grand Canyon's South Rim. Hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch and bottle water is included.
Duration: 9 hours.

Witness one of the natural wonders of the world in all its glory. The Grand Canyon is so massive, so awe-inspiring, that you simply have to see it with your own two eyes to truly understand its scale. This self-guided tour takes you to all the best vistas and hiking trails on the canyon’s South Rim and fills you in on the fascinating history of the canyon and the Native people who once lived there. So get out there and see something incredible!

Hermit Road isn't accessible by private vehicle during the summer. The tour will instruct you to park at stop 15 and walk from stops 16-22, then take the shuttle for stops 23-31. The stops after 31, on the eastern side of the park, can once again be accessed via private vehicle.

After booking, you can check your email before downloading the Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. The preceding steps require good internet/wifi access. Simply follow the audio instructions and the route from there.
Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Take a tour that lets you immerse yourself in the park. Our guides are master naturalists, botanists, geologists, historians, and - most importantly - relentlessly curious! This is not just a sightseeing tour, it's a day all about learning and connection.

Prepare to be amazed as you witness the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. Marvel at the vastness of its panoramic vistas, the stunning layers of colorful rock formations, and the sheer magnitude of its cliffs.

Your guides will take you off the beaten path for never ending sights, mesa views, and more. Learn about how the canyon was formed, the park’s flora and fauna, park history, and indigenous people! Highlights may include Yavapai Point, Mather Point, Grandview Point, Moran Point, Tusayan Ruins, & Desert View and more!

Groups are capped at 8 hikers. If we don't meet the minimum number of spots booked, registrants will be offered an option to make the tour private for an additional charge or cancel for a full refund.
Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

Hear canyon folklore from the Canyon's most experienced guide with 26 years and thousands of miles hiked below the Rim. Find out where the alien base is and hear stories of the ancient "Ant People". Hear about The Vermillion Cliffs and the Lee's Ferry area. We talk about the folklore story of G.E. Kinkaid finding the Lost Egyptian Cave in The Grand Canyon and the Smithsonian expedition.
Duration: 2 hours.

Provide custom created journeys with extremely knowledgeable guides, gourmet picnic lunches and truly extraordinary experiences for our private tours. Being known as one of the best tour guides in the Southwest and a former National Park Ranger with a depth of knowledge of geology, Natural History, anthropology, Native American and local history. We also provide a gourmet picnic lunch or sunset dinner. Your full day private excursion can start and end with your preferences . A typical full day is between 6.5 and 8 hours . I can accommodate five in my new SUV or as many as 12 in a very comfortable new van .
Duration: 1 day.

See it all on this full-day Grand Canyon tour which departs from Sedona or Flagstaff. This tour combines a visit to Ancient Sinagua Pueblo Ruins, and the dramatic lava fields from volcanic activity that occurred 6 million years ago, when Sunset Crater erupted. After visiting ancient cultural ruins and historic evidence of natural events, we will stop at the Navajo Nation Tribal Land to eat an authentic Navajo meal (or American meals are available). After lunch, you will be able to spend time souvenir shopping for native art & crafts at the famous Cameron Trading Post. You will then amazed by the first vista of the Grand Canyon National Park that includes the Desert Watchtower, where you will be able to walk up to the top and see majestic panoramic views. Then you will continue across the south rim to Grand Canyon Village, with multiple gorgeous stops along the way. You will be able to explore the historic buildings and views of the village on your own.
Duration: 11 hours.

Don't miss a thing as this tour takes you on an incredible journey through the Grand Canyon South Rim.

Along the way you'll be guided to all of the park's famous highlights as well as lessor known gems including an architectural masterpiece and numerous canyon overlooks along a 23-mile scenic drive.

Download and discover more about the Grand Canyon with fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions play automatically along the route.

Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace so you can spend more time at places that interest you, and bypass any that don’t.

✅ Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location
✅ Travel at your own pace
✅ Tours work offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed
✅ Save time on trip planning with in-app tips and itineraries
✅ Suggested itineraries & tips for half, full or multi day use
✅ No time limits or expiry, free updates

Purchase one tour per vehicle.
Duration: 8 to 16 hours.

Visit the very attraction that gives Arizona it's nickname and enjoy a breathtaking exploration of the Grand Canyon on this day trip from Sedona. You'll begin by seeing one of the many astounding vistas of the day. You will have the opportunity to explore historic buildings and have time to enjoy lunch on your own at Grand Canyon Village (lunch not included)*. Then you will continue along the south rim heading east and stop at several beautiful overlooks such as Yavapai Point, Lipan Point and the Desert View Watchtower. Learn about the history of the canyon and also spend time at the Cameron Trading Post to take in the Native American artwork.


Duration: 11 hours.

Witness the natural splendor of the Southwest with this combo tour of Sedona and the Grand Canyon. Experience Sedona’s spiritual power at huge red rock formations and discover why locals call this desert town a “a cathedral without walls.” Tour the south rim of the Grand Canyon, one of the natural wonders of the world, and learn the history of the Hopi tribe who lived there. This tour combo is chock full of breathtaking vistas, unforgettable hikes, and hidden history.

After booking, check your email to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route.

New, extra validity — now yours for an entire year! Use multiple times over multiple trips!

This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

Experience the U.S West Coast's most well known sites on this 6 day tour from San Francisco. Visit Santa Barbara, Cruise San Francisco's bay, Yosemite National Park, tour the Grand Canyon and more! Round-trip transportation, continental breakfast and 5-nights accommodations are included.

Help create a better planet for everyone to travel and explore. We have partnered with One Tree Planted to plant one tree for every passenger that travels with us along with an extra tree for anyone that books multiple trips.
Duration: 6 days.

All-ages, private, family-friendly sightseeing of the South Rim of Grand Canyon in style. Our customized Vans never have more than 9 guests, so you enjoy a comfortable tour with a knowledgeable, friendly, enthusiastic guide who loves what they do. We provide transportation from your hotel or campground in Williams, Tusayan, or Grand Canyon Village with everything you need to have a great time. Grab your camera and leave the lunch (Mar 15 - Oct 31)*, snacks, beverages, and driving to us!

Lunch ordered after booking: Roast Beef, Ham, Turkey, Vegetarian, PB & J. Gluten and/or dairy free available upon request.

* In winter we take you to the El Tovar for lunch. You will be responsible for your own bill. The tour is automatically discounted.
Duration: 7 to 8 hours.

Come and see the amazing wonder of the world at sunset. Watch the colors and shadows change throughout the afternoon and then set the sky ablaze as the evening comes. This breathtaking excursion features outstanding overlook at the Grand Canyon along with complimentary dinner. You will also have the opportunity to visit to a historic Navajo trading post.
Duration: 8 hours 30 minutes.

All-ages, Private, family-friendly sightseeing of the South Rim of Grand Canyon in style. Our customized Vans never have more than 9 guests, so you enjoy a comfortable tour with a knowledgeable, friendly, enthusiastic guide who loves what they do. We provide transportation from your hotel or campground in Flagstaff with everything you need to have a great time. Grab your camera and leave the lunch (Mar 15 - Oct 31)*, snacks, beverages, and driving to us!

Its always a good idea to reach out directly to us to ensure you are booking the tour you are searching for. We love to answer questions and help you plan your tour.

* Even though price says "adult," all ages are welcome.

Lunch ordered after booking: Roast Beef, Ham, Turkey, Vegetarian, PB & J. Gluten and/or dairy free available upon request.

* In winter we take you to the El Tovar for lunch. You will be responsible for your own bill. The tour is automatically discounted the cost of lunch.
Duration: 9 to 10 hours.

Private tours are customized to fit our guests' individual needs. You will travel from Flagstaff to the south rim in a 2022 Ford Transit Passenger Van.

You will stop at the most breathtaking viewpoints throughout the park, and your experienced, professional guide will use a high-powered spotting scope to show you up-close views of the Colorado River, whitewater rapids, rock formations, mules, hikers, and wildlife. Your guide will interpret what you are seeing, as well as the geology, history, and native people of the region. You will explore our favorite viewpoints in the national park, away from the crowds!

For lunch, you have the option of a sit-down lunch at the historic El Tovar Dining Room, or a picnic-style lunch provided by Wildflower Bread Company. Lunch is included in the price of the tour.

Specialty snacks and drinks will be provided in the vehicle. Please let us know if you have any food allergies.

We can't wait to show you the wonders of the Grand Canyon!
Duration: 8 to 9 hours.

Grand Canyon, Wupatki Native American Indian Ruins, and Sunset Crater Volcano triple park tour. Join Canyon Ministries on this exciting Christian tour through geology, archaeology, and history from a biblical creation perspective!*

This full-day Triple Park Tour starts and ends in Flagstaff and includes an exciting day of adventure seeing the very best of the Grand Canyon National Park, ancient Native American Indian ruins at Wupatki National Monument, and guided exploration through the lava fields and explosive landscape of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.

Changing views and stunning scenery are sure to captivate the entire family on this day of adventure. Price includes entry fees to all 3 parks and bottled water. Does not include lunch, which you may buy in the park or bring with you.

*More information on what we teach and additional tours, river trips, and backpacking adventures can be found on our Canyon Ministries website.
Duration: 10 hours.

Journey through Grand Canyon country on this private tour from Flagstaff. This tour combines the remarkable 1500 year old Sinagua Pueblo ruins, dramatic lava fields, majestic volcanoes and of course -- the Grand Canyon. Hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, lunch and all entrance fees are included. This tour requires a minimum of four passengers.
Duration: 9 hours.

Experience the ultimate Arizona road trip with our Arizona Driving Tour Bundle. Explore the stunning beauty of Arizona's most iconic destinations at your own pace with our expertly crafted self-guided tours.

From the towering red rocks of Sedona to the majestic wonders of the Grand Canyon, this bundle offers an unforgettable journey through some of America's most breathtaking landscapes.

This bundle includes 7 self-guided audio tours, including:

- Grand Canyon South Rim
- Grand Canyon North Rim
- Sedona
- Saguaro National Park
- Horseshoe Bend & Page, AZ
- Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway
- Petrified Forest National Park

Each tour includes driving directions, offline maps, and fascinating stories and insights about the area's history, geology, and culture.

With convenient access to all of Arizona's must-see destinations, our Driving Tour Bundle is the perfect way to discover the wonders of this incredible state.

*Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*
Duration: 7 days.

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon South Rim! Discover the rich history, stunning vistas, and fascinating geology of this natural wonder. As you walk along the rim, you will hear engaging stories and interesting facts about the canyon's formation, its ancient inhabitants, and its significance today. Enjoy the flexibility of exploring at your own pace, stopping at iconic viewpoints like Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station, and Desert View Watchtower. Learn about the unique flora and fauna that call the canyon home and capture breathtaking photos of the expansive landscapes. Perfect for families, adventurers, and nature lovers, the audio tour makes your visit to the Grand Canyon South Rim both informative and enjoyable. Simply download, plug in your headphones, and let the adventure begin!
Duration: 8 to 12 hours.

It is a navigation APP with self-guided routes with audio guides along the West Coast

Everything you need to know about the Grand Canyon
Points of interest linked to Google Maps
geolocation
Driving tours of the Grand Canyon
Walking routes in the National Parks
Access to Web Panel to customize your own route
Access to Panel Web as a repository of travel documents
Audio guides with 6 languages available (Spanish, Portuguese, German, Italian, French, English.)
Duration: 10 to 12 hours.

Listen up, adventure-seekers! We have the ultimate outdoor excursion for photo-obsessed travelers who want to avoid the hassles of driving and crowds. Get pumped for our Grand Canyon South Rim tour - it's the perfect Instagram-worthy and TikTok-ready!

Soak up those canyon views and epic landscapes as we take you to all the best overlooks and photo spots. No admission fees, no parking headaches, no fighting crowds! Just you, your camera, and the vast majesty of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World unfolding before your eyes.

It gets even better! We'll make stops to meet local Native artisans who will give you a firsthand look at their traditional jewelry-making. Then we'll wrap up the day at a 100+-year-old trading post for some last shopping. How cool is that?

This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to live your best content-creator life! The canyon views will leave you speechless - and with a camera full of absolute fire content! Let's do this, explorers! The open road calls!
Duration: 6 to 8 hours.

Grand Canyon's real views are deep below the Rim. Getting away from the crowds and having a real adventure, is what we have planned for you! Classic temple views, pastel colors, giant drop-offs, world class 360 views and some of the best hiking on Earth await you. First timers and experienced canyoneers are welcome. From the best food (above or below the rim) to the best equipment, we have you covered. All inclusive ,next level guides, and professional gear ensure your visit to Grand Canyon will be an experience of a lifetime. Let us pick you up at your Northern Arizona hotel and leave the day to us. We will get you that insane holiday photo and you can cross Grand Canyon off the bucket list!

All hikes are private and tailored to you to make a unforgettable experience. Your guide will explain the history and geology of the canyon while we eat delicious snacks and wonder through the rocks. I take great pride in making sure your Grand Canyon adventure will deliver your dreams!
Duration: 6 hours.

Our guides know the Grand Canyon and are experts in philosophy. They lead you to the breathtaking sights, identify flora and fauna, unravel the geological and human history of the Grand Canyon, and engage in meaningful conversations about the significance of the experience. Topics include the value of nature, environmental ethics, and diverse philosophical perspectives that offer fresh insights into life.

The Grand Canyon is a profound place where people encounter the immensity of Earth’s geology and natural forces. It leaves most visitors awestruck and speechless. Your philosopher guide will help to articulate what it is that makes this experience so special.
Duration: 8 to 9 hours.

Explore Grand Canyon with an informative guide on this popular one day excursion. The tour includes a beautiful scenic drive through the Flagstaff area, and up to Grand Canyon National Park; one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Marvel at your first scenic views immediately upon arrival at Grand Canyon National Park. Then you will have time for a stroll along the rim or have the opportunity to explore shops and historic buildings at Grand Canyon Village. You will be given time for lunch on your own (lunch not included)*, and then be astounded by multiple scenic vistas along the south and east rim, including the historic Desert View Tower. On your way back, you will visit to the Navajo Indian Reservation and Historic Cameron Trading Post along the Little Colorado River Gorge. On the drive back, take in the views of the Painted Desert Cliffs.
Minimum Four Passengers for this tour to operate.

Duration: 9 hours.

Escape the Ordinary: Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon

Tired of trips that push you from one crowded stop to the next? Fed up with being squeezed into tiny vans like a can of sardines? Join us for an exhilarating journey from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon, designed for no more than 12 people per group.

Unplug from the hustle and bustle of modern civilization and embark on a time-traveling adventure. From exploring charming old Western towns to immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of these iconic landmarks, this trip offers a refreshing change from the norm.

Experience it all in our first-class vehicle with exceptional service. This isn't just a trip; it's a chance to travel in comfort and style while discovering the wild wonders of the American Southwest. Book your intimate adventure now for a travel experience that's truly extraordinary!
Duration: 2 days.

This tour provides the best single day experience of the Grand Canyon! We cover the entire South Rim of the Grand Canyon stopping at our favorite viewpoints and giving you the ultimate Grand Canyon tour!
Duration: 8 hours 30 minutes.