Grand Canyon South Rim Day Trip from Sedona & Flagstaff

Red rock gives way to canyon: a full day at the South Rim and beyond

You get picked up from your hotel and driven through Oak Creek Canyon to the Grand Canyon South Rim, where you stop at multiple viewpoints to take in the scale and color of the canyon. The tour continues to the East Rim, then finishes at Cameron Trading Post for shopping and a closer look at Navajo craftsmanship. Hotel drop-off happens in the early evening, and the guide covers the route the whole way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Stops and time at each

1. Oak Creek Canyonpass by
2. Grand Canyon South Rim2h · entry included
3. Cameron Trading Post30m

Grand Canyon South and East Rim Tour

• Drive scenic Oak Creek Canyon
• Enjoy shopping break
• Tour South Rim to East Rim
• Visit Cameron Trading Post

The experience

The drive out of Sedona climbs through Oak Creek Canyon before the landscape opens up, and that's when you start seeing the scale of what's ahead. This Grand Canyon day trip covers both the South Rim and East Rim viewpoints, moving at a pace that lets you absorb each one instead of rushing between them. Pickup happens early (7 to 7:30am from Sedona hotels, or 8 to 8:30am if you're staying in Flagstaff), and the guide handles the route while you watch the terrain shift from red rock to high desert to the rim itself.

The South Rim is where most people go, and for good reason: the views stack up from multiple vantage points, each one framing the canyon differently depending on the light and the angle. After working through those, the tour swings east toward the Navajo Nation and Cameron Trading Post, where you have time to browse Navajo crafts, jewelry, and rugs made by local artisans. It's not a rushed stop. There's actual room to look around and pick up something that feels real, not like a gift shop afterthought. The guide provides context about the region and the people who live there, so you're not just shopping. You're getting a sense of the place.

The whole day runs 11 hours from Sedona (returning around 6 to 6:30pm) or 9 hours from Flagstaff (back by 5 to 5:30pm). Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which means no navigating rental car logistics or figuring out where to park at the rim. Water is provided, and the guide is there to answer questions about geology, history, and what you're actually looking at, not just pointing and moving on. One thing to know upfront: if you're not a U.S. resident and 16 or older, there's an additional $100 national park fee per person, and you'll need to contact the tour company before the date to process that.

What’s included

Hotel pickup and drop-off from your Sedona or Flagstaff accommodation, professional guide, entry to Grand Canyon viewpoints, stops at South Rim and East Rim, time at Cameron Trading Post, and complimentary water throughout the day. Arizona State Law requires children eight and younger to travel in a car seat or booster seat, which you must provide.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 07:00

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (16 and older) · Child (under 16)

GroupUp to 14

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Paid on siteUS$ 200

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomeNot for heart conditions

Operated by Ma Pa Tours, INC.

Is this one for you?A good fit if you're staying in Sedona or Flagstaff without a rental car and want to see both sides of the Grand Canyon in one day with a guide handling the drive and the stops. Expect a full day out (11 hours from Sedona, 9 from Flagstaff), which is what makes fitting the South Rim, East Rim, and Cameron Trading Post into one trip possible.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 16).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the drive from Sedona to the Grand Canyon?

About two hours each way through Oak Creek Canyon. The total tour is 11 hours from Sedona, including stops at viewpoints and Cameron Trading Post.

Is lunch included?

No, lunch is not mentioned in the inclusions. You'll want to bring snacks or plan to eat during the tour. The guide can advise on options.

Can I do this tour from Flagstaff instead of Sedona?

Yes. Departure is 8 to 8:30am from Flagstaff hotels, and the tour is 9 hours total, returning by 5 to 5:30pm.

Is the Cameron Trading Post stop mandatory?

It's part of the itinerary, but you're not required to shop. It's a chance to see Navajo crafts and support local artisans. You can browse or skip it.

Do I need a national park pass?

Park entry is included. If you're a non-U.S. resident aged 16 or older, there's an additional $100 fee per person. Contact the tour company to arrange this before your date.

What should I bring?

Sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and a camera. Water is provided. Bring a valid photo ID if you're a non-U.S. resident (needed for the park fee).

Is this tour physically demanding?

It's suitable for most fitness levels, but not recommended for people with poor cardiovascular health due to the elevation and length of the day.