Sedona & Grand Canyon: Small Group Day Trip with Pickup

Summary

Red rocks, desert chapels and canyon views in one long day

You’ll ride from Sedona’s red rocks to Grand Canyon’s vast rim in a small group van, pausing for photos at Chapel of the Holy Cross, quick shopping in Uptown Sedona, and three hours exploring two major canyon viewpoints—plus plenty of local stories along the way.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway up the winding road through Oak Creek Canyon when our guide, Mark, pointed out a streak of sunlight hitting Bell Rock. The van was quiet — maybe because we’d all just met an hour ago at pickup, or maybe it was the way those red cliffs looked against the morning sky. I remember the air smelled faintly of juniper when we stepped out at Chapel of the Holy Cross. Inside, there was this hush — not silence exactly, but something softer. I’m not even religious and still felt something standing by that window.

Uptown Sedona was busier than I expected. We wandered past shops selling turquoise jewelry and some kind of prickly pear candy (I bought a piece and honestly, jury’s still out). Lunch was whatever you grabbed to go — I ended up with a sandwich from a spot where the owner called everyone “hon.” It’s funny how quickly you fall into step with strangers on these small group tours; by then we were swapping stories about bad travel snacks and sunburns.

The drive to the Grand Canyon took longer than I thought — Arizona distances always fool me. Mark kept us awake with stories about local legends and pointed out where you could see layers in the rock that were millions of years old. When we finally got to the South Rim, it didn’t hit me right away. You walk up to the edge and it’s just… there. Immense, quiet except for wind and people’s low voices. We stopped at two viewpoints (can’t remember their names now), but at one of them I just sat on a bench eating my sandwich again, staring out until my legs felt weirdly floaty. Three hours went fast; I could’ve stayed longer but also felt ready to leave — sometimes too much beauty is overwhelming, you know?

I keep thinking about that moment in Sedona’s chapel window and how different it felt from standing over the canyon later that day. Both places made me feel small in a good way. If you’re looking for a day trip from Sedona to Grand Canyon that doesn’t rush or cram you in with a big crowd, this small group tour is probably what you want. Just don’t expect to come back unchanged.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Sedona and Grand Canyon South Rim

• Visit Chapel of the Holy Cross
• Explore Uptown Sedona shops and scenery
• Drive through Oak Creek Canyon
• Visit two viewpoints at Grand Canyon South Rim

Top questions

How long is the Sedona & Grand Canyon day trip?

The tour lasts 13 to 14 hours including all stops and driving time.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

How many people are on this small group tour?

The maximum group size is five passengers per van.

Which part of Grand Canyon does this visit?

This tour visits two viewpoints at the South Rim of Grand Canyon.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No set lunch is included; guests can buy lunch to go during Uptown Sedona stop.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible as noted by the operator.

What are some stops in Sedona?

The tour includes Bell Rock Vista for photos, Chapel of the Holy Cross, and Uptown Sedona for shops and scenery.

Are park entry fees covered?

Yes, all national park fees are included in your booking price.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from your location, bottled water throughout the journey, entry fees for both Sedona sites and Grand Canyon South Rim, plus transport by air-conditioned minivan with an experienced driver-guide leading your small group adventure before returning in the evening.