Total Sedona Tour

If you’re looking to explore Sedona with a knowledgeable guide who can bring the area’s breathtaking scenery and deep history to life, the Total Sedona Tour might be just what you need. This half-day adventure offers a well-rounded look at some of Sedona’s most famous sights, along with cultural and geological insights that turn a simple sightseeing trip into a meaningful experience.

What we particularly like about this tour are its expert guides—trained not only in the area’s geology and natural features but also in sharing stories about Native Americans and early settlers. Plus, the stops are thoughtfully chosen for their photo opportunities and cultural significance.

That said, a potential consideration is the timing—with about 5.5 hours, including a lunch break, it’s a busy schedule. Travelers who prefer slow, relaxed sightseeing might find it a bit brisk, especially if they want to linger longer at each stop.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Sedona’s natural beauty, history, and spiritual sites without the hassle of planning or navigating on their own. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to experience the highlights with an informed guide.

Key Points

• Knowledgeable guides bring the history, geology, and culture of Sedona alive.
• Stunning vistas from locations like Airport Mesa provide excellent photo ops.
• Comfortable group size (maximum 14 travelers) allows for a more personalized experience.
• The itinerary combines iconic landmarks, cultural sites, and scenic drives for a well-rounded visit.
• Included tickets and parking simplify your planning and expenses.
• Lunch break offers flexibility with numerous options in Uptown Sedona.

Exploring Sedona in Depth

Introduction to the Tour Experience

We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on detailed descriptions, it promises an engaging way to see Sedona’s most famous sights with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. What stands out immediately is the blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and spiritual sites that this tour covers. It’s a package designed for those who want a rich, curated experience without the stress of DIY travel.

Two things we love are the expert guides—whose insights make each stop more meaningful—and the scenic stops that promise jaw-dropping views. On the flip side, the 5.5-hour schedule means you’ll be moving at a steady clip, which might be a consideration for those who prefer a more relaxed pace or want extra time at each site.

If you’re someone who appreciates learning about the places you visit and enjoys capturing memorable photos, this tour aligns well with your interests. It’s especially suited for first-timers wanting a trusted overview, or visitors with limited time who want to maximize their Sedona experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Chapel of the Holy Cross

Your tour begins at this iconic Sedona landmark, built into the red rocks, offering panoramic views and a sense of serenity. The tour includes entrance to the chapel and its gift shop, giving you the chance to explore the structure and learn about its history and spiritual significance. The fantastic photo opportunities here are a big draw—think sweeping vistas and the dramatic cross framing the landscape.

This stop sets the tone for the tour, blending spiritual reflection with stunning scenery. The 20-minute visit provides enough time for photos and a quick look inside, but be prepared for a busy, vibrant atmosphere.

Stop 2: Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Next, your guide takes you to Tlaquepaque, a charming arts village built around a canopy of trees. The story behind its construction reflects a respect for nature, making it more than just a shopping stop. With over 200 shops, galleries, and even a small church hidden among the art-filled streets, it’s a lovely place to absorb local craftsmanship and culture.

A 45-minute walk allows you to browse, ask questions, and maybe pick up a unique souvenir. The village’s atmosphere is relaxed yet lively, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities for photos amid its colorful buildings and lush greenery.

Stop 3: Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park

This spiritual site is a highlight, offering a glimpse into Sedona’s diverse cultural landscape. The only stupa in Arizona, set within a 14-acre Peace Park, provides a tranquil environment for reflection. Check out the prayer wheels and medicine wheel, which add layers of spiritual meaning and history.

The 20-minute stop is brief but impactful, especially for those interested in meditation or cultural diversity. Photographers will love the peaceful surroundings and the chance to capture the stupa’s elegance against the desert backdrop.

Scenic Drives & Geological Passes

Between these stops, you’ll pass by some of Sedona’s most recognizable formations—Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Courthouse Butte—each with their own stories about their formation and significance. The guide provides insights into the geology, making these sights more meaningful than just pretty rocks.

Further, you’ll get a look at the vast canyon views, where Native Americans have lived for thousands of years. These insights deepen your understanding of the land’s importance and history.

Airport Mesa: The Viewpoint

The highlight of the final scenic stop is Airport Mesa, renowned for its panoramic views of Sedona’s red rock landscape. Here, you’ll enjoy about 20 minutes to take photos, soak in the scenery, and learn about the area’s geology, early settlers, and even its role as a movie location.

This stop is perfect for capturing memorable landscape photos and getting a sense of the scale and beauty of Sedona’s famous formations.

Lunch in Uptown Sedona

A full hour is reserved for lunch at Uptown Sedona, a lively area with numerous restaurants and cafes. This break allows you to refuel, relax, and perhaps do some quick shopping or sightseeing of your own. The tour includes the stop but not the meal, giving you flexibility in choosing what and where to eat.

Scenic Drive & Final Notes

The tour concludes with a drive along one of America’s top ten scenic routes, providing additional views and the chance to hear more about local spots from your guide. Parking fees are included, simplifying your planning.

Value and Practicality

At $119 per person, this tour offers good value considering the number of sites visited, the included tickets, and the expertise of the guides. The small group size (maximum 14 travelers) ensures more personalized attention, which is often appreciated in busy tourist areas.

The 5.5-hour duration strikes a balance—enough time to see key sites without feeling rushed. The tour is mobile ticketed, making check-in straightforward, and the start point at 9:00 AM is ideal for fitting into a day’s schedule.

One thing to consider is the lunch break—while it’s free to explore on your own, some travelers might prefer to pre-arrange a meal or bring snacks, especially if they want to maximize sightseeing time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Sedona’s highlights with knowledgeable commentary. It suits those interested in a mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and geology, all within a manageable half-day schedule.

It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer guided experiences over self-exploring, especially if they want to learn more about Native American history and local geology.

While the pace is efficient, it’s not ideal for those seeking a very relaxed, in-depth exploration of each site, or travelers with mobility issues who might find some stops a bit brisk.

Final Thoughts

The Total Sedona Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to see the area’s most iconic sights and learn their stories. With highly trained guides, scenic viewpoints, and meaningful cultural stops, it provides real value for those wanting a thoughtful introduction to Sedona.

You’ll appreciate the attention to detail, from the historical context to the photographic opportunities. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive, enjoyable, and hassle-free way to experience Sedona’s majestic landscape.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including sightseeing, stops, and lunch.

How many people are in each tour group?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are tickets included in the price?
Yes, admission tickets for sites like the Chapel of the Holy Cross, Tlaquepaque, Amitabha Stupa, and parking fees are included.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a scheduled one-hour break at Uptown Sedona for you to choose your own meal.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is at 450 Jordan Rd, Sedona, and the tour ends back at the same location.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, some stops involve walking or brief periods of standing, so consider mobility needs.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.