Spectacular Sedona: Active Adventures in Arizona’s Red Rock Country

Terracotta Travel
Terracotta Travel
Published in
4 min readNov 23, 2020

Explore the best of Sedona’s stunning desert landscape on this 4-day self-drive itinerary through Arizona’s red rock country.

Sedona

Trip Highlights

  • Hike through breathtaking red rocks and canyons
  • Stargaze after sundown with an expert astronomer
  • Tour the Ancient Pueblo Ruins on an off-road jeep adventure
  • Enjoy a leisurely kayak excursion down the Verde River

At a Glance

Day 1–4: Sedona

Length: 4 days / 3 nights

When to go: February — May

Itinerary Summary

Experience exhilarating nature and active adventure during this four-day self-drive trip to Sedona, home to the vermillion canyons and iconic desert landscapes that give the region its name: Red Rock Country. Collect your rental car on arrival and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the open road, stopping to bask in the epic scenery wherever the moment takes you. Once you’ve settled into your indulgent accommodation, venture out with an expert guide to hike one of the many desert trails, join an astronomer for a special stargazing experience, and discover the 700-year-old ruins of the mysterious Sonoma civilization by private jeep. In between these immersive experiences, bask in the luxury of your hotel, relax by the turquoise pool, and enjoy rejuvenating wellness treatments.

Day 1. Arrive into Phoenix and drive to Sedona

Upon arrival into the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, pick up your rental car and set off on your Arizona adventure with a two-hour drive to your accommodation. As you approach Sedona, dramatic red rocks rise in jagged formations from the surrounding desert, setting the scene for an immersion in nature and deep relaxation.

Set on 70 acres of panoramic natural terrain at the doorway of secluded Boynton Canyon, the Enchantment Resort will inspire your mind, body and spirit. Enjoy exploring the hiking trails and ancient ruins amidst the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness as a delightful contrast to the luxurious splendor of the resort’s restaurants and Mii Amo spa.

Sedona, Devil’s Bridge

Day 2. Red rocks hiking and stargazing experience

Today, explore Sedona’s breathtaking red rock landscape on a half-day hike with your knowledgeable private guide, who will select a trail based on your interests and hiking abilities. From an easy three-mile loop to Doe Mountain or a strenuous mile-long trail to Cathedral Rock, there’s something for everyone. Whichever trail you choose, epic landscapes abound, from open desert to lush foliage with sky-high canyon views. At the end of your hiking excursion, your private guide will transfer you back to your hotel. After the sun goes down, join an astronomer and learn about the constellations during an unforgettable stargazing experience.

Hiking in Sedona

Day 3. Sedona native archaeological jeep experience and Verde River kayaking

This morning, jump in a wrangler jeep and journey back in time to the 12th century, when the Sinagua people called this area home. As you wind through the ancient ruins of a 700-year-old cliff dwelling, your guide reveals the customs, myths, and legends of the region’s native ancestors. Learn how they farmed and hunted, their complicated trading system — and how the society vanished in a mystery that remains unexplained to this day. At the end of your tour, your private guide will transfer you back to your hotel for lunch.

After lunch, depart from the hotel and drive to the Verde River launch site for a two-hour privately guided kayak trip amid soaring canyons.

Jeep

Day 4. Goodbye, Sedona

Depart for your two-hour drive to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, ensuring you leave sufficient time to return your rental car before checking in for your flight home.

Price: USD 2,998 per person*

What’s included
- Meet and greet airport service
- Accommodation with breakfast
- Private tours
- Rental vehicle
- All entrance fees
- 24/7 ground support
- All amenities included in a bespoke Terracotta Travel luxury trip

*Rate calculated based on four people traveling

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Terracotta Travel
Terracotta Travel

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