3 Hour Back-Road Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate By-Pass at 9:30 am
Photos: Viator · 7 more on Viator
About this activity
Climb aboard custom, comfortable, safari vehicles with forward-facing bucket seats and large panoramic windows
Take the 4x4 scenic route around exhausting traffic lines at south entrance gate – we have had the back-road Forest permits since 1993!
View elk, deer and rare bird species in their natural environment!
Visit dramatic Yavapai Point, El Tovar Hotel, Lookout Studio Viewpoint , Kolb Studio and Bright Angel Trailhead during this non-rushed excursion
This interpretive tour includes 2 walking segments totaling about 90 minute of guided walking along the rim of the Grand Canyon (about ¾ of a mile)
Pick-up and drop-off at central location in Tusayan, ARIZONA.
Check in time is 9:15 am. Tour departs at 9:30 am.
Itinerary
- Grand Canyon South Rim · 180 min
Voted best and most unique 3 hour tour at Grand Canyon. Stroll along the rim while your local guide shares a wealth of information about the Grand Canyon including geological formations, trails, mules and the rich history. Tour includes Tusayan pick-up, south entrance gate detour during exclusive 30 minute back-road excursion, viewing of wildlife such as elk, deer, turkey and hawks in their natural surroundings and interpretive discussions at exceptional Grand Canyon vistas.
- Yavapai Point · 45 min
Guides share Grand Canyon knowledge while you look into the depths and view spectacular monuments, Colorado River and Phantom Ranch.
- Bright Angel Trail · 45 min
Discover the rich history of the Kolb brothers who built their art studio cantilevered over the Grand Canyon and above the Bright Angel Trail. See hikers and mules as they descend the trail into the Grand Canyon.
- Hopi House · 45 min
The tour continues to Hopi House, El Tovar Hotel and Bright Angel Lodge where your guide will discuss these historic buildings and Grand Canyon history.
What's included
- Bottled Water
Not included
- Gratuities
- NON-U.S. RESIDENTS: Starting Jan 1, 2026, the U.S. Government has enacted additional fees for NON-U.S. RESIDENTS (16 & older) to enter the Grand Canyon National Park. Fee not included in price.
Meeting point
Everyone meets at the meeting point.
USE GOOGLE MAPS. The parking lot in front of the Tusayan Fire Department, located in Tusayan, Arizona. South of the IMAX Theater, between the Wendy's and IMAX. Check in time is 9:15 am. Departure time is 9:30 am.
End point: USE GOOGLE MAPS. The parking lot in front of the Tusayan Fire Department, located in Tusayan, Arizona. South of the IMAX Theater, between the Wendy's and IMAX. Check in time is 9:15 am. Departure time is 9:30 am.
Good to know
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
4.9/5
458 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor
Campgrounds near this activity
RV rentals near this activity
No RV rentals with photos listed within 60 miles.
Distances are straight-line from the activity's center of Grand Canyon National Park (Viator lists this tour under Grand Canyon National Park; it has no meeting-point coordinates).