Private Grand Canyon Tours

Vaughan's Southwest Custom Tours

Price

$880.00 flat-rate 1-4 people. $165.00 for each additional person. Up to 10 people total.
*As of June 1 2022: Fuel surcharge: 1-5 people $50.00, 6 or more people $65.00
Price includes: National Park fees,local professional guide, local taxes, bottled water, and hotel pick up and drop off. Meals and guide gratuities, however, are not included.

People standing on rocks looking at the Grand Canyon

Departure & Return

Departs 7:00 a.m. Return 8:30 p.m. We pick up from most Phoenix and Scottsdale hotels as well as some residences, upon approval. Pick up time and location will be confirmed upon tour confirmation.

Tours during COVID-19

We will follow all current guidelines (issued by the CDC, OSHA, FDA, the state of Arizona, and it's counties and cities) regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, that are relevant to our operation. The health and safety of our guests and employees are our priority.

CELEBRATING OVER 40 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

As a native Arizona family owned business, our passion for Arizona makes us the top rated tour company in Arizona since 1983. Southwest Custom Tours began as a one-man operation with Jim Vaughan, owner and founder of Southwest Tours on January 17, 1983 . Since then Southwest Tours has become the premier van tour company in Arizona . Find out more about us.

Tour Highlights

Your private Grand Canyon tour spends up to 3 ½ hours touring the 26 mile east rim drive.
Your Southwest Tour's Driver/Guide is with you throughout the day to tell you about Arizona, the Grand Canyon, & answer your questions. See some highlights & details below.

Sedona

On our way up to the Grand Canyon, we take a scenic route through the array of red sandstone formations of Sedona. As one of the most beautiful landscapes of the southwest, it's easy to see why it is the subject of several songs and the backdrop in many western movies. You will also stop at the breathtaking Chapel of the Holy Cross.

Flagstaff

The Coconino National Forest and Route 66. Discover the largest contiguous tract of ponderosa pine forest in the world. Continuing on Interstate 40 we cross the famous Old Route 66 and the San Francisco Peaks.

Navajo Reservation

Cameron Trading Post
On the Navajo Reservation enjoy a lunch at the Cameron Trading Post. At the trading post, you can also explore the Native American Fine Art Gallery and the gift shop.

Grand Canyon South Rim

See the most scenic and breathtaking views. Sites include Mary Colter's Hopi House, The Watchtower, Mather Point, Yavapai Point and Geology Museum, the Shrine of Ages, and magnificent view points.

FAQ

If your tour question is not answered here, give us a call at 602-971-1381 We are happy to assist you over the phone.

Two people sit and enjoy the views of the Grand Canyon

How much walking?

There really isn't any difficult walking on tour. At each viewpoint you are free to grab a seat and take in the sights or explore as much as you want in amount of time at each viewpoint.

Where do we stop for meals?

For lunch we typically we stop at the Cameron Trading post on the Navajo Indian Reservation but there are a couple of choices. For dinner we stop in Camp Verde for some fast food. There are a few choices in the area.

Cameron Menu

Are meals included?

We stop for lunch and dinner, however, the cost of meals are not included in the tour price. Due to diet restrictions and preferences we find it's best if everyone can choose what they want or can eat for themselves instead of us providing meals.

What is the weather like at the Grand Canyon?

In winter temperatures can go well below freezing overnight. During July and August temperatures average in the mid 80s (Fahrenheit) but can get over 100 degrees.

GC forecast

A backpacker looks over the rail at the Grand Canyon

How should I dress for my tour?

Dress comfortable. Closed toe shoes, such as sneakers, are always best. Some paths are paved and others are not. From November through March, you will need a warm jacket and a light one for September, October, April and May.

What vehicles are used on tour?

Tour comfortably in our custom seated 15-passenger van with 10 individual reclining Captain chairs, USB ports, air conditioning, and heat.

Where do you pick up from?

We pick guests up from centrally located hotels and resorts in Phoenix & Scottsdale Arizona. Since there are over 100 hotels we can pick up from, it's impossible for us to list each one.

What is included in the tour price?

Your fully guided private tour with one of our professional guides includes local taxes, Grand Canyon National Park entrance fee, and complimentary bottled water. Any meals, tour guide gratuities and any other purchases are additional.

Private Grand Canyon tour benefits

What is a private tour? A private tour means it's your tour. You will have your very own personal guide, with a private vehicle, exclusively for your group and nobody else.

Other than you tour guide, you are only traveling with your group. This has never been more important than it is currently. Since we don't have to stick to a strict itinerary, a private tour allows for some small modifications to a standard Grand Canyon tour.