Sonoran Desert
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Sonoran Desert
Sonoran Desert

Sonoran Desert

Free admission

The Basics

Explore the beauty of the Sonoran Desert by foot, vehicle, or hot-air balloon or small plane. Visitors will enjoy views of the mountains that span this region, as well as the local wildlife, including roadrunners, gila monsters, cactus wren, and desert bighorn sheep. Be sure to choose a tour that fits your interests; there are tours available for fans of hiking, off-roading, and Segways.

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Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out
Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
$125.00 per adult
Traveler Favorite
Perfect Day’s End
The hike was perfect! Just enough challenge for a robust hike but not too technical. Liz was a perfect guide and host. She was very knowledgeable about the flora and fauna of the surrounding landscape as well as the history of the region we hiked. We will be back!
Lisa_D, May 2023

Recent reviews from experiences in Phoenix

Amazing hike. Beautiful view.
star-5
Amazing hike. Beautiful view.
June_A, May 2023
Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
Enjoyed the hike with Mike. It was relaxing as he stopped along the way to help us take photos & tell us more about the cacti. Surely a worthwhile trip for a first visit! Sunset view was the best reward! 😊🌵
Sunset hike
star-5
Sunset hike
Barbara_N, May 2023
Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
The knowledge of Liz about the local plants and wildlife really added to the experience. This was my first time taking a guided hike. After this experience, I hope it won’t be my last!
Unforgettable experience
star-5
Unforgettable experience
Inga_D, Mar 2023
Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
We had a wonderful time hiking in the Sonoran Desert. Ryan and cooper were very friendly and knowledgeable guides who made the experience fun and safe. The views r spectacular. Book it, you won’t regret it !
Amazing
star-5
Amazing
Brandy_W, Mar 2023
Amazing 2-Hour Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
The guide was knowledgeable about the area, friendly, and funny. Great hike to see the City skyline. The trail was easy and assessble to just about anyone.
Sunset adventure
star-5
Sunset adventure
Christine_T, Apr 2023
Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
Our guide, Michael, was great! Shared interesting information, answered all our questions and geared the hike to our experience level. Snacks and beverage were provided at the summit as we watched the sunset. A wonderful experience! I would highly recommend this adventure!
Enjoyable Experience
star-5
Enjoyable Experience
therese_p, Mar 2023
Amazing 2-Hour Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
I enjoyed my recent hiking experience with Liz as a guide. As a solo female traveler not familiar with the area, I appreciated being able to explore the trails with a friendly, knowledgeable & enthusiastic buddy. I enjoyed the two hour (3.5 Mile) walk while learning about the Sonoran desert. I picked up a few very interesting facts and saw several different cacti along the way. The distance and pace of each trip will vary depending on individual fitness levels - so you can enjoy a leisurely or more brisk sped.
Beautiful sunset and views!
star-5
Beautiful sunset and views!
Mandi_M, Apr 2023
Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
We had the best time doing the guided sunset hike with our guide, Michael. He gave us lots of interesting information while we hiked. The trail was pretty but not difficult, and the gorgeous views and sunset from the summit were a highlight of our trip to Phoenix. I would definitely recommend!
Experience of a lifetime!
star-5
Experience of a lifetime!
Gwendolyn_L, Jul 2022
Half-Day Private Reptile Hunting in The Sonoran Desert
David was an amazing guide. He was patient and ensured our comfort at all times. He taught us so much and went out of his way to show and teach us about the amazing biodiversity around us here in Arizona. My son is 9 and enjoyed every minute of the experience.
Our guide Dave was...
star-5
Our guide Dave was...
Hope_B, Mar 2023
Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
Our guide Dave was absolutely amazing! He was very kind and knowledgeable of the trail system and various nearby mountain ranges. The sunset and hike was beautiful. Thank you!
AH-MA-ZING!!!!
star-5
AH-MA-ZING!!!!
Kashaunda_D, Mar 2023
Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
The views were spectacular, the sunset was amazing, and our wonderful guide, Lizzy, was a sweetheart and a phenomenal photographer!!!
Excellent desert hike
star-5
Excellent desert hike
ron_h, Mar 2021
Half-Day Private Reptile Hunting in The Sonoran Desert
David was very knowledgeable about the desert life, plant and animal. Understands the balance of nature and just was very pleasant throughout our desert hike.
Amazing experience.  My...
star-5
Amazing experience. My...
Lindsay_C, Mar 2023
Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
Amazing experience. My coworkers and I chose to do the sunrise hike and it was spectacular and the tour guide was great. I recommend hiking boots or good running shoes that will provide foot stability and a thick enough sole that rocks won't poke through into your foot.
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Things to Know Before You Go

  • Book your tour in advance. You’ll benefit from a knowledgeable guide while enjoying your perfect desert adventure.

  • As in any desert environment, be sure to bring enough water with you (drinking water is not available) and dress for the weather.

  • Be on the lookout for cacti and snakes.

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How to Get There

There are several points of entry to the Sonoran Desert. The Sonoran Desert National Monument is located about 40 miles (64 kilometers) south of Phoenix and 93 miles (150 kilometers) northwest of Tucson, Arizona. To get there from Phoenix, follow I-10 West. From Tucson, take I-10 West to I-8 West. Parking is available on-site.

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When to Get There

There are five “seasons” in the Sonoran Desert: spring from February to April; dry summer in May and June; summer monsoon from July to mid-September; fall from mid-September to November; and winter in December and January. The spring and winter months can be a great time to visit; temperatures remain a bit cooler than the blazing heat of summer.

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Indigenous Communities

There are several Native American tribes that have connections to the Sonoran Desert, including Pascua Yaqui, Tohono O’odham, Seri, Cocopah, and the Gila River Indian Community. Some tribes welcome visitors to religious ceremonies or other cultural events; just be respectful and refrain from using your camera or phone during these experiences.

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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What are the nearest attractions to Sonoran Desert?
Q:
What else should I know about attractions in Phoenix?
A:
As well as visiting the Sonoran Desert, check out these trip ideas to make the most of your visit: