Canyons and Cowboys
Red rock canyon walls rise beside you as the Verde Canyon Railroad follows the Verde River through the Arizona landscape. Later, you’ll see Horseshoe Bend from two memorable perspectives, first from the overlook and then during a smooth-water raft trip along the Colorado River.
Guided experiences take you into Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley and Canyon de Chelly. In Monument Valley, a Native guide shares the region’s culture and history before you enjoy a traditional Navajo lunch.
Your journey ends with two nights at White Stallion Ranch near Tucson. Surrounded by the Sonoran Desert, you can take part in ranch activities and enjoy an evening of cowboy entertainment. This nine-day tour combines Arizona’s dramatic landscapes, cultural experiences and Old West traditions. Excellent mobility is required.
Highlights of Canyons and Cowboys
- Ride the Verde Canyon Railroad through red rock canyons and along the Verde River.
- See Horseshoe Bend from the overlook and during a smooth-water Colorado River raft trip.
- Enter Antelope Canyon on a guided tour of its sculpted sandstone formations.
- Explore Monument Valley with a Native guide and enjoy a traditional Navajo lunch.
- Tour Canyon de Chelly by jeep and see the ruins of the Ancestral Pueblo society.
- Spend two nights experiencing ranch life at White Stallion Ranch near Tucson.
DAY 1: WELCOME TO ARIZONA!
The journey begins with a flight into Phoenix, where warm desert sunshine and a tasty dinner welcome you. D
DAY 2: VERDE CANYON RAILROAD
Today, travel to Clarkdale, AZ, to board the historic Verde Canyon Railroad. Sit back and enjoy a spectacular rail journey through towering red rock canyons and along the Verde River. After a delightful lunch at the depot, continue north to the cool mountain air of Flagstaff. B, L
DAY 3: HORSESHOE BEND/ANTELOPE CANYON
Prepare for stunning desert landscapes along the journey toward Page. Stop at the breathtaking Horseshoe Bend Overlook, where the Colorado River curves dramatically through towering canyon walls. Then, explore the world-famous Antelope Canyon on a guided tour, marveling at its sculpted sandstone and shifting beams of light. Check into your hotel in Page, AZ, for the first of two nights. B
DAY 4: RAFT TRIP/RED HERITAGE DINNER THEATER
Enjoy a smooth water raft trip from Lees Ferry, floating along the Colorado River and around Horseshoe Bend for a truly unique perspective of the canyon. Later, delight in an evening of entertainment and dining at the Red Heritage Dinner Theater, featuring vibrant Native American performances. B, D
DAY 5: MONUMENT VALLEY
The highlight today is the iconic Monument Valley, where you’ll embark on a tour with a Native guide through towering sandstone buttes and mesas. Enjoy a traditional Navajo lunch and gain insight into the rich culture and history of the region. B, L
DAY 6: CANYON DE CHELLY
Continue your cultural exploration with a jeep tour of Canyon de Chelly. This National Monument is of deep historical significance and natural beauty, containing ruins of the Ancestral Pueblo society carved into canyon walls. Travel to Holbrook, AZ, for your overnight stay. B
DAY 7: WHITE STALLION
Travel south through desert vistas to Tucson where you’ll begin your two-night Dude Ranch adventure at the renowned White Stallion Ranch. Surrounded by the beauty of the Sonoran Desert, this authentic ranch offers a true taste of the Old West. B, D
DAY 8: DUDE RANCH ACTIVITIES
Today, immerse yourself in ranch life. Learn the history and traditions of the ranch through a variety of activities, which may include archery, target shooting, or a craft class. Spend the evening clapping along to lively cowboy entertainment. B, L, D
DAY 9: RETURN HOME
Savor a hearty breakfast before departing for the airport, taking with you unforgettable memories of dramatic landscapes, rich cultures, and the timeless spirit of the American Southwest. B
QUALITY ACCOMODATIONS
Night 1: Drury Inn and Suites Phoenix Airport, AZ
Night 2: Drury Inn and Suites Flagstaff, AZ
Nights 3-4: Courtyard by Marriott- Page, AZ
Night 5: Hampton Inn Kayenta, AZ
Night 6: Quality Inn Holbrook, AZ
Nights 7-8: White Stallion Ranch, Tucson, AZ Excellent Mobility Required
Dates:
Apr 25-May 3, 2027
Price Per Person:
Double: $5,247
Single: $7,145
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
Call for pricing
Depart/Return:
Phoenix, AZ
Inclusions:
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Complimentary airport shuttle
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Airport, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 p.m.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport any time on Day 9.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to/from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. If you need parking, please contact us in advance, and we will be happy to discuss available options.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.
Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
Average highs of 63 to 86°F and average lows of 29 to 59°F.
Temperatures vary considerably between the warmer desert areas of Phoenix and Tucson and the higher elevations of northern Arizona.
Time Zone
Mountain Time
Most of Arizona remains on Mountain Standard Time year-round and does not observe daylight saving time. The Navajo Nation does observe daylight saving time, so it will be one hour ahead of Phoenix and Tucson during this tour.
Hotel Amenities
Most accommodations arranged by Country Travel Discoveries are equipped with in-room amenities such as a hair dryer, iron, and coffee maker. In addition, some properties may also have a pool, fitness center, or laundry facilities.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
Elevation Information: This tour travels through areas of northern Arizona at higher elevations. Flagstaff sits at approximately 7,000 feet, and elevations within Canyon de Chelly can exceed 7,600 feet.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
