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Grand Canyon Activities: FAQ
With so much to see and do available in the Grand Canyon National Park, it remains important to prepare yourself with the right information. Leverage the knowledge of the travel specialists at Caravan, with on-the-ground insight to help you have the best possible experience. Explore the many Grand Canyon Activities available to you and use this collection of frequently asked questions to plan your dream vacation.
Find Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
There are so many things to do at the Grand Canyon. Explore this FAQ to learn more about visiting the Grand Canyon.
What activities do people do at the Grand Canyon?
The most popular thing that people do when visiting the Grand Canyon is watch sunrises or sunsets at the many viewpoints throughout the Grand Canyon National Park. Mather Point, Yavapai Geology Museum, and Desert View Watchtower are all destinations people visit simply to appreciate the colors of the natural landscapes.
Of course, there are more things to see and do in the area, including:
- Nature walks and hikes through the many available trails
- Mountain biking along the Rim Trail
- Guided Jeep or ATV tours
- Take part in educational programs, including those led by park rangers, which are perfect for children
- Boating or rafting excursions along the Colorado rivers
- Helicopter tours
- Stargazing
- Connect with indigenous cultures and learn important history lessons at the Hopi House
- Take a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway
How many days do I need in the Grand Canyon?
Many visitors spend anywhere from one to three days at the Grand Canyon.
What is the biggest attraction in the Grand Canyon?
Mather Point remains the most well-known and popular viewpoint in the Grand Canyon. The main visitor’s center remains popular as well, offering detailed information about the activities available in the area.
Do you have to pay to see the Grand Canyon?
Yes. There is an entrance fee for visiting the Grand Canyon National Park, roughly around $20-35 per person. Non-US residents are also subject to an additional $100 fee.
How much money do you need to go to the Grand Canyon?
Travellers should expect to spend around $100 per person, depending on the activities they wish to partake in, and whether or not they require lodging. The shuttle system for navigating around the park is free after paying an entrance fee. Prices are subject to change, so plan ahead before you arrive.
Much of the park is cash-free.
Do I need a reservation to get into Grand Canyon National Park?
No. The Grand Canyon National Park does not have a reservation system. Consider purchasing yourGrand Canyon entrance pass online to help save time.
How early should I get to the Grand Canyon?
Visitors are encouraged to arrive as early as possible, especially if they are interested in catching a sunrise at one of the viewpoints. The main visitor’s center opens at 8 a.m., but the park is open 24-hours.
ook to beat the rush of crowds by arriving for sunrise.
What to know before going to the Grand Canyon?
Here is what you should know before going to the Grand Canyon:
There is a smartphone application dedicated to the Grand Canyon National Park that can keep you updated on the weather and any closures of trails or viewpoints.
Not every hiking trail is suitable for everyone. In fact, some trails are best reserved for the physically fit. Do your research prior to taking part in a hike, and if you are unsure, opt for a hike best suited for beginners.
You can bring your own food to the Grand Canyon, helping to reduce costs, but also working to keep you well-fed and hydrated during your trip.
The shuttle system is entirely free and can help you get around the park.
Should you plan to stay at the Grand Canyon National Park overnight, you will need to book accommodations many months in advance.
Traveling between the different rims requires a drive of more than four hours. Plan your trip accordingly.
Is the Grand Canyon safe to visit?
Yes, the experience is considered quite safe, especially if you plan on visiting the viewpoints. Some hikes may pose challenges for those who are not experienced in outdoor hiking or adventure travel.
How long is the wait to get into the Grand Canyon?
There are occasions when you will need to wait when visiting the Grand Canyon National Park. Depending on the time of your arrival and the time of year you are visiting, you may need to wait one to two hours to visit well-known viewpoints or to simply enter the park.
What is the least crowded month at the Grand Canyon?
The least crowded month for visiting the Grand Canyon is often during winter, between the months of December, January, and February.
What is the hottest month in the Grand Canyon?
July and August are considered the hottest months in the Grand Canyon.
What is The Best Time To Visit The Grand Canyon?
The fall season remains one of the best times to visit, as the summer months are not only crowded but are also exceptionally warm. Fall offers reduced crowds, but also cooler and more comfortable temperatures suitable for hiking and other adventure travel activities.
What is the best way to tour the Grand Canyon?
A private guided tour is the best way to experience the Grand Canyon, as it can help you navigate the complexities of visiting the park, while your guides provide you with helpful tips and bits of education to improve the experience overall.
Is a guided tour of the Grand Canyon worth it?
Yes, of course!
Guided tours can make sure you never miss an important stop, but also provide deep knowledge about the Grand Canyon itself. Never worry about ground transportation or accommodation, as many guided tours have these offerings included in the price.
Why is 90% of the Grand Canyon closed to the public?
Much of the land found throughout the Grand Canyon is not open to the public in an effort to preserve wildlife and maintain the area’s natural landscapes. Some tour groups can offer a deeper exploration of the Grand Canyon, taking visitors on guided and supervised tours. Visiting some areas of the Grand Canyon requires a research permit.
Is it safe to swim in the Grand Canyon?
It is not safe to swim in the Colorado River on your own, as currents can be both strong and unpredictable. Some tours offer the chance to safely swim in the waters found throughout the Grand Canyon National Park, especially in the calm waters of Havasu Falls. Explore a guided tour to ensure your safety and explore the possibility of cooling off at safe swimming destinations.
What else to do while visiting the Grand Canyon?
While the Grand Canyon National Park has so much to offer, it is not the only worthwhile attraction worth visiting.
- Consider visiting Bearizona Wildlife Park for a wildlife viewing experience.
- Visit the charming town of Sedona, including the Red Rock State Park.
- Take in the beauty of Arizona by visiting and hiking through Hike Fossil Creek or Mount Humphreys.
- Appreciate a sunset at the iconic and nearby Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.
Is the Grand Canyon family-friendly?
Yes, of course! The Grand Canyon remains a well-loved destination suitable for family travel. Kids can benefit from taking part in the Junior Ranger program, offering an educational element that complements the travel experience.
What is a good age to take kids to the Grand Canyon?
While there are no age restrictions to visiting the Grand Canyon National Park, we recommend that visiting is best suited for children five years and older.
Explore The Benefits Of Guided Travel Groups With Caravan
Planning an exceptional trip to the Grand Canyon can be overwhelming, especially if you have your heart set on experiencing specific activities. A guided tour from Caravan takes away these challenges, leaning on the experience of a dedicated and knowledgeable travel guide to help you enjoy everything the Grand Canyon has to offer.
Caravan tours remain suitable for travelers of all kinds, bringing together like-minded individuals who wish to experience the Grand Canyon, along with its many activities. Our guides know the fine details of visiting the Grand Canyon, facilitating a group travel experience that includes outdoor adventure, stunning views of natural landscapes, and the opportunity to rest and recharge.
Appreciate the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon with those who can help you focus on enjoying the trip, rather than the challenges that come with booking hotels, transportation, and activities. Our tours are all-inclusive and pre-booked, offering a stress-free way of enjoying the Grand Canyon.
Ready to book?
Our tours are suitable for travelers of all ages, including families. Connect with us directly to learn more and call 1 (312)-321-9800, or 1-800-CARAVAN directly to plan your next dream vacation to the Grand Canyon. Spaces are limited, so plan ahead and call us to learn more.
Contact Caravan today for more information!
2026 Hotels
2026 Hotels
Accommodations in the hotels and lodges are usually rooms with two beds and private bath or shower. A limited number of single rooms are available. Triple rooms are usually two beds.
Day 1 • Phoenix
Radisson Hotel Phoenix Airport
Radisson Hotel Phoenix Airport is located two miles from the airport and fifteen minutes from downtown Phoenix. The hotel features a seasonal outdoor pool and an outdoor whirlpool/hot tub. The hotel is 100% smoke-free. Guest rooms have air conditioning, a flat-screen television, telephone, iron and ironing board, hair-dryer, safe, coffee maker, mini-fridge, and a desk with an ergonomic chair.
Days 2, 3 • Grand Canyon
Thunderbird Lodge
Thunderbird Lodge is a contemporary lodge located a few feet away from the rim edge of the Grand Canyon. All of the rooms have either two queen beds or one king bed, in-room coffee, refrigerator, safe, cable television, telephone, full bath, and air conditioning. Handicap rooms are also available. At Thunderbird Lodge, it's just a three minute walk to the Bright Angel Restaurant, Arizona Room Restaurant, and El Tovar Restaurant.
Kachina Lodge
Kachina Lodge is a contemporary 'twin' lodge to the Thunderbird Lodge, located just a few feet away from the rim edge of the Grand Canyon. All of the rooms have either two queen beds or one king bed, in-room coffee, refrigerator, safe, cable television, telephone, full bath, and air conditioning. Handicap rooms are also available. At Kachina Lodge, it's just a three minute walk to the Bright Angel Restaurant, Arizona Room Restaurant, and El Tovar Restaurant.
Maswik Lodge
Maswik Lodge is surrounded by a Ponderosa pine forest. Located one quarter of a mile from the rim edge of the Grand Canyon, all rooms have two queen beds or one king bed, coffee maker, mini-fridge, in-room safe, satellite television, hair dryer, telephone and air conditioning.
Yavapai East Lodge
Yavapai East Lodge is conveniently located a short walk to the post office and the Market Plaza. The General Store is located at the Market Plaza and sells groceries, hiking equipment and gift items. Free park shuttles operate every 15 to 30 minutes, with stops at scenic overlooks. Yavapai Lodges has a tavern, a cafe and a dining hall. All rooms have two queen beds or one king bed, air conditioning, microwave and mini fridge, coffee maker, flat-screen television, telephone, iron and ironing board, hair dryer. WiFi is available at the Yavapai Lodge main building. Due to the remote location, the Wifi has limited bandwidth and is not ideal for downloading, streaming, etc.
Days 4, 5 • Lake Powell
Lake Powell Resort
Stay two nights at Lake Powell Resort. The resort is located on the shores of Lake Powell at Wahweap Marina, about 5 miles from the town of Page, Arizona and two miles from Glen Canyon dam. Guest rooms have two queen beds, air conditioning, coffeemakers and hair dryers. The resort features two pools, a jacuzzi, and a small beach on the lake shore. The resort has a lounge and two restaurants. Your breakfast is included each day at the world famous Rainbow Room, with spectacular views of the Glen Canyon and Lake Powell.
Days 6, 7 • Zion Park Area
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Virgin Zion National Park
Stay two nights at the award winning Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Virgin Zion National Park, in the scenic town of Virgin. Enjoy your spacious rooms, offering one or two-king beds in every room. Stroll to the banks of the Virgin River, or just take in the views. Cool off in the super-sized outdoor pool, or relax in the hot tub while enjoying the scenery & sunset. Rooms include high speed Wi-Fi, 55" Smart TVs, air conditioning, phones, iron and ironing boards, hairdryers and coffeemakers.
Movies
Movies
Hike in Zion Park10:28- Colorado Plateau2:21
- Grand Staircase2:59
- Bryce Canyon4:01
- Zion Park5:51
Airport Transfers
Airport Transfers
Arrival Transfers
Caravan’s Phoenix, Arizona hotel, the Radisson Hotel Phoenix Airport (427 North 44th St.) provides a courtesy shuttle from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Upon arrival, after collecting your luggage, please request a pickup by calling the hotel from the baggage claim area at: 602-661-3160. The shuttle operates from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. Taxis cost approximately $20 and take 10 minutes.
Departure Transfers
Caravan includes a departure transfer to Harry Reid Airport, formerly known as McCarran Airport, (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada on the day the tour ends, arriving by 11 a.m. Please schedule flights after 1 p.m. If you wish to extend your stay in Las Vegas, taxis and shuttles are available from the airport. (Las Vegas regulations prohibit Caravan’s motorcoach from making stops at individual Las Vegas hotels). Taxis cost approximately $20-$30 and take 25 minutes or more. Airport shuttle services are located near the dropoff point.
Airfare is not included or sold by Caravan.
Passports & Visas
Passports & Visas
Non U.S. citizens, please check your passport and visa requirements.
Weather & Clothing
Weather & Clothing
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Phoenix | Grand Canyon | Zion Park Area | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | |
| Jan | 66/41 | 0.7 | 42/18 | 1.5 | 52/29 | 1.6 |
| Feb | 71/45 | 0.7 | 45/21 | 1.6 | 57/31 | 1.6 |
| Mar | 76/49 | 0.9 | 51/25 | 1.7 | 63/36 | 1.7 |
| Apr | 85/55 | 0.2 | 60/31 | 1.0 | 73/43 | 1.3 |
| May | 94/64 | 0.1 | 70/38 | 0.7 | 83/52 | 0.7 |
| Jun | 104/73 | 0.1 | 81/46 | 0.6 | 93/60 | 0.6 |
| Jul | 106/81 | 0.8 | 85/53 | 1.6 | 100/68 | 0.8 |
| Aug | 104/80 | 1.0 | 82/52 | 2.1 | 97/66 | 1.6 |
| Sep | 98/73 | 0.9 | 76/46 | 1.5 | 91/60 | 0.8 |
| Oct | 88/61 | 0.7 | 64/36 | 1.2 | 78/49 | 1.0 |
| Nov | 75/49 | 0.7 | 51/26 | 1.0 | 63/37 | 1.2 |
| Dec | 66/42 | 1.0 | 44/20 | 1.5 | 53/30 | 1.5 |
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | ||||||||||||
| temp | 66/41 | 71/45 | 76/49 | 85/55 | 94/64 | 104/73 | 106/81 | 104/80 | 98/73 | 88/61 | 75/49 | 66/42 |
| rainfall | 0.7 | 0.7 | 0.9 | 0.2 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.8 | 1.0 | 0.9 | 0.7 | 0.7 | 1.0 |
| Grand Canyon | ||||||||||||
| temp | 42/18 | 45/21 | 51/25 | 60/31 | 70/38 | 81/46 | 85/53 | 82/52 | 76/46 | 64/36 | 51/26 | 44/20 |
| rainfall | 1.5 | 1.6 | 1.7 | 1.0 | 0.7 | 0.6 | 1.6 | 2.1 | 1.5 | 1.2 | 1.0 | 1.5 |
| Zion Park Area | ||||||||||||
| temp | 52/29 | 57/31 | 63/36 | 73/43 | 83/52 | 93/60 | 100/68 | 97/66 | 91/60 | 78/49 | 63/37 | 53/30 |
| rainfall | 1.6 | 1.6 | 1.7 | 1.3 | 0.7 | 0.6 | 0.8 | 1.6 | 0.8 | 1.0 | 1.2 | 1.5 |
Clothing Tips
This is a predominantly casual tour. Casual wear is suggested for sightseeing and daytime travelling. A good pair of tennis shoes or hiking shoes is recommended for walking in the parks. Please bring a sweater or jacket to wear on the air conditioned motorcoach, and to wear at night at higher elevations such as the lodge at the Grand Canyon. Please bring a lightweight rain poncho in case of rain. Dress code for most evenings is smart casual.
Travel Tips & FAQs
Travel Tips & FAQs
These are only the first 14 Travel Tips. Read all 51 Travel Tips Meals included in the land price are indicated at the beginning of each day by B (Breakfast), L (Lunch), D (Dinner). Dinner, when included, is served at your hotel except when, as indicated in the itinerary, it is at a special restaurant outside the hotel. Coffee or tea is provided at all included meals. Included meals for each tour are listed at the end of each day. Meals are shown by B (breakfast), L (lunch) and D (dinner). Full, buffet, or deluxe continental breakfasts are included everywhere. Free bottled water is provided on the motorcoach. Alcoholic beverages are not included unless specified. Virtually everything! Hotels, many meals, all of the activities described in the itinerary pages, airport transfers in select cities, gratuities to hotel porters, restaurant staff and local guides. Caravan’s professional Tour Directors and local guides will be with you every step of the way, ensuring a worry free vacation. Prices do not include air travel, country entry or departure fees, airport porters, visas, phone calls, valet, laundry, all items of a personal nature, extra food and beverages not on the regular menu, and tips to the Caravan Tour Director, driver, and local guides. Usually, you find a mix of different age adult travelers on a Caravan Tour. Children age five (5) and older are welcome, and children usually join tours offered during Christmas holidays, summer vacation and spring break vacation. A well-paced and unhurried itinerary is our goal, after all, you are on vacation! Touring days begin and end at reasonable hours and include frequent stops. While the occasional early morning departure is necessary, we do our best to ensure a leisurely vacation. Group sizes will vary depending on the reserved rooms at the hotels and the capacity of the boats and motorcoaches used. Usually, group sizes range from 30 to 44 passengers. Caravan has been offering fully guided tours worldwide under the same family ownership and management since 1952. Caravan understands and truly cares about your great expectations. The farther in advance that you book, the more likely it is that your preferred tour will be open. Late bookings are welcome if the space is still available. Families are always welcome on any of our tours, but we do not have any programs specifically for or limited to families. Families can make specific requests for connecting, adjacent, triple or quad rooms, when available. Children must be at least 5 years old. Caravan accepts payment (in U.S. funds only) via MasterCard, Visa, or Discover. Caravan Travel Protection offers peace of mind if you cancel for any reason whatsoever prior to the departure of the tour. The travel protection plan also includes air, baggage, evacuation, medical, and quarantine coverage. The cost is $129. Children age five (5) and older are welcome on tour when accompanied by an adult. Usually, children travel during the school vacation months of June, July and August, and also during spring and winter school breaks. Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant. If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles. If you do not have a REAL ID, a valid passport or passport card is also acceptable documentation for domestic flights. More information is available at www.TSA.gov or via your state’s department of motor vehicles.Meals
Are meals included?
My Tour Price Includes
My Tour Price Does Not Include
Age of Travelers on a Caravan Tour
A Well-Paced Itinerary
Size of Tour Group
Fully Guided Tours Since 1952
Many Tours Sell Out Each Year
Family Trips
Forms of Payment
Caravan’s $129 Travel Protection
Children on Tour
REAL ID Required to Fly
Customer Reviews
Customer Reviews
These are only the first 7 Customer Reviews. Read all 346 Customer Reviews "What I appreciated most about the tour is watching my husband take in the beauty of our surroundings. Normally he is driving and misses out on seeing much of the scenery. The route was well thought out and organized." "Monument Valley was eye opening due to it's beauty and location for so many westerns." "The Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce - they were all amazing to see. We got a lot out of this tour for the money." "Have no hesitation in rating it at A+" "This was the best vacation that my husband and I have ever taken. I saw the beauty of places that I have never seen before. The vast size of the Grand Canyon, the colors and wonders of Antelope Slot Canyon and the beauty of Zion and Bryce Canyon." "The itinerary was outstanding with all places exceptional to visit. Antelope Slot Canyon was the highlight." "This was a special tour that offered an incredible experience. The scenery was breathtaking, and we had the opportunity to witness and partake in a variety of unique activities within the allotted time frame."
Read All 346 ReviewsClick Here to Read All 346 Customer Reviews
Why Travel with Caravan?
Why Travel with Caravan?
Excellence Since 1952
You can trust our years of experience with tours of superb quality and excellent value. Caravan has enjoyed the same family management and ownership since 1952.
Caravan Care
For your safety, Caravan cancelled most 2020 and all 2021 tour departures and refunded 100% of all payments received. See Caravan’s Covid-19 Terms of Travel.
Caravan's Proud History
In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two-hour CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie “If it’s Tuesday this must be Belgium.” In the early 50’s the Mayor of Dublin presented Caravan with the Key to Dublin for bringing the first American tour to the city after WWII. Since then, Caravan has been recognized as a pioneer in travel. You can trust in our stability, experience and dedication to quality.
Great Hotels
Stay at park lodges, scenic resorts, and excellent hotels in great locations. See hotel descriptions on each tour page.
Meals
Most meals included within Latin America. For USA and Canada tours, included meals are listed on each itinerary page. Bottled water is provided on motorcoaches in Latin America.
Complete Sightseeing
Enjoy complete sightseeing with more visits, extra features, and local guides.
Fully Guided by Tour Directors
All tours conducted from start to finish by professional tour directors, who are fluent in English, experienced, and fun.
All-inclusive
Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary page. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can add hundreds of dollars to your tour price. Your free time is scheduled in great settings where there is no need to buy additional expensive activities.
Shopping Freedom
Caravan will not bring you to overpriced shops in exchange for payments. Caravan gives you ample opportunity and time for great shopping, and the freedom to choose where and when to shop.
Great Value, Book Early
Caravan’s strong buying power gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can find anywhere. Most of our tours sell out quickly. Book early for the date you prefer and the best airfare.
How does Caravan Tours sell these tours for such a low cost?
Caravan delivers volume to our suppliers, who in turn reward us with their very best prices. We in turn pass these savings on to you, and you reward us by buying our tours. As volume continues to rise, we then receive even better prices from our suppliers, and we pass even greater savings on to you. This year our tours are better than ever.
Trade Association Memberships
Caravan is a member of NTA (National Tour Association), ABA (American Bus Association), CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), and ACMA (American Commerce Marketing Association).
