FAMILY VACATION

4.75 (40 reviews)

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

  • 6 Days
  • 18 People Max

    6 - 18 guests

  • Activity Level 3
    • Activity Level 3

      Step It Up

      I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: Phoenix, Arizona
  • Trip End: Phoenix, Arizona
grand canyon family vacation

Kayak, hike, and cruise by train to discover the spectacular geology and the rich history of the southwest on our Grand Canyon family vacation.

An unforgettable journey awaits you and your family. Standing before the mile-deep chasm of Grand Canyon is one of the marvelous moments on this six-day, action-packed family adventure in Arizona. Behold the awe-inspiring vastness of the Grand Canyon, explore the glowing red-rock formations of Sedona, and find yourself wowed by the changing colors on the walls of the Grand Canyon at sunset. All the while, enjoy southwestern hospitality and regional cuisine from comfortable hotels of a bygone era and iconic national park properties.

From the refreshing waters of the Salt River and Colorado River to the history at Montezuma Castle and the wildlife-rich lands along the Grand Canyon Railway, you’ll find inspiration, rejuvenation, and loads of fun for everyone on this Grand Canyon family vacation.

Grand Canyon Family Vacation ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Phoenix, Arizona Trip End: Phoenix, Arizona
  • Day 1Meet in Phoenix, kayak Salt River

  • Day 2Hike Watson Lake, explore Bearizona

  • Day 3Hop on the Grand Canyon Railway, hike the rim of the Grand Canyon

  • Day 4Hike South Kaibab to Ooh Ahh Point

  • Day 5See Sunset Crater, explore Sedona

  • Day 6Broken Arrow Jeep Tour & Phoenix

  • Day 1

    Meet in Phoenix, kayak Salt River

    #1929

    Meet in Phoenix and shuttle to the nearby Salt River for a float trip by inflatable kayaks. This relaxing morning paddle is the perfect way to cool off on a warm day in Arizona’s desert. You’ll glide along lush green riverbanks and towering red cliffs, keeping alert for sightings of wild horses and bald eagles. Following lunch, we transfer to Prescott, nestled at an elevation of 5,200 feet above sea level amongst the largest stand of ponderosa pine forests in the U.S. Your centrally located hotel is in the perfect location for wandering the streets of this historic destination. Once the territorial capital of the state, Prescott is rich with history embodied in its world-famous Whiskey Row and famous saloons of the Old West. Enjoy your first night’s dinner in the Peacock Room with your fellow travel companions.

    Hassayampa Inn, Prescott (Lunch, Dinner)

    Kayaking: 2 hours

  • Day 2

    Hike Watson Lake, explore Bearizona

    #1930

    Begin the day with a hike around Watson Lake through Prescott’s beautiful Granite Dells north of town. This oasis is surrounded by beautiful rock formations and unique history. After a one-hour transfer to the town of Williams, enjoy lunch at Bearizona. You’ll experience this drive-thru and walk-around wildlife park with your knowledgeable guide who will give you a tour of the exhibits and animals who call this place home. You’ll see bears, bighorn sheep, bison, wolves, and many more animals who once roamed wild across the American West. After checking into your hotel, the night is free for you to explore and eat dinner in the funky town of Williams, located on historic Route 66!

    Grand Canyon Railway Hotel (Breakfast, Lunch)

    Hiking: 3-5 miles (5-8 kilometers)

  • Day 3

    Hop on the Grand Canyon Railway, hike the rim of the Grand Canyon

    #1931

    All aboard! This morning, we board the Grand Canyon Railway en route to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. As you cross the Colorado Plateau, be on the lookout for elk, pronghorn, and bald eagles as your knowledgeable train conductor shares with you the history of this fascinating region. Upon arrival, enjoy a delectable picnic lunch prepared by your guides. This afternoon, we check out the fascinating architecture of Hermit’s Rest before embarking on a “wow-inducing” hike skirting the rim of the Grand Canyon.

    Kachina Lodge or Thunderbird Lodge, Grand Canyon Village (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 3 miles (4.8 kilometers)

  • Day 4

    Hike South Kaibab to Ooh Ahh Point

    #1932

    This morning, we hike down the South Kaibab trail to Cedar Ridge. The South Kaibab Trail winds us down into the depths of the Grand Canyon, giving us a much different perspective looking up at the Rim from below. We make our way down to Cedar Ridge, where the views of the Canyon and its colorful walls will leave you in awe. We enjoy our lunch and hike up and out, stopping frequently to catch our breath and take in the magnificent surroundings. The afternoon is yours to relax or explore the South Rim Village.

    Kachina Lodge or Thunderbird Lodge, Grand Canyon Village (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: Up to 5 miles (8 kilometers)

  • Day 5

    See Sunset Crater, explore Sedona

    #1933

    Today you’ll say goodbye to the Grand Canyon heading east stopping along the way for a few last viewpoints. You'll first stop at Cameron Trading Post before discovering the unique terrain and lava flows of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. From there, it’s onto Sedona where you’ll enjoy lunch in town before having the afternoon to relax and explore. This evening, you’ll gather with your travel companions one last time for dinner at a lovely local spot in town.

    Best Western Plus Arroyo Roble & Creekside Villas (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

  • Day 6

    Broken Arrow Jeep Tour & Phoenix

    #1934

    Before you say goodbye, say hello to some heart-pumping fun on an exhilarating off-road jeep adventure atop Sedona’s iconic red-rock formations. Explore the past at Montezuma Castle as you observe some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America. After a short hike, it’s time to head back to Phoenix for goodbyes.

    No Accommodation (Breakfast)

    Scenic Drive: 2 hours

Grand Canyon Family Vacation Departure Dates

  • Upcoming
  • 3 months
  • 6 months
  • 1 year

Discounted child prices are available for children 12-years-old and under.

USD $3999/per adult , USD $3599/per child

Child rates apply for children 12 years and under.

25 Jun 2023
2023
25 Jun30 Jun
Departure Full Full
* GUARANTEED DEPARTURE *
2 Jul 2023
2023
2 Jul7 Jul
Departure Full Full
* GUARANTEED DEPARTURE *
9 Jul 2023
2023
9 Jul14 Jul
Departure Almost Full Almost Full
* GUARANTEED DEPARTURE * 10% OFF
16 Jul 2023
2023
16 Jul21 Jul
Departure Full Full
* GUARANTEED DEPARTURE *
23 Jul 2023
2023
23 Jul28 Jul
Departure Almost Full Almost Full
* GUARANTEED DEPARTURE *
23 Jun 2024
2024
23 Jun28 Jun
Departure Open Open
30 Jun 2024
2024
30 Jun5 Jul
Departure Open Open
7 Jul 2024
2024
7 Jul12 Jul
Departure Full Full
14 Jul 2024
2024
14 Jul19 Jul
Departure Open Open
21 Jul 2024
2024
21 Jul26 Jul
Departure Open Open

Included

  • Experienced guides 
  • 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio 
  • Our ‘Red Carpet’ pre-trip customer care service available to answer questions 
  • Travel Wallet: a resource for everything you need to know about your trip in one secure space!
  • All accommodation for the duration of your trip 
  • Most meals (except where indicated, so you can experience local cuisine independently!) 
  • Picnic lunches, unlimited snack baskets & unique destination snacks 
  • Specially curated tour ‘Wow’ moments throughout your trip 
  • All activities described in the itinerary  
  • All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities  
  • All transportation from start to end of trip 
  • All gratuities for hotels, restaurants and activities 
  • All park and other entry fees 

Not Included

  • Transportation (air and land) to and from start/end points 
  • Travel insurance 
  • Alcoholic beverages  
  • Gratuities to Austin Adventures guides 

Reviews from our Guests

view all

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2022

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"Great experience. Everything taken care of, wonderful. read more

"Great experience. Everything taken care of, wonderful. read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Michele,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2022

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"For my first Austin Adventures trip, it was beyond my expectations. The guides were amazing… read more

"For my first Austin Adventures trip, it was beyond my expectations. The guides were amazing and I genuinely already miss everyone. It was the little things the guides did for us that made it so special, like a cold glass of pickle pear juice after hiking in the Grand Canyon and setting up lunch to eat around the rim. I cannot wait to go on my next adventure! read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

McKenna,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2022

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"It was a fun trip. The grand canyon is beautiful, and we had wonderful… read more

"It was a fun trip. The grand canyon is beautiful, and we had wonderful guides read less

4 Stars (40 reviews)

Emily,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2022

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"Outstanding. Itinerary was great and the guides were even better. read more

"Outstanding. Itinerary was great and the guides were even better. read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Tad,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - June 2022

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"overall a great trip! wonderful service, pretty good accomodations read more

"overall a great trip! wonderful service, pretty good accomodations read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Jennifer,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - June 2022

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"Great trip! Guides were amazing and knowledgeable. The family had an awesome time. read more

"Great trip! Guides were amazing and knowledgeable. The family had an awesome time. read less

4 Stars (40 reviews)

Jennifer,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - June 2022

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"This was a very well executed family oriented active vacation. While I chose not… read more

"This was a very well executed family oriented active vacation. While I chose not to participate in one of the biking and hiking events, other family members said they were fun and worth the time. I thought the food was excellent but felt there was way too much time spent at the dinners and the first breakfast. Buffet breakfast better. While the weather was bad and made watching the sunset at the Grand Canyon impossible, it was never contemplated in the schedule either evening. I read less

4 Stars (40 reviews)

Ellen,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - June 2022

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"Loved the guides and how they kept everything organized and made things easy for us.
I… read more

"Loved the guides and how they kept everything organized and made things easy for us.
I did not care for the Prescott hotel. It wasn read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Mary,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2021

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"It was so impressively organized and paced. There was a full understanding day to day,… read more

"It was so impressively organized and paced. There was a full understanding day to day, hour to hour of what we were doing. Everything flowed so seamlessly, the itinerary was so robust and full of excitement but not overwhelming, our every need was anticipated and accomodated, and honestly, our two amazing guides made this trip the phenomenal experience that it was read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Aparna,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2021

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"Our guides took care of absolutely everything. They made things so easy for us and… read more

"Our guides took care of absolutely everything. They made things so easy for us and we were able to truly unplug, relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Jennifer,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2021

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"Austin Adventures has done it again! The most valuable assets of the tour are… read more

"Austin Adventures has done it again! The most valuable assets of the tour are the outstanding guides. Joel and Dennis are fun, caring, careful, and thoughtful. Despite weather-related factors that were beyond anyone's control, they made the experience as amazing as possible. read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Leslie,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2021

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"The excursions and guides were amazing--felt like we got a behind the scenes tour of… read more

"The excursions and guides were amazing--felt like we got a behind the scenes tour of all the beauty and adventure that AZ has to offer. Well-organized, professional but amiable, no detail left undone. read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Chanta,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2021

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"Such a well planned trip with guides that were superb! Couldn read more

"Such a well planned trip with guides that were superb! Couldn read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Leigh,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2021

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"We were so impressed with everthing!! The guides, Dennis and Joel, were amazing. They… read more

"We were so impressed with everthing!! The guides, Dennis and Joel, were amazing. They paid close attention to detail and treated us like royalty. I can't say enough how wonderful both guides were. My kids, 12 and 13, want to go on another vacation and request them. That is the biggest compliment coming from young teens! read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Valerie,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2021

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"We had a wonderful time exploring Arizona as a family. We enjoyed the beautiful… read more

"We had a wonderful time exploring Arizona as a family. We enjoyed the beautiful scenery, varied activities, and entertaining and friendly guides. read less

4 Stars (40 reviews)

Amy,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - June 2021

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"Excellent. read more

"Excellent. read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Joseph,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - June 2021

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"This was our family's third trip with Austin Adventures. We are return guests for… read more

"This was our family's third trip with Austin Adventures. We are return guests for many reasons. Austin has great customer service before, during and after our travel. They offer tours of great locations. The trips are well run and offer activities that either would be difficult to access on our own or we would not think to do. Each time we have traveled with them, they have hit it out of the park regarding our travel experience. read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Mary,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - June 2021

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"Incredible! One of the best vacations I've ever had!!! read more

"Incredible! One of the best vacations I've ever had!!! read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Shana,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2019

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"With delightful, extremely knowledgeable, safety-conscious and flexible guides, compatible traveling companions, amazing scenery and an… read more

"With delightful, extremely knowledgeable, safety-conscious and flexible guides, compatible traveling companions, amazing scenery and an active itinerary, this was a huge bucket list success for us! read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Melissa,

Grand Canyon Family Vacation - July 2019

Grand Canyon Family Vacation

"I was impressed with the details that our guides were able to connect together the… read more

"I was impressed with the details that our guides were able to connect together the entire week for us to have a spectacular experience. Their expertise and professionalism were much appreciated, along with their ability to engage with each traveler on an individual basis. read less

5 Stars (40 reviews)

Debra,

Interactive Trip Map

Austin PIF 2

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full.

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. 

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Useful Info

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip, our two pick-up locations are Canopy by Hilton Scottsdale Old Town at 8am or the Hyatt Place Scottsdale Old Town at 8:15am. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at either of these hotels directly or any other hotel in Phoenix, though you must make your own way to one of the two pick-up points at the pre-designated times.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at either the Phoenix Airport at 1pm in time for flights below or at a hotel of your choice in Phoenix around 1:30pm.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Phoenix/Scottsdale at least the day before your trip starts. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.
Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Phoenix after 3pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

What should I bring with me on the first day?

When you speak with your guides the night before your trip, they will give you a detailed description of what to bring with you on Day 1. Typically, this includes a day pack with your rain jacket, sunglasses, hat, camera, etc. Anything you want easy access to during the day should go in your day pack as the rest of your luggage will go in the locked cargo trailer pulled behind the van. Your guides will provide you with a water bottle on the first morning of your trip and will always have water available for refills. There will be snacks available at all times in the van. Your guides will also have bug spray and sunscreen accessible for you to use.

Will I have contact with my guides before the trip starts?

Your guides will call your cell phone the night before your trip begins to touch base on the first day’s plan. If they don’t get through to you, they will leave a voicemail on your cell phone with all the details you need to plan for your first morning.

What are your recommended guide gratuity guidelines?

You will have 2-3 guides on your Austin Adventure (depending on group size). We recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per guide. Typically, gratuities are offered by check or cash in local currency on the final morning of the trip and can either be given to each guide individually or to one guide to be equally distributed. Most of our guides these days also accept gratuities via Venmo (please note this app does not work in Canada). All dining, housekeeping and activity tips are included in your trip price.

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travelers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travelers who book within 90 days of departure, where there are no other solo travelers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement. 

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

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Why Travel With Us

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Experience adventure the way you want

You’ll be inspired and exhilarated, enjoying mind-blowing scenery on foot, in a sea kayak, or by bike - all at your own pace. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime.

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We're proud of our Kiwi roots and you’ll love our professional, warm and relaxed style of hosting. Plus, we’re always here to help with planning, travel, bookings... even hiking boot recommendations!

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Every detail covered, to maximise your time

As soon as your trip starts, we've got everything covered – top notch meals, comfortable transport, superb accommodation, amazing guides and INCREDIBLE service.

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Group travel for those who aren’t ‘group travellers’

With our small groups of typically no more than 14 (up to 18 max), you'll get to know our team, your fellow travellers, and have the flexibility and freedom to do as much (or as little!) as you like. It’s all about going at your own pace.

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All our carefully selected guides are highly experienced and have deep personal connections to nature and culture. You’ll enjoy a special experience, authentic local knowledge and an adventure like no other.

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4.85 out of 5 from 6493 reviews. That’s pretty solid.

We could hang around all day telling you how wonderful our trips are... but the best people to hear it from are our guests themselves.

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Grand Canyon Family Vacation