Where to Watch the 2023 Solar Eclipse
On October 14th, 2023, North, Central and South America will witness an incredible astronomical event…
Astounding wonders of Mother Nature abound in Arizona, where the landscapes seem to defy words. Behold the epic views of the Grand Canyon from the rim and the canyon floor. Hop on a train and see the landscapes change before your eyes. Behold dry deserts and forested rivers. Arizona is a jewel in the American Southwest, offering countless adventures and hidden gems at every turn.
Check out our incredible adventures exploring the highlights and hidden gems of North America!
Activity Level 1
What's The Rush?
I'm active and in decent shape and not looking to experience a place just through a bus window. I'm happy to slow down on the trail, soak it in and breathe in the fresh air.
Walking: 2-3 hours per day on gentle-gradient trails.
Other activities: On these trips, you'll be taking part in a range of other activities that focus less on building up a sweat and more on enjoying the finer things in life.
Activity Level 2
On the Move
Sure, I own some hiking boots, they're even worn in, but they don't go on long trips. I like my creature comforts and I like to give a range of activities a go.
Walking: 2-4 hours per day on gentle to moderate gradient trails. No multi-day hikes.
Biking: 1-3 hours, cruisy rides achievable by anyone, even first-timers. Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats.
Other activities (i.e. snorkeling): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
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.
Hiking: Typically, 3-6 hours per day on well-formed backcountry trails. Expect some significant gradient inclines and declines.
Altitude: Your trip may include some moderate altitude areas, though these don't form the focus of the trip and are generally manageable.
Biking: 1-3 hours on well-formed paths or roads where you can expect some hills with moderate climbs and descents.
Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats.
Other activities (i.e. caving): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
Activity Level 4
Challenge Accepted
I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it.
Hiking / Trekking: Typically, 4–6-hour hikes with options for more, sometimes with limited or no vehicle support and nearly always with ascents and descents.
Altitude: Some trips at this level will reach a significant altitude. We are here to help you manage that and make your experience one to cherish for a lifetime.
Biking & Kayaking: If one, or both, of these activities are 'your thing,' there are trip options in this range, allowing you to be on two wheels or with a paddle in your hand for most of the day.
Activity Level 5
The Upper Limit
I'm ready to put in the hard work to reap the rewards. I'm a seasoned adventurer, not afraid to get my boots wet.
Trekking & Altitude: This is classic trekking, at altitude. Some might even call it 'expedition-style.' We've had folks from all walks of life achieve their dreams on our grade 5 trips, so if you're in for a challenge get in touch to find out if this is for you.
As members of the Active Adventures family, Austin Adventures offers booking assurance that allows you to secure your spot with a deposit now and pay the rest later. Plus, if your plans change or you can’t travel, you can transfer your booking or request a refund on any additional funds paid (less deposit) up to 90 days from your original trip start date.
Many people think of the words “hot” and “dry” when they conjure up an image of Arizona, but in reality, Arizona’s climate varies widely according to altitude. Southern Arizona (Phoenix, Tucson) experiences very hot summers and warm winters while Northern Arizona (Flagstaff, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon) will see four distinct seasons, although any time of the year is mild enough for a visit. On an Austin Adventures Arizona adventure, you’ll likely fly into Phoenix but will immediately head north to milder weather.
Spring is a nice time to visit Arizona regardless of where you go in the state. Southern Arizona will likely be pleasant in April (with average highs around 80°F) while May will see temperatures creeping upwards into the 90s – don’t forget, it’s a dry heat. If that’s too hot for you, head north where it will be much cooler at this time with highs in the 60-70°F range and lows in the 30s (bring a jacket!)
Summertime temperatures can vary greatly depending on where you are during the hottest part of the season. Southern, Arizona is hot, hot, HOT seeing high temperatures in the 100F+ range and lows in the 80s. In this kind of heat, most of our guests either hang out inside or head out to the pool (wear your sunscreen!) June – August is the “value season” in Southern Arizona while Northern Arizona enjoys its “peak season”during this time frame. Up north, you’ll find highs in the 80s and lows in the 50s – just perfect for an active vacation!
The fall season starts out warm in September (especially in Southern Arizona) but will drop down considerably over the next few months. Later in the season, the south starts to see some nice temperatures in the 60 to 70°F range. It will get colder up north, averaging anywhere between 40 to 60°F for a high, but it’s not so cold that you can’t take in the sights by foot! Depending on where you travel, you may even come across some snow later in the season. After all, places like Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon average about 7,000 feet in elevation!
We would consider winter in Arizona quite pleasant for the most part. Southern Arizona experiences its peak season at this time as tourists flock to the warm temperatures, attempting to escape the snow across the rest of the US. The high’s in Phoenix at this time land in the 60 to 70°F range ah, perfect. Northern Arizona will definitely be colder as you head up in elevation, but the winter temperatures (highs anywhere between 40 to 50°F) are quiet pleasant in the height of the day. Lows can be below freezing so there’s a possibility of snow – dress warm!
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You can travel to Arizona at just about any time of the year and enjoy an adventure vacation. So, your main question might be: what do I pack? While our detailed pre-trip planner will give you the specifics, read on for a few tips from our adventure travel professionals on what to pack and how to prepare for your Arizona adventure.
Since it’s warm most times of year in Arizona, you’ll want to be sure to pack lightweight clothing (shorts and t-shirts) to maintain a cool body temperature in the heat of an active day. However, you’ll also want to bring along a few extra warmer layers as it can be cool in the mornings, evenings, and nights! If you’re traveling anytime between late October and early April in northern Arizona, you may want to bring a warm jacket or fleece, gloves, a warm hat, mid-weight long-sleeve layers, warm socks, and long underwear.
Arizona’s monsoon thunderstorms take place from mid-June through the end of summer during the height of the peak season. Monsoons in Arizona typically bring higher humidity, windstorms, dust storms and periods of heavy rains. Be sure to pack your raincoat in your day pack and make it easily accessible. Thunderstorms are especially common in the afternoons and develop quickly. Luckily, we’ve usually completed our activities for the day and are enjoying ourselves back at the hotel by the time a storm hits. In case you get caught in a thunderstorm during an activity, your guide will direct you to the safest area to wait out the storm.
For adults, we recommend a backpack in the 24 to 38-liter range. For kids: a small pack will work, but we find that parents usually end up carrying a lot of their kid’s “stuff” on any given hike! You’ll want to make sure you have enough room for plenty of water, sunscreen, and your camera. You also may shed layers throughout the day or bring a lunch, so don’t forget that you’ll need extra room for these items.
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When and where you go in Arizona will largely determine how you go about planning your trip. Below, you can read a few insider tips from our knowledgeable team, and if you want to know more – just give us a call!
It can be HOT in Arizona in the summer and it’s easy to fall victim to a heat-related illness if you don’t follow a few easy tips. First, drink more fluids than you normally would, ESPECIALLY during any outdoor activity. If you become thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. To avoid this, constantly sip on water throughout the day and drink lots of water after a strenuous activity. Also, you’ll want to steer clear (or enjoy in moderation) beverages containing alcohol, caffeine, or large amounts of sugar (these can dehydrate your body!). Also, limit your outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day when the sun is at its peak intensity.
When it comes to flying into Arizona, Phoenix is our city of choice. While it’s very hot in the summer, there’s a myriad of things to do inside that will keep you out of the heat but still having fun. There are a number of water and splash parks if you want to get your soak on. You can also check out the Phoenix Art Museum, Arizona Science Center, or the Mining and Mineral Museum if you’d rather find a little intellectual stimulation. You can even hit up a Broadway production at the Orpheum Theater downtown or catch an Arizona Diamondbacks baseball game in the comfort of a closed, air-conditioned ballpark.
Many of our guests travel to Arizona from sea level (or near that) and find that activity is more difficult at this higher elevation. To prepare for this change, make sure to practice any kind of exercise routine (walking, running, cycling, fitness classes, etc.) to ensure you feel comfortable taking on an active vacation. The more physical you are before your trip, the better prepared you’ll feel, even with a change in elevation!
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With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience.
It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!
When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. All you need to do is show up!
Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted partners and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides.
Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.
For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience.
