Monument Valley Air and Ground Tour From Phoenix (Mvj)

The Monument Valley Air and Ground Tour from Phoenix offers a unique opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes of the American Southwest. Combining a scenic flight over iconic natural wonders with an immersive ground tour, the full-day excursion showcases the region’s breathtaking scenery and deep cultural heritage. Guests can admire the rugged terrain from the air before exploring the sacred land with a Navajo guide, learning about the profound connection between the people and their ancestral home. Whether seeking an awe-inspiring aerial view or a profound cultural experience, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Phoenix combines scenic flights over Tonto National Forest, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon with a ground tour of the iconic Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.
• The aerial portion showcases the rugged grandeur of Tonto National Forest, the red rock formations of Sedona, and the breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon.
• The ground tour of Monument Valley, led by a Navajo guide, offers the opportunity to witness towering buttes and mesas, and learn about the Navajo people’s deep connection to the land.
• Passengers can enjoy a traditional Navajo-style lunch, including Navajo tacos with fry bread, at the Gouldings Trading Post.
• The tour includes time to explore the Gouldings Trading Post museum and gift shop, providing a deeper understanding of Navajo culture and heritage.

Tour Overview

The full-day air and ground tour from Phoenix to Monument Valley offers visitors a comprehensive experience, combining scenic flights over striking landscapes with an immersive ground tour of the iconic Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.

The tour starts with a scenic flight that showcases the natural beauty of Tonto National Forest, Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and Lake Powell.

Upon arrival at Monument Valley, guests transfer to a 4-wheel drive vehicle for a 1.5-hour tour led by a Navajo guide, who provides insights into the region’s history and culture.

Participants also enjoy a traditional Navajo taco lunch at the Gouldings Trading Post, and have the opportunity to explore the on-site museum and gift shop.

Flight Details

Passengers fly in a Cessna Caravan or T207 aircraft, with every seat offering a window view. The pilot provides narration throughout the flight, as the plane soars over Tonto National Forest, Verde Valley, Sedona, San Francisco Peaks, Painted Desert, Navajo Reservation, and the Grand Canyon.

The tour offers an incredible aerial perspective, allowing passengers to:

1. Witness the vast, rugged beauty of the Tonto National Forest and Painted Desert.
2. Admire the iconic red rocks and steep canyons of Sedona.

Passengers can marvel at the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, flying a mere 1,000 feet above the rim.

They can also glimpse the serene waters of Lake Powell before arriving at Monument Valley.

Scenic Highlights

Throughout this exhilarating air and ground tour, visitors can expect to witness some of the Southwest’s most magnificent natural wonders.

From the rugged grandeur of the Tonto National Forest to the iconic red rock formations of Sedona, the aerial portion offers a bird’s-eye view of the diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes that define this region.

Soaring over the breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon, the tour then continues to the stunning Lake Powell, where the deep blues of the water contrast with the surrounding sandstone cliffs.

The highlight of the ground portion is the 1.5-hour tour of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, where visitors can marvel at the dramatic rock formations that have become synonymous with the American Southwest.

Monument Valley Ground Tour

After the aerial portion of the tour, visitors board a 4-wheel drive vehicle and embark on a 1.5-hour exploration of the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park alongside a knowledgeable Navajo guide. This immersive ground tour offers a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s iconic landscape.

The Navajo guide shares insights into the cultural significance and geological history of Monument Valley’s dramatic sandstone formations, which have been shaped by millennia of natural forces.

Visitors have the opportunity to:

1. Witness the towering buttes and mesas that have become synonymous with the American Southwest.
2. Learn about the Navajo people’s deep connection to this sacred land.
3. Explore off-the-beaten-path areas inaccessible to regular vehicles.
4. Capture breathtaking photos of the iconic landscape.

Navajo Tacos and Lunch

Following the ground tour of Monument Valley, visitors are treated to a traditional Navajo-style lunch at Gouldings Trading Post.

The highlight of the meal is the Navajo tacos, featuring fry bread topped with savory ground beef, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, and a variety of toppings, offering a delicious taste of the local cuisine.

Along With the Navajo tacos, the lunch menu includes other dishes that showcase the flavors of the Navajo Nation, such as mutton stew and blue corn muffins.

After the satisfying meal, guests have time to explore the Gouldings Trading Post museum and browse the selection of Native American arts and crafts in the gift shop, rounding out the cultural experience.

Gouldings Trading Post

Gouldings Trading Post serves as the hub for the ground portion of the Monument Valley tour, providing visitors with a chance to enjoy the Navajo culture and explore the region’s rich history.

After the scenic flight, guests transfer to 4-wheel drive vehicles and embark on a 1.5-hour tour of the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park with a knowledgeable Navajo guide.

At Gouldings, they enjoy a lunch featuring Navajo tacos and have time to visit the on-site museum and gift shop.

The trading post offers a glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of the Navajo people, allowing visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for the land and its indigenous inhabitants.

Key features include:

1. Authentic Navajo cuisine and cultural experiences
2. Guided tours of the iconic Monument Valley landscape
3. Museum showcasing Navajo history, art, and craftsmanship
4. Opportunities to purchase unique Navajo-made souvenirs

Meeting and Pickup Details

Passengers meet at Deer Valley Airport in Phoenix and must check in 30 minutes prior to the tour’s scheduled departure.

The tour ends back at the same meeting point in Phoenix. This ensures a smooth and punctual start to the day’s adventure. Passengers should arrive on time to avoid any delays.

The tour staff will be on-site to greet guests and manage the check-in process. Once everyone is accounted for, the group will depart for the scenic flight over the stunning landscapes of Arizona and Utah, followed by the ground tour of the iconic Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.

The return to the starting point in Phoenix marks the end of this incredible air and ground exploration.

Tour Duration and Inclusions

This full-day air and ground tour from Phoenix to Monument Valley offers an immersive experience, spanning scenic flights over stunning natural landscapes and a guided exploration of the iconic Navajo Tribal Park.

The tour includes:

• A scenic flight over Tonto National Forest, Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and Lake Powell in a Cessna aircraft
• A 20-minute overflight of the Grand Canyon, soaring 1,000 feet above the rim
• A 1.5-hour 4-wheel drive tour of Monument Valley with a Navajo guide, showcasing the dramatic rock formations
• A lunch featuring authentic Navajo tacos at the Gouldings Trading Post

With a perfect blend of aerial sightseeing and on-the-ground adventure, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the natural wonders of the Southwest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not explicitly stated in the knowledge provided. The tour overview describes it as a "full-day air and ground tour," suggesting it accommodates multiple passengers, but the exact group size is unclear.

Can I Purchase Additional Snacks or Drinks During the Tour?

Passengers can purchase additional snacks and drinks during the tour. The tour includes lunch, but there may be opportunities to purchase additional items at Gouldings Trading Post or other stops along the way.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, though parents should note there is a 1.5-hour 4-wheel drive tour through Monument Valley that may not be suitable for very young children.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment on the Flight?

Passengers can bring their own camera equipment on the flight. The tour allows passengers to capture aerial views of the scenic landscapes with their personal cameras and photography gear during the flight portion of the tour.

Is There a Cancellation Policy if the Weather Is Unfavorable?

The cancellation policy generally allows for full refunds if the tour is cancelled due to inclement weather. Customers are encouraged to check with the tour operator about their specific cancellation and weather policies prior to booking.

Recap

The Monument Valley Air and Ground Tour from Phoenix offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes of the American Southwest.

Combining a scenic flight and a guided ground tour, this full-day excursion showcases the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Visitors can admire the rugged terrain from the air, explore the sacred land with a Navajo guide, and enjoy the local cuisine and traditions, making it a truly remarkable and comprehensive experience.