100% Arizona Roadtrip: dive into the heart of the desert

Trip Description

Accomodation

Stay program

• day 1

  Welcome to Phoenix

  

  Your road trip in the heart of the Arizona desert begins in Phoenix, an urban oasis nestled in the midst of wild landscapes! After picking up your rental car, head to Papago Park for a first immersion in this unique environment, where rock formations and desert vegetation offer you a spectacular setting. For a magical touch, don't miss the sunset from Hole in the Rock, an iconic spot where the sky is painted with golden and orange hues, a taste of the enchanting charm of the desert that awaits you throughout your journey. It's a perfect first stop to lay the foundation for your adventure in Arizona.

• day 2

  Adventure on the Apache Trail

  

  For this first adventure in the West, take the legendary Apache Trail, a mythical road through breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, discover an abandoned ghost town that seems frozen in time, before continuing on a dirt track leading to stunning panoramas. Stop at Tortilla Flat, a tiny hamlet where you can enjoy a beer in an authentic saloon. Return to Phoenix, with memories of the Wild West filling your mind.

• day 3

  Discovery of the Grand Canyon

  

  First step of your road trip in the Arizona desert. Take the road towards the Grand Canyon, one of the greatest natural masterpieces in the world. Arriving at the edge of the South Rim, take the time to admire the majesty of this ancient canyon, whose multicolored layers stretch as far as the eye can see. Enjoy the different viewpoints such as Mather Point or Yavapai Point, then end the day with a walk along the Rim Trail, where the sunset transforms the canyon into a spectacle of golden and purple lights. An unforgettable day where the desert meets the timeless grandeur of the Grand Canyon.

• day 4

  Page: canyons and Lake Powell

  

  Take off early for a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon, an experience that will remain etched in your memory. Then, head to Page, where Lake Powell, despite the drought, retains its magic. Explore the canyons, including the famous Antelope Canyon, or opt for Waterhole Canyon or Lower Antelope for a more secluded and equally beautiful getaway. Don't miss Horseshoe Bend, a majestic meander of the Colorado River.

• day 5

  The Wild West of Monument Valley

  

  Monument Valley, emblem of the American West, immerses you in a western movie setting, where you almost expect to run into John Wayne around a cactus! Drive along the scenic Valley Drive by car or with a Navajo guide to admire the famous Mittens Buttes and discover hidden treasures, experts in local legends. Set out on a hike on the Wildcat Trail or explore the valley on horseback to feel like a real cowboy, hat not included! Sunrise and sunset are magical moments, while at night, the stars illuminate a sky of rare purity, perfect for making a wish... or two.

• day 6

  Canyon de Chelly

  

  Road through the desert to Chinle to discover Canyon de Chelly, a hidden gem of Arizona. Start with the Rim Drive, which offers spectacular views, notably of Spider Rock, a 240-meter-high monolith. The sunset there is magical. For the more adventurous, Navajo guides offer free hikes in the heart of the canyon. A peaceful day, between mystery and wild nature.

• day 7

  Gallup, historic milestone

  

  In the morning, set out for a jeep or horseback excursion in the canyon with a Navajo guide, who will reveal the secrets of ancient ruins and mysterious pictograms in an exceptional setting. Then, continue your road trip towards Gallup, just across the New Mexico border. Stroll along the historic Route 66 that runs through the city, explore vintage souvenir shops, and take a trip to the Gallup Flea Market, where the Native American spirit mingles with that of the Wild West.

• day 8

  Holbrook and Painted Desert

  

  Set off for an exceptional discovery in the heart of Arizona, far from the crowds of the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley. Discover the Painted Desert, this colorful desert, with its shades of red, orange, pink, and purple, looks as if it came straight out of a painting. Make a stop at the various viewpoints, such as Tawa Point or Kachina Point, to capture the beauty of this unique landscape. A short walk through this painted sand desert is an excellent way to start the day. Head to the southern part of the park to explore the Petrified Forest, where fossilized tree trunks, over 200 million years old, dot the landscape. Follow the trails to see up close these multicolored petrified trunks, once enormous giant trees. Don't miss Agate Bridge, a petrified trunk that forms a natural bridge. At the end of the day, continue your journey to Holbrook, a small historic town located along Route 66. Holbrook is famous for its vintage motels and its typical American West atmosphere.

• day 9

  From Meteor Crater...

  

  When leaving Holbrook, take the road towards Sedona, making a stop at Meteor Crater, one of the best-preserved impact craters in the world. Explore this impressive site, where you can walk along the edge of the crater and discover its history at the museum. Then, continue towards Sedona, where you will be welcomed by its famous red rock formations. Arrive at the end of the day to admire the sunset during a jeep tour on the majestic red mountains, a natural spectacle that marks the beginning of your adventure in this mystical and spiritual city.

• day 10

  ...in Sedona

  

  Explore the mysteries of Sedona, famous for its spiritual vortexes. Hike at Cathedral Rock, then dive into the city's artistic universe by visiting its galleries and shops. For a touch of adventure, look for UFOs at Bell Rock or float down the Oak Creek river in an inner tube. End the day with a breathtaking sunset and a starry sky, perfect for dreaming... and making wishes!

• day 11

  Back to Phoenix

  

  On the way to Phoenix, with a stop in Prescott, a small historic town full of charm. Next, head to Scottsdale, where the atmosphere is more chic than western. Stroll through the streets of Old Scottsdale, between cowboy shops and trendy restaurants. Climb to the top of South Mountain Park for one last road trip among the cacti and a sunset over the valley, or wrap up your adventure with some shopping at an outlet.

• day 12

  Last look before takeoff

  This is the end of this road trip in the heart of the desert and Arizona. After having experienced epic adventures in the American West, it is time to say goodbye to the desert and return with unforgettable memories.