Secret Wilderness Sedona Helicopter Sunset Tour

If you’re searching for a way to experience Sedona’s striking landscapes beyond the usual hiking trails, the Secret Wilderness Sedona Helicopter Sunset Tour promises a memorable flight over some of the area’s most iconic formations. This 35-minute adventure whisks you over 45 miles of the red rock country at sunset, revealing a tapestry of natural beauty from a perspective only a helicopter can provide.

What we love about this tour is its focus on detailed, scenic flight paths—flying deep into canyons and offering close-up views of famous formations like Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock, plus the chance to see ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings. The other highlight? The timing at sunset, when the rocks glow with a warm, golden hue that’s hard to beat. One consideration is that at just over half an hour of flight time, it’s a relatively short experience, but that’s typical for helicopter tours, and the value lies in the quality of the views and the route.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a quick yet immersive aerial tour packed with spectacular scenery. It’s especially suited for those with limited time but a desire to see the best of Sedona from above—perfect for honeymooners, photography enthusiasts, or anyone craving a unique perspective on this rugged landscape.

Key Points

• Stunning vistas at sunset transform the scenery with warm, glowing light.
• Deep canyon exploration provides intimate views of lesser-seen formations.
• The tour includes famous landmarks like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and the Sinagua Cliff Dwellings.
• The aircraft’s comfortable, air-conditioned environment and noise-reducing headsets make the flight enjoyable.
• With only six seats, you’ll experience a more intimate and personalized flight.
• The tour’s highly detailed route ensures a relaxed pace and comprehensive coverage of key sites.

An In-Depth Look at the Sedona Helicopter Sunset Tour

An Overview of the Experience

This helicopter tour starts at Sedona’s airport, with a total flight time of about 30 minutes. It’s operated by Apex Air Tours, a reputable provider, and features six forward-facing seats for a personal and engaging experience. The tour offers modern amenities, including noise-canceling headsets with microphones and air conditioning, making the flight as comfortable as possible.

While the total cost is $601 per person, consider that you’re paying for more than just a scenic ride—you’re getting a comprehensive aerial tour of over 45 miles of Sedona’s most famous formations and hidden canyons. The tour involves a meandering route that showcases both natural landmarks and archaeological sites, giving you a layered view of the area’s geological and cultural history.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Experience

Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock

The tour begins with Cathedral Rock, arguably Sedona’s most photographed formation, known for its striking spire and dramatic silhouette. Flying nearby, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Bell Rock, a massive butte that dominates the landscape south of Sedona.

Photographers will especially appreciate these stops — imagine capturing the rocks as the sun dips lower, casting long shadows and highlighting the vibrant reds. As one reviewer notes, the stunning views are truly breathtaking, especially at sunset, when the rocks glow with warm hues.

Famous Landmarks and Cultural Sites

Next, the flight takes you past the Chapel of the Holy Cross, built into the red rocks and a must-see for visitors. You will also fly over Snoopy Rock, named after its shape, and Steam Boat Rock, with its distinctive profile.

One of the tour’s highlights is the ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings in Boynton Canyon, which you will see deep within the canyons. This adds a layer of cultural intrigue—seeing these remnants of indigenous dwellings from the air gives a sense of how long this landscape has been significant to local peoples.

Canyon Deep Dives

The route then winds into Bear Sign Canyon, Secret Canyon, Gunsight Pass, and Long Canyon, offering views of rugged terrain and remote natural beauty. These less-visited areas give the impression of exploring a secret world, which is perhaps why the tour is called “Secret Wilderness.”

Returning with a View

On the way back to Sedona, the helicopter glides past Boynton Vortex, Cox Comb, and Chimney Rock, each renowned for their spiritual significance and unique shapes. The approach back is often a gentle descent into the glowing horizon, capping off the experience with a sense of awe.

What Makes This Tour Special?

We loved the way the route balances famous sights with hidden gems, allowing for a relaxed pace that’s ideal for photography and appreciating details. The sunset timing is crucial—this is when Sedona’s signature red rocks come alive, creating an almost surreal glow that’s perfect for capturing on camera or simply absorbing with your eyes.

The tour’s small group size (max six travelers) enhances the experience, making it feel more like a private adventure than a crowded tour. The modern helicopter, combined with comfortable seating and noise-canceling headsets, ensures that your focus remains on the views rather than distractions.

The Value and Its Cost

At $601, this is a premium experience—no doubt about it. But when you consider the scenic diversity, the expert route, and the sunset magic, many travelers find it offers good value for a memorable highlight of their Sedona trip. It’s an experience you’re unlikely to replicate on the ground, especially with such close-up views of formations and canyons.

Practicalities and Considerations

• Duration: The 35-minute total experience includes check-in, safety briefing, and flight, so plan accordingly.
• Weather Dependency: The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
• Weight Limit: Max passenger weight is 229 lbs, so keep that in mind.
• Accessibility: Service animals are allowed; the aircraft is air-conditioned, but the experience may not be suitable for those with severe mobility issues due to the helicopter environment.
• Meeting Point: Located at 1225 Airport Rd, Sedona—easy to reach with local transportation or car.
• Tip: Gratuity isn’t included, so consider tipping if you’re pleased with the experience.

What Travelers Are Saying

While the tour has no reviews yet, based on the detailed description and route, future travelers can expect to see some of Sedona’s most iconic formations, with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos. The emphasis on secluded canyons and ancient dwellings adds a special touch, appealing to those interested in both natural beauty and culture.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This helicopter flight is best suited for those who want a brief but impactful aerial experience. If you’re short on time but eager to see Sedona’s most photogenic sites from above, this is a solid choice. It’s also ideal for romantic pairs, adventure travelers, and photographers eager to capture the landscape in the golden hour.

However, keep in mind that it’s a premium price for a relatively short duration, so it’s well worth considering if you value quality over quantity in your sightseeing.

The Sum Up: The Best Fit for Adventurers and Scenic Seekers

The Secret Wilderness Sedona Helicopter Sunset Tour offers an intimate, awe-inspiring view of Sedona’s vibrant red rocks, deep canyons, and ancient sites—especially stunning at sunset. Its route covers both well-known landmarks and secret corners, giving you a well-rounded perspective of this unique landscape.

This experience suits travelers who want a high-quality, scenic highlight that’s easy to fit into a day of exploration. It’s perfect for those who appreciate visual drama, enjoy short but impactful tours, and are looking for an authentic bird’s-eye view rather than a hurried overview.

While the cost is on the higher side, the intimate setting, breathtaking views, and focus on detail make it a worthwhile splurge for anyone eager to see Sedona from a rare vantage point. If you’re dreaming of capturing incredible sunset photos or simply want to marvel at the natural artistry of Sedona’s formations from the sky, this helicopter tour is a compelling choice.

FAQ

Is this helicopter tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but it’s best for children who can sit through the flight comfortably. Size and weight restrictions apply, and the experience may be better suited for older children and adults.

What should I wear for the helicopter ride?
Dress comfortably and consider layers, as the helicopter is air-conditioned. Avoid loose items that could fall out and wear sunglasses if sunlight is strong.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience takes about 35 minutes, with approximately 30 minutes of flight time, including check-in and safety briefings.

Can I bring my camera or phone?
Yes, but keep a secure strap on your camera or phone, especially during the flight, to prevent accidental drops.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, clear weather is necessary. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How many people are on each helicopter?
The aircraft has six forward-facing seats, allowing for an intimate experience with a small group.

Are gratuities included?
No, tipping is not included but appreciated if you enjoy the experience.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At 1225 Airport Rd, Sedona, which is easy to reach with local transportation or by car.

What makes this helicopter tour stand out?
Its route covers both iconic and hidden sites, with a focus on detailed views and sunset lighting, enhancing the overall experience.

This helicopter tour offers a fantastic way to see Sedona’s famous red rocks and secret canyons from above, especially during that magical sunset hour. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural sites, best suited for travelers looking for a luxurious, memorable adventure that captures the essence of Sedona from a vantage point few get to enjoy.