While Las Vegas is technically located in the northern stretch of the Mojave Desert, few people think about it as a desert escape.
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Instead, it’s viewed as a mecca for entertainment, from nightlife to musical residencies to casinos. Unlike other desert hubs, from Joshua Tree to Santa Fe, Las Vegas doesn’t have a reputation for hiking, stargazing, or any of those spiritual vortexes Sedona is known for.
Still, Vegas is surrounded by desert—including highly scenic destinations, from canyons to caves full of emerald water. You can explore it at your own pace, as well, whether you want to see Seven Magic Mountains or take a helicopter tour near the Spring Mountains.
You could also go a little further from the city limits—all the way to bucket list spots like the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Valley of Fire, and beyond. Here’s what you need to know about popular desert tours from Las Vegas, whether you want a full-day adventure or a quick journey into the Mojave.
Top three desert tours from Las Vegas:
- The whole shebang: Grand Canyon West, Hoover Dam Stop and Optional Lunch and Skywalk (check price)
- Best journey by air: Deluxe Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour with Landing (check price)
- The unexpected: Death Valley Sunset and Stargazing Tour (check price)
Desert tours from Las Vegas that aren’t like the others
Grand Canyon West, Hoover Dam Stop and Optional Lunch and Skywalk
No need to reinvent the wheel. If you’re looking for a Grand Canyon tour from Las Vegas that has a stamp of approval from over 21,000 travelers, here’s your tour. This full-day tour runs for ten to eleven hours. You’ll stop at the West Rim in the Grand Canyon, along with the Hoover Dam. You can also add on lunch, the Skywalk, and even a boat ride.
Small-Group Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam tour
Here’s another full-day, twelve-hour tour that lets you experience the wonders of the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam. You also have stops at Joshua Tree National Monument and the famous Las Vegas sign. Depending on where you’re staying, you can also book a hotel pickup for even more convenience.
3-hour Hoover Dam Tour
Take a quick trip out of the city with this three-hour Hoover Dam tour. A car will pick you up directly from your hotel, then make the drive to the dam. Your small group will get out at multiple stops for photo opportunities and to learn a bit about the dam’s incredible architectural feats.
Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour
Get ready for a big day. This tour runs for up to fifteen hours, taking you far from Vegas and into some of the country’s most visually iconic canyons. This tour includes stops at Lower Antelope Canyon, along with the famous Horseshoe Bend. You’ll also go on a beginner-friendly hike, letting you stretch your legs as you uncover the mysteries of the desert.
Small-Group Valley of Fire Tour
This half-day tour runs for six hours, taking you into the vibrant Valley of Fire State Park. The tour includes a short hike with a pro-level guide. Not only do you get to stop at scenic lookouts, but you also get to learn about the ancient petroglyphs that dot the park. If you want to skip out on the big crowds, Valley of Fire is a great option.
Small-Group Valley of Fire – Mojave Desert Tour
This six-seven hour tour is quite similar to the last, in case it’s booked out. It’s a small-group tour that maxes out at thirteen people. You’ll get to hike through the park, spot petroglyphs, and visit other landmarks like Fire Canyon. You also get to stop in at the Lost City Museum, which explores Pueblo culture.
Death Valley Sunset and Stargazing Tour
Venture out on a twelve-hour adventure that takes you to Death Valley, the Mojave Desert’s most notorious zone. On the way, you’ll get to see salt flats and badlands, along with landmarks like Artists Palette. You’ll arrive just in time for a scenic sunset, then learn a thing or two about stargazing in a dark-sky sanctuary before heading back to the City of Lights.
Deluxe Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour with Landing
If you’re looking for desert tours from Las Vegas that are lil’ bougier than the rest, go with a helicopter tour. This option includes transportation to and from Las Vegas in a helicopter, but the real coup is the chance to land in the Grand Canyon. Your pilot will take you to a private bluff where you can take in the views. Plus, the trip comes with a champagne toast while you’re in the air.
Sunset Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour
The same company that offers the helicopter tour above also has a sunset tour option. It includes the same amenities, including a stop in a private bluff where you can enjoy the setting and a champagne toast in the air. If you know anyone waiting for the perfect chance to pop a certain question, I imagine this is a great option.
Bryce & Zion National Parks
This is a thirteen-hour adventure that lets you check out Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park in a single day. In Zion, you’ll stop at the Checkerboard Mesa before heading to various locations within Bryce National Park. During the drive, you can also check out the Virgin River Gorge as you pass by.
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