Help me plan my trip to AZ, Pls

Question

Hi folks,

I am looking to plan a trip to Arizona for 4 or 5 days (May 2-5 0r 6th). I am hoping those well known to Arizona can help me manage my trip better as I am kinda stuck on a few things. I would like to visit antelop canyon and take pictures, I would also like to do hot air ballown tour, maybe a spa day, skydiving and kayaking or jet ski on powell lake. Do you recommend I take any of these activities off the itinerary. Also, should I fly into sedona? and then rent a care and drive to antelope canyon? what is the best, easiest, and most feasible way to get all of these things done. Pls help. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. If you have any recommendations on hotel stays or things of that nature, pls chime in. Thank you so much!

Answer

Planning a 4-5 day Arizona trip that includes Sedona, Antelope Canyon, and Lake Powell activities is ambitious but doable with careful planning. Here’s a detailed approach to help you maximize your time and experience without feeling rushed.

Flights and Transportation:

Flying directly into Sedona is possible via the small Sedona Airport, but commercial flights are limited. Most visitors fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, which has many options and is about a 2-hour drive to Sedona.
Renting a car at Phoenix airport is recommended. You’ll need a car to reach Sedona, Antelope Canyon, and Lake Powell, as public transportation is minimal and tours often depart from specific locations.

Suggested Itinerary Overview:

Day 1: Arrive in Phoenix, drive to Sedona. Explore the town, red rock viewpoints, and perhaps a short hike or scenic drive. Evening in Sedona for dinner and relaxation.
Day 2: Hot air balloon ride in Sedona early morning (sunrise is best). Spend the rest of the day at a spa or exploring Sedona’s art galleries and shops. Optional short scenic hikes if you feel like it.
Day 3: Drive from Sedona to Page (approx. 4.5 hours). Stop at scenic spots along the way if desired. Evening arrival in Page, settle into your hotel.
Day 4: Antelope Canyon tour early morning (either Upper or Lower Canyon depending on preference; Upper for classic light beams if timing is right). Afternoon Lake Powell activity: kayaking, jet skiing, or a scenic boat tour. Evening in Page.
Day 5: Optional additional Lake Powell adventure or Horseshoe Bend visit, then start drive back to Phoenix if flying out from there. Alternatively, stay another night in Page or Flagstaff if your flight schedule allows.
Day 6 (if 5-day trip): Drive back to Phoenix for departure.

Activity Considerations:

Hot air balloon rides in Sedona are highly recommended—sunrise flights offer the best light for photography.
Spa day is optional but a great way to rest between active days.
Skydiving is feasible in the Sedona/Flagstaff area, but check availability and weather conditions. If you do skydiving, you may need to plan for an entire half-day due to preparation and travel.
Kayaking or jet skiing on Lake Powell is a great afternoon activity after Antelope Canyon tours. Be sure to book in advance, especially in May.

Hotels Recommendations:

In Sedona: Consider family-friendly and centrally located options like Sedona Real Inn & Suites, Arroyo Roble Hotel, or Airbnb options near Uptown Sedona.
In Page: Hotels near Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon tours include Lake Powell Resort, Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell, or Best Western View of Lake Powell.

Travel Tips:

Book Antelope Canyon tours well in advance, as slots can fill up quickly.
Start early each day to avoid the heat and crowds, especially for outdoor activities.
Consider swapping or removing skydiving if your priority is relaxation and photography, as it can be tiring and weather-dependent.
Check driving times carefully; Sedona to Page is around 4.5–5 hours, and Page to Phoenix is about 4.5 hours. Factor in stops for meals and scenic viewpoints.

Overall, flying into Phoenix, renting a car, and basing yourself in Sedona and Page is the most efficient and flexible approach for your trip. Prioritize hot air balloon, Antelope Canyon, and Lake Powell activities; spa or skydiving can be added based on energy and timing.

Help me plan my trip to AZ, Pls

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