Top Phoenix Wildlife Watching in 2026

Take in gorgeous views of the Sonoran Desert and feel like you’re floating on a cloud during an exhilarating hot-air balloon ride at sunrise from Phoenix. You’ll experience the perfect start to your day followed by Champagne toast and breakfast. Upgrade to include round-trip transport from your hotel for a seamless experience.

Spend time aboard a single-rider ATV during a thrilling off-road tour in the Sonoran Desert. Ride on rugged and rocky trails in the scenic Bradshaw Mountains and cross the Aqua Fria River during the scenic journey. Your guide is knowledgeable about the region's plant life, wildlife, and history, with plenty of stories to share.

Float over Phoenix and the Sonoran Desert in a comfortable and spacious hot-air balloon with an FAA-certified pilot. Depart before daybreak to get incredible views of the desert landscape during sunrise and be a part of the action as the balloon is inflated. If the wind is right, you can go inside for amazing photos. Upon touchdown, you are greeted with a Champagne toast and a commemorative flight certificate.

Immerse yourself in nature during your time in Phoenix with a sunset walking tour that spotlights the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Avoid getting lost as you pass through the Papago Butte Mountains. In addition to taking in the sights, hear stories and learn about Western and Native American history from your guide.

Guarantee your admission at SEA LIFE Aquarium Arizona in Phoenix when you book in advance. Step out of the hot Phoenix weather to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of undersea creatures. Learn about different types of sea life, from tropical sharks to simple sea stars and get close-up views of fascinating marine life that typically exist at the bottom of the ocean.

Enjoy a picturesque hot-air balloon flight over the Sonoran Desert—and check off your bucket list—on this sunrise flight. Experience 360-degree desert views that most other Phoenix visitors miss, all while floating effortlessly across the sky at dawn. At the end of your flight, celebrate with a traditional Champagne toast and light refreshments.

Visit Grand Canyon National Park, with a stop for pictures of the Red Rocks of Sedona, on this multi-hour tour from the Phoenix area. Travel through beautiful Oak Creek Canyon, where you can browse local crafts if you wish. When you reach the Grand Canyon, make stops in the park to see the natural wonder from multiple viewpoints.

Adults and kids welcome to Cyber Desert Tours!! Experience the thrill of off-roading across the stunning Arizona Sonoran Desert! Embrace the thrill of 845 hp Baja drifting in a Tesla cyber truck —a one-of-a-kind adventure that combines cutting-edge technology luxury and off-road performance like no other. Then take the excitement to the water on an electric JetSurf board, reaching speeds of up to 32 mph (standing, sitting or laying on your stomach makes it accessible for everyone). You will be cutting and carving on the desert lake like your on a wave of your own. This tour offers the perfect balance of high-speed land and water action, making it an unforgettable experience for adrenaline enthusiasts. Jason, the owner and off roading champion, will take you safely off roading and safely instruct you on the jet surf. Book Now for the ultimate desert adventure that pushes the limits on both land and water! Also take advantage of our direct pick up from your location.

Breeze through entrance lines and save money with this prebooked admission ticket to the Phoenix Zoo. Meet some of the park’s roughly 3,000 resident animals—Bornean orangutans, Asian elephants, Sumatran tigers, Komodo dragons, and others—while learning about local and global conservation initiatives. This e-ticket downloads with a barcode granting admission from any open turnstile at the Phoenix Zoo.

Journey through stunning Arizona landscapes on this full-day tour from the Phoenix-Scottsdale area. Visit the Grand Canyon and explore Sedona with an expert guide who handles all the driving and logistics, leaving you free to soak in the incredible scenery. Explore highlights of the Grand Canyon, and drive through the Sonoran Desert on this small-group tour. With numbers limited to 13 participants, you can enjoy a more intimate experience of the Southwest's natural beauty.

Families from all over the world trust us for the ultimate family adventure — a private guided desert hike. Explore the Sonoran Desert with us and see interesting rock formations, canyons, mountain peaks, cactus forests and giant saguaros. *** Our special offer for guided hike for families. Kids under 10 are alway FREE! Plus, reduced youth pricing for ages 11-17. *** We guide a variety of trails suitable for all ages and skill levels. Whether you have toddlers or teens, our hikes are designed to be engaging and accessible. Guides are knowledgeable about the local flora, fauna, geology and history of the Sonoran Desert of Arizona. Kids and teens will love learning about desert wildlife, unique plants and the stunning rock formations. All guided hikes are led by pro, expert guides trained in trail safety, first aid and CPR, ensuring a worry-free adventure. From the iconic saguaro cacti to panoramic mountain views, our hikes offer picture-perfect moments you’ll cherish forever.

Keep your eyes peeled for slithery Sonoran Desert residents on this private half-day hike with a local expert who ensures your safety and teaches you about the area's ecosystem. Explore one of the most biodiverse deserts as you search for animals like king snakes, collared lizards, gila monsters, rattlesnakes, tarantulas, scorpions, and amphibians. Your guide also discusses desert plant life and the variety of reptiles and invertebrates in the region.