Exploring Sedona’s Night Sky: The Original UFO and Stargazing Tour Experience
Step into Sedona’s desert night on The Original UFO and Stargazing Night Tour—a journey that pairs advanced night vision technology with the raw magic of millions of stars to uncover mysterious aerial phenomena. Discover practical tips and local insights to prepare for this singular celestial adventure.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive 30 minutes before the tour start to complete check-in and avoid being labeled a no-show, which is non-refundable.
Bring Your Own Vehicle
Guests must use their own vehicle to follow the guide to the viewing location; rideshares and taxis are not permitted.
Dress in Layers
Evening desert temperatures can drop quickly; layering ensures comfort during the outdoor portions of the tour.
Wear Closed-Toe Shoes
The viewing site may have uneven pavement, gravel, and dirt paths, so sturdy footwear helps prevent injury.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The tour viewing spot near Fay Canyon offers surprisingly quiet, dark skies away from downtown light pollution.
- •Passing Red Rock Crossing on the way to the site provides dramatic views of the river and rock formations by day.
Wildlife
- •Desert cottontail rabbits often dart between bushes at dusk.
- •Western whiptail lizards can be spotted sunning themselves before dark.
Conservation Note
Tour operators emphasize low-impact practices and encourage visitors to respect dark sky ordinances that protect Sedona’s nocturnal environment.
Sedona’s mesas have long been a site of spiritual significance for native tribes such as the Yavapai and Apache, who revered the night sky for guidance and ceremony.
Photographer's Notes
- • Near Fay Canyon trailhead
- • Red Rock Crossing road overlook
- • Along SR 89A approaching the viewing area
What to Bring
Layered ClothingEssential
Helps manage cool desert night temperatures.
Closed-Toe Hiking ShoesEssential
Provides stability on mixed terrain at the viewing site.
Personal Flashlight or Headlamp
Useful for moving safely before and after the tour in low light conditions.
Water BottleEssential
To stay hydrated in Sedona’s dry climate.
Common Questions
Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children 6-10 must share night vision goggles with an adult and be supervised at all times; children 11 and older require an adult ticket and may use goggles independently.
What if the weather is bad on the night of my tour?
Tours can be canceled due to bad weather or cloud coverage; it's recommended to book early during your stay to allow rescheduling if needed.
Do I need prior experience with night vision goggles?
No experience is necessary; guides provide instruction, and goggles are shared between every two adults.
Is photography allowed during the tour?
No photography or video recording is permitted to protect sensitive equipment and maintain the experience quality.
What if I’m late for check-in?
Late arrivals without communication are considered no-shows and will not be refunded or rescheduled.
Is the viewing location accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but the terrain includes uneven pavement and dirt areas; guests should consider their comfort with such surfaces.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1.5–2 hours
Location
Sedona, Arizona
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; limited walking and standing required on uneven ground
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