Grand Canyon South Rim Driving Tour

$14.99

Estimated Time

Distance

Works Offline

Tours & Maps Included

Tour Highlights

Verkamp's Visitor Center

Begin your journey in Grand Canyon Village and discover one of the earliest tourist businesses on the South Rim, dating back to 1898.

Hopi House

Designed by legendary architect Mary Colter, this remarkable building was modeled after traditional Hopi architecture and remains one of the park's most iconic landmarks.

El Tovar Hotel

Experience the historic luxury hotel that welcomed travelers arriving by train and hosted famous guests including Theodore Roosevelt and Albert Einstein.

Kolb Studio

Learn how two adventurous brothers built a photography business perched dramatically on the canyon rim and became Grand Canyon legends.

Yavapai Point & Trail of Time

Walk through millions of years of geological history while enjoying one of the best educational experiences in the park.

Mather Point

One of the most photographed locations on the South Rim and the first Grand Canyon view for millions of visitors.

South Kaibab Trailhead & Yaki Point

Enjoy sweeping panoramic views and learn about the fascinating battle over trail access in the early days of Grand Canyon tourism.

Grandview Point

Discover the story of copper miner Pete Berry, whose mining trail eventually became one of the park's most famous hiking routes.

Moran Point

Named after artist Thomas Moran, whose paintings helped inspire public support for protecting the Grand Canyon.

Tusayan Ruin & Museum

Explore an 800-year-old Ancestral Puebloan village and learn about the people who lived on the canyon rim centuries before modern visitors arrived.

Lipan Point

One of the best places on the South Rim to view the Colorado River winding through the canyon below.

Desert View Watchtower

The grand finale of the tour. Mary Colter's iconic 70-foot tower offers spectacular 360-degree views and showcases Native American-inspired architecture and artwork.

Is This Tour Right for You?

Perfect if you:

Love history and fascinating stories

What To explore at your own pace

prefer a private experience

What to avoid expensive group tours

Maybe not if you:

Don't have a phone

Like to follow the tour guide

Don't like stories

Don't like to go at your own pace

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Grand Canyon South Rim self guided driving tour?

The drive itself can be completed in about 45 minutes without stops, but most visitors spend several hours exploring viewpoints, museums, historic sites, and short walks along the route.

Where does the tour start?

The tour begins at Verkamp's Visitor Center in Grand Canyon Village before following South Entrance Road and Desert View Drive east toward Desert View Watchtower.

What are the best stops on the South Rim?

Popular highlights include Mather Point, Yavapai Point, Grandview Point, Moran Point, Lipan Point, Navajo Point, and Desert View Watchtower.

Is this a good tour for first-time visitors?

Yes. The route covers many of the South Rim's most famous viewpoints, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions while providing context that most visitors miss.

Can I visit the Grand Canyon in one day?

Absolutely. This self-guided driving tour is designed specifically for visitors who want to experience the South Rim's top attractions in a single day while still having time to stop and explore.

Who designed the Desert View Watchtower?

The tower was designed by architect Mary Colter and opened in 1932. Today it remains one of the most iconic structures in Grand Canyon National Park.