You’ve seen the photos and heard the stories; now, prepare to experience the wonder of the Grand Canyon for yourself!

Here’s all you need to know for a perfect South Rim adventure.

Start Planning!

First things first— let’s talk about how to make the most of your Grand Canyon South Rim tour. This all-you-could-ever-want-to-know guide answers your biggest South Rim questions, like:

• Where to kick things off
• What to expect along the way
• How to plan like a pro
• How to explore responsibly
• And all the facts to your FAQs

So...Where to begin?

Your Shaka Guide tour has four unique starting points: pick whichever one is best for you—the content will be the same!

• Williams
• Flagstaff
• Fort Valley
• Bitter Springs

Get Ready, Get Set...

The Grand Canyon is every bit as magical as you've heard, but it is important to set out with realistic expectations. The South Rim is a busy place, and during the summer or around holidays, there can be a lot of waiting around, standing in line, and shuffling between crowds. So here's:

What to expect at the South Rim

It’s best to get to the canyon early to make the most of your day — that way you can spend more time exploring and less time waiting. We recommend that you arrive at Grand Canyon South Rim by 8 a.m. Any later, and you may have to wait in line at the entrance gate.

Plus, with so many highlights closing in the early evening, it’s important to make the most of those precious early hours.

Writer’s Tip: I know, I know—you’ve been on the road for what feels like forever, and all you want is a little R&R. But if you’ve got even a little gas left in the tank, do yourself a favor: get to the park early and catch the sunrise. The photos? Unreal. The moment? Worth it. I mean… it is the Grand Canyon, after all. You’ve kinda gotta, right?

Want to know where you should set up for that perfect view? Check out this article for all the deets on the best sunrise and sunset views along the South Rim.

To Spend 8-10 Hours Exploring

Our Shaka Guide South Rim tour is designed to make the most of your time and allow you to glimpse every area of the park in just one day.

During your tour, you’ll explore:

• the Yavapai Geology Museum
• Grand Canyon Village
• scenic Hermit Road
• and the breathtaking Desert View Drive

It’s definitely a busy day, packed full of all of the South Rim highlights you won’t want to miss!

However, if you want to set out at a more leisurely pace, or plan to spend more time hiking, your tour can be spread across two or even three days.

Check out our itinerary for more details.

To Be Active

Whether your ideal day in the South Rim consists of shopping in the village and wandering from overlook to overlook, or getting up early to beat the sun to the canyon below, you can anticipate an active day of fun-filled activities.

For those who want to take things slowly, or who may be traveling with children, the Grand Canyon has plenty of viewpoints that are both accessible and breathtaking. If you’re on the more adventurous side, consider taking a rim-to-river hike down into the heart of the canyon.

Check our hiking guide for more details, including help picking out the right trail for you.

To Learn

The story of the Grand Canyon's formation, like the canyon itself, is unlike anything else on the planet. And we'd be doing you a disservice if we didn't tell you about it.

On your tour, you’ll learn not just about the geology of the canyon, but also about the indigenous peoples, pioneering women, and forward-thinking conservationists who have played such an important role in its history.

How Much to Budget

Craving a snack or a scoop of ice cream? The South Rim’s got you covered—with plenty of treats and souvenirs to tempt you. You’ll also find a general store with basic supplies, just in case you forgot something (like sunscreen, water, or an extra granola bar for the trail).

In general, expect higher prices and longer lines than you’d see outside the park—so if you’re on a budget or short on time, stocking up before you arrive is a smart move.

• $10 per person: Snacks
• $10-15 per person: Lunch
• $20-30 per person: Dinner
• $35.00 per vehicle: Grand Canyon Weekly Park Pass

Helpful Planning Tips 

Shuttle Service

U.S. National Park Service

With the exception of Yaki Road and Hermit Road, all areas of the park are accessible by private vehicles.

Be aware, however, that parking fills up quickly, and drivers may need to circle several times by mid-morning to find parking. 

If you do find parking, but it’s not where you need it, consider catching a shuttle to where you need to go in the park.

NPS 2022

To reach Yaki Point, all visitors must board the Kaibab Shuttle (orange route). Again, no private vehicles are ever allowed down Yaki Road.

To reach Hermit’s Rest, all visitors from March through November must board the Hermit Shuttle (red route). Again, private vehicles are only allowed from December to February.

What to Bring With You

As with most national parks, a little preparation can make all the difference in your Grand Canyon experience. Check off this list for suggestions on what to bring before you set out on your canyon adventure.

• Headphones—required for listening while on shuttles.
• Charger—very important!
• Layered Clothing—easy on-and-off layers are a must!
• Hiking/Walking Sticks
• Good Shoes/ Hiking Boots
• Crampons/Spikes—trails may be icy, even in the spring.
• Blacklight—to spot the scorpions that live in the canyon!
• Sunscreen
• Snacks
• Hats/Sunglasses
• Camera/Phone Cleanser—the bottom of the canyon can be very dusty.

Already in the canyon, but forgot to pick up something important? No worries – here’s where to get it.

For rental gear, check out Grand Canyon Outfitters. For everything else, including first-aid kits, sunscreen, bug spray, and snacks, head to Grand Canyon Market Plaza.

How to Leave No Trace

The Grand Canyon is a breathtaking, sometimes even spiritual place—and one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

To help preserve that wonder for everyone, be sure to travel safely and respectfully—the Shaka Guide way.

During your visit, be sure to adhere to the leave-no-trace principles.

Pack it all out, pick up your trash, take nothing but pictures, respect the wildlife, and stick to the path. 

FAQs: The Other Stuff to Know Before You Go

Q: Does the South Rim have a shuttle system?
Yes! The South Rim has a free shuttle system with several color-coded routes. While most points of interest can be accessed by car, there are two major exceptions:

• Hermit Road: March–November. Accessible only by the Hermit Shuttle (Red Route). In the off-season, private vehicles are allowed.

• Yaki Point: Always shuttle-only. Take the Kaibab Shuttle (Orange Route), which you can catch at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center near Mather Point.

Good news: the Shaka Guide tour works perfectly on both shuttles! Bring headphones!

Q: How do I get a park pass?
You can purchase a pass:

• At the South Entrance Gate
• At the Grand Canyon Visitor Center in Tusayan
• Or online at USGS

The entrance fee is $35 per vehicle, credit/debit only—no cash accepted.

Q: Can I drive Desert View Drive?
Yes! Desert View Drive is one of the South Rim’s most scenic routes. Stops are listed west to east in the tour, but each direction includes different stories—so if you want to hear it all, drive both out and back!

Q: When do things/attractions close?
Many shops, restaurants, and attractions at the Grand Canyon close by early evening, usually only being open  during standard business hours. Always double-check hours of operation before your visit.

Q: Can I camp or stay overnight in the canyon?
Yes, but all camping and overnight trips require a backcountry permit. Plan ahead—these can go fast!

Q: What about Phantom Ranch?
Phantom Ranch is a popular inner-canyon lodge that books out months in advance. If you’re dreaming of a stay there, start planning early. Check availability here.

Q: Will I have cell service?
Cell reception is limited in and around the canyon. But no worries—Shaka Guide tours work completely offline, so you’re covered even without service. Just remember to download your tour in advance of your visit.

Q: Can I go rafting?
You sure can, but it requires advance booking. For more info, check rafting details here.

About the Writer:

Rachel Ennis is a storyteller, nature nerd, and park enthusiast who believes every trail has a tale. When she first visited the Grand Canyon, she fell in love with the layers, the legends, and the way nature can heal the spirit. Now, she’s on a mission to share the stories that live in the land and the spaces that make us feel small in the best way.

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We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.

For more information and to check out the tour, be sure to check out our one-day itinerary.

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