Conservation is a core value at MT Sobek, and allows us to operate trips in protected national parks

A delightful two-night stay at historic Phantom Ranch makes you the envy of other hikers descending to the canyon floor

Gain insight into the incredible geology, flora and fauna of the canyon with expert guides who are with you every step of the journey

Challenging hiking on steep canyon trails up to 10 miles and 4,300' of elevation gain. Rest day at the bottom of the canyon with an optional easy hike.

Stay within the park while on the South Rim of the canyon. Your lodging at Phantom Ranch is in shared, mixed gender cabins reserved exclusively for MT Sobek guests and guides.

Be prepared for anything as the weather varies. South Rim temperatures range from 27 F to 62 F. Phantom Ranch temperatures range from 42 F to 82 F.

We recommend guests arrive in Phoenix, AZ the day prior to Day 1 of the itinerary due to the early pick-up time in Tempe. Your guides will meet you Day 1 at 8:00 am at Fairfield Inn and Suites Tempe and TownePlace Suites Tempe or, if you prefer to fly into Flagstaff, AZ, they will pick you up there at 10:30 am on Day 1, on the way to the park.

MT Sobek offers this trip January-Mid-May and Mid-October-December, when winter can bring snow to the rim, creating a uniquely beautiful scene to start your hike from the South Rim. Fewer visitors and increasingly pleasant hiking weather accompany you down to Phantom Ranch, where average daily high temperatures in the inner canyon typically range from the 50s-60s in winter to the 70s-80s on spring and fall trips. The North Rim is closed in winter, so those seeking a rim-to-rim hiking experience may want to consider our summer and fall Phantom Ranch trip: Arizona Grand Canyon Phantom Ranch Rim to Rim Hiking 5 Day.

Each guest on this trip will descend from the canyon rim to the Colorado River and then, importantly, complete the full hike back out. There are no options for alternative hikes. You should do significant training and feel confident in your ability to hike uphill for as long as 8 hours. There is a steep elevation loss of 4,800 feet over 7 miles. The hike out ascends 4,300 feet of elevation over 10 miles. The trails in the Grand Canyon are well-used and maintained, but are uneven with significant daily elevation change, so it is important that hikers are fit and confident. Remember, the South Rim is also at an elevation of 8,000' so hiking will feel more strenuous near the top. If you don't have access to hikes with large elevation change, stair climbing and carrying your daypack with some water in it can help you get ready. Always train with the boots and socks that you'll be wearing on the trip for the best results.

On this trip, we'll spend one night at a lodge at the South Rim, then descend to Phantom Ranch for a two-night stay, with the chance to explore the spectacular Clear Creek Trail, or take a day off to relax before hiking back up to the South Rim and enjoying a celebration dinner and a relaxing evening on the South Rim. The following day you have time to enjoy amenities and activities on the South Rim, before departing the park in the afternoon. For an even more compact escape, consider our shortest Phantom Ranch trip in 2026 Arizona Grand Canyon Phantom Ranch South Rim Hiking 4 Day - with just one night at Phantom Ranch before returning to the South Rim. Or, for a greater variety of scenery and a longer adventure, consider our rim-to-rim hiking adventure in summer or fall: Arizona Grand Canyon Phantom Ranch Rim to Rim Hiking 5 Day.

Check out our Phantom Ranch information page for more on reservations, length of stay, weather, history, amenities, gear considerations, wildlife and to learn more about all the ways to visit Phantom Ranch with MT Sobek.

The standard minimum age for these trips is 18, and hikers must be fit to complete the challenging hikes into and back out of the Grand Canyon. Families with fit younger teens may consider private and custom trip options.

This 5-day guided hiking adventure offers an unforgettable rim-to-river-to-rim experience in Arizona's Grand Canyon. The trip begins at the South Rim, where guests stay at comfortable lodges near the Bright Angel Trailhead before descending just over 7 miles into the canyon via the iconic South Kaibab Trail, known for its panoramic viewpoints like Ooh Aah Point and Skeleton Point. The group spends two nights at historic Phantom Ranch, nestled beside the Colorado River, with time to relax, explore more inner canyon trails, and enjoy ranger-led talks under the stars. On Day 4, hikers ascend 10 miles back to the rim via the scenic Bright Angel Trail. The journey combines challenging elevation changes (roughly 9,100 feet total) with breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and exclusive accommodations—making it ideal for active travelers seeking a deep, immersive Grand Canyon experience.

Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All meals as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary

The standard minimum age for these trips is 18, and hikers must be fit to complete the challenging hikes into and back out of the Grand Canyon. Families with fit younger teens may consider private and custom trip options.

Start: Phoenix, Arizona or Flagstaff, Arizona
End: Phoenix, Arizona or Flagstaff, Arizona

Arrival: Phoenix, AZ (PHX) or Flagstaff, AZ (FLG)
Departure: Phoenix, AZ (PHX) or Flagstaff, AZ (FLG)

The Fairfield Inn & Suites Tempe or TownePlace Suites Tempe in Tempe, Arizona.

Day 1: 4.5 hours private van transfer
Day 5: 4.5 hours private van transfer

Level 4 - Be prepared to carry your large daypack weighing 15-25 pounds for 7 miles (4,780' elevation loss) down to Phantom Ranch and 10 miles (4,300' elevation gain) back up to the rim of the canyon, maintaining a roughly 2+ mile per hour pace. The trails are well-maintained but rocky with steep switchbacks and exposed overlook.

Longest climb: 4,300' on Day 4
Longest descent: 4,780' on Day 2
Max distance/day: 10 miles on Day 4
Consecutive active days: 4 days

Breakfast: Breakfast may feature freshly prepared items such as fruit, pancakes, eggs, sausage, and bacon, served with juice, coffee, and tea.

Lunch: Lunch is packed to carry in your daypack and enjoyed on the trail. Options may include tuna salad, turkey pesto wraps, deli-style sandwiches, or similar items.

Dinner: At the South Rim, you'll dine at a historic restaurant offering a variety of menu options. At Phantom Ranch, dinners typically include steak or stew served with garden salad, cornbread, potatoes and/or vegetables, dessert, coffee, and tea. A vegetarian chili option is also available.

Here is a sample menu at Phantom Ranch:

Breakfast

• Scrambled Eggs
• Buttermilk Pancakes
• Thick Cut Uncured Cherry/Applewood Smoked Bacon or Jones Dairy Sustainably Farmed Sausage
• Tropical Fruit Salad
• Minute Maid Orange Juice
• Rainforest Certified Fresh Brewed Coffee
• Tazo Teas
• Dinner

• Fresh Garden Salad with Choice of Dressing
• House-made Cornbread
• Arizona Grown 12 oz. Center Cut New York Strip Steak
• Phantom Ranch Signature Arizona Grown Beef Stew
• Chipotle Garden Vegetable Chili
• Baked Potato (Butter and Sour Cream available)
• Seasonal Fresh Vegetable of the Day
• Chef's Choice House-made Dessert
• Rainforest Certified Fresh Brewed Coffee
• Tazo Teas or Fresh Brewed Iced Tea

Some key items to bring:

Hiking boots
Daypack (30?50L)
Waterproof rain jacket and pants
Down jacket or vest
Fleece/wool gloves and hat

Your land cost includes most major expenses of the trip but please plan to budget for any expenses not included in the trip price including items such as personal snacks, alcohol, souvenirs, and optional guide gratuities. We recommend $50-$70 per day, per guest for tipping your guides. ATMs are available at the South Rim inside the Grand Canyon National Park.

Visit the Desert Botanical Garden, the Phoenix Zoo or Hole in the Rock at Papago Park.
Explore museums, markets and the Mill Avenue District.
Hike or bike at South Mountain Park and Preserve.
Paddle at Tempe Town Lake.

Built near the Bright Angel Trail head and the Vercamps Visitor Center, the Thunderbird is a popular South Rim lodge. Contemporary 1960s architecture coupled with a wonderful vantage point ensure an unforgettable stay on the very edge (literally) of a natural wonder of the world. Comfortable rooms have all the expected amenities but the biggest draw is the location.

Perched on the Grand Canyon's South Rim, the Kachina Lodge boasts a contemporary setup near the historic district, and rooms complete with amenities like full baths and flat-screen TVs. The lodge is a convenient and comfortable hub for guests eager to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Grand Canyon.

Founded in 1903 as a hunting camp, Phantom Ranch is a National Park Service-owned and operated outpost in the depths of the Grand Canyon, and the only lodging below the canyon rim. Made up of a main lodge and shared dorm-style cabins, it's known for its hearty meals prepared by the rangers. The cabins are traditional and very comfortable, providing a peaceful place to rest your head.

Perched on the Grand Canyon's South Rim, the Kachina Lodge boasts a contemporary setup near the historic district, and rooms complete with amenities like full baths and flat-screen TVs. The lodge is a convenient and comfortable hub for guests eager to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Grand Canyon.

Built near the Bright Angel Trail head and the Vercamps Visitor Center, the Thunderbird is a popular South Rim lodge. Contemporary 1960s architecture coupled with a wonderful vantage point ensure an unforgettable stay on the very edge (literally) of a natural wonder of the world. Comfortable rooms have all the expected amenities but the biggest draw is the location.

Our groups are intentionally kept small to allow for a deeper experience with the people and wildlife you encounter on the way. It also allows us to take advantage of the many unexpected invitations and opportunities that would be impossible with larger groups.
 

Small Group Travel

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with friends, join one of our over 500 scheduled departures where you’ll travel in the company of like-minded adventurers. They love being engaged, energized, and inspired. Each with their own story to tell, they make fascinating and entertaining travel companions. You may just come home with a new travel buddy. Plus, with an average of 8 to 10 guests per scheduled group, you’ll have unparalleled access to your expert guides and the space to enjoy your adventure free from the limitations of a tour bus.
 

Private Adventures

Private adventures with MT Sobek are perfect for those travelers who enjoy the privacy and flexibility of traveling on their own but want the peace of mind that comes with having all the logistics handled by experts. Most of our itineraries can be made private. We offer hundreds of itineraries and dates that your group can easily take over, or, if the date you’re looking for isn’t available, we’ll make it happen for you. 
 

Custom Adventures

Whatever the occasion—family reunion, milestone celebration, an ultimate road trip with friends, we can make your dream trip happen. Experience MT Sobek’s blend of insider access and adventure style on an itinerary exclusively created for you and your family, colleagues, or friends. We have a dedicated team of Custom Trip Specialists. 
 

Solo Travelers

Small group travel is perfect for solo adventurers looking to explore with like-minded people. Right from your first meeting, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you start to bond with your fellow travelers. No matter where they come from, it turns out that simply having a shared love of travel really brings people together. Whether you’re on the trail, watching wildlife, or enjoying a meal around a family table, there are plenty of opportunities to share stories and talk about highlights from the day.

From luxury hotels to rustic lodging, deluxe camping to wilderness camping, check out our full range of accommodation styles. Some trips may include a combination of styles, expertly picked for the destination.

Hotels at the Heart of Adventure

Where else to stay when visiting the Grand Canyon but perched on the North Rim of this natural wonder? How better to appreciate the fjords of Norway than to slumber in a brightly colored fisherman’s cottage by the water’s edge? Or to spot the “Big Five” from your luxury safari camp’s private veranda? We seek out small boutique hotels and lodges that treat you to the “must-have” experiences of the region.

Luxury Hotels
Revel in pure luxury at our hand-picked 5-star hotels—some of the most exquisite properties on the planet. With excellent amenities and services, including restaurants and wellness facilities, these accommodations are consistently top-rated by guests and provide an ultimate pampered experience.
 

Comfortable Hotels
The majority of our properties include small hotels and inns with a local flair. Well-appointed with modern amenities, many are family-run, adding to their character and charm. In some destinations, properties are chosen for their proximity to National Parks, wildlife and nature and are more basic. 
 

Rustic Lodging
Our rustic lodgings category includes remote lodges, mountain huts, homestays, guesthouses, gers, and fixed Bedouin camps. These accommodations may include bunk rooms and shared bathroom facilities. They truly get you to the heart of the destination.
 

Luxury Safari Camps & Lodges
We work with the finest African safari camps and global eco-lodges to bring you an ultimate experience that embodies the romance of adventure travel. We choose award-winning and top-rated accommodations with excellent amenities and services, including beautifully appointed safari tents and cabins. 

Adventure Camping

The only way to experience some of our most remote mountain and river destinations is to camp. Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro, the Middle Fork of the Salmon River—some of our most popular adventures—include at least five nights of camping. However, the type of camp set up can be different, depending on the destination’s remoteness and how easy it is to transport gear. Here are our three main camping styles.

Deluxe Camping

• Roomy tents
• Mattresses with linens
• Dining table and chairs
• Guides prepare meals
• All set up for you
   

Comfortable Camping

• Roomy tents
• Sleeping bags and pads
• Dining table and chairs
• Guides prepare meals
• Some camp work may be required
   

Wilderness Camping

• Trekking tents
• Sleeping bags and pads
• Guests help set up camp
• Guides prepare meals

Expedition Cruising

Over the years, we’ve found that adventure cruising aboard a nimble small ship or deluxe yacht gives our guests an intimate expedition-like experience with maximum flexibility. We can navigate narrow waterways, pull right into private coves, and get you onshore quickly. No waiting in long lines to get off the boat and no crowds once you get on shore!

Luxury Small Ship
Enjoy a luxurious 5-star cruise aboard modern vessels with elegant interior designs that enhance your onboard experience. Our luxury Galapagos ship, the Endemic, carry a maximum of 16 passengers, while polar expedition ships such as the Magellan Explorer carry up to 70 passengers. These ships include spas, bars, climate-control en-suite rooms, and an abundance of state-of-the-art equipment for ultimate cruising. Our guide to crew ratio is guide and crew service is world-class.
 

Comfortable Small Ship
Our comfortable 3 and 4-star ships are well-designed for relaxation and all equipped with modern amenities. Aboard you’ll enjoy en-suite amenities, air-conditioning, attractive dining, bar and lounge areas, and outdoor decks for viewing the scenery. Whatever star rating of ship you choose, you can be assured of the same world-class guide and crew team, and a first-rate experience.

Our adventures are categorized by activity levels from 1 to 5. Level 1 trips are the easiest, Level 3 trips are moderate, and Level 5 trips are our most strenuous—perfect for those seeking the ultimate challenge. We also offer new flexible trips featuring activities rated at Level 2 or Level 3, providing two activity options to match your preference on the day! For all trips, we encourage you to review the activity level and read the detailed activity overview for your chosen itinerary to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.
 

Easygoing – Level 1

Our most relaxed style of travel. Come prepared with flexibility and a spirit of adventure. Activities may include game drives along dusty or bumpy roads, canoe rides or river floats, sailing, or walks of up to 30 minutes on flat terrain. Trail conditions may include cobblestones, pavement, gravel, or dirt paths. On some days you may be on your feet for much of the time.
 

Easy-to-Moderate – Level 2

Active trips are appropriate for most travelers. You don’t need any previous kayaking, hiking, or other experience, but should be in generally fit condition. Trips may include short hikes or walking of up to 3 hours at elevations below 6,000 feet, sea kayaking in protected waters, or river rafting on Class I-II rapids.
 

Multi-Level – Level 2 & 3

These flexible trips are perfect for travelers seeking a range of activity levels, from easy to moderate, with two options to suit your preference and energy on the day. This type of trip also enables you to travel with friends who are more, or less, active than you, and either start or end the activity together. For example, Level 2 guests may choose a 3-hour hike while Level 3 guests may choose a 6-hour hike. This variety ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a leisurely experience or a bit more of a challenge. No matter your choice, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery, unforgettable adventures, and plenty of time together as a group.
 

Moderate – Level 3

The majority of MT Sobek trips. These typically include 3 to 6 hours of physical activity per day, such as rafting or wilderness camping. Eight to ten-mile hikes can reach up to 10,000 feet and may include some steep ascents or descents. River rafting trips include Class III rapids and sea kayaking trips to visit protected waters.
 

Moderate-to-Challenging – Level 4

Trips for experienced travelers seeking full days of activity and a higher level of physical challenge. Hikes and treks of up to 14 miles and 4,000 feet of elevation gains and losses per day cover steep, sometimes rugged terrain, potentially into areas of exposure and elevations exceeding 10,000 feet. River rafting trips include Class IV-V rapids; sea kayaking trips include 4 to 5 hours of paddling per day in areas of open water with waves and tides.
 

Ultimate Challenge – Level 5

Our most demanding trips for guests seeking a physical challenge. Trips include trekking without vehicle support over steep, often rugged terrain at elevations over 10,000 feet. Daily hikes of up to 12 hours or more may include substantial altitude gains and losses into remote areas of wilderness. River rafting trips include Class IV-V rapids and areas where portaging is needed. Previous experience, as well as a completed physician’s certificate, is required.

We Are Committed to Sustainability

At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
 

Protect The Galapagos

MT Sobek is proud to support the Galapagos Conservancy by making an annual conservation investment to its Santiago Society program. Galapagos Conservancy is dedicated exclusively to the long-term protection of the Galapagos Islands, and collaborates closely with the Charles Darwin Foundation, the Galapagos National Park, and many other institutions that are committed to the conservation of the entire archipelago.
 

Save the Tiger

MT Sobek guide Brian Weirum has made saving tigers his life’s mission and we are proud to support the Fund For the Tiger, raising over $300,000 to help tiger conservation in India and Nepal. The fund aims to address the threats faced by these majestic big cats and ensure their survival for future generations.
 

Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project

We are proud to work with the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), based in Moshi, Tanzania, to improve the welfare and conditions for all Kilimanjaro porters. KPAP is an initiative of the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC).
 

American Himalayan Foundation

Since our first treks in Nepal in 1969, Mountain Travel Sobek has worked with Himalayan communities to help support their way of life. We are also proud supporters of the American Himalayan Foundation which brings shelter, safety, education, health, and opportunity to people across the Himalaya. The AHF opens doors to education and health care, builds stronger communities, and works in a way that respects both tradition and innovation.
 

Dolma Ling Nunnery

As part of our philanthropic endeavors, we are proud supporters of the Tibetan Nuns Project at the Dolma Ling Nunnery & Institute in Dharamsala, northern India. The Tibetan Nuns Project provides education and support to refugee nuns from Tibet and to nuns from the Himalayan regions of India.
 

High Atlas Foundation

The High Atlas Foundation (HAF) empowers Moroccan communities through sustainable development. Focused on education, women’s empowerment, and environmental stewardship, HAF fosters local leadership to drive impactful change. From planting trees to building schools, their initiatives improve livelihoods while preserving cultural heritage, creating lasting opportunities for underserved rural and urban populations.
 

Preserve Alaska

The Alaska Conservation Foundation is the only public foundation solely dedicated to conservation in Alaska. The ACF’s vision is for an inspiring Alaska that is naturally thriving, biologically and culturally diverse, rich in wildlands, bountiful in terrestrial and marine life, sustainable in its economic development and thoughtfully protected—forever. MT Sobek supports the ACF by sharing their mission and vision with generations of adventure travelers.

National Park Foundation

As the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, the National Park Foundation generates private support and builds strategic partnerships to protect and enhance America’s national parks for present and future generations. We are proud to support the National Park Foundation to help sustain over 400 national parks in the USA, preserving 85 million acres of the world’s most treasured landscapes, ecosystems, and historical sites. 

National Park Service

MT Sobek is proud to be an authorized concessionaire of the National Park Service and a permitted outfitter under the National Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. We always follow Leave No Trace principles and seek to drive awareness of fragile ecosystems to help support their long-term sustainability.
 

Western Rivers Conservancy

MT Sobek is proud to support Western Rivers Conservancy, an organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the vital rivers of the American West. With a shared passion for safeguarding the natural world, MT Sobek aligns with WRC’s mission to conserve critical habitats, secure public access to waterways, and ensure the sustainability of these lifelines for future generations. Together we’re working to make a meaningful impact on the preservation of our rivers.
 

Alianza Cero Basura

Alianza Cero Basura offers innovative solutions for sustainable living in Baja California Sur. It promotes waste reduction, recycling, and environmental education, providing tools and resources to empower communities. By fostering collaboration and eco-conscious practices, the hub inspires impactful change toward a zero-waste future.
 

Adventure Travel Conservation Fund

MT Sobek is proud to be a member of the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund (ATCF), an international nonprofit focused on funding on-the-ground conservation projects around the world. The ATCF is committed to protecting wild destinations and provides members in the travel and outdoor industry an avenue to directly advance critical projects that protect people, species, cultures, and places.
 

Ride 4 a Woman

We are proud to support Ride 4 a Woman, a charitable organization that empowers the women of Bwindi, Uganda More than 300 women from 11 villages now use or work at the Ride 4 a Woman community center, where they can learn to pedal sew, weave baskets, dance, sing and drum; learning new skills, making a living and making it possible for their children to gain an education.
 

Community Rhino Conservation Initiative

We are proud to support the Community Rhino Conservation Initiative to help benefit the communities and wildlife of Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. The CRCI has re-introduced rhino to this part of Zimbabwe in a highly secure and sustainable way to eventually accommodate a viable population of free roaming black and white rhino.

Exito Planet Care Ambassador Carbon Offsetting

We are proud to work with Exito travel to book flights for our guests. Exito is a Planet Care Ambassador, committed to taking concrete steps to minimize travelers’ flight impacts on the environment by fully offsetting carbon emissions.