The Premier Naturalist Tours in Tucson and Saguaro National Park
Active
4h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is a tour like none you have taken before! Find yourself immersed in the meaning of what it takes to be a true naturalist of the desert southwest.
We have two amazing tour options to best fit your schedule:
FIRE & ICE: This is by far the most sought after tour in the Tucson region! Our full day option guides you throughout Tucson and the surrounding area where you learn about topics such as (geology, paleontology, anthropology, archeology, biology, meteorology, climatology, and astronomy). This tour is unique in that you get the luxury of experiencing a famous Arizona sunset while also getting the rare opportunity to see Arizona stars like never before.
FIRE IN THE SKY: This is our half day option where you find yourself traveling throughout the Tucson area learning about the rich history and abundant life living throughout the area. During this tour you will cover topics such as (geology, paleontology, archeology, biology). You get the sunset, but forfeit the evening stargaze.
Available options
FIRE & ICE
Duration: 8 hours: Our full day option. Our most popular and sought after tour. Cover all the naturalist studies in the Tucson area! 8-9 hour<br/>2021 Toyota Sienna<br/>Pickup included
FIRE IN THE SKY
Duration: 4 hours: This is our half day option. Tour lasts 4-5 hours. Learn about some of the naturalist studies going on in the Tucson region!<br/>2021 Toyota Sienna<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Snacks
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
binoculars/spotting scopes
Detailed itinerary
1
A half day tour will consist of traveling with one of the districts looking for wildlife. A full day tour will consist of both districts with a break for lunch in Tucson.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Tucson
Tucson, nestled in the Sonoran Desert, is a vibrant city known for its rich Native American and Old West history. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, it offers a unique blend of cultural attractions, stunning desert landscapes, and world-class outdoor activities.
Top Attractions
Saguaro National Park
A stunning desert landscape filled with giant saguaro cacti, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and scenic drives.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
A unique blend of zoo, botanical garden, and museum, showcasing the wildlife and plants of the Sonoran Desert.
Museum
2-3 hours
$25 for adults, $12 for children (ages 5-12)
Old Tucson
A historic theme park that recreates the Old West, featuring live shows, stagecoach rides, and Wild West stunt shows.
Historical/Entertainment
2-4 hours
$25 for adults, $15 for children (ages 5-12)
Mission San Xavier del Bac
A beautifully preserved 18th-century Spanish mission, known for its stunning architecture and rich history.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sonoran Hot Dog
A bacon-wrapped hot dog topped with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, and a variety of condiments, unique to the Sonoran Desert region.
Snack
Contains pork and gluten
Chiles Rellenos
Poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, coated in egg batter, and fried, often served with a tomato-based sauce.
Dinner
Vegetarian (check for cheese and batter ingredients)
Prickly Pear Margarita
A refreshing cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and prickly pear puree, giving it a unique pink color and sweet-tart flavor.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Popular Activities
Hiking in Saguaro National Park
Mountain biking in the Tucson Mountain Park
Hot air balloon rides
Spa treatments at luxury resorts
Picnicking in Reid Park
Stargazing at Kitt Peak National Observatory
Visiting the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Exploring the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the most popular time to visit due to pleasant weather and various festivals. Expect cooler mornings and evenings, and warm afternoons.
10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Tucson is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution in less populated areas, especially at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
Getting there
By air
- Tucson International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center
By bus
Tucson Greyhound Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and efficient, with real-time tracking available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Tucson
Tanque Verde
Catalina Foothills
Day trips
Mount Lemmon
30 miles (48 km) • Half day to full day
A scenic mountain range with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a cool, forested environment.
Tombstone
60 miles (97 km) • Full day
A historic Old West town known for its role in the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and its well-preserved Western heritage.
Bisbee
90 miles (145 km) • Full day
A charming, artsy town with a rich mining history, known for its colorful buildings, art galleries, and unique shops.
Festivals
Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase • February
Tucson Meet Yourself • October
Tucson Rodeo (Fiesta de los Vaqueros) • February
Pro tips
- Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
- Explore the 4th Avenue Shopping District for unique local crafts and vintage finds
- Take a day trip to Mount Lemmon for a cool, forested escape from the desert heat
- Try a prickly pear margarita, a local favorite made with the fruit of the desert's iconic cactus
- Attend a performance at the Rialto Theatre for a taste of Tucson's vibrant arts scene
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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