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Havasu Falls Tour: Backpacking in Grand Canyon

Duration
4 days
Season
Spring & Fall
Group size
Up to 7 people
Accommodation
Standard: Tents
Difficulty
Easy: Beginner-friendly, basic fitness required for hiking up to 7.6 mi (12.2 km) per day
What's included
Guide, tents, all food, trailhead transfers, group camping equipment

Four days in the Grand Canyon is all it takes to fall completely under Havasu’s spell. It’s a relaxed, beginner-friendly backpacking adventure into a hidden world of blue-green water, echoing waterfalls, and warm canyon light. Our journey unfolds at an easy pace, with permits, camps, group gear, and hearty backcountry meals all taken care of—making it a welcoming first step into the backcountry! The route leads into the Havasupai Tribe Reservation, where the connection between land and water runs deep and deserves care and respect. With logistics handled and support throughout, the focus stays on slowing down, soaking it in, and discovering just how rewarding time in the backcountry can be.

James
James
AMGA Apprentice Rock & Alpine Guide, WFR

Adventure highlights

  • Everything taken care of
    Permits, campsites, tents, group gear, and backcountry meals are all included, so you can focus on the hike, not the planning
  • A hidden corner of the Grand Canyon
    We’ll descend into a remote world of turquoise pools, waterfalls, and canyon walls few visitors ever get to see
  • Beginner-friendly, expertly guided
    A relaxed pace and a knowledgeable, supportive guide make this an ideal first backpacking experience
Highlighted reviews from other travellers
R
Rick LaCaille

James is a great, personable guide who’s enthusiastic and patient. Really appreciated his balance of adventure with safety and willingness to share his knowledge. Would definitely climb with him again and again!

M
Melanie Sandlarz

James is an outstanding guide and really knows his stuff! I hired his services to try climbing outside for the first time. He made me feel very safe and taught me so much. He is also a great listener and has a positive energy that carried throughout the day. He made the experience super fun, and thanks to him I feel confident enough to go back and climb outside again. I strongly recommend him for any outdoors adventures. He rocks! (no pun intended)

A
Anthony Fantane

Backpacking with James was an excellent experience! I’ve done some backpacking myself, and already knew the basics, but James brought it to another level. Never before had I even considered eating pizza 3 days into a backpacking trip, but James made it happen! He planned every part of our trip but made sure I was informed every step of the way. It made it possible to fit this trip into an already busy schedule and to not worry about a thing. But my favorite part of all is that he let me bring my dog! Overall I’d highly recommend James to anyone who wants to do a backpacking trip, but might need a little extra help to make it happen. You’ll be in good hands!

Show all reviews

Itinerary

This Havasu Falls tour is designed for beginners who want an unforgettable first backpacking experience without the stress of planning! Permits, campsites, tents, group gear, and backcountry meals are all included, so everything feels simple from the start. The route is paced comfortably, with plenty of time to enjoy turquoise waters, waterfalls, and the unique setting deep within the Grand Canyon. With an experienced guide handling logistics and support, this tour makes stepping into the backcountry approachable, relaxed, and truly memorable.

  • We meet at the trailhead for a final gear check and introductions before beginning our descent into the canyon. As we hike down toward Supai, the landscape transforms from desert cliffs to a lush oasis, setting the tone for the days ahead. Upon reaching camp near the village, we settle in, cool off, and enjoy the slower pace of canyon life. The evening is spent relaxing at camp, sharing stories, and savoring a chef-prepared backcountry dinner beneath a sky full of stars.

    Meals: Lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 7.6 mi (12.2 km)
    Accommodation: Tents

    sunset near grand canyon
  • We spend the day immersed in the magic of Havasu Canyon, exploring its famous turquoise waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. This is a flexible day designed for discovery and relaxation—we can hike between falls, swim and soak, practice yoga, spot fish in the pools, or simply unwind in the shade. With no rush and minimal mileage, the focus is on enjoying the setting and making the most of this extraordinary place at our own pace.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 1–3 mi (1.6–4.8 km)
    Accommodation: Tents

    stunning havasu falls
  • Today we venture farther down canyon toward the Colorado River, following the water past lower Havasu Falls. Along the way, we watch fish gather in calm eddies and take in the changing scenery as the canyon opens up. Those who prefer a quieter day can relax at camp, enjoy the river sounds, or join a friendly game of cribbage. It’s a mellow day that balances exploration with rest.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    Hiking: 1–2 mi (1.6–3.2 km)
    Accommodation: Tents

    mooney falls surreal
  • After a final breakfast in the canyon, we pack up camp and begin the hike back to the rim. The steady climb offers time to reflect on the experience as we retrace our steps out of the canyon. We arrive at the trailhead with enough time to catch a classic Grand Canyon sunset. Your guide can suggest nearby restaurants for a well-earned post-hike meal before you continue on with your onward travel.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch
    Hiking: 7.6 mi (12.2 km)

    grand canyon rim sunset
Grand Canyon Hiking Tours
Grand Canyon Trips (6)
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Meet your guide

James
5.00
James
AMGA Apprentice Rock & Alpine Guide, WFR
Meet James, a professional mountain guide with over ten years of experience exploring and leading in some of the most iconic landscapes of the American West, from Arizona’s red rock canyons to the alpine peaks of California and Colorado! An AMGA Apprentice Rock & Alpine Guide, Wilderness First Responder, and Leave No Trace Master Educator, James blends technical precision with a deep respect for the natural world. Known for his backcountry gourmet touch and thoughtful, safety-first approach, he crafts adventures that challenge, inspire, and restore—helping others feel at home in the mountains and confident on their path to the summit.

Lodging & food

5.00(4 reviews)
R
Rick LaCaille

James is a great, personable guide who’s enthusiastic and patient. Really appreciated his balance of adventure with safety and willingness to share his knowledge. Would definitely climb with him again and again!

M
Melanie Sandlarz

James is an outstanding guide and really knows his stuff! I hired his services to try climbing outside for the first time. He made me feel very safe and taught me so much. He is also a great listener and has a positive energy that carried throughout the day. He made the experience super fun, and thanks to him I feel confident enough to go back and climb outside again. I strongly recommend him for any outdoors adventures. He rocks! (no pun intended)

A
Anthony Fantane

Backpacking with James was an excellent experience! I’ve done some backpacking myself, and already knew the basics, but James brought it to another level. Never before had I even considered eating pizza 3 days into a backpacking trip, but James made it happen! He planned every part of our trip but made sure I was informed every step of the way. It made it possible to fit this trip into an already busy schedule and to not worry about a thing. But my favorite part of all is that he let me bring my dog! Overall I’d highly recommend James to anyone who wants to do a backpacking trip, but might need a little extra help to make it happen. You’ll be in good hands!

Show all reviews
5.00(4 reviews)
R
Rick LaCaille

James is a great, personable guide who’s enthusiastic and patient. Really appreciated his balance of adventure with safety and willingness to share his knowledge. Would definitely climb with him again and again!

M
Melanie Sandlarz

James is an outstanding guide and really knows his stuff! I hired his services to try climbing outside for the first time. He made me feel very safe and taught me so much. He is also a great listener and has a positive energy that carried throughout the day. He made the experience super fun, and thanks to him I feel confident enough to go back and climb outside again. I strongly recommend him for any outdoors adventures. He rocks! (no pun intended)

A
Anthony Fantane

Backpacking with James was an excellent experience! I’ve done some backpacking myself, and already knew the basics, but James brought it to another level. Never before had I even considered eating pizza 3 days into a backpacking trip, but James made it happen! He planned every part of our trip but made sure I was informed every step of the way. It made it possible to fit this trip into an already busy schedule and to not worry about a thing. But my favorite part of all is that he let me bring my dog! Overall I’d highly recommend James to anyone who wants to do a backpacking trip, but might need a little extra help to make it happen. You’ll be in good hands!

D
Donal Lowsley-Williams

The best! Very knowledgeable about all things mountains & super friendly.

Things to know

  • Included:

      • An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
      • 4-day Havasu Falls tour
      • High-quality tents
      • All meals during the tour (breakfasts, lunches, dinners, dessert)
      • Rental & group gear — cooking equipment, bear canisters, trekking poles, extensive first aid kit, repair kit, navigation tools, satellite rescue device, etc.
      • Purified drinking water
      • Shuttle service to and from the trailhead
      • Hoodie featuring one-of-a-kind route map design

    Not included:

      • Transportation to the starting point
      • Personal equipment
      • Snacks
      • Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
      • Guide gratuities — optional
  • This Havasu Falls tour is beginner-friendly, perfect for first-time backpackers or those looking for a relaxed adventure!

    On the first and last days, you’ll hike 7.6 miles (12.2 km), while the two middle days are much more relaxed. You can choose to walk anywhere from 1-3 miles (1.6-5 km), depending on your preference, and spend the rest of your time exploring iconic waterfalls, soaking up the sun, swimming in crystal-blue pools, and more.

    Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more Grand Canyon hiking adventures here!

  • Clothing & footwear

      • Long-sleeve sun hoodie (non-cotton, for sun and warmth)
      • Fleece such as R1 (makes a great pillow)
      • Lightweight jacket or windbreaker (for wind protection and sometimes bugs)
      • Sunhat & sunglasses (essential for sun protection
      • Pants or shorts (convertible options for versatility
      • Leggings or long underwear (for colder nights)
      • Moisture-wicking underwear (stay dry & comfortable)
      • Sports bras/regular bras (support for active movement)
      • Puffy jacket (for cold weather)Rain jacket or poncho (because the weather can surprise you)
      • Hiking boots or sturdy trail runners shoes (break them in beforehand!)
        2-3 extra pairs of socks (wool or synthetic for moisture control)

    Gear & equipment

      • Backpack (60L, fits all your essentials)
      • Trekking poles (optional, but helpful for stability)
      • Gardening gloves (for cables on Half Dome)
      • 2-liter water carrying capacity (hydration is key!)

    Sleeping gear

      • Tent (rentable at no additional cost, just request)
      • Sleeping bag (season-appropriate for warmth 15–35)
      • Sleeping pad or mat (Z Lite foam pad, or Therm-a-Rest, double up for luxury!)
      • Headlamp or flashlight (don’t forget extra batteries!)

    Cooking & eating

      • Utensils (spork)
      • Lightweight dishes & cups (thin Tupperware works great)

    Health & hygiene

      • Prescription medications (bring enough for the trip)
      • Hand sanitizer (keep things fresh; mind the weight though)
      • Toothbrush & toothpaste (oral hygiene matters, even in the backcountry!)
      • Sunscreen & lip balm (SPF protection for all-day exposure)

    Extras for comfort & fun (optional)

      • Notebook & pen (for journaling or sketching)
      • Book (great for downtime)
      • Deck of cards or travel games (bonding time at camp)
      • Camera or smartphone (capture the adventure!)
      • Swimsuit (for alpine lakes or refreshing river dips)
      • Lightweight hammock
      • GoPro for exciting moments
      • Wipes
      • Sandals or flip-flops (for relaxing at camp)
      • Quick-dry towel (optional, but useful)

    What’s provided by your guide

      • Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert
      • Tent (rentable at no additional cost, just request)
      • Cooking equipment (no need to pack stoves or cookware)
      • Shuttle tickets (we handle the logistics)
      • All trip planning & extra activities
      • Backcountry permit (so we can legally explore these wild places)
      • Extensive first aid kit (your safety is our priority)
      • Repair kit (for gear fixes on the go)
      • Bear vaults
      • Navigation tools (maps, compass, GPS)
      • Satellite rescue device (just in case)
  • Group sizes and pricing

      • For this Havasu Falls tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 7:1. 
      • It takes a minimum of 2 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 7 participants.

    Havasu Falls tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Havasu Falls tour on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

    If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

  • The starting point of your Havasu Falls tour is Grand Canyon Village. To get there, most people fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). From there, it’s best to rent a car to reach Grand Canyon Village, lot 4.

    You will meet your guide in the morning of Day 1.

  • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

    Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

  • Deposits 

    Secure your spot either by paying in full or with a 50% deposit! The remaining 50% of the trip price must be paid 120 days prior to departure, at the latest. If booking within 120 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

    Cancellations

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 120 or more days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 119 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
      • Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period.
Have more questions? Read our FAQ, or Talk with us
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