Kayak Tour on the Verde River in Sedona, United States
Sedona, United States

Kayak Tour on the Verde River

Outty Ranking 88 5.0 · 695 traveler reviews2.5 hoursFrom $115
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Outty Ranking

88/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 695 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Kayak Tour on the Verde River worth booking?

Kayak Tour on the Verde River is a 2.5-hour experience in Sedona, United States, from $115 per person. It scores 88 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 695 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
88 / 100
Rating
5/5 (695)
Duration
2.5 hours
From
$115 per person

Classified as one of two Wild and Scenic Rivers in Arizona! The Verde River offers a truly spectacular way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life! This is your chance to take a break from the mundane and treat yourself to an amazing journey on the beautiful Verde River! Our guided paddling trips are nothing short of breathtaking, offering up stunning views, unique wildlife encounters, and priceless memories. Paddling down the Verde River is an unforgettable experience that will be sure to take your breath away. The lush green riverbanks provide a perfect backdrop as you float past towering cliffs full of Native ruins. You might even encounter some local wildlife along the way - from fluffy river otters to majestic bald eagles gliding across the sky. Multiple tours daily and private tour options ensure we can accommodate all group sizes, large or small.

What you get

    About this experience

    Classified as one of two Wild and Scenic Rivers in Arizona! The Verde River offers a truly spectacular way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life! This is your chance to take a break from the mundane and treat yourself to an amazing journey on the beautiful Verde River! Our guided paddling trips are nothing short of breathtaking, offering up stunning views, unique wildlife encounters, and priceless memories. Paddling down the Verde River is an unforgettable experience that will be sure to take your breath away. The lush green riverbanks provide a perfect backdrop as you float past towering cliffs full of Native ruins. You might even encounter some local wildlife along the way - from fluffy river otters to majestic bald eagles gliding across the sky. Multiple tours daily and private tour options ensure we can accommodate all group sizes, large or small.

    What's included

    Included

    • Professional safety-certified guides
    • Shuttle driver and transport to and from the river
    • A smiling good time and memories to share!
    • Kayak, paddles, and PFD (Life vest)

    Not included

    • Guide Gratuity not included but always appreciated

    What you'll see and do

    1. RECENTLY VOTED ONE OF THE TOP 20 EXPERIENCES IN THE USA! Enjoy an adventurous and safe experience on Class I and II rapids while you explore the scenic Verde River on our most popular tour! Soak up the beautiful scenery and local history on a Guided Kayak Tour for about 2 hours on a 3 mile stretch of the Verde. Tandem or single inflatable high water kayaks available for safety, fun and comfort (high-capacity boats for larger/taller participants. Need to know: Notify us of special needs/medications Check in 45 minutes prior to tour time 4 persons minimum required for tour to launch. Tours not meeting minimums subject to no cost rescheduling. Water shoes required. No flip flops or backless shoes permitted. Children 12 and under must be in a tandem with an adult. Children must be 5 years old or 50 lbs to go on a guided tour. Bring it - Buy it - Rent it: If you don't have it, we do! What To Bring: • Clothing appropriate for the weather and the water • Water shoes. Footwear must be worn at all times. * Towel * Medications if needed ***Various sundries available for purchase or rental at boathouse • Water bottles/refill station, water shoes • Sunglasses and Sunscreen • Snacks/Apparel

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Sedona

    CHECK IN AT OAC TOURS 45 MINUTES PRIOR TO LAUNCH TIME (10am tour = 915am check in. 2pm tour =115pm check in)551 N Main Street, Cottonwood AZ 86326. This is a group tour. Shuttle departs on the half hour. Late arrivals will need to reschedule. (Headed towards Old Town Cottonwood-ATVs parked roadside)

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    CHECK IN AT OAC TOURS 45 MINUTES PRIOR TO LAUNCH TIME (10am tour = 915am check in. 2pm tour =115pm check in)551 N Main Street, Cottonwood AZ 86326. This is a group tour. Shuttle departs on the half hour. Late arrivals will need to reschedule. (Headed towards Old Town Cottonwood-ATVs parked roadside)

    Options you can book

    • Kayak Tour on the Verde River

    • Polar Bear Float Kayak Tour

      Wetsuit Rental included: November - February wetsuit rental included in price Insulated booties and gloves also available

    • Beat the Heat Kayak Tour

      Beat the Heat : Most beautiful time on the river during summer months in AZ. Runs June 1 - through Sept 2nd. 8am or 4pm. Slow down and enjoy!

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 14 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    OACTours

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Splash down!, Kayak Tour on the Verde River in SedonaBride Tribe Memories!, Kayak Tour on the Verde River in SedonaSunday Funday!, Kayak Tour on the Verde River in SedonaGirls day out!, Kayak Tour on the Verde River in SedonaA little extra water play on the river, Kayak Tour on the Verde River in SedonaFamily time!, Kayak Tour on the Verde River in Sedona

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 689 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    7 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    6 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Organization

    3 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Good for families

    2 mentions

    Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

    Traveler reviews

    689 verified traveler reviews for Kayak Tour on the Verde River. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    669
    4 star
    14
    3 star
    3
    2 star
    1
    1 star
    2
    Sort
    shannon_w · October 2026

    Great trip with Mav and Lawrence!

    Great time on the Verde River with our guides Mav and Lawrence! Perfect day floating the river with a few class 1 and 2 rapids mixed in to keep it interesting! Really well organized, from the time we checked in (water shoes and dry bags available to rent, changing rooms, water refill station and restroom available) to the smooth transport/launch on the river and back. Our guides were super engaging, sharing a lot of interesting facts about the history of the area, stationing themselves along the river to help us navigate the rapids and taking tons of great photos of the group along the way. The paddling was not too difficult or strenuous, would recommend this to anyone with a reasonable level of fitness/balance.

    via Viator

    denniscI2483QF · October 2026

    Life time Experience

    Had a great time! Kyle , Tyler and Adam were awesome! They explained everything very well, they were very knowledgeable about everything when asked questions . Over all a great day and new experience. Keep up the great job!!

    via Tripadvisor

    Kallynn_E · October 2026

    The verde river is...

    The verde river is absolutely beautiful. Our guides, Lawrence and maverick were knowledgeable, friendly and slightly funny(great dad jokes) Highly recommend!

    via Viator

    Mobile676343 · October 2026

    Absolutely loved it

    This was an absolute blast! We will definitely do it again. Ken and Lawrence were excellent guides! They were knowledgeable and very caring for everyone in the group. It lasted about 3 hours. An awesome experience.

    via Tripadvisor

    Kathleen_P · October 2026

    Great kayaking trip

    Fun trip great guides. Laurence and Ken were fantastic. Kept us entertained and pointed out where we should go on the rapids. Not that we always did but they were there to help us along when needed a little help. First time kayaking rapids and we would definitely do it again.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    2.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $115 to $129
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    243
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Why this scores 88

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)100
    Review evidence (18% weight)87
    Booking momentum (14% weight)85
    Value for money (12% weight)73
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)72
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Kayak Tour on the Verde River: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Sedona.

    How much does Kayak Tour on the Verde River cost?

    +

    Prices start at $115 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Sedona usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Kayak Tour on the Verde River take?

    +

    Plan for about 2.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Sedona is not rushed.

    Is Kayak Tour on the Verde River worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 88 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 695 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Sedona, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Kayak Tour on the Verde River?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Kayak Tour on the Verde River suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Kayak Tour on the Verde River?

    +

    Around 243 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Sedona can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Sedona and add a light layer if any part of the 2.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Kayak Tour on the Verde River start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Sedona within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Sedona?

    +

    Sedona's activity market is dominated by off-road jeep tours, and the difference between operators comes down to which trails they are permitted to run. Beyond that: vortex and energy walks, hot air balloon lifts at dawn, stargazing sessions in one of the darkest skies in the country, and Grand Canyon day runs north. We rank on permit access and group size. On Outty we rank every Sedona experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Small-Group Grand Canyon Complete Tour from Sedona or Flagstaff, Sedona’s ONLY Guided ATV Tour: Western Red Rock Backcountry, Schnebly Hill Jeep Tour: Rugged Rim Views & Historic 4x4 Road. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Sedona?

    +

    March to May and September to November. Summer afternoons bring monsoon storms. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Sedona?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Kayak Tour on the Verde River?

    +

    Included: Professional safety-certified guides; Shuttle driver and transport to and from the river; A smiling good time and memories to share!; and Kayak, paddles, and PFD (Life vest). Not included: Guide Gratuity not included but always appreciated. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Kayak Tour on the Verde River?

    +

    CHECK IN AT OAC TOURS 45 MINUTES PRIOR TO LAUNCH TIME (10am tour = 915am check in. 2pm tour =115pm check in)551 N Main Street, Cottonwood AZ 86326. This is a group tour. Shuttle departs on the half hour. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Kayak Tour on the Verde River offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Kayak Tour on the Verde River?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Kayak Tour on the Verde River wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Kayak Tour on the Verde River if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Kayak Tour on the Verde River?

    +

    Across 695 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, organization. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    What booking options are available for Kayak Tour on the Verde River?

    +

    There are 3 options to choose from, including Kayak Tour on the Verde River, Polar Bear Float Kayak Tour, Beat the Heat Kayak Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

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