Saguaro National Park Tours and Activities

Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park featuring a garden as well as a couple
Saguaro National Park


Hike, bike or drive through fields and forests containing one of the most recognised cactus plants in the world.

Saguaro National Park is named after the massive saguaro cactus, one of the most recognized succulent plants in the world and a symbol of the American West. These tall, fleshy plants grow to 50 feet (15 meters) and can live for more than 150 years.

Located within the Sonoran Desert, the park comprises two districts: Rincon Mountain and Tucson Mountain, separated by the city. Together they contain more than 150 miles (240 kilometers) of marked trails. Hike or drive through the desert landscape to see cacti, birds and desert animals.

Enjoy a stroll on a day trail or embark on a long wilderness trek. Rincon Mountain District has the park’s highest concentration of saguaro, known as the Cactus Forest. Join one of the trails passing through cactus gardens and open landscape. The Desert Ecology Trail is a short, wheelchair-accessible paved trail through an area of diverse cacti including saguaro, prickly pear, barrel and ocotillo. Signs posted along the route explain facts about the plants and desert wildlife you might see, such as owls, kestrels, mountain lions, coyotes and jackrabbits.

One popular route is the Garwood Trail, an easy to moderate 5.6-mile (9-kilometer) loop passing hundreds of saguaro and leading to an old dam. Take care when hiking since cactus needles can easily become embedded in the skin.

Saguaro National Park also organizes several ranger-guided programs throughout the year. More adventurous nature lovers can take an extended hike through the park and camp overnight at one of six designated campgrounds in the Saguaro Wilderness Area. For details on trail routes, maps, camping permits and ranger programs visit the park’s official website.

If you prefer to take your car through Saguaro National Park, each section has a scenic drive. There are also routes for bicyclists.

The park is open all year round. The visitor center is open every day except Christmas Day. One of the best times to visit is between April and June, which is the blooming period of saguaro and when they are at their most colorful. The admission fee covers both districts for seven days. Each section has a visitor center with free on-site parking.

Popular places to visit


Top Saguaro National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Desert Oasis! -Entire home

Desert Oasis! -Entire home

Tucson
Desert Oasis! -Entire home
Private Ranch Retreat with Magnificent Views, Salt Pool/Spa/Pets-Newly Renovated

Private Ranch Retreat with Magnificent Views, Salt Pool/Spa/Pets-Newly Renovated

Tucson
Private Ranch Retreat with Magnificent Views, Salt Pool/Spa/Pets-Newly Renovated
Pristine POOL, spacious home, crisp AC, numerous attractions & activities

Pristine POOL, spacious home, crisp AC, numerous attractions & activities

Tucson
Pristine POOL, spacious home, crisp AC, numerous attractions & activities
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Luxury Southwest Gem with Pool & Spa near Mt. Lemon!

Tucson
Luxury Southwest Gem with Pool & Spa near Mt. Lemon!
Tanque Verde Ranch

Tanque Verde Ranch

3.5 out of 5
14301 East Speedway, Tucson, AZ
Tanque Verde Ranch
East Tucson House w/ Private Backyard & Fire Pit

East Tucson House w/ Private Backyard & Fire Pit

3 out of 5
Tucson
East Tucson House w/ Private Backyard & Fire Pit
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Saguaro National Park

At Saguaro National Park, you can enjoy various activities such as hiking, running, and engaging in sports. The park offers delightful day visits and camping areas for an immersive experience. Take a leisurely stroll among the iconic saguaro cacti, and make sure to stop by the visitor centres for insights into the unique flora and fauna of the region.

Shopping

For shopping near Saguaro National Park, visit Park Place Mall, only 12.9km away, offering a vibrant atmosphere with various shops. Trail Dust Town, also 12.9km away, features family-friendly entertainment and unique stores. If you're up for a drive, Zocalo is located 19.3km away, presenting great gift options.

Recreation

Explore Colossal Cave Mountain Park for a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, where you can enjoy guided cave tours and nature walks. At Rolling Hills Golf Course, unwind on the greens while soaking in the stunning desert landscape and enjoying a round of golf amidst picturesque surroundings.

Adventure

The Freeman Homestead Trail offers a scenic hiking experience just 1.6km from Saguaro National Park, surrounded by stunning landscapes. For climbing enthusiasts, The BLOC climbing + fitness, located 11.3km away, provides thrilling outdoor sports. Additionally, the Udall Park Tennis Center, 12.9km from the park, offers exciting tennis adventures.

Nightlife

Catch a show at the Gaslight Theatre, just 11.3km from Saguaro for a blend of entertainment and culture. For family fun, head to Golf N' Stuff Family Fun Center, 12.9km away, or enjoy a film at Cinemark Century Park Place 20, also 12.9km distant.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Saguaro National Park

For an unforgettable holiday at Saguaro National Park, explore the stunning canyon gorge, visit the aviation museum, or enjoy a round of golf at a local country club. This destination offers a fantastic mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, perfect for families and solo travellers alike. Don't miss out on nearby attractions like Saguaro East and other points of interest that showcase the natural beauty and heritage of the area.

  • Pima Air and Space Museum: This expansive aviation museum, located 12.9km from Saguaro National Park, showcases a remarkable collection of aircraft and spacecraft, spanning decades of aviation history. With its fascinating exhibits and cultural vibes, you'll be immersed in the wonders of flight.
  • Tucson Botanical Gardens: Situated 17.7km away, these beautiful gardens offer a romantic and family-friendly atmosphere. Stroll through lush landscapes filled with diverse plant species, and enjoy the serenity of nature in a stunning outdoor setting.
  • Sabino Canyon: Just 17.7km from the park, Sabino Canyon is a breathtaking gorge perfect for outdoor adventures. With its scenic trails and stunning vistas, it's an ideal spot for hiking, photography, and soaking in the beauty of the desert landscape.

Best time to go to Saguaro National Park

The best time to visit Saguaro National Park is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January51.4°F (10.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February54.3°F (12.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March61.5°F (16.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April68.9°F (20.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
May75.9°F (24.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June86.2°F (30.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July87.1°F (30.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
August86.2°F (30.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September81.7°F (27.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
October71.6°F (22.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
December51.6°F (10.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Saguaro National Park

To save money during your trip to Saguaro National Park, consider visiting between June and August for lower accommodation rates, with Mondays being the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia to compare prices and find budget-friendly options by filtering for eco-certified hotels and bundling flights, activities, and lodgings for better deals. Additionally, take advantage of free activities within the park to maximise your experience without overspending. Look out for promotional packages that offer free nights or discounts on stays for a more economical getaway.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Saguaro National Park are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January to March, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Saguaro National Park is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Saguaro National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Saguaro National Park accommodation with your flights and activities when you book an Expedia package.