Kayak Tour on the Verde River
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
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.
Additional Info
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
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
What‘s 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)
Guide Gratuity not included but always appreciated
Options
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!
Polar Bear Float Kayak Tour
Wetsuit Rental included: November - February wetsuit rental included in price Insulated booties and gloves also available
Kayak Tour on the Verde River
Reviews
591 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great float and exceptional outfitter company!
Daydream22851490468,,Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This experience was fantastic, it was more exciting than we had expected. The inflatable kayaks were fun to paddle and the guides (Blaine and Maverick) helped make the trip so much fun and exciting! The staff at OAC went above and beyond to make the whole day perfect before and after the trip was over. Would highly recommend this trip and this and outfitter!
The office of the kayak...
Serani W,,Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00The office of the kayak company is in Cottonwood. If you go solo, you are at the mercy of others joining the experience. If there are not enough participants, the organizing company can cancel the trip. This happened to me the first day. I was able to go the next day due to two other people joining in. No one answered the phone numbers given for the tour company till early afternoon. The advertised time was 12 Noon but was told the tour will be at 10:00 am. The time should be correctly advertised for those coming from out of town. Given all these inconveniences, the experience of kayaking down the Verde river was wonderful. The staff were very kind and helpful in person. Just check all the information in advance.
Super fun kayak tour!
Kris H,,Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was so much fun for us two gals that had never kayak'd before. The river was beautiful, the rapids added just enough excitement and adventure + our guide Ken was knowledgeable and super helpful!
Great value
Megan J,,Nov 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Walt was an excellent guide! We were safe, had a lot of fun, and got to learn about the local fauna and flora as well as history along the river.
Perfect for a sunny afternoon adventure
Tyler C,,Oct 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We were lead on an excellent 3-mile kayaking adventure by Craig. It was a small group, the perfect size of six, and we had the most fun. We were provided water guns and given instruction on how to paddle and it was great for both me (30s and expert kayaker) and my 73 year old mother. The whole tour was very chill and very entertaining. The Rapids were more than I expected but even my mom had a great time on them even though she was initially nervous. Would definitely recommend as a fun thing to do near Sedona!
So fun! I was nervous,...
Whitney R,,Oct 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00So fun! I was nervous, but it wasn’t intense at all. The guides keep you safe the entire way. Kids would love this.
We had a great time. My...
April M,,Oct 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a great time. My kids are 10 & 12 and had no difficulty. Our guides were friendly, lively, and knowledgeable.
Loved it!
Rachel W,,Oct 15, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Wonderful experience! Don’t forget your towel 😂. Check-in was smooth and friendly. The guides were amazing and the photos were SUCH a fantastic surprise!
Great Kayak trip
Sandra S,,Oct 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a fantastic experience of kayaking on the Verde. The entire staff was welcoming and helpful. It was a fun trip with a small group. Lots of time to float at your leisure, to experience Class 1 and 2 rapids and to hear from our guide some of the info about the area. Overall well worth the price and we had a lot of fun.
One of our better kayak trips!
Amy W,,Oct 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Easy, beautiful trip, surprisingly had some faster areas. Ken was a really friendly nice guide. Love the blow up kayaks
From US$115.00
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Operated by OACTours