Advantage Grand Canyon Adventure Rafting Trips and Tours — Local services in Scottsdale

Staff: Nate “Tater”, lead guide, was the consummate professional and probably the primary success factor of the trip (besides the grandeur of the scenery). He was a guiding force for the other guides without being overbearing or “out-front”. He kept the entire trip on schedule, ensured our comfort, and provided the information we needed for safety and enjoyment. We encountered 40+ MPH winds the second day out and it slowed our progress considerably. Nate made the decision to camp earlier than intended to allow us to dry out and warm up. He got us going in a timely manner the next morning and made up the time before the winds became an issue again. We were not rushed and the experience was much more comfortable. On the 5th night a small rattlesnake was discovered near one of the campsites. Again, Nate quietly and efficiently relocated the snake with no fanfare or disruption. His interaction with the staff made the atmosphere enjoyable-there was a camaraderie that was infectious for the travelers. As you would expect the travelers had a wide range of abilities and temperaments- Nate was very effective at monitoring the “temperature” of the group, dealing with situations before they became an issue, and listened to everyone. When one raft was concerned they were not able to get first choice of campsites because they were in the rear, Nate simply switched raft groups at the midpoint of the trip, effectively dealing with the issue.

Kale, Billie and Drew were a pleasure to be around. They were in the background but when something needed to be done, they were there. One of the travelers, a lady who was very unsteady on her feet and not physically equipped for the trip, fell run the river while we were all gathered for a presentation by Nate. She was approximately 15’ from the group and went under very quickly. Kale and Drew jumped two bow ropes and were getting her up in seconds. Once it was apparent they had her safe and the situation in hand, Nate and Billie kept the group focused on the presentation so the traveler was not further embarrassed. This is an example of the teamwork and observance of the entire staff.

Food: Every meal was delicious- fresh, made from scratch and very well balanced. We got fresh salads every day in a variety of formats and containing legumes, green leafy vegetables, corn, tomatoes, avocados, etc. Breakfasts were varied and even included made to order omelets on one day. They were always on time and fully satisfying.

Organization: Again, the staff fully communicated with the travelers to ensure we knew what to da and when. The trip was a well-oiled machine without seeming like work. Dish duty was considered a privilege and the “bag-line” was something everyone wanted to be part of- no one wanted to give up their position! Set up and take down instructions were clear; campsites were excellent. The pre-trip instructions on what to bring were spot-on and the videos were very helpful. The dispersal of hikes and Little Colorado River body-surfing made the experience more than a raft trip and were some of the more memorable points of the trip.

Equipment: All of the equipment was in good condition and provided what we needed. I would recommend the addition of pads for the cots for those of us with “older” backs.

In short, the trip was an incredible experience and your organization put together a wonderful package. I strongly recommend this for anyone interested in a total canyon...

We did not know what to expect when we started looking into a rafting trip through the Grand Canyon when we first contacted Advantage Grand Canyon. Starla and Andy were very helpful in helping us choose the right trip for us - we chose the eight day motorized full canyon trip with Wilderness River Adventures. My wife and I both just retired at age 67 and this was "the event" to celebrate that milestone in our lives so it was important to us (the cost also made it important to us for it was a stretch on our income). From the orientation to being dropped off at our car after the trip the young men and one young lady we worked with from WRA went out of their way and made every effort to make sure that this was the trip of the lifetime. James and Nate who guided our two boats down the river and Chris and Cam our two "swampers" were absolutely amazing. And, not only on the river, but the food they prepared was as good as you can get in the best of restaurants will full kitchens on dry land. One of our party had his birthday while on the river and the guys made a chocolate cake with chocolate frosting in a dutch oven that was out of this world. I was so touched by their kindness that I couldn't sing happy birthday I was so choked up with emotion. PS - the cake was so good I had a couple of pieces of it for breakfast! Another time I talked my wife into getting into the bathtub with me (the front two or three seats on the raft where you often get buried with a wall of water on a regular basis). As we approached some fairly big rapids Nate came up and sat beside Sharon and with me on the other side of her she went through some rapids where we really got wet (totally buried!} - he helped her experience something that alone she might have bailed out on. These guys not only did what they needed to do to make the trip safe and fun for all, but they did little extra things for all of us that made the trip a once in a lifetime (unless we can save the money to go back again) adventure and the best trip that we could have possible experienced. I would highly recommend both of these companies and the trip in general. The Canyon is spectacular from the top and more so from the bottom and these folks can help you choose a trip that is right for you. There are things on the trip - from huge waves of cold water, to sleeping under the stars or full moon (we got both), to peeing in the river that may take you far outside of your comfort zone but that is what makes it an adventure! Thanks again to all of you from Sharon and I and God bless. ...

I recently had the incredible opportunity to go on a Grand Canyon rafting trip with Tour West; it was everything I dreamed of and more. The scenery was breathtaking, the food was delicious, and the guides, Kyle and Joe, were fantastic.

From the moment we arrived at the lodge, the night before setting off, Kyle and Joe ensured we were all comfortable and well-prepared. They gave us a thorough safety briefing and set expectations for the next few days. They were also incredibly knowledgeable about the Grand Canyon and its history and shared their insights with us throughout the trip.

One of the things I enjoyed most about the trip was the side hikes. We hiked to ancient ruins, explored hidden canyons, and swam in a waterfall. The hikes could be challenging, but Kyle and Joe were always there to help us and ensure we were safe. Another highlight of the trip was the food. The guides at Tour West are indeed master chefs as well. They prepared delicious and nutritious meals three times a day, even in the middle of the wilderness. We had everything from curry and spaghetti to steaks and more.

But the best part of the trip was sleeping on a cot under the stars. The weather was perfect every night, and each camp gave breathtaking night sky views. Waking up in the morning to fantastic canyon walls, wildlife nearby, and a hearty breakfast was also a plus.

Overall, my Grand Canyon rafting trip with Tour West was an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend this company to anyone looking for a thrilling and...