Day 1      

Arrive in Phoenix, and collect your rental car. Drive to Mesa, AZ, approx. 20 miles

Mesa is Arizona’s third-largest city and offers up a holiday paradise in the American Southwest. Mesa is the perfect destination for quick access to Western heritage and attractions, rugged outdoor adventure, culinary discoveries and authentic Arizona beauty with mountains and canyon lands surrounding the city. Mesa was named the Best U.S. Destination for Outdoor Lovers (Money Magazine) recognising the legendary and historic Apache Trail and the thousands of acres of natural Sonoran Desert near Mesa. Mesa shares a border with the Tonto National Forest, the fifth largest and one of the most visited forests in the United States. There are three lakes and two rivers that offer recreation including lake cruises and water activities all year long. Located right next to Scottsdale and Phoenix, which are well known for golf, world-class spas and designer shopping, you won’t be at a loss for something to do here! There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure with biking, hiking, jeep tours and balloon flights to name a few. 

Stay three nights in Mesa

Day 4       

Mesa to Tucson, AZ, approx. 114 miles.

Tucson offers an authentic south-western experience. Famous for its dramatic beauty, the Sonoran Desert covers this region with spectacular cacti - including the giant saguaro, symbol of the American Southwest. Mountain ranges, cactus forests and rolling grassland in all directions offer scenic drives, hiking, and even skiing. For a real taste of the region’s Old West roots try horse riding at one of the ranches, or visit Tombstone an hour to the West, where you can relive some of the Westerns of the past. The city also boasts a thriving arts scene, with plenty of galleries and museums. Enjoy an exhilarating hot air balloon flight while you are in Tucson. This magical journey will give you a birds-eye view of the stunning desert scenery below.

Stay four nights in Tucson.

Day 8