Whether you bring your spirit of adventure with you or discover it while in the southwest there is plenty here to satisfy. Why not start with an Arizona favorite- a jeep tour through the Sonoran Desert.

View 1,000 year old Indian ruins as your Naturalist-Guide unravels the mysteries of this ancient desert. Your 4-wheel drive escape with Wild West Jeep Tours covers a lot of ground as all ages relive the legends of the Old West.

Visitors to Scottsdale are amazed to discover a 1300 acre working horse ranch just a few miles from their hotel or resort. MacDonald's Ranch at 26540 N.Scottsdale Road started as a cattle and horse ranch in the 1950's and continues today, offering horseback rides, trail rides, hayrides, cook-outs and western entertainment. This easily accessible spread beckons all lovers of the wide-open spaces to take off into the vast Sonoran Desert.

For a fresh perspective on desert flora and fauna consider a hot air balloon ride with Adventures Out West Balloons and Jeeps. This tour company is a good choice for combination excursions that can include horseback riding, river rafting, desert biking and cookouts as well as ballooning and 4-wheeling.

For more specialized tours we suggest ABC/Desert Biking Adventures for bikeseeing the Sonoran Desert.

For an exciting and informative experience consider an ecotour with Windwalker Expeditions and picture firsthand the geology and archeology of the region; also offered are photography tours and pack trips.

Tip: If time permits we highly recommend a journey to Sedona, about 120 miles north of Phoenix. This magical spot continues to awe visitors from all over the world. Try a Pink Jeep tour for an unforgettable view of this rugged land.

Tip: Your tour company will provide you with safety reminders. The desert is a beautiful but wild environment- please carry plenty of water and take sunscreen, hat, and appropriate footgear- along with your love of adventure.