Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Canada
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Australia
Fiji
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
National park · Tucson, Arizona
Saguaro National Park
Park in two districts east and west of Tucson, protecting forests of saguaros, the giant cacti of the Sonoran Desert, with scenic roads and trails.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park was created to protect forests of this giant cactus, a symbol of the Sonoran Desert. An adult saguaro can reach more than 12 meters and live more than a century and a half. Arms usually appear after 50 to 70 years. The park has two districts, one on each side of Tucson, separated by about 50 km.
In the west district, the Tucson Mountain District, the unpaved Bajada Loop Drive crosses slopes covered in saguaros, and the Signal Hill trail leads to petroglyphs of ancient peoples. The Red Hills visitor center has exhibits and a film about the desert. In the east district, the Rincon Mountain District, the paved Cactus Forest Loop Drive traverses an older forest at the foot of the Rincon Mountains.
Saguaros typically bloom in May and June, with white flowers atop the arms, and produce red fruits in early summer, traditionally harvested by the Tohono Oʼodham people. Sunset, with the cacti silhouettes, is the most photographed moment. Entrance fees apply and some national parks charge an additional fee for foreign visitors; check the park website.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From half a day for one district to a full day for both.
Best time
From October to April for hiking; in summer, only early morning or late afternoon. Sunset is the most popular time.
How to get there
West district: about 25 km from downtown Tucson. East district: about 25 km, on the opposite side. There is no public transportation to the park.
Tip
Bring plenty of water and wear a hat. In summer, avoid trails between late morning and late afternoon.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Saguaro National Park
Which district of Saguaro National Park should you visit?
The west has denser saguaros and is next to the Desert Museum; the east has a paved road through an ancient forest. If you have time, visit both.
When do the saguaros bloom?
Generally in May and June, with white flowers atop the arms.
Is there a fee to enter Saguaro National Park?
Yes, entrance is paid, per vehicle or per person, and is valid for both districts. Check the park website.