Flagstaff Charter Bus & Minibus Rental Prices: How Much Does a Flagstaff Bus Rental Cost?
Flagstaff Minibus Company offers some of the most competitive bus rental prices in Flagstaff and across Northern Arizona. Our rates typically range from $170 to $500 per hour or $1,800 to $3,800 per day, depending on the size of your group, the type of bus you need, and the specifics of your itinerary. Whether you're planning a campus shuttle at NAU, a ski trip to Arizona Snowbowl, or a wedding at Forest Highlands, we can help you find the right vehicle at the right price. For an instant quote in less than 30-seconds, call our team at 928-622-4720 or use our online quote tool below!
| Vehicle Type | Per Hour* | Per Day* | Per Mile* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 56-Passenger Coach Bus | $197 – $519 | $1,600 – $3,800 | $5.00 – $8.00 |
| 25-Passenger Minibus | $165 – $428 | $1,300 – $3,200 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 20-Passenger Minibus | $157 – $414 | $1,300 – $3,100 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 18-Passenger Minibus | $145 – $404 | $1,300 – $3,000 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
*Prices vary and fluctuate with fuel costs, holidays, and availability. Booking early usually secures the lowest rate. For exact pricing, please call our reservations team.
How Much Does a Bus Rental Cost?
The cost of renting a charter bus in Flagstaff depends on several factors, including the type of bus, the duration of your trip, and the distance traveled. Here are some average rates to give you an idea of what to expect:
- 56-passenger charter bus: $197–$519 per hour, $1,600–$3,800 per day, or $5.00–$8.00 per mile
- 25-passenger minibus: $165–$428 per hour, $1,300–$3,200 per day, or $4.00–$7.00 per mile
- 20-passenger minibus: $157–$414 per hour, $1,300–$3,100 per day, or $4.00–$7.00 per mile
- 18-passenger minibus: $145–$404 per hour, $1,300–$3,000 per day, or $4.00–$7.00 per mile
These prices are estimates and can vary based on the time of year, the specific amenities you request (like WiFi, power outlets, or onboard restrooms), and whether your trip requires overnight stays or extended wait times.
What Factors Influence Bus Rental Pricing in Flagstaff?
Several key factors influence the cost of renting a charter bus in Flagstaff. Understanding these can help you plan your budget more effectively:
Type of Bus: Larger buses like 56-passenger motorcoaches generally cost more than smaller minibuses or sprinter vans. However, they also offer more amenities and storage space, which can be important for long trips or groups carrying a lot of equipment.
Trip Duration: Rentals are typically priced by the hour, day, or mile. Short local trips within Flagstaff (like shuttling between NAU and downtown) might be charged hourly, while longer excursions to places like Grand Canyon National Park or Phoenix are often priced by the day or mile.
Distance Traveled: The farther you travel, the higher the cost. Trips that stay within Coconino County will usually be less expensive than those that go out of state or require multiple days on the road.
Time of Year: Peak season for bus rentals in Flagstaff is usually during the summer months (June–August) when tourism is high, and in winter (December–February) for ski trips. Booking during these times may result in higher prices due to increased demand.
Additional Amenities: Features like reclining seats, onboard restrooms, WiFi, power outlets, and extra luggage space can affect the price. Be sure to specify what your group needs so we can match you with the right vehicle.
Special Requests: If your trip requires multiple pick-up/drop-off locations, overnight stays, or extended wait times (such as waiting for a wedding reception to end), these can add to the overall cost.
Lead Time: Booking early often gives you access to the best rates and availability. Last-minute reservations may be subject to higher prices, especially during busy seasons.
Sample Trip Pricing Examples
Below are a few sample pricing examples for common trips in Flagstaff and around Arizona. Please note that these are estimates and your actual price may vary based on your specific needs and travel dates.
Nau Campus Shuttle
A student organization at Northern Arizona University needs a daily shuttle for 2 weeks to transport students between off-campus housing on Milton Road and main campus buildings along Knoles Drive. They book a 25-passenger minibus to run loops from 7 AM to 7 PM each weekday. The quote comes to $2,400 per day, totaling $24,000 for the two-week period. This rate includes unlimited mileage within city limits, all fuel costs, and space for backpacks and bicycles. With 25 riders per loop and 10 loops per day, the per-student cost averages under $10 per ride—cheaper and more convenient than relying on individual cars or public transit schedules.
Grand Canyon Day Trip
A local tour company arranges a day trip from downtown Flagstaff to Grand Canyon Village for a group of 40 tourists. They depart at 8 AM, spend 6 hours exploring the South Rim, and return by 8 PM. The company chooses a 56-passenger charter bus to ensure everyone has comfortable seating and access to an onboard restroom. The total cost for this 12-hour, 160-mile round-trip is $3,600. With 40 passengers, the per-person cost comes to $90—significantly less than the price of renting multiple vans or cars, and with far fewer logistical headaches.
Arizona Snowbowl Ski Shuttle
A ski club books weekend transportation to Arizona Snowbowl for its 30 members during peak winter season. They need a 20-passenger minibus with extra luggage space for skis and snowboards. The bus picks up riders at Wheeler Park Saturday morning, drops them at the slopes, waits all day, and returns after the lifts close. The quote is $1,900 for the full-day service. Over a 12-week season, the total comes to $22,800. At $63 per skier per trip, this option is both economical and ensures everyone arrives together without worrying about icy mountain driving.
Flagstaff Wedding at Forest Highlands
A bride and groom hire a 56-passenger charter bus to shuttle guests between hotels on Route 66 and their wedding venue at Forest Highlands Golf Club. The bus makes three trips before the ceremony and three return trips afterward, covering a total of 40 miles over 8 hours. The quote is $2,100 for the day. With 56 guests onboard, the cost per person is just $38. This arrangement keeps the celebration running smoothly, eliminates parking issues at the venue, and provides guests with a safe ride back to their accommodations after the reception.
Phoenix Airport Transfer
A corporate team of 15 employees needs round-trip transportation from their office near Buffalo Park to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport for a business conference. They book an 18-passenger minibus for the 300-mile journey, departing early Monday and returning late Friday. The total cost for both legs of the trip is $3,900. Split among 15 travelers, the per-person cost is $260—comparable to individual airport shuttles but with the added benefit of traveling together, saving time, and allowing for team-building en route.
Field Trip to Lowell Observatory
A middle school science teacher organizes a field trip for 50 students to Lowell Observatory. They rent a 56-passenger charter bus for a half-day excursion, including a tour of the telescopes and a picnic lunch on site. The bus is needed for 5 hours and travels less than 20 miles round-trip. The quote comes to $1,000. With 50 students participating, the cost per child is just $20—an affordable and efficient way to provide safe, supervised transportation for a large group of young learners.