Although the desert may not be the first thing you’ll think about when it comes to vacations, it does have its merits: fewer crowds, cleaner air, and unique sights, to name a few.
The American Southwest has become one of the top go-to wellness destinations for those reasons. Miraval Arizona and Amangiri stand out, both of which are ideal if you want to get away from the stress of the city and recover from the daily grind.
Find out which desert getaway is more suitable for you in this Miraval Arizona vs Amangiri comparison.
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Quick Glance: Miraval Arizona vs Amangiri
| Miraval Arizona | Amangiri | |
| Location | Arizona, United States | Utah, United States |
| Getting There | Requires a 55-minute drive from Tucson International Airport (TUS). The resort offers complimentary transfers from Tuscon International Airport. However, they do not provide transfers from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. | Requires a 25-minute drive from the nearest airport, Page Municipal Airport (PGA). The resort offers complimentary transfers to all guests from the airport. |
| Room | 145 rooms, suites, and private villas | 34 suites, ten pavilions, and one house |
| Amenities | Three Outdoor Pools, Lounge, Mindfulness Center, Yoga Studio, Boutique, Salon, Business Center | Infinity Pool, Jacuzzi, Spa, Restaurants, Fitness Center, Cellar, Library, Art Gallery |
| Food and Dining | Two restaurants and one bar | Two restaurants and one lounge |
| Staff and Guest Services | Staff are laidback and very wellness-centered. | Excellent, personable service! |
| Price | Rooms start at $1,439 per night during off-peak season. Prices can range at around $2,310 per night on the average season. Prices can go up to $3,700 per night at peak season. | The entry-level suite starts at $2,200 per night in the low season, around $4,690 during the average season, $8,355 in the peak season. |
| Points Redemption | In single-occupancy, guests can book the standard room for 45,000 World of Hyatt points per night. You can add another adult for 20,000 points per night, which becomes 65,000 World of Hyatt points per night for double occupancy.
During the peak season, that number goes up to 50,000 points per night in single occupancy and 72,000 points per night for double occupancy. During off-peak dates, redeem 40,000 points per night for single occupancy and 57,500 points per night for double occupancy. |
No rewards program at the moment. |
The Details: Miraval Arizona vs Amangiri
Miraval Arizona
Miraval Arizona. Image Credit: Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa
Owned by the Hyatt Group, Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa is a popular flagship of the Miraval resorts.
Their all-inclusive packages include nightly resort credit guests can use to book spa services and private sessions, meals, non-alcoholic beverages. Guests also enjoy unlimited access to daily complimentary wellbeing activities and resort amenities.
Location
Tucked away at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this 400-acre retreat is the perfect starting point to explore the beauty of the Sonoran Desert.
The resort is an approximately 55-minute drive from Tucson International Airport (TUS). Guests can utilize the complimentary shared shuttle service to and from the airport.
Room
Miraval Arizona features a wide range of casita-style rooms, suites, villas, and retreats, all designed for comfort and wellness. Its nature-inspired decor—which includes design weaves of the Sonoran Desert, wood, and stone texture—blends ease and elegance.
The entry-point rooms start with the cozy Native Room, a desert-inspired Dream Catcher that comes with an outdoor patio and indoor seating area, and the Sunrise Room that has glass walls opening up to a mesmerizing view of the mountain range. The latter room also has a soaking tub, outdoor shower, and private patio with fire pits.
All rooms come with a flat-screen LCD TV, coffeemaker, minifridge, iron and ironing board, an in-room safe, and complimentary hi-speed Wi-Fi. Luxury touches include a Dry Bar “Butter Cup” hairdryer, Zentz bath collection, plush cotton robes, Miraval’s branded cloud-like bedding, duvet, and feather bed to make your downtime even more relaxing. True to its wellness-oriented nature, all rooms are outfitted with a Tibetan singing bowl, in-room meditation channels, and a meditation cushion.
Their suites are more spacious with upgraded amenities and residential-style furnishings. The Miraval King Suite has a king-size bed, private outdoor lounge, and fireplace. The Desert Sky Suite has an entire living room, indoor fireplace, and spacious outdoor lounge that’s perfect for stargazing.
The Catalina Suite has an outdoor celestial shower, cozy fireplace, and mountain views behind a unique glass wall. The Sonoran Suite has an entire living room with an indoor fireplace, dining space for four, a cozy outdoor lounge, and a whirlpool bath.
Their retreats are more than just your traditional suite. Choose from studios to expansive three-bedroom houses—most featuring a gourmet kitchen, large patios with reflection pools and fire pits, an ample living room with floor to ceiling retractable glass doors, and magnificent views of the Santa Catalina Mountains.
The ultimate accommodation in Miraval is their modern 2 to 3-bedroom villas that seamlessly blend into its natural desert landscape. Each luxury villa is artfully cocooned to complement its indoor and outdoor living style. It’s so easy to connect with nature as you enjoy unobstructed views of the Santa Catalina Mountains in its expansive terraces. Guests staying here also enjoy the service of a dedicated concierge team and complimentary shared shuttle transportation to and from the property.
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Amenities
At Mirazal, the resort is the vacation itself. It’s a holistic retreat for the mind, body, and soul. Guests get to create their personalized itinerary that includes yoga, meditation, Pilates, and creative expression, to name a few.
The unique offerings range from culinary to spiritual and equine activities. In total, there are 120 choices to choose from. Seasonal festivities, exclusive workshops, and visiting experts are also in rotation throughout the year.
A sample 1-day itinerary can go like this: Start your day with a two-hour outdoor hike in the morning. After lunch, attend a culinary class on plant-based nutrition and try spiritual drumming before calling it a day with a session of relaxing aroma flow (aromatherapy and yoga).
Of course, the main draw of Mirazal Arizona is their 16,000-square feet spa, Balance in Spa. When you set foot, allow yourself to get comfortable because this experience will indulge you in head-to-toe bliss in one of their 23 indoor and outdoor treatment rooms. Or, if you wish to have utmost privacy, you can always opt for their private suite.
The full-service spa also houses a two-way fireplace, a reflecting pool, and a quiet community room to soak in all the mesmerizing views of the desert and surrounding mountains.
Choose from a wide range of Ayurvedic and Energy & Eastern treatments that hone on ancient traditions. Massages and body renewal rituals are also available to soothe your nerves and lift your spirits. They have prenatal pampering sessions made for those expecting as well. Revitalize your skin with one of their facial services before ending your pampering session on a high note with a trip to their salon.
Discover their many contemplative spaces if you want to reflect and meditate peacefully. They have lovely and stylish pockets to choose from, including two labyrinths and an outdoor kiva.
Staying active will never be an issue here as there are plenty of outlets to choose from: a 24-hour fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, an on-site rope course with a climbing wall, zipline service, and outdoor trails. They also have a fitness lap pool, reflexology pool, and hot tubs for those longing for a refreshing dip.
Food and Dining
Miraval Arizona Cactus Flower Restaurant. Image Credit: Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa
Miraval celebrates Arizona’s distinct culinary offerings using fresh and local ingredients. Their balanced menus reflect mindfulness at every meal.
Their main restaurant Cactus Flower serves nutritious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is also a snack bar that serves snacks, smoothies, and juices. The cozy Coyote Moon Bar & Lounge is where you can unwind with a cocktail or a glass of wine with your hors d’oeuvres.
Enjoy a smoothie, tea, ginger shot, or a healthy snack in-between your spa treatments and activities at the Palm Court Café. Or, grab a drink and sample Sonoran-inspired treats and local favorites at the Oasis Poolside Bar after swimming and admire the desert scenery while you’re there.
Guests can also choose to enjoy their meals in the comfort of your room with their in-room dining services.
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Staff and Guest Services
Since Miraval’s core is mindfulness, expect their staff to reflect that. Nurturing and authentic, they are focused on caring for you to be your best.
Their team of wellbeing specialists offers tools and techniques to make positive life changes. Service is overall laidback and friendly to ensure their guests feel relaxed throughout their stay.
Price
Rates during the off-peak season can start at $1,440 per night and go up to $3,700 per night during peak season. During peak season, prices can go up to $2,310 per night.
Points Redemption
Guests can book the standard room for 45,000 World of Hyatt points per night. This is for single-occupancy, but you can add another adult for 20,000 points per night. This will amount to 65,000 World of Hyatt points per night for double occupancy.
During the low season, the redemption price drops to 40,000 points per night for single occupancy and 57,500 points per night for double occupancy.
On the flip-side, high season rates go up to 50,000 points per night for single occupancy and 72,000 points per night for double occupancy.
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Who Is It For?
Miraval Arizona is a wellness oasis that invites its guests to let go of their stresses and be in the present. With its unique surroundings, experiential journeys, and personal wellbeing treatments, this resort is often a catalyst for a healthy lifestyle change.
At Miraval, be worlds away from your urban worries and have time for some much-needed reflection. It makes it for a great escape with your small group of closest friends, a solo retreat, or with your loved one.
Miraval Arizona Gallery
Miraval Arizona Pool. Image Credit: Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa
Life in Balance Spa. Image Credit: Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa
Dreamcatcher Room. Image Credit: Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa
Amangiri
Amangiri. Image Credit: Amangiri
Amangiri (“peaceful mountain”) is a luxurious hideaway tucked away in the American Southwest. Surrounded by untouched desert landscapes and red-rock formations, it boasts sheer exclusivity that seamlessly blends into its unique environment.
Location
Amangiri covers 600 acres of land in Canyon Point, Southern Utah, with famous natural landmarks such as Lake Powell and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument nearby. Getting there requires a 25-minute drive from the closest airport, Page Municipal Airport (PGA).
Room
Amangiri has 34 suites in total. Each suite is outfitted with a king-sized bed, twin rain showers, and soaking tubs that overlook its expanses. A spacious outdoor lounge and fireplace complete its exteriors.
The four-bedroom Mesa Home is ideal for bigger groups such as families or groups of friends. Its relaxed aesthetic comes with earthy hues that reflect its sand-hued landscapes. This luxurious abode has a private 50-foot swimming pool, a spacious terrace with sun lounges, a living room with a fireplace, a private courtyard, and a professional-grade kitchen.
Camp Sarika is the new glamping side of Amangiri. A quick 5-minute drive from the Amangiri proper houses ten luxury pavilions that offer a more back-to-nature experience in the area.
A 5-minute drive across Amangiri sits Camp Sarika’s spacious 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom Tented Pavilions. Aside from breathtaking desert and canyon views, the pavilions come outfitted with a heated plunge pool, an outdoor shower, and a fire pit for a luxurious back-to-nature experience. Guests can enjoy toasting s’mores and use the telescopes provided for the ultimate stargazing experience.
Amenities
Amangiri is also a stepping stone towards exploring Southern Utah’s natural wonders. Some of these activities include hiking, horseback riding, and boating. Inside the resort, guests can enjoy 24-hour room service, babysitting services, and access to the main outdoor pool. Other must-visits here include the cellar, library, and a gallery featuring local artists’ artwork.
Camp Sarika is home to a lounge, restaurant, and pool area. It’s the place to immerse yourself in nature. Think of it as a luxurious upgrade to glamping.
For those longing for some A+ pampering, the 25,000-square-foot Aman Spa is the place to be. The holistic traditions of Navajo influence their signature luxury spa and beauty treatments. Earth, air, fire, and water elements are heavily drawn here.
Amangiri’s main attraction is the majestic U-shaped pool that curves around a boulder formation. The resort boasts a water pavilion complete with a watsu pool, sauna and steam rooms, hydrotherapy rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor and outdoor treatment area.
Complimentary yoga and Pilates classes are available twice daily. There is also a personal trainer available in the fitness center.
Food and Dining
Amangiri Restaurant. Image Credit: Amangiri
The menu at the Amangiri Restaurant is inspired by a unique blend of Native American and American Southwest cuisine. The all-day restaurant has an open kitchen with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Utah desert. Guests can opt to dine inside or outdoors on the pool terrace.
Guests can also dine at the Camp Sarika Restaurant. Inspired by the abundant wilderness in Utah, the meals are made with fresh and locally-sourced produce and meats. Vegan and vegetarian-friendly options are also available.
The Fireside Pavilion is another private dinner spot where a grand fireplace takes the main stage. Food is served fresh by the open grill by one of Amangiri’s chefs.
Amangiri also offers unique dining experiences that can be prepared upon request. Located just a short drive or hike away, The Chinle Suite is a secluded al-fresco spot that captures the charm of a desert setting. The open-air Desert Lounge is ideal for cocktails and admiring the views.
Staff and Guest Services
The service is exceptional. From the moment you enter Amangiri, their front desk personnel are ready to greet you by your first name. They are always willing to arrange personalized tours based on your preferences.
Price
The prices in Amangiri are steep, to begin with. Their low-season rate for a standard suite starts at $2,220 per night. During peak season, suites can go up to $8,355 per night. For the average season, the rates start at $4,690 per night.
Points Redemption
Amangiri currently doesn’t have any points redemption available.
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Who Is It For?
Amangiri is the ideal respite for couples and families alike looking for a luxurious, off-the-beaten-path hideaway. It does come with a steep price tag, but with the Aman name itself, you know that you’re in for a one-of-a-kind indulgence.
Couples will enjoy Amangiri’s luxe minimalistic suites, while Camp Sarika’s pavilion-type accommodations better suit families.
Amangiri Gallery
The Amangiri Suite. Image Credit: Amangiri
Camp Sarika by Amangiri. Image Credit: Amangiri
Amangiri Girijaala Suite. Image Credit: Amangiri
Best For: Which Resort Should You Go For?
| Winner | What Makes It Great | |
| Best for Convenience | Amangiri | The resort is only a 25-minute drive from the nearest airport, while Miraval Arizona is a 55-minute drive. However, both resorts offer complimentary transfers. |
| Best for Food | Amangiri | The resort has more variety in terms of dining options and experiences. |
| Best for Pools | Amangiri | Amangiri’s unique swimming pool that seamlessly blends into its surroundings takes this one. |
| Best for Spa | Miraval Arizona | Miraval’s In Balance Spa has a more impressive selection of holistic spa treatments to choose from. |
| Best For Adults | Miraval Arizona | The resort is strictly for adults only. |
| Best for Families | Amangiri | Amangiri’s Camp Sarika has more kid-friendly amenities that make it a family destination. |
| Best Location | Tie | Both offer different sides of a desert holiday. Miraval is more wellness retreat-driven, while Amangiri provides a more upscale version. |
| Best for a Calm Vacation | Miraval Arizona | Since no children are allowed in Miraval, peace, and tranquility are assured in each stay. |
| Best for Service | Amangiri | Amangiri offers the signature Aman hospitality renowned worldwide. |
| Most Exclusive | Amangiri | Amangiri’s remote location makes it perfect for those who crave privacy, and many celebrities enjoy regular visits to Amangiri. |
Wrapping Up
Both resorts are great options if you’re looking for a unique desert hideaway.
Miraval Arizona will cater to tired, weary souls who want to escape the daily grind. Its impressive range of holistic activities, treatments, and events will undoubtedly rejuvenate and regain balance. Its inclusive packages and adults-only policy are certainly highlights for those serious about their wellness escapes.
Amangiri is more for those seeking sheer luxury, chic architectural design, and adventure in their desert vacation. There are also more opportunities to explore the surrounding wonders of Southern Utah here. Thanks to its glamping-style Camp Sarika, this upscale resort will suit families.