ABOUT ARIZONA 

Arizona is a place of powerful contrasts, where wide desert plains rise into forested mountains, and historic frontier towns sit alongside modern cities. Often called the “Grand Canyon State,” Arizona first grew through copper mining and ranching, but today it is just as well known for its dramatic landscapes, outdoor lifestyle, and strong sports scene.

The state’s scenery is among the most varied in the American Southwest. Giant saguaro cacti dominate the Sonoran Desert, while the high-altitude forests around Flagstaff and the snow-covered San Francisco Peaks reveal a completely different climate. Sedona’s red rock formations, the mesas of Monument Valley, and the iconic Grand Canyon attract hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts from around the world. Thanks to its dry air and minimal light pollution, Arizona is also considered one of the top stargazing regions in the United States.

Arizona’s identity is still closely linked to its frontier roots. Former mining towns like Jerome and Bisbee retain their 19th-century character, with narrow streets, historic buildings, and restored saloons. Native American culture is a key part of the state’s heritage, with 22 tribal nations hosting powwows, exhibitions, and cultural festivals throughout the year. In many rural communities, rodeos and county fairs continue to celebrate the cowboy traditions that shaped the region.

Alongside this history, modern Arizona is driven by fast-growing cities. Phoenix, one of the largest metropolitan areas in the U.S., blends business, innovation, and desert surroundings. Tucson reflects strong Mexican influences and a lively arts scene, while Flagstaff offers cooler mountain weather and serves as a gateway to the Grand Canyon. Across the state, visitors can choose between luxury resorts, golf courses, off-road adventures, and vast national parks.

Sport plays a major role in Arizona life. Teams such as the Arizona Cardinals (NFL), Phoenix Suns (NBA), and Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB) provide year-round action, while major golf tournaments, boxing events, and college sports continue to attract national and international attention.

Arizona’s food culture reflects its diversity. Traditional Southwestern and Mexican dishes – including tacos, tamales, and green chile specialties – remain staples, but international cuisine and farm-to-table dining are growing rapidly, especially in Phoenix and Tucson. Local breweries, wineries, and farmers’ markets highlight the state’s increasing focus on regional and sustainable produce.

Quick Snapshot

• Population: Around 7.4 million (2023), 14th largest in the U.S.
• Area: 113,990 square miles (295,234 km²), the 6th largest U.S. state
• Capital: Phoenix, located in the Sonoran Desert

Entry into the USA

As part of the United States, Arizona follows standard U.S. entry regulations. Requirements vary by nationality and travel purpose.

• Visa Waiver Program (VWP): Citizens of participating countries may enter for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.
• Visitor Visa: Travellers from non-VWP countries usually require a B-1/B-2 visa.
• ESTA: Visitors using the VWP must complete an online ESTA application before travel.
• Passport: A valid passport is required for the full duration of the stay.

Currency

Arizona uses the U.S. Dollar (USD), symbol “$”, divided into 100 cents.

• 1 USD ≈ 0.90–0.95 EUR
• 1 USD ≈ 0.70–0.75 GBP
• 1 USD ≈ 110–115 JPY
• 1 USD ≈ 1.25–1.30 CAD

Electricity

Electrical standards match the rest of the U.S.: Type A/B outlets (NEMA 5-15), 120 volts, 60 Hz. Visitors from other regions will need a plug adapter and, in some cases, a voltage converter.

Mobile services

Mobile coverage around Phoenix and Phoenix Raceway is strong.

• AT&T: Wide statewide coverage with reliable 5G in urban areas
• Verizon Wireless: Known for strong reliability and fast 5G Ultra Wideband
• T-Mobile: Competitive pricing and solid coverage in cities, with expanding 5G elsewhere

Short-term visitors can also use eSIM providers such as Airalo or Ubigi for instant data access.

Key contact numbers

(Use country code +1 when calling from abroad)

• Emergency services: 911
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport: +1 602-273-3300
• Abrazo Arrowhead Campus (hospital): +1 623-572-4507

Fun facts about Arizona

• The state takes its nickname from the Grand Canyon, one of the world’s most famous natural landmarks.
• Phoenix enjoys more than 300 sunny days per year, making it one of the sunniest major cities in the U.S.
• Roughly half of Arizona is desert, home to the giant saguaro cactus, found nowhere else naturally.
• Historic Route 66 runs through northern Arizona, passing towns like Flagstaff and Kingman.
• Arizona is home to 22 federally recognised Native American tribes.
• The Hoover Dam, shared with Nevada, remains a major attraction near Lake Mead.
• A quirky legal leftover: hunting camels is illegal in Arizona, dating back to 19th-century military experiments.