Saguaro National Park is split into two districts around Tucson, so plan which side fits your visit: the Tucson Mountain (west) side is great for short hikes and sunset photography among dense saguaros, while the Rincon Mountain (east) side has the paved Cactus Forest Loop and longer, cooler hikes into higher country. Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid extreme heat and the busiest parking, carry plenty of water (plan on at least about a liter per hour of activity), wear sun protection and sturdy shoes, and expect spotty cell service. Respect the desert: stay on trails, do not touch or climb saguaros, and be mindful of rattlesnakes and sudden monsoon storms in summer. There is an entrance fee and visitor centers with maps and current trail conditions, so stop in before you head out.