Oljato Monument Valley is a spectacular landscape that draws visitors for its iconic red buttes, deep canyons, and rich Navajo culture. What makes this area truly special for tours is the chance to go beyond the main viewpoints and explore the backcountry with local Navajo guides. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast wanting that perfect shot, a history buff eager to learn about Navajo traditions, or simply craving an authentic experience, there’s a tour that suits your style. We especially like the Backcountry Jeep Tour with a Navajo Guide for its intimate access to restricted areas and the chance to learn from a local.
If you’re looking to catch a stunning sunset or sunrise, the Sunset Tour and Sunrise Tour offer magical light and fewer crowds. For those wanting a more comprehensive visit, the Highlights Tour combines the main sights with extended backcountry access, and the Full-Day Tour covers both Monument Valley and the intriguing Mystery Valley. Each offers a different way to experience this landscape, and the choice depends on your time, interests, and energy level.
1. Monument Valley: Backcountry Jeep Tour with Navajo Guide
At number 1, the Monument Valley: Backcountry Jeep Tour with Navajo Guide is a top choice for travelers wanting exclusive access. Priced at $81 per person and lasting 2.5 hours, this tour takes you deep into areas normally off-limits to the public. The open-air safari vehicle provides a true immersion into the rugged landscape, and your Navajo guide brings years of experience sharing stories, traditions, and cultural insights.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to see landmarks like the West and East Mitten Buttes and the Totem Pole from angles few visitors get to witness. The small-group format ensures a personal experience, and the guide’s knowledge elevates the journey from sightseeing to learning. Many guests appreciate the intimate atmosphere and the chance to ask questions about Navajo culture directly. If you’re after a meaningful, less crowded adventure with unique photo opportunities, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking an authentic, in-depth experience with local Navajo guides in a small-group setting.
2. Monument Valley: Sunset Tour with Navajo Guide
Number 2 is the Sunset Tour, which offers a 3-hour journey into the valley with the magic of evening light. Priced at $92 per person, this tour is tailored for visitors eager to witness the changing colors of the landscape as the sun dips below the horizon. The tour includes stops at iconic spots like West and East Mitten Buttes, capturing stunning photos during the “Golden Hour,” when the landscape’s reds glow best.
Your Navajo guide will take you into restricted areas, sharing stories about the land and its significance. The small group size (maximum 12 people) helps ensure an intimate and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for photography, reflection, or simply soaking in the peaceful sunset. Many visitors rate this experience highly, with a 4.8-star review, praising the guide’s storytelling and the breathtaking scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for photographers and sunset lovers wanting to experience Monument Valley in a peaceful, awe-inspiring setting.
3. Monument Valley: Highlights Tour with Backcountry Access
The Highlights Tour ranks third, offering a 3.5-hour exploration for $98 per person. This tour expands on the basic viewpoints by venturing into restricted backcountry, allowing for more time at each major landmark. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a deeper understanding of the area’s natural beauty and Navajo culture.
Led by a Navajo guide, the tour emphasizes storytelling and history, with a focus on the famous monuments like the Totem Pole and the Mitten Buttes. The open-air vehicle enables close-up views and great photo opportunities. Guests highlight the extended stops as a big plus, giving plenty of time to shoot photos or simply absorb the scenery. The tour’s 4.8-star rating reflects its popularity among travelers seeking a richer experience.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want more time at key sights and insights into Navajo traditions, ideal for first-timers and photo enthusiasts.
4. Monument Valley: 3-Hour Sunrise Tour with Navajo Guide
Starting early, the Sunrise Tour offers a 3-hour experience for $92 per person, perfect for early risers. Watching the sunrise over the monuments casts a warm glow, making it a truly magical moment. The guide will take you to prime spots like John Ford Point and the Totem Pole for photos in the early morning light.
This tour emphasizes the natural beauty and the Navajo cultural connection to the land. Rated 4.7/5, many visitors enjoy the quiet of dawn and the chance to capture stunning photos before the crowds arrive. It’s best suited for those who want a peaceful start to their day and are comfortable with an early wake-up call.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for landscape photography and those seeking a tranquil, sunrise experience.
5. Monument Valley and Mystery Valley Full-Day Tour
For travelers with a full day, the Monument Valley and Mystery Valley Full-Day Tour offers 7 hours of exploration at $173 per person. It covers both main sights of Monument Valley and Mystery Valley, giving a comprehensive view of the region’s natural formations and archaeological sites.
The tour includes traveling in open-air safari vehicles, with a Navajo guide sharing stories and insights about Navajo traditions and the area’s geology. Visitors love the extended time at key landmarks and the opportunity to see ancient dwellings, arches, and petroglyphs. With a 4.9-star rating, it appeals to those who want an immersive, all-day experience and are interested in Navajo history and culture.
Bottom Line: Best for history buffs and those wanting a complete picture of the area over a relaxed day.
6. Monument Valley: 2.5-hour Mystery Valley Tour
Rounding out the list, the Mystery Valley Tour offers a shorter, 2.5-hour exploration for $86 per person. This tour focuses solely on Mystery Valley, where you’ll see ancient dwellings, arches, petroglyphs, and unusual rock formations. It’s perfect for those looking to experience Navajo culture without committing to a full day.
The guide offers a musical performance, adding a cultural touch, and shares stories about generations of Navajo people. The tour tends to be less crowded, providing a more intimate atmosphere for discovery. In just a few hours, you’ll gain a good understanding of Navajo history and see some very photogenic sites.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers with limited time who want a taste of Navajo culture and stunning scenery.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your schedule, interests, and what you want to get out of the experience. If you love photography and breathtaking sunsets, the Sunset Tour is a top pick. For those craving a deep cultural experience, the Backcountry Jeep Tour or the Full-Day Tour offer authentic insights and extended exploration.
Budget-wise, the tours range from about $81 to $173, with longer and more exclusive experiences costing more. Consider whether you want to focus mainly on the main sights or venture into the backcountry for a more immersive day. Also, check the availability and book early, especially for sunrise and sunset tours, which are popular.
Final Thoughts
Oljato Monument Valley offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and schedules. If you’re after a quick but meaningful adventure, the Backcountry Jeep Tour provides authentic access and storytelling. For a more relaxed, picturesque experience, the sunset and sunrise tours stand out. And if you have plenty of time, the Full-Day Tour delivers a comprehensive visit.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early ensures you secure your spot for these popular experiences. Each offers a unique window into the stunning landscape and Navajo culture—making your visit to Monument Valley truly unforgettable.