Page: Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons Guided Tour

When you hear about Antelope Canyons, the images of swirling sandstone walls bathed in shifting light instantly come to mind. For travelers seeking an authentic, immersive experience, this guided tour covering both the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons offers a memorable way to see these geological marvels with the benefit of local Navajo guides. Priced at $368 per person and lasting about 3.5 hours, this tour combines adventure, culture, and picture-perfect scenery for a comprehensive canyon experience.

What we love about this tour is how it offers access to both canyons, showcasing contrasting landscapes—the sweeping, light-filled chambers of the Upper Canyon and the narrower, dramatic formations of the Lower. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making sure you not only see but understand what makes each canyon special. Also, the inclusion of transportation from your accommodation simplifies logistics and lets you focus on enjoying the scenery.

A possible consideration is the tour’s pace, especially at Lower Antelope, where some reviews mention rushing through the canyon to accommodate other groups. If you’re a photographer or love taking your time, this is something to keep in mind. Still, the overall value and richness of the experience make it ideal for those looking to tick off a top Arizona highlight.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate well-organized excursions with expert guides, especially those eager to see both canyons without the hassle of separate bookings. If you’re into stunning vistas, cultural insights, and fun photo spots, you’ll likely find this tour a worthwhile investment.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Visit both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons in one tour.
• Expert Guidance: Learn about the formations and Navajo culture from knowledgeable guides.
• Convenient Logistics: Includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodation within Page, Arizona.
• Photographer’s Dream: Plenty of photo opportunities, with guides pointing out the best spots.
• Value for Money: For $368, you get access, guidance, permits, and transportation.
• Realistic Pace: Some reviewers mention feeling rushed—best for those comfortable with quick tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Antelope Canyons Guided Tour

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

This tour offers a full experience of both the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons, capturing the contrasting characters of each. The experience begins with a pickup from your hotel or lodging in Page, Arizona. This is a significant convenience, especially if you’re not keen on renting a car or navigating on your own. The transportation is included, and you’ll spend part of your time en route enjoying insights from your Navajo guide.

Once you arrive at the Lower Antelope Canyon, you’ll descend five flights of stairs (82 steps) into one of the largest caverns. Here, you’ll hike roughly 1.1 miles through narrow, winding passages, with eight ladders helping you navigate uneven inclines. The Lower Canyon is famous for its dramatic, tightly curved walls and the opportunity to see hidden nooks and secluded viewpoints. The guide will point out the canyon’s formation, helping you appreciate the natural artistry of sedimentary layers and light play.

After a snack break—complimentary bottled water and limited snacks are provided—you’ll head over to the Upper Antelope Canyon. This part involves a short hike (~1/4 mile) and exploring its more open, light-filled chambers. You’ll walk along the top of the canyon, climbing 150 steps back to the pickup point. The Upper Canyon provides iconic photo spots and an emphasis on beautiful, sweeping corridors illuminated by natural light beams.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The guides are a major highlight. Multiple reviews praise guides like Amelia, Erwin, and others for their friendly, informative approach. They not only show you the key viewpoints but also share insights into Navajo culture and geology, making the experience richer than just sightseeing.

The photo opportunities are plentiful. Guides often show you the best angles and help with camera settings—a real plus for those eager to capture the play of sunlight on sandstone.

The combination of both canyons in one day is a significant advantage. Many travelers mention that seeing both gives a fuller picture of the canyon system’s diversity—a must for fans of natural formations.

What to Expect at Each Canyon

Lower Antelope Canyon: Prepare for a more narrow, intricate passage. Its winding corridors and tight spaces make it appealing for photographers wanting that classic slot canyon look. The descent involves stairs and ladders, so wear comfortable shoes and be ready for a bit of physical activity. The experience can feel somewhat rushed, as guides often move groups quickly to avoid delays with subsequent groups.

Upper Antelope Canyon: More accessible and open, with beautiful light beams (although these depend on the time of day). It’s a shorter hike but still packed with photogenic spots. Guides here tend to allow more time for photos and exploration, which many travelers appreciated.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Navajo Cultural Experience

While the tour is primarily about the spectacular geology, guides also share cultural stories and insights—a nice touch that helps you connect with the land and its people. This cultural element adds depth to the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: About 3.5 hours, including pickups, transfers, and the canyon exploration.
• Price: At $368 per person, it’s a fair value considering all inclusions—permits, guides, transportation, and snacks.
• What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and climbing; bring a camera (including extra batteries or SD cards); and stay hydrated with the supplied bottled water.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women, people with claustrophobia, or wheelchair users. No pets, smoking, drones, selfie sticks, tripods, or bags allowed inside.
• Best time to visit: While not explicitly mentioned, light beams in Upper Antelope are more likely during midday, so plan accordingly.

Experience from Other Travelers

Many reviews confirm that guides like Erwin and Amber go above and beyond, sharing interesting stories and photography tips. One traveler noted, “It felt like a private tour,” thanks to the well-organized check-in process and attentive guides. Others mention that the views are truly breathtaking, and the opportunity to see both canyons makes the experience worth the cost.

A few travelers mention feeling rushed, especially through lower sections, but overall, the professionalism of the guides and the stunning scenery outweigh this minor inconvenience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided experience is perfect for travelers who want to see both Antelope Canyons in a single, well-organized trip with knowledgeable local guides. If you’re a photographer or someone eager to capture the canyon’s beauty, guides’ insights and tips will be invaluable. It’s also ideal for those who prefer transportation included—saving you from navigating on your own.

However, if you have mobility issues or claustrophobia, this might not be suitable. The tour moves quickly at Lower Antelope, and the stairs and ladders can be challenging for some.

The Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons Guided Tour offers an impressive snapshot of the Navajo land’s geological wonders, combined with cultural stories and expert guiding. For around four hours, you get a well-rounded visit to two of the most photographed canyons in the world, with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and learning about Navajo traditions.

The experience’s strength lies in its comprehensive approach, making it ideal for travelers who want a curated, informative visit with easy logistics. Yes, it’s a bit on the pricier side, but considering the permits, guiding, transportation, and access to both canyons, it offers good value.

If you’re looking for a memorable, well-organized canyon adventure that balances natural beauty with cultural insight, this tour is tough to beat.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup from your accommodation within Page, Arizona, is included. Make sure to specify your lodging address when booking.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total duration is approximately 3.5 hours, which includes transportation, check-in, and canyon exploration.

Are there any restrictions on who can participate?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with claustrophobia, or wheelchair users, due to stairs and narrow passages.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and water are recommended. Snacks are provided, but you might want to bring extra if desired.

Does the tour include all necessary permits and fees?
Yes, all permits and fees are included in the price, ensuring smooth entry into both canyons.

Can I take my drone or selfie stick?
No, drones and selfie sticks are not allowed, as per Navajo Nation law. Bags and tripods are also prohibited inside the canyons.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Guides typically share tips on the best photo spots, and the scenery is perfect for photos, especially in the Upper Canyon with its light beams.

In summary, this tour offers a rich blend of natural spectacle and cultural storytelling that appeals to travelers eager to experience the magic of Antelope Canyons in a single, well-guided outing. While it moves at a brisk pace, the quality and diversity of sights make it a prime choice for those wanting a full canyon experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: