Mystery Valley & Monument Valley All Day Tour

A Day in Monument Valley and Mystery Valley: Authenticity, Stunning Views, and Cultural Insights

When it comes to capturing the soul of the American Southwest, few places match the grandeur and mystique of Monument Valley. On this 8-hour all-day tour, you’ll visit the iconic 17-mile loop, with stops at legendary viewpoints like The Mittens, John Ford’s Point, and the Three Sisters. But what truly sets this experience apart is the inclusion of Mystery Valley, a lesser-known gem full of Anasazi ruins and rock art. Guided by knowledgeable Navajo guides, this tour offers a rich blend of spectacular scenery and cultural storytelling.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are two key aspects: First, the backcountry exploration of areas like The Suns Eye and Ear of the Wind, which are normally off-limits to most visitors. Second, the personal touch—the guides are often praised for their friendliness and depth of knowledge, making the experience both educational and fun. You’ll get to see some spectacular formations in a comfortable, well-organized setting.

One possible consideration is the dust factor—a common feature at Monument Valley due to the terrain and other travelers. As one reviewer noted, it can be very dusty, which might affect your comfort, especially if you’re sensitive to dust or allergies. The tour’s price of $180 offers good value considering the all-day access to both famous and hidden sites, plus the included lunch.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love natural beauty with a cultural twist, those eager to see the famous monuments but also interested in exploring lesser-known backcountry spots. It suits people with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and uneven terrain are involved, but it doesn’t require technical hiking skills.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Covers the scenic 17-mile loop of Monument Valley along with a detailed exploration of Mystery Valley.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised for friendly, knowledgeable guides who enhance your understanding of Navajo culture and geology.
• Authentic Backcountry Access: Stops at restricted areas like The Suns Eye and Ear of the Wind provide a deeper appreciation of the landscape.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines sightseeing with cultural storytelling, topped with a barbecued lunch cooked by your guide.
• Good Value: For $180, you get a full day of guided exploration, including entrance fees and a substantial scenic experience.
• Potential Dustiness: Be prepared for dusty conditions, which can affect comfort, especially in busy tourist spots.

A Closer Look at What You’ll Experience

Starting Point and Schedule

The tour kicks off bright and early at Goulding’s Trading Post, a historic hub with convenient facilities. The start time is 9:00 am, giving you a full day to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. With a maximum group size of 20 people, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience compared to larger bus tours.

Mystery Valley: Hidden Gems and Ancient Ruins

Your first stop, Mystery Valley, is a highlight. This lesser-visited area is full of **Anasazi ruins and rock art, which are seldom seen from the highway. The guided exploration here lasts about 5 hours, allowing plenty of time to walk through narrow canyons and see ancient petroglyphs and rock formations. One reviewer calls it “awe-inspiring,” emphasizing how the rock art and ruins offer a tangible connection to the past.

The guides often share stories about the geology, history, and Navajo culture, which enriches the visual spectacle. Many travelers appreciate the personal attention—the guides take the time to make sure everyone understands what they’re seeing, even making an effort to accommodate language barriers, as one reviewer noted with kind words about “Ansley.”

Scenic Lunch and Transition to Monument Valley

After Mystery Valley, the tour features a barbecue lunch, cooked fresh by your guide. This break is not only a chance to refuel but also to enjoy the outdoor vistas and chat with fellow travelers. The value here is noteworthy; a good, al fresco meal with such scenery can be surprisingly rare on tours at this price point.

Post-lunch, you’ll head into Monument Valley’s Navajo Tribal Park, where the iconic monoliths and formations await—like the Totem Pole, Three Sisters, and the North Window. Expect around 3 hours of guided sightseeing, with stops at John Ford’s Point, where many classic Western films were shot, and the Artists Point, offering sweeping vistas perfect for photos.

Backcountry Highlights

What truly elevates this tour is the chance to visit restricted, backcountry sites such as The Suns Eye and Ear of the Wind. These sites are not accessible on standard scenic drives, making this a rare opportunity to see Monument Valley’s geology up close. One review mentions how these stops are “very informative,” especially regarding the Hogan and Weaver formations.

Final Thoughts

Throughout the day, the guides earn high praise for their friendly demeanor and knowledgeable commentary. They help translate the landscape into stories, making the scenery more meaningful. Several reviewers mention that their guides went the extra mile to make everyone feel comfortable and engaged, which adds a personal touch missing from larger, more impersonal tours.

The main drawback noted is the dust—inevitable in this landscape—and the fact that some travelers might wish for even more historical details. However, the overall experience balances scenery, culture, and comfort very well.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventure-minded travelers who want to see the famous monuments plus explore hidden areas. If you’re someone who appreciates informative guides, stunning vistas, and a blend of cultural insight and natural beauty, you’ll find this tour engaging. It’s especially suited for those with moderate fitness, able to handle some walking and uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this Mystery Valley & Monument Valley All Day Tour offers an authentic glance at one of America’s most iconic landscapes, combined with the chance to venture into less-trodden backcountry sites. With a friendly guide and well-organized itinerary, it strikes a nice balance between sightseeing and storytelling—delivering a memorable, value-packed experience.

While dust might be a minor inconvenience, the breathtaking views, cultural stories, and hidden gems make this tour stand out. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to see the highlights and learn the stories behind them, all within a day that feels both adventurous and informative.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point in the late afternoon or early evening.

What is included in the price?
The cost of $180 per person includes all entrance fees, guided visits to Mystery Valley and Monument Valley, and a barbecue lunch.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s designed for those with moderate physical fitness. Expect some walking and uneven terrain, but no technical hiking or strenuous activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Gouldings Trading Post in Oljato-Monument Valley and returns there at the end of the day.

Are the guides knowledgeable about Navajo culture?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Henry and Ansley for their friendliness and cultural insights, making the experience both educational and engaging.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring essentials like water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and sturdy shoes. Prepare for dusty conditions, so consider a bandana or scarf if you’re sensitive.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

In all, if you’re seeking a comprehensive, authentic, and scenic day exploring Monument Valley and Mystery Valley, this tour delivers. It’s an excellent choice for those eager to see both the iconic landmarks and hidden wonders, all with the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable Navajo guides.