Secret Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour

Discover the Hidden Gems of Page, Arizona: Secret Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour

This tour takes you to two of the most iconic natural wonders near Page, Arizona, in a way most visitors don’t get to experience. For $235 per person, you’ll spend about three hours exploring the secret Antelope Canyon, a less crowded and more mysterious cousin of the famous Upper and Lower canyons, and then enjoy a private viewpoint of Horseshoe Bend, one of the most breathtaking views of the Colorado River. Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience is designed for small groups, maxing out at 12 people, which means you’ll get plenty of personalized attention.

What really sets this tour apart are the off-road 4×4 adventure across scenic, rugged Navajo land and the exclusive access to lesser-visited spots. We love the way the off-road ride offers a chance to see desert wildlife like coyotes and hawks in their natural habitat, and how the small group size means there’s ample time for photography and relaxation.

One consideration to keep in mind is that, since it’s a small, intimate tour, it’s non-refundable. If weather conditions turn sour, you might need to reschedule, but the tour’s flexibility in such cases is a plus. This tour is perfect for travelers who value authentic, less crowded experiences, and who enjoy blending scenic drives with quality sightseeing.

If you’re looking for a memorable, well-rounded adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural insights, this tour hits all those notes. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or simply seeking an escape from tourist crowds, it’s an option worth considering.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to Secret Antelope Canyon with small group sizes for intimate exploration.
• Private Horseshoe Bend viewpoint with minimal walking distance, avoiding crowds.
• Epic 4×4 off-road ride through scenic Navajo landscapes, with wildlife sightings.
• Expert guides who share local insights, photography tips, and Navajo culture.
• Good value for money considering the personalized experience and included permits.
• Weather-dependent; tours may be canceled or rescheduled in poor conditions.

An In-Depth Look at the Secret Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour

What Makes This Tour Special?

This experience hits a sweet spot for travelers craving something beyond the typical crowd-filled attractions. The secret Antelope Canyon is still relatively undiscovered compared to the famous Upper Antelope Canyon. It’s located in a remote part of Lake Powell and the Antelope Canyon system, which means fewer visitors and more opportunity for quiet reflection, photography, and connection with nature. According to reviews, the exclusivity of this canyon is a major plus, with many participants remarking on how “you do not want to miss this one.”

The Horseshoe Bend Overlook is another highlight, but what makes this tour stand out is the private access to a viewpoint just 100 meters from the edge. This short walk from the tour truck minimizes the crowds and long lines found at the public parking lot, giving you a more relaxed experience and the chance to take stunning photos, especially at sunset, as noted by several reviewers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start and Transportation:
The tour begins at 821 US-89 in Page, Arizona. From there, you’ll hop into a shaded, open-air 4×4 vehicle for a scenic six-mile drive through the desert landscape, a part of the Navajo Nation. This ride, lasting about 30 minutes, is often praised for its wildlife sightings—coyotes, foxes, hawks, and even owls are not uncommon. The open-air aspect means you feel the wind and sun while soaking in the scenery, which many find more engaging than enclosed buses.

Secret Canyon Visit:
After the drive, the 4×4 takes you to the canyon’s entrance, followed by a short 300-meter nature walk into the canyon itself. This small group setup allows for better photos and a more personal experience. Reviewers often mention how the guides go beyond just showing the canyon—they share insights about the land, the Navajo culture, and how to take stunning photos, especially with smartphones.

Horseshoe Bend Viewpoint:
The final stop is at Horseshoe Bend, where the tour bypasses the crowded public parking lot, taking a private dirt road that deposits you just 100 meters from the rim. The view of the Colorado River looping in a giant horseshoe shape is breathtaking, especially at sunset or sunrise, as many reviews highlight. Visitors get plenty of time here to take photos and soak in the scenery without the usual throngs of travelers.

The Experience and Guides

Guides like Jeri, Chance, and Moses receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to help with photography. One reviewer admired how their guide played the flute, adding a personal touch to the trip. The guides also share cultural insights about the Navajo Nation, which enriches the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The Value for Your Money

At $235, the tour isn’t cheap, but considering it includes permits, transportation, and personalized access to incredible locations, many find it very good value. The small group size and exclusive access mean you avoid the crowds and get more quality time at each site—an advantage many reviewers highlight. Several comments mention how this tour offers stunning photo opportunities, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts or those who want to avoid the typical tourist rush.

What About the Downsides?

The main potential downside is the non-refundable policy. If weather causes cancellation, you’ll need to reschedule or accept a refund. Also, the tour doesn’t include bottled water or snacks, so bring your own if you need sustenance during the trip.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who crave a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path adventure. It suits those who are keen on photography, wildlife, Navajo culture, or simply want a quieter way to experience scenic Arizona. If your priority is avoiding crowds and capturing great photos in a relaxed setting, this tour checks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a genuine and exclusive look at some of the Southwest’s most iconic landscapes, this tour offers a compelling package. The combination of small-group access, off-road adventure, and cultural insights makes it stand out. It’s a true value for travelers who appreciate quality over quantity, and who want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

Whether you’re a photographer eager for stunning shots, a nature lover wanting wildlife encounters, or a traveler interested in Navajo culture, this tour delivers an unforgettable experience. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge, combined with the breathtaking scenery, ensure that you’ll come away with not just pictures, but stories to tell.

To sum it up, if you’re looking to see Secret Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend without the crowds, in a comfortable, guided setting with a touch of adventure, this tour is worth considering. It embodies the kind of authentic, memorable experience that sticks with you long after you’ve left the Southwest.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 are not permitted on this tour, mainly due to safety reasons and the nature of the off-road ride.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including transportation, exploration, and photography time.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the Navajo Nation permit fee, transportation in a shaded 4×4 vehicle, a local guide, and entry to both Secret Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you should bring your own bottled water and snacks, as these are not included.

What about transportation?
You’ll travel in an open-air, shaded 4×4 vehicle, which makes the ride scenic and engaging, especially for wildlife sightings.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to weather conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a refund.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 12, which provides a more personalized experience compared to larger bus tours.

This small-group, adventure-rich tour offers a genuine look at some of the Southwest’s hidden treasures, making it a standout choice for those wanting quality, culture, and scenery—all in one memorable outing.