Vegas: Upper Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend Tour with Lunch

Vegas: Upper Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend Tour with Lunch

Visiting Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend on a day trip from Las Vegas is one of those bucket-list experiences you won’t want to miss. For $279 per person, you get a 13-hour excursion filled with jaw-dropping scenery, a knowledgeable Navajo guide, and plenty of photo opportunities. The tour departs from the Treasure Island Hotel and takes you through some of Arizona’s most iconic landscapes, all in the comfort of a luxury, WiFi-equipped bus.

What we really appreciate about this trip are two things. First is the guided walking tour of Antelope Canyon, where your Navajo guide shares stories and cultural insights that add depth to the visual spectacle. Second, the view from Horseshoe Bend’s overlook offers a spectacular 1,000-foot-high vantage point that makes for unforgettable photos.

One potential consideration is the long day — while the drive is scenic, you’ll want to prepare for a full day of activity, including a 1.5-mile round-trip hike at Horseshoe Bend. And, if you’re sensitive to cold, the bus’s air conditioning might be a bit chilly, as some reviews noted.

This tour suits travelers who love landscapes, photography, and cultural experiences, especially those eager to see two of the Southwest’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips or overnight stays.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Visits both Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend with included tickets and permits.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable Navajo guides enhance the tour with local stories and cultural context.
• Convenient Transportation: Luxury bus with WiFi makes the long drive comfortable and connected.
• Photo Opportunities: Stunning landscape views and canyon lighting provide perfect photo moments.
• All-Inclusive: Boxed lunch, water, and snacks keep you energized throughout the day.
• Active but manageable: 1.5-mile hike to Horseshoe Bend requires walking over uneven terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

Departure and Transport

We begin our adventure at the Treasure Island Hotel, where the pickup point is conveniently located on Mystère Dreams Ave, near the parking garage. The bus is spacious, air-conditioned, and equipped with WiFi, which is a welcome amenity after a night or morning in Las Vegas. The drive to Arizona takes around four hours, but the scenery makes the time pass quickly.

Along the way, you’ll pass the Virgin River Gorge and the vast, colorful rocks of the Grand Staircase-National Monument. This is an excellent opportunity to soak in the landscape as your guide narrates stories and points out geological features that you might not notice on your own.

Antelope Canyon

Arriving at Antelope Canyon, you’ll join a guided walking tour through one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world. Your Navajo guide, who often shares personal stories and cultural insights, will lead you through the sculpted sandstone walls that glow with shifting shades of orange, red, and violet.

The experience here is all about the visuals — you’ll see sunlight streaming through narrow openings, creating ‘rays’ that dance across the canyon’s walls. The kaleidoscope effect of colors and patterns is mesmerizing. The guided nature of the tour means no wandering alone — but it also means no professional photography inside the canyon, as per policy, to preserve the delicate environment.

Horseshoe Bend

Next, the journey continues to Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River has carved out a dramatic horseshoe-shaped curve in the landscape. Here, you’ll hike approximately 1.5 miles round-trip over sand and flat rocks, so comfortable shoes are a must. The short trek offers rewarding views from an overlook perched on a high promontory.

From the vantage point, you’ll get a clear view of the 1,000-foot drop to the river below. This spot is perfect for wide-angle shots, and many find it inspiring to stand at the edge and look down at the twisting river.

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Return Journey

After soaking in the views, you’ll hop back on the bus for the return trip to Las Vegas. The tour wraps up with a drop-off at the original meeting point, leaving you with plenty of stories and photos of a truly extraordinary day.

What’s Included and What to Bring

This tour includes admission tickets to both Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, the Navajo Nation permit fee, a guide, round-trip luxury transportation with WiFi, a boxed lunch, granola bar, and bottled water. It offers good value considering the exclusive access and guided insights.

You should bring your passport or ID card, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and perhaps a light jacket for the bus if you tend to get cold. Remember, professional camera and video recording are not allowed inside the canyon, though you can photograph Horseshoe Bend from the overlook.

The Experience in Detail

The organized nature of this tour makes it a practical choice for those who want to see these natural wonders without the hassle of renting cars or navigating unfamiliar roads. The timing is well-planned, with the early start allowing you to beat the crowds and enjoy the sites in relative tranquility.

Guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. One reviewer remarked, “Our guide Martin was very interesting,” highlighting how a good guide can elevate the experience with engaging storytelling. Many reviews emphasize how well-organized everything was, from pickups to meals.

The scenery along the drive is an unmissable part of the trip. The Virgin River Gorge, with its dramatic cliffs and twists, is a scenic highlight that prepares you for the landscapes to come. At Antelope Canyon, the interplay of light and shadow creates a constantly changing canvas — a photographer’s paradise, but also captivating even if you’re just there to take it all in.

The hike to Horseshoe Bend is manageable for most, but it does require walking on uneven terrain. This is worth noting if you have mobility concerns, as some reviewers pointed out that the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or who rely on walking aids.

The boxed lunch is simple but sufficient to keep you energized. Some travelers noted that the bus was quite cold, so packing a sweater or jacket might be a good idea. The snacks and water provided are appreciated for helping stave off hunger during the long day.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves striking landscapes, photography, and learning about the cultural significance of the places you visit, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a guided experience rather than trying to organize the logistics themselves.

It’s particularly suited for those who don’t mind a long day on the road, as the drive from Las Vegas is about four hours each way. The guided nature and provided amenities make it a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a straightforward way to see two of the Southwest’s most iconic sights.

People who appreciate storytelling and cultural insights will also find this especially rewarding. The positive reviews highlight “interesting guides” who bring the landscapes alive with their commentary.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers remarkable value for anyone eager to see the breathtaking beauty of the American Southwest without the stress of planning. The combination of guided walks, scenic drives, and cultural tidbits makes it more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a memorable day that connects travelers with the natural and cultural landscape of this iconic region.

While it’s a long day, the scenery and guided insights make it well worth the effort. Just be prepared for the walking involved at Horseshoe Bend, and pack some warm clothes if you tend to feel chilly on the bus. If you love landscapes, photography, and learning about Navajo culture, this tour will deliver a truly authentic and inspiring experience.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip luxury bus transportation from Las Vegas, with WiFi on board for your convenience.

How long is the drive to Antelope Canyon?
The drive from Las Vegas to Page, Arizona, where Antelope Canyon is located, takes around four hours.

Are tickets to Antelope Canyon included?
Yes, your admission and Navajo permit fee are included in the price, so no extra tickets are needed.

Can I take professional photos inside Antelope Canyon?
No, professional camera and video recording are not permitted inside the canyon to protect the environment.

Is the hike to Horseshoe Bend difficult?
It’s a 1.5-mile round-trip walk over uneven terrain, which is manageable for most but may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID, comfortable shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, and possibly a light jacket for the bus. Don’t forget your camera (for Horseshoe Bend), but leave professional gear at home for inside the canyon.

Is food included?
A boxed lunch, granola bar, and bottled water are included to keep you fueled during the day.

What if the weather is bad?
Destinations can close due to weather conditions, so it’s good to check ahead. The tour provider offers a full refund or alternative dates if cancellation occurs.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

What are the reviews like?
Travelers rate the tour at 4.6 out of 5, praising the organization, guides, and unforgettable scenery. Many highlight the knowledgeable guides and the well-managed logistics.

This guided day trip from Las Vegas effectively combines natural wonder, cultural storytelling, and comfort, making it a compelling choice for anyone wanting to see the Southwest’s crown jewels without the hassle. It’s perfect for those who value knowledgeable guides, scenic beauty, and a hassle-free experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: