Antelope Canyon X Admission Ticket

Exploring Antelope Canyon X: A Guided Navajo Experience in Page, Arizona

When you think of Antelope Canyon, images of swirling, light-dappled sandstone corridors likely come to mind. What many travelers don’t realize is that there’s a lesser-known but equally captivating section called Canyon X. For $69 per person, this 1.5-hour guided tour offers a chance to walk through a spectacular slot canyon carved by floodwaters and wind, with the added bonus of fewer crowds and more personalized attention. Led by Navajo guides, you’ll discover the beautiful X-shaped formations and learn how these natural sculptures came to be.

What we love most about this tour is the intimate atmosphere it provides. With a maximum group size of 15, you won’t feel overwhelmed by crowds, and your guide’s detailed explanations and photography tips truly elevate the experience. Plus, the chance to see a less-visited part of Antelope Canyon means quieter moments of awe. The only potential downside? You need to arrive promptly at your check-in time, and the $8 Navajo Nation permit fee in cash is an extra expense. This tour suits travelers who value authentic, well-organized guided outings and are prepared for moderate walking and some stairs.

Key Points

• Authentic Navajo-Guided Experience: Learn about the canyon’s formation from knowledgeable Navajo guides.
• Fewer Crowds: Visit a less-visited section for a more peaceful experience.
• Photographer’s Dream: Beautiful lighting and formations perfect for photos, with guides helpful with capturing your shots.
• Moderate Physical Activity: Expect some stairs and walking—good fitness levels will enhance your experience.
• Clear Booking and Timing: Arrive on schedule; cancellations are not available, but weather cancellations are refunded or rescheduled.
• Additional Fees: A cash permit fee ($8) applies, and small bags only are recommended.

A Deeper Look into the Antelope Canyon X Tour

Location and Access

The Antelope Canyon X tour departs from just outside Page, Arizona, on Highway 98. Because this canyon lies on private Navajo land, only guided tours are permitted, ensuring you get expert insights and a safe environment. The tour is arranged through National Park Express, and most travelers book about 20 days in advance, a sign of its popularity.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Your adventure begins at a designated meeting point where you check in with your guide. After paying the $8 Navajo Nation permit fee (cash only), you’ll hop onto a shuttle that takes you around 3 miles to the canyon’s entrance. From there, it’s a short walk—about 100 meters—into the first part of Canyon X, where the sandstone walls are sculpted into mesmerizing shapes and vibrant colors.

Your guide, often praised for their knowledge and patience, will lead you through two distinct sections of the canyon. Throughout, you’ll be encouraged to take photos, with guides often assisting or even offering photography tips. The light filtering through the narrow openings creates stunning effects, especially if you visit at the right time of day, making your photos truly special.

The Scenic Highlights

The X-shaped formations are the signature feature of this canyon, formed over thousands of years by flood erosion and wind. The walls are painted in pink, red, and orange hues, and the narrow corridors create a dramatic contrast of light and shadow. Reviewers consistently mention the spectacular views and beautiful colors, with one noting, “the formations and colors are amazing and the light and shadow makes it special.”

Tour Group Size and Atmosphere

One of the tour’s biggest advantages is its small group size—a maximum of 15 travelers—allowing for a more relaxed experience and plenty of opportunities to ask questions or pose for photos. Guides like Orvin and Ethel receive praise for their friendly demeanor and ability to explain the canyon’s geology in an engaging way. Several reviews mention how guides took time to help with taking pictures and offered interesting insights about the land.

Physical Considerations

While the tour isn’t strenuous overall, some parts require climbing stairs or navigating uneven terrain. Reviewers note the moderate physical fitness needed, especially with the steep slope or steps near the entrance and within the canyon. Pack comfortable, sturdy shoes and consider bringing water, particularly in warmer months, since there are no restrooms on-site.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Reservations are confirmed at the time of booking, and punctuality is crucial—arrive at your check-in time to avoid losing your spot. The tour is non-refundable, but if weather makes the experience unsafe, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Since many reviews highlight the importance of good weather and timely arrival, planning ahead is wise.

Pricing and Value

At $69, this tour offers a competitive price for access to a remarkable natural wonder, especially considering the guided expertise, small groups, and personalized photos. Keep in mind the additional $8 Navajo permit fee—it’s paid in cash and adds to the overall expense, but it’s a small price for the privilege of visiting on Navajo land.

Why This Tour Is Perfect for You

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for an authentic Navajo-guided tour that balances stunning scenery with intimate, crowd-free exploration. It suits travelers who are moderately fit and enjoy photography, as guides are eager to help capture your best shots. It’s also perfect if you prefer a more relaxed pace without the crowds often found at the more popular upper and lower canyon sections.

If you value local insights and want a less commercialized experience on Navajo land, Canyon X offers a genuine connection to the land and its history. Plus, because it’s less crowded, you can spend more time appreciating the colorful formations and unique X-shapes that make this canyon so distinct.

The Sum Up

Choosing to visit Antelope Canyon X provides a balanced blend of natural beauty, guided expertise, and tranquility. You’ll get to walk through an impressive, less-visited part of one of the most photographed landscapes in the Southwest, with the added benefit of helpful guides and fewer travelers. This experience is especially suitable for photographers, nature lovers, and those wanting a meaningful Navajo cultural experience.

The small group size, expert guides, and stunning vistas make this tour a fantastic value—particularly when you consider the quality of experience versus cost. It’s a great option for travelers who want a more personal and authentic visit and are willing to start early and arrive on time for the best light and fewer crowds.

For those seeking a well-organized, visually spectacular, and culturally meaningful adventure, Antelope Canyon X is a top choice. Just remember to bring your camera, sturdy shoes, and a sense of adventure!

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the Antelope Canyon X Admission Ticket?
No, hotel pickup is not included. You will need to make your own way to the meeting point just outside Page, AZ, on Highway 98.

What can I expect to see at Antelope Canyon X?
You’ll explore two sections of the canyon with distinctive X-shaped formations, colored walls in pink, red, and orange, and light beams that make perfect photography moments.

How strenuous is the tour?
The terrain involves walking and climbing moderate stairs. A moderate fitness level is recommended, especially for the short steep slopes and steps.

How much walking is involved?
Expect to walk about 100 meters into the first part of the canyon and then about 200 meters to the second section, totaling a few hundred meters of light walking.

Are restrooms available onsite?
No, there are no restrooms at the canyon. Use the facilities before departure at the meeting point.

Are there additional fees I need to be aware of?
Yes, the Navajo permit fee of $8 per person must be paid cash at the site. Bags should be small as only personal-sized bags are allowed inside.

Visiting Antelope Canyon X offers a scenic, educational, and peaceful escape into one of nature’s most striking sculptures. With knowledgeable guides, fewer travelers, and breathtaking views, it’s an experience worth planning your trip around—just don’t forget your camera!