Antelope Canyon X Guided Tour with Photo Upgrade — a Closer Look
If you’re headed to Page, Arizona, and want a taste of the incredible scenery that has made this region famous, the Antelope Canyon X Tour offers an engaging experience. Priced at $88 per person for a roughly one-hour guided walk, this tour takes you inside the lesser-known but equally breathtaking Canyon X, located on Navajo land just southeast of Page.
What we particularly love about this experience is the chance to explore a more intimate part of the canyon — fewer crowds mean more space for marveling at the X-shaped formations carved by floodwaters and wind over millennia. Plus, the option to upgrade to a photo tour gives you the best chance to capture those iconic light beams and intricate sandstone textures, all with the guidance of a knowledgeable Navajo guide.
A small but important consideration: this tour involves some walking in uneven terrain, and late arrivals for check-in result in forfeited tickets — so punctuality is key. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of education, scenery, and photography, especially if you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity.
Key Points
- Unique Location: Explore Canyon X, a quieter, less commercial section of Antelope Canyon.
- Guided Experience: Navajo guides share insights about the canyon’s geology and formation.
- Photo Upgrade: Access the best spots for photography with guidance — a real plus for shutterbugs.
- Fewer Crowds: Experience a more relaxed atmosphere compared to busier sections.
- Convenient Tour Length: About an hour, perfect for fitting into a busy travel schedule.
- Good Value: Includes Navajo permit fee and offers a meaningful, authentic experience.
An Honest Look at the Antelope Canyon X Tour
When we think of Antelope Canyon, the twinkling light beams and undulating walls often come to mind. While the more famous Upper and Lower sections are stunning, they can also be crowded and overrun. That’s where Canyon X, accessible via this guided tour, shines — offering a chance to see a less touristy side of the region.
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The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect
This tour starts at the designated meeting point just outside Page, Arizona, with a brief drive to the canyon entrance. You’re transported in a small, clean van — a point that many reviewers appreciated, noting the friendly and professional guides. The whole experience lasts around an hour, which is enough time to appreciate the canyon’s natural beauty without feeling rushed.
Your first stop is about 100 meters into the canyon, where you’ll explore a narrow slit gorge full of mystery and unique formations. Here, the landscape is characterized by hidden crevices and textured walls, offering a sense of discovery. As you walk with your guide, you’ll reach a second gorge after a 200-meter walk, where the X-shaped formations become more apparent. From this vantage point, you can see how floods and wind carved the canyon over countless years.
The Significance of Guided Tours
A Navajo guide accompanies you throughout, sharing insights into the geology and cultural significance of this land. Many reviews highlighted guides like Orvis, Jason, and Bamby for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to help. Their storytelling adds depth to the visit, transforming it from just a walk into an informative experience.
Why the Photo Tour Is Worth It
For those interested in photography, the upgrade is a significant advantage. The guide will lead you to the best spots to shoot and help you get the perfect shot of the canyon’s famed light beams and layered textures. The tour allows one camera bag and a tripod — enabling you to capture the canyon’s details without feeling rushed or cramped.
Reviewers like Ronald and Maureen loved the ample time for pictures and appreciated guides who offered to take photos of guests, making the experience more personal and memorable.
The Crowds and Timing
While most reviews praise the peaceful atmosphere, some note that during holidays or peak times, the canyon can get a bit crowded, leading to a faster pace and less time to enjoy the views. If avoiding crowds is important, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or early in the day.
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The Practicalities: Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Arrive at least 20 minutes early — latecomers forfeit their tickets.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the canyon is unshaded and sun exposure is significant.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as terrain can be uneven.
- Pack light — only small bags allowed.
- Remember, no tripods or monopods are permitted unless you upgrade to the photo tour.
- Be prepared for moderate walking and some climbing.
The Authenticity and Educational Value
Many travelers commented on the depth of knowledge their guides shared about the canyon’s formation and history. While some wished for a bit more detailed geology, most appreciated the friendly and informative service. It’s clear that guides take pride in sharing their land and stories, adding value beyond just taking pictures.
Fewer Crowds, More Personal Experience
Compared to other tours, the smaller group size (max 15 people) fosters a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere. As one reviewer mentioned, “Super friendly staff, great experience with fewer people,” which means more space to look around, take photos, and really soak in the scenery.
The Cost and Value Proposition
At $88, this tour offers good value considering it includes the permit fee, guided insight, and access to a beautiful, unique canyon away from the crowds. The photo upgrade is an additional charge but well worth it for serious shutterbugs looking to get that perfect shot. Some reviews noted that booking directly with the operator could be more economical than third-party vendors.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers who value personal attention, authentic Navajo-led insights, and less crowded environments. It suits those with moderate mobility, comfortable with walking on uneven terrain. Photographers will especially appreciate the upgrade option for capturing the canyon’s best angles.
If you’re happy to spend about an hour exploring a stunning natural formation with friendly guides and fewer crowds, this tour aligns perfectly with those goals. It’s also a good choice for anyone seeking a calmer, more personal experience compared to busier sections of Antelope Canyon.
The Sum Up: Why This Tour Is a Solid Choice
In the world of Antelope Canyon tours, this Canyon X experience offers a well-rounded, authentic, and more relaxed alternative to the often overcrowded upper sections. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach add a human touch that makes each visit special. The photo upgrade ensures photographers get their best shots without feeling rushed or lost in the crowd.
While the cost might seem high compared to booking directly, many found the value justified by the quality of the experience, the small group size, and the opportunity to see a less-touristy side of one of the most beautiful natural sites in the American Southwest.
This tour is best suited for curious travelers, photography enthusiasts, and those wanting a more personal, less hectic canyon adventure. It’s perfect for a morning or afternoon outing that combines natural wonder with authentic Navajo guidance, ensuring a memorable visit that’s both educational and visually stunning.
FAQ: Practical Questions About the Tour
Is hotel pickup included in the Antelope “Canyon X” Admission Ticket?
No, hotel pickup is not included. You’ll need to make your way to the meeting point just outside Page, AZ, on HWY 98.
What is there to see at Antelope “Canyon X”?
You’ll explore the X-shaped formations carved into Navajo sandstone, created by millions of years of flooding and wind. Guides will help you spot popular photo spots and explain the geology.
How strenuous is the tour?
It’s moderate — you’ll need to climb some stairs and walk approximately 100 meters into the canyon, then another 200 meters to reach the second section.
How much walking is involved?
Expect around 300 meters of walking in total, mostly on flat or mildly uneven terrain.
Are there restrooms available?
No, there are no restrooms inside the canyon. Use the facilities at the meeting point before departure.
Are there additional fees?
Yes, a Navajo permit fee of $8.00 per person and a guide service fee of $2.00 per person (or $10 for the photo tour) are paid in cash at check-in.
Can I bring a backpack or camera gear?
Small bags are allowed, but tripods and monopods require the photo upgrade. Large backpacks are not permitted.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers, wear sturdy closed-toe shoes, and bring sun protection like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
In all, this tour combines the beauty of nature, cultural authenticity, and photographic opportunity into a package that’s hard to beat for those who want a more personalized visit to Antelope Canyon. Whether you’re a casual traveler or a photography buff, you’re likely to come away with a deeper appreciation of this stunning corner of the Southwest.