Both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon Half-Day Tour from Page

Traveling to the Southwest and eager to see Antelope Canyon? This half-day guided tour from Page offers the chance to visit both the Lower and Upper sections—a true highlight of the region. Priced at $459 per person, it’s a bit of an investment, but the experience of walking through these famous narrow slot canyons guided by Navajo-guided experts makes it worthwhile. The tour lasts about 4 hours, including transportation, giving you a taste of two of the most photogenic and awe-inspiring canyons in the area.

What we love most about this tour is the organized logistics—it includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Page, eliminating the hassle of finding your way. Plus, the small group size (max 12 travelers) promises a more intimate experience, allowing for better photo opportunities and meaningful interaction with guides. Another highlight is the opportunity to walk through both Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon, each with its own unique scenery and atmosphere.

One possible consideration is that the tour tends to be rushed—a common complaint in reviews—especially when it comes to capturing photos. Our advice? Be prepared to move quickly and have your camera ready. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate guided adventures and are comfortable with moderate physical activity, as you’ll be navigating ladders and uneven terrain.

If you’re someone who values stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the convenience of a well-organized trip, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially good for travelers who want to see both sections of the canyon in a single morning or afternoon and don’t mind a quick-paced experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Access: Visit both Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon on a guided tour.
• Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Page, AZ.
• Small Group Setting: Max of 12 travelers ensures a more personal experience.
• Expert Guides: Navajo guides are knowledgeable about the land and the canyon’s features.
• Time Management: 4-hour tour with scheduled transfers and timed visits.
• Photo Opportunities: Be prepared for a quick pace, which can make capturing photos a bit challenging.

An In-Depth Look at the Antelope Canyon Experience

How the Tour Works

This tour is designed for those who want to see both sections of the canyon—Lower and Upper Antelope—in a single half-day. The schedule kicks off with a hotel pickup in Page, typically around 8:20-8:30 am for the morning tour, or early afternoon for the other slot. The transportation is comfortable and hassle-free, making the experience easy from start to finish.

Visiting Lower Antelope Canyon

Your first stop is Lower Antelope Canyon, a favorite among many visitors for its winding, narrow passages. You’ll arrive after a quick snack break and then descend into the canyon via ladders—an adventure in itself. With about an hour to explore, your Navajo guide will lead you along the winding paths, pointing out the play of light and shadow on the canyon walls, which makes for some incredible photography.

One reviewer, Margaret_G, commented, “The canyons are absolutely spectacular. However, the tour guides really rush you, so it is very difficult to take any pictures.” This highlights the importance of staying alert and prepared if photography is a priority. The ladders and narrow walkways add a bit of a physical challenge, but they’re part of what makes the experience authentic.

Transition Time and Scenery Stop

After exploring Lower Antelope Canyon, there’s about an hour to transfer and relax before heading to the next section. The transfer time is well-organized, letting you enjoy the journey comfortably.

Visiting Upper Antelope Canyon

Next, it’s on to Tse Bighanilini Tours, where you’ll check in for your Upper Antelope Canyon visit. Guide John (if mentioned) or another Navajo guide will lead your group through this iconic slot canyon. Expect about 1.5 hours exploring the famous wave-like ceilings and light beams that spill through the narrow openings, creating mesmerizing visuals.

Reviewers mention that guides are knowledgeable, providing insight into the canyon’s geology and Navajo culture. After the tour, there’s a quick stop at a scenic viewpoint, perfect for snapping a few photos or soaking in the landscape.

Why Visit Both Sections?

Many travelers find the experience of seeing both Lower and Upper sections to be well worth the effort. The contrast in scenery—the winding, dark corridors of Lower versus the bright, airy Upper—provides a fuller appreciation of the canyon’s diversity. It feels like two different worlds, each with its own charm.

The Overall Experience

The value of this tour lies in its comprehensive access and the expert guidance. While the price point may seem high, it includes admission, permits, transportation, and guides, which can be costly if booked separately. Plus, the small group size enhances your chance for personal attention, especially when trying to get photos.

That said, a couple of reviews note the rush—some visitors feel they didn’t have enough time for photos or to soak in the scenery. This can be a trade-off when scheduling visits to two canyons in a limited time frame. To get the most out of your visit, consider arriving early with your camera ready and patience for a quick pace.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who want to see both canyons without the hassle of multiple bookings. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided walks, photo opportunities, and small-group experiences. It’s also perfect for those with moderate physical fitness, as navigating ladders and uneven surfaces is part of the journey.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

• The tour starts at the Walmart Supercenter in Page, with pickup times at 8:20-8:30 am for the morning slot or 12:30 pm for the afternoon.
• The total duration is approximately 4 hours, including transfers and exploration.
• The price of $459 per person includes admission tickets for both canyons, Navajo permits, taxes, and transportation.
• The group size is limited to 12, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Tour times are set to give ample time for each canyon visit, with a roughly 1-hour exploration for Lower and 1.5 hours for Upper.
• The experience is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.
• The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness; expect ladders and uneven surfaces.

Authentic Reviews and Tips

While most reviews praise the spectacular scenery and knowledgeable guides, some mention feeling rushed. One user said, “The guides really rush you, so it is very difficult to take any pictures,” emphasizing the importance of being prepared if photography is a priority.

Another traveler appreciated the organized logistics, noting that the pickup made the experience seamless. The small group size is a plus, offering more interaction and fewer crowds.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, guided experience of both Antelope Canyon sections with the convenience of hotel pickup, this tour offers excellent value. The expert guides help you understand the geology and Navajo culture, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

However, if photography or a leisurely pace is paramount, be prepared for a quick turnaround that might limit your photo time. It’s best suited for adventurers who want a well-organized and informative trip, willing to move briskly between stops.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors eager to tick off one of the Southwest’s most iconic sights, especially if they value small-group intimacy and guided insights. For those wanting a more relaxed or photographic experience, consider arriving early or exploring additional options.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
It includes admission tickets for both Lower and Upper Antelope Canyons, Navajo permits, taxes, and round-trip transportation from Page.

How long is the total tour?
Approximately 4 hours, from pickup to return, with about 1 hour at Lower Antelope Canyon, transfer time, and 1.5 hours at Upper.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in Page, AZ, making it very convenient.

What is the group size?
Maximum of 12 travelers ensures a more personal experience.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, travelers should have moderate physical fitness—expect to navigate ladders and uneven terrain.

Can I take photos?
While photos are allowed, some reviews suggest guides rush groups, so your chances of capturing perfect shots depend on your timing and patience.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, water, and comfortable shoes suitable for walking and climbing ladders.

Is this a good experience for photography?
Yes, but be aware of the quick pace—arriving prepared with your camera ready is advisable.

Can I cancel or change the tour?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Tours run in the morning or early afternoon, and both are good, but the morning often provides better lighting inside the canyons.

To sum it up, this combined tour offers a comprehensive, guided look at the two most famous sections of Antelope Canyon. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guided storytelling, organized logistics, and want to see both canyons in a single trip. While it may feel a bit rushed for photographers, the breathtaking scenery and expert guides make it a memorable part of any Southwest adventure. Just arrive prepared, and you’ll leave with incredible images and stories to tell.