Guided Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Las Vegas

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines jaw-dropping scenery with cultural insights, this tour from Las Vegas is worth considering. For around $209 per person, you get to explore Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Glen Canyon, all in one comfortably-paced day that lasts about 13 to 14 hours. The tour is operated by Empire Vacations and features round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable Navajo guide, and all entrance fees included.

Two things really stand out about this experience. First, the spectacular vistas—from the swirling sandstone formations in Antelope Canyon to the iconic horseshoe-shaped bend of the Colorado River. Second, the guides’ local expertise and friendly attitude—they add real value with their stories and tips, making the geology and Navajo culture more approachable.

A possible consideration is the long hours and walking involved—some reviews mention feeling rushed or dealing with delays. Also, since hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll need to meet at the designated spot outside the Luxor Hotel. This tour suits travelers who love nature’s photographic drama, don’t mind an early start, and want to see these wonders without the hassle of planning each stop.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed day with some of the Southwest’s most stunning sights, this tour will serve you well—especially if you enjoy meaningful guided experiences and are prepared for a full day on the road.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Visit Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Glen Canyon in a single day.
• Comfortable travel: Transportation is in air-conditioned vehicles with WiFi and restrooms on full-sized buses.
• Expert local guides: Navajo guides provide insightful commentary and help with photography.
• All entrance fees included: No hidden costs for canyon or overlook access.
• Long but rewarding day: Be prepared for 13-14 hours of travel and sightseeing.
• Suitable for most travelers: Requires walking over uneven surfaces, with a minimum age of 7.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Start: An Early Morning Drive into the Southwest

The tour begins at 6:30 am, meaning a very early start—crucial to fitting all the sights in. Transportation is in a climate-controlled coach or van, with options depending on group size. You’ll appreciate the WiFi, restrooms, and ample space, especially after a night of sleep.

From Las Vegas, the journey toward Navajo territory covers about 275 miles and roughly 4.5 hours of driving each way. The drive itself offers changing scenery—desert landscapes, distant mountains—and sets the stage for the day ahead.

First Stop: Breakfast in St. George

Your first break is in St. George, Utah, where you can grab breakfast. The town is home to the world’s oldest Mormon temple, which is an interesting piece of local history to note even if you’re just passing through. It’s a brief stop, about 20 minutes, but enough to stretch legs and fuel up.

Horseshoe Bend: The First Big Viewpoint

Next, you’ll head toward Horseshoe Bend, a spectacular and widely photographed meander of the Colorado River. Standing atop a cliff 1,000 feet above the water, you’ll get sweeping views of the horseshoe-shaped canyon carved by millions of years of geological forces. The sheer scale and vibrant hues of the canyon walls make it a photographer’s dream.

One reviewer called it “a moment of awe and wonder,” and we agree. The view is so iconic it’s almost hard to believe it’s real. You’ll spend about an hour here, giving you plenty of time for photos and soaking in the scenery.

The Canyon Experience: Antelope Canyon

The highlight for many is Antelope Canyon, specifically the Lower Canyon, where winding, surreal formations await. Your Navajo guide will lead you through narrow passages, showcasing nature’s sculpture—wind, water, and sand working together over millennia.

Sunlight shafts filtering through the narrow cracks often create breathtaking beams of light—a photographer’s paradise. The guide also shares stories about Navajo folklore connected to these natural wonders, adding depth to the experience. Expect to walk about 1.5 miles over uneven terrain, including some steep stairs in Lower Antelope.

Some reviews mention feeling rushed at this stop, with tours lasting around 1 hour and 30 minutes. But most agree that the spectacular formations and light effects are worth it. One traveler described it as “mind-blowing,” and we’d say it’s definitely a highlight.

Lunch and the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook

After the canyon exploration, you’ll enjoy a scheduled lunch break. While the tour doesn’t specify the meal details, the focus is on providing a substantial stop—enough time to refuel before heading to the Glen Canyon Overlook. Here, you get a panoramic view of the dam and surrounding landscape, a fitting last scenic stop before heading back.

The overlook offers a broad vista of the Glen Canyon, emphasizing the vastness of this natural and man-made landscape. It’s a relaxed way to appreciate the scale of the area before the drive back.

Return Journey

Your return to Las Vegas is expected around 7 pm, though traffic, weather, or unforeseen delays can shift the timing. Some reviews mention feeling rushed or delayed, but most find the day well-managed given the scope of sights.

What We Love About This Tour

The Guided Experience with Navajo Guides: Their storytelling and local expertise boost the value, turning a sightseeing trip into a cultural learning experience. Their insight into Navajo folklore and geology makes each stop more meaningful.

The Views: From the sweeping curves of Horseshoe Bend to the intricate formations of Antelope Canyon, the scenery is genuinely stunning. As one reviewer put it, “the views we saw were amazing,” and they truly are.

Comfort and Convenience: The air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi, and restroom access make a long day more comfortable. The round-trip transportation saves you the trouble of planning logistics, especially since hotel pickup isn’t included.

Entrance Fees Included: No surprise costs—once you pay, you’re in for Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, adding to the overall value.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the tour offers excellent value, the length and walking involved can be demanding. Several reviews mention feeling rushed at stops or dealing with delays, so good planning and patience are key. Also, dress comfortably and wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven surfaces.

Some travelers noted issues with miscommunication about the canyon visited, with reports of being taken to Canyon X instead of Lower or Upper Antelope Canyon. It’s important to understand that specific canyon entrances aren’t guaranteed, but the tour guarantees the overall experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those who want to see major Southwest landmarks in one day without the hassle of driving or booking separate tours. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided storytelling, love stunning landscapes, and are comfortable with long hours and walking.

It’s also suitable for families with children aged 7 and up, provided they’re able to walk over uneven terrain. If you’re looking for a photo-focused, well-organized day trip that balances scenic wonder with cultural insight, this trip will suit you.

The Bottom Line

This guided tour offers a well-rounded experience of some of the Southwest’s most photogenic and awe-inspiring sites. With knowledgeable Navajo guides, all entrance fees included, and comfortable transportation, it’s a strong choice for travelers who want a hassle-free way to witness iconic landscapes.

While it’s a long day with some walking involved, the stunning views and cultural stories make it worthwhile. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind an early start and appreciate guided insights into Navajo culture and geology.

If you’re after a value-packed, memorable adventure that covers multiple highlights in one trip, this tour makes for a compelling option. Just be prepared for the pace and occasional delays, and bring your camera – this is a day you’ll want to remember.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. You’ll need to meet at the designated point outside the Luxor Hotel and Casino.

What type of vehicle is used?
Depending on group size, you’ll travel in either a bus or van that is air-conditioned, with WiFi and restrooms on full-sized buses.

How long is the drive from Las Vegas?
The journey covers about 275 miles each way, roughly 4.5 hours, giving you time to enjoy the scenery en route.

Which section of Antelope Canyon will we visit?
This tour visits either Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon depending on availability. Both are spectacular, with different features.

Is there a minimum age for participants?
Yes, children must be at least 7 years old to participate, due to walking over uneven terrain.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but bottled water is provided. There is a scheduled break for lunch.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if the canyon is closed for safety, a refund may be issued at the discretion of Navajo authorities.

This tour strikes a solid balance between adventure, comfort, and storytelling. It really shines for those eager to see the Southwest’s most iconic vistas with a knowledgeable guide, all while traveling in comfort. For families, photography enthusiasts, or anyone craving a full-day dose of natural beauty, it’s a journey worth considering.