Page: Upper & Lower Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour

Explore the Awe-Inspiring Beauty of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend with a Guided Tour from Page

If you’re headed to northern Arizona and want to see some of the most iconic geological and scenic marvels, the Upper & Lower Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour offers an all-in-one experience. For $571 per person and lasting around six hours, this guided excursion takes you through two stunning slot canyons and ends with a breathtaking overlook of the Colorado River’s famous horseshoe-shaped bend. Guided by local Navajo guides, you’ll get a taste of both the natural wonders and the culture that surrounds these remarkable landmarks.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines geological marvels with cultural insights. Seeing the light beams shining through the narrow openings of the canyon—especially during mid-morning or early afternoon—is a visual feast that photographs just can’t fully capture. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional Navajo hogan and learning about Navajo culture enriches the experience beyond just sightseeing.

A possible consideration? The tour involves moderate hiking over uneven terrain, with ladders and narrow passageways. It’s not suited for travelers with mobility issues or a low level of fitness. But if you’re up for a bit of walking and climbing, you’ll find the journey well worth it.

This tour is ideal for those who are eager to see some of the most photogenic spots in the American Southwest, enjoy a comfortable, guided experience, and appreciate cultural context. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free day that covers both natural beauty and local heritage.

Key Points

• Stunning Geological Formations: Both canyons showcase incredible shapes and colors shaped by water and wind over thousands of years.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Navajo traditions, including a visit to a traditional hogan, adding depth to the sightseeing.
• Photo Opportunities: Light beams in the Lower Canyon and flowing shapes in the Upper provide perfect photo moments.
• Convenient Logistics: Pickup from select hotels, guided hikes, all permits included, and a Subway lunch make the day seamless.
• Moderate Hike: Expect uneven terrain, ladders, and stairs, suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees, permits, bottled water, snacks, and lunch are covered, providing good value for the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting with Comfort and Convenience
Your day begins with a pickup from select hotels in Page, where a spacious van awaits. This is a great way to avoid the hassle of renting a car or navigating on your own. The transfer itself is relaxed, and you’ll ride in comfort while your guide shares insights about the region and its geology. The group size tends to be small enough for a personalized experience, and the guide is there to answer questions and enhance your understanding.

The Lower Antelope Canyon
Arriving at the Lower Canyon, you’ll descend into a world of swirling, curved sandstone walls that seem to dance around you. The descent involves steps and ladders, and the terrain is uneven, so be prepared for some light climbing. This part of the tour is about 1.1 miles of moderate hiking, with narrow passageways that encourage close-up exploration of the canyon’s intricate textures and colors.

Described as a “vibrantly-colored canyon,” the Lower Antelope is famous for its dramatic lighting effects. Your guide may share tips on how to best capture the canyon’s beauty with your camera, making this a favorite for photography enthusiasts. The narrow slots create stunning shadows and highlights, especially when sunlight filters through openings above.

Cultural Connection
Along the way, you’ll stop to see a traditional Navajo hogan, providing a glimpse into the lives of the Dineh people. This cultural component offers a respectful and educational perspective, enriching the sightseeing with stories and insights about Navajo traditions and history. Many reviewers appreciate this aspect, stating it adds a meaningful layer to the experience.

Lunch Break and Rest
After exploring the Lower Canyon, you’ll have a chance to relax at a picnic area, where a Subway lunch awaits. This is a convenient way to refuel before tackling the Upper Canyon. You’ll also have the option to purchase additional snacks and drinks, giving flexibility for those with big appetites or specific tastes.

The Upper Antelope Canyon
Post-lunch, the tour continues with a visit to the Upper Canyon, renowned for its smooth, flowing sandstone formations and the spectacular light beams that often shine down during mid-morning to early afternoon hours—an image that appears frequently in travel magazines. The hike here is about 1 mile, and the terrain is generally accessible, though still featuring some uneven surfaces and stairs.

Expected to be less narrow than the Lower Canyon, the Upper offers a more open, spacious feel with astonishing geological features. The canyon’s walls are polished and have a silky appearance, with curves that look like they were shaped by a master sculptor. The best time to see the light beams is usually when the sun is high in the sky, enhancing the visual drama.

Horseshoe Bend Overlook
The final highlight is a walk to the Horseshoe Bend. The path is flat and easy to navigate, leading to an overlook that reveals the Colorado River’s dramatic meander. This viewpoint is one of the most photographed spots in the Southwest, and for good reason—its sweeping, horseshoe-shaped curve is unforgettable. Many visitors find this view to be the perfect capstone to their day of natural wonders.

Returning with Memories and Photos
After soaking in the views, you’ll head back to your hotel in Page, filled with stunning images and stories to tell. The entire experience is about 6 hours, making it a full but manageable day for most travelers.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

While the price of $571 might seem steep at first glance, it covers all the essentials—entrance fees, permits, cultural insights, a guided hike, bottled water, and a filling lunch. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off adds to the value, saving you time and effort. You’re paying for a well-organized, educational, and visually spectacular tour that covers both the geological marvels and the cultural context, making it a worthwhile investment for those looking to maximize their time in Page.

The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and the small group sizes ensure personalized attention, which many travelers find enriching. The tour’s detailed itinerary and inclusion of both canyons mean you’re not just rushing through sights but truly experiencing their beauty and significance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you value guided insights, cultural context, and hassle-free logistics. It’s well suited for travelers who want to see both the Lower and Upper Antelope Canyons, along with Horseshoe Bend, in one day. However, keep in mind the moderate physical activity involved—if you have mobility issues or low fitness, parts of the hike might be challenging. Photographers will love the opportunities for capturing the light beams and swirling rock formations, but remember that some areas are narrow and require careful maneuvering.

Anyone interested in learning about Navajo traditions or seeking a comprehensive, all-in-one tour of these iconic landmarks will find this package offers excellent value and a memorable experience.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Because the tour involves some walking, climbing ladders, and uneven terrain, it’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness. It may not be ideal for very young children or travelers with mobility impairments.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about six hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera to capture the views and closed-toe shoes for walking through the canyons. Avoid large backpacks, selfie sticks, tripods, and walking sticks, as these aren’t allowed.

Are the views photogenic?
Absolutely. The light beams in the Upper Canyon and the swirling colors in both canyons make for spectacular photos.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Subway lunch is provided, with options to buy additional snacks and drinks at the picnic area.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Do I need permits?
All permits and park fees are included in the tour price, so no extra steps are needed on your part.

Is this tour available in languages other than English?
The tour is conducted in English.

How do I know where to meet?
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in a white Ford Transit van marked “Dineh Tours.” Be ready 15 minutes before your scheduled pickup.

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Final Thoughts

This tour offers a comprehensive look at some of the Southwest’s most photographed and beloved natural sights. The combination of guided hikes, cultural stories, and iconic views makes it a well-rounded choice for travelers seeking both beauty and insight. The logistics are streamlined, making it ideal for those wanting to avoid the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

While it’s not for everyone—those with mobility challenges or a low fitness level might find some parts difficult—it’s a rewarding experience for most who are prepared for a moderate amount of walking. For photography enthusiasts, the opportunity to capture the famous light beams or swirling canyon walls makes this tour particularly appealing.

In the end, the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour delivers a memorable, well-organized day that showcases nature’s artistry and Navajo culture, leaving you with stunning images and stories to cherish.

Enjoy your adventure and make sure your camera is ready for some of the most spectacular scenery the Southwest has to offer!

You can check availability for your dates here: