Secret Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour

An Authentic Adventure: Secret Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour

Imagine exploring one of the Southwest’s lesser-known but equally breathtaking natural wonders. For $185 per person, you’ll spend approximately three hours uncovering Secret Antelope Canyon, a quiet, untouched counterpart to the busy Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons, and enjoying a private view of Horseshoe Bend — a sweeping curve of the Colorado River seen from a vantage point most travelers never get to enjoy. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, this small-group tour offers an intimate experience, limited to just 15 guests, which means more time for questions and fewer crowds to contend with.

What we really love about this tour is the off-road adventure that starts the experience — a lively six-mile drive through sandy washes and rolling hills, in a shaded open-air 4×4 that adds just the right touch of ruggedness and fun. Plus, their private Navajo viewpoint of Horseshoe Bend saves you from the congested public parking lot and gives you a closer, more relaxed look at this iconic formation, perfect for snapping photos without the throngs of other visitors.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour does involve some light walking (about 300 meters to the canyon entrance and a shorter walk to Horseshoe Bend), but it’s overall quite manageable. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a more personalized experience and are eager to see both the hidden and the famous sights without the crowds. If you’re after a laid-back, informative, and visually stunning outing, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Private access and small groups mean a more relaxed, personalized experience.
• Unique off-road drive adds adventure and comfort, avoiding the typical tour bus scene.
• Less crowded viewing points at Horseshoe Bend provide better photos and a quieter experience.
• Expert and friendly guides enhance the visit with knowledge and assistance, including taking pictures.
• Includes all admission fees for Secret Antelope Canyon and the Navajo permit.
• Good for most travelers, with minimal walking and a focus on comfort and authenticity.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Secret Antelope Canyon: A Hidden Jewel

The tour kicks off with a short drive — just three miles from Page, AZ — in a shaded, open-air 4×4 vehicle. This part is where the adventure begins, with a lively, off-road six-mile journey through sandy washes and rolling hills. The drive itself is a highlight, giving you a taste of the rugged landscape that many visitors never see.

Once you arrive, you’ll take a 300-meter walk to the entrance of Secret Antelope Canyon. Unlike the more popular Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons, this canyon is still a quiet secret. It’s part of the Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon system but remains less visited, making it perfect for those seeking a more peaceful experience. The canyon’s long, narrow passages offer stunning light and color effects, with fewer people around to detract from the natural beauty.

Guides like Gail, mentioned in reviews, are praised for their knowledgeability and friendly demeanor. They don’t just lead you through; they share insights about the geology, history, and Navajo culture, adding depth to the experience. One reviewer called her “awesome and knowledgible,” which highlights the value of a guide who can answer questions and enhance the visit.

Horseshoe Bend: A Private, Uncrowded View

Next, the tour takes you to Horseshoe Bend, a 1,000-foot-wide meander of the Colorado River. This spot is iconic, with its dramatic, curved rock formation visible from a popular overlook. But what makes this tour special is the private dirt road that brings you within 100 meters of the canyon rim. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy a shorter walk to the edge, allowing more time for taking photos — something we appreciated based on reviews emphasizing “phenomenal picture-taking” opportunities.

The view here is breathtaking, with undulating sandstone framing the river’s loop. It’s a perfect spot for panoramic photos, especially with the less crowded viewpoint. As one reviewer put it, the view from Horseshoe Bend “provides various angles and views of the Colorado River as it meanders around a rock promontory,” a truly mesmerizing sight.

Logistics and Comfort

The entire experience is designed for convenience and comfort: transportation is in a private, enclosed vehicle, and the group size is limited to 12-15 travelers, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere. The tour lasts about three hours, including transit and sightseeing, making it a manageable half-day activity.

All admission fees are included, meaning no surprise costs at the canyon or the Navajo permits. The guides also offer personalized assistance, including taking photos and answering questions, which many reviewers found helpful and friendly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value smaller groups, personalized attention, and authentic scenery. If you’re tired of crowds and want to explore a quieter canyon and a less congested viewpoint of Horseshoe Bend, this tour is a perfect choice. It suits those who appreciate a mix of adventure, geology, and Navajo culture, all wrapped into a manageable, well-organized outing.

Final Thoughts

This Secret Canyon and Horseshoe Bend tour offers a compelling alternative for anyone wanting a more intimate and less commercialized experience in the Page, AZ area. The off-road drive, combined with exclusive access to a private viewpoint, makes it stand out from many other tours. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals, you’ll leave with stunning photos, new insights, and a genuine appreciation for the natural beauty of this part of the Southwest.

While it’s not a lengthy tour, the carefully selected stops and personalized approach ensure you get maximum value for your time and money. The small group size and focus on comfort mean you can relax and truly enjoy these iconic landscapes, away from the crowds.

If you’re after a scenic, educational, and slightly adventurous outing with top-notch guides, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially perfect for those who want to see the hidden side of Antelope Canyon and experience Horseshoe Bend from a more secluded, memorable vantage point.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, including transportation, canyon visits, and viewing time at Horseshoe Bend.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate. The walk to the canyon entrance and Horseshoe Bend is minimal but involves some light walking—about 300 meters to the canyon and a shorter walk to the overlook.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers admission to Secret Antelope Canyon, the Navajo permit fee, transportation in a comfortable enclosed vehicle, and a knowledgeable guide.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, personal expenses and tips for the Navajo guide (recommended $2-$5 per person) are not included.

How does this tour avoid crowds?
It uses a private dirt road for Horseshoe Bend, bringing you within 100 meters of the rim, and visits a less-visited part of Antelope Canyon, providing a quieter, more relaxed experience.

Is the off-road drive bumpy?
The six-mile off-road drive is in a shaded, open-air 4×4 vehicle, designed for adventure, but it’s generally smooth and fun rather than rough or uncomfortable.

Can I take photos?
Absolutely, especially at Horseshoe Bend, where you can capture stunning panoramic shots. Guides often help by taking pictures for travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 23 days in advance, as this tour is popular and fills up quickly.

This Secret Canyon and Horseshoe Bend tour offers a memorable way to see some of the most striking scenery in the Southwest with a personal touch. Whether you’re a dedicated photographer or simply want a quieter, more authentic experience, it’s a well-curated adventure worth considering for your Arizona itinerary.