Antelope Canyon in Northern Arizona on the Navajo Nation is a geology lover’s destination, perfect for those who enjoy recording their adventures with photography. This breathtaking destination is famous for the colorfully swirling slot canyons that change with the light. But you can’t just stop by and grab a photo, so let’s learn the best ways to visit Antelope Canyon.
About Antelope Canyon
Located in the American Southwest, on Navajo land east of LeChee and about four miles south of Page, Arizona, Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons are world-famous slot canyons waiting for you to explore.
The slot canyons are located on the Navajo Nation and are sacred sites, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience for thoughtful visitors. Although it is not a Navajo Tribal Park like Monument Valley or the Four Corners Monument, this area is managed by the tribe, which requires tour guides to lead you into the canyons. This is for your safety and to protect the fragile ecosystems in the magnificent slot canyons.
There are differences between the two canyons, so read on and consider which experience would be best for you.
Upper Antelope Canyon
Upper Antelope Canyon is the one people usually have in mind, with dramatic sunbeams and sand trickling from the surface high above. This photogenic canyon is narrow at the top and wide at the base. In this slot canyon, the walking space is wider and less claustrophobic for many tourists than the lower canyon.
Upper Antelope Canyon is called Tsé bighánílíní in Navajo, which means, “the place where water runs through the (slot canyon) rocks.” And that it does when it rains upstream. Flash flooding is a real concern when it rains upstream from the canyons, and rainfall is closely monitored for safety.
Upper Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world, known for its magnificent Navajo Sandstone walls and spiral rock arches. Photographers should be sure to check with their tour company to see how much time they’ll be allowed to compose their photos so they aren’t disappointed if there isn’t enough time to create what they’ve envisioned.
Be aware that sunlight streaming into the canyon varies by the season and throughout the day. In fact, some sources say it only reaches all the way to the floor of Upper Antelope Canyon at mid-day from May to August. For photographers, the most popular tours are between 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to capture those streams of light.
Upper Antelope Canyon tours are generally more expensive than the lower canyon, and tours may be booked months in advance for both of them.
Lower Antelope Canyon
If Upper Antelope Canyon is shaped like an inverted V, narrow at the top and wide at the bottom, Lower Antelope Canyon is its inverse: wider at the top and quite narrow at the bottom. This allows more light and warmth into the canyon, called Hasdeztwazi in Navajo, which means spiral rock arches.
If you like squeezing through narrow passageways and climbing ladders (with handrails), this may be the canyon for you. It’s not considered to be quite as photogenic as the upper, but there’s still plenty of beauty to behold.
Canyon X
There’s another canyon to explore, one that may be less crowded than the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons: the mysteriously named Canyon X. Some tour operators lead tours to this slot canyon, which includes uneven surfaces and steep inclines and declines, but no ladders.
Antelope Canyon Tours
Guided tours are required to visit Antelope Canyon, with several authorized tour operators available. Check with your tour operator for what is and is not allowed on your tour. Because tour groups are usually large, it’s unlikely that tripods, for example, are allowed.
Antelope Canyon tours offer a unique experience, providing insight into the canyon’s history, geology, and Navajo culture. Your tour guide will be able to share stories about how the canyon was formed and what it means to the Navajo people.
Some guided tour companies offer package deals that include more than one canyon and lunch. Check the various offerings to find one that matches your interests and budget.
Choose from guided tours of Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, Canyon X, and other slot canyons, such as Mountain Sheep Canyon, which is more off the beaten path and more strenuous.
Most tour operators are based in or near Page, Arizona, and tours can be booked online. Your ticket price may include a shuttle to the canyon, so be sure you know where to meet your guide. Be aware that your tour price does not include a required Navajo Park Permit, which is $8, and that Navajo Sales Tax and a processing fee may also be added to your tour price.
Planning Your Visit
Plan your trip to the world-famous Antelope Canyon by booking a guided tour in advance, as reservations are required for almost every tour. They may fill up months in advance, so plan ahead so you aren’t disappointed.
Consider visiting during the off-season to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. The off-season is generally late fall and winter, and you’ll likely pay less during this time of year.
Pack comfortable hiking shoes and layers of clothing, as well as a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Be sure to drink plenty of water when you’re in the desert to avoid dehydration.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the canyon can be closed during heavy rain or flooding. If stormy weather is forecast, check with your tour company to see if they are canceling outings. Summer is monsoon season when storms are most likely. Safety is a top priority as in 1997, a flash flood in Lower Antelope Canyon caused the death of 11 tourists. Since then, permanent ladders have been secured to the walls for safety.
Phoenix, Arizona, and Las Vegas, Nevada, are the nearest major cities with airports, both about 275 miles away, but Flagstaff, Arizona, has plenty to offer the traveler and is about 130 miles from Page. There are three national monuments to visit if you stay in Flagstaff, too.
Photography in Antelope Canyon
Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and unique rock formations of Upper Antelope Canyon. Be sure you know how to operate your camera settings so you can work quickly during your tour. The light will change throughout the day and through the seasons, so you likely won’t be able to replicate the beautiful photo somebody else captured . . . but you’ll create something new and exciting of your own.
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the full extent of the canyon, but check with your tour company to find out if a tripod will be allowed before bringing one along. Follow the guidance of your tour guide to capture the best pictures and avoid damaging the canyon’s fragile ecosystem.
Sunlight filters through sand all the way to the floor in Upper Antelope Canyon only during the middle of the day, which is why some tours charge an extra fee for those time slots.
Insider Tips and Resources
Book your tour with a reputable and authorized tour operator to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Check the Navajo Nation official website for up-to-date information on approved tour companies and canyon conditions. Only two companies are authorized to lead tours in Lower Antelope Canyon and the owners are related, so you’re in good hands with either.
Respect the canyon’s fragile ecosystem and Navajo cultural heritage by following all rules and guidelines provided by your tour guide.
Consider visiting other attractions in the surrounding area, such as Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend, for a more comprehensive experience.
Think about the weather before planning a trip to the Southwest. For example, spring and early October can be great times to visit any of these destinations with cooler weather than summer.
Conclusion
Antelope Canyon is on many people’s Southwest bucket lists and for good reason: these spectacular slot canyons located near Page off Arizona Highway 98 are dramatically photogenic with an otherworldly beauty. In addition to the more famous Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons, there are others to explore, such as the less visited Antelope Canyon X and Mountain Sheep Canyon. Just remember: book your Antelope Canyon tour far in advance so you don’t miss out, especially if you’re coming during spring or summer.
