Documenting Lovely Moments
Upper Antelope Canyon: Our Experience and What You Need To Know
Visiting Upper Antelope Canyon was a checked bucket list item for us and an experience we’ll never forget. The vibrant, swirling patterns created by centuries of erosion were an incredible nature’s own artwork. If you are planning a trip to Upper Antelope Canyon, read about our experience below and find some tips to help you make the most of your visit to this breathtaking natural wonder.
Planning A Visit To Antelope Canyon
There are a few things you need to know when planning a visit to Antelope Canyon. First, tours must be booked in advance, as this popular destination often sells out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Make sure to choose a reputable authorized tour operator. All visits to the canyon require a guided tour to protect its delicate environment. Be prepared for narrow, uneven pathways, so wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. The best times to visit are late morning to early afternoon. This is when the famous light beams are most visible, creating stunning photographic opportunities. Lastly, remember to respect the natural beauty and cultural significance of this sacred site by following your guide’s instructions.
Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon Tour
Due to our limited time in Page, AZ, we had to choose between a tour to the Lower Antelope Canyon or Upper Antelope Canyon. We chose the Upper Antelope Canyon tour because just before the trip, our daughter fractured her ankle and had to wear a walking boot. The Upper Antelope Canyon tour is on ground level and mostly flat surface, and is easier for people with mobility issues. We would love to go back someday and go on the Lower Antelope Canyon tour.
Booking Antelope Canyon Tours
The company we chose to go with was Tsé Bíghanílíní Tours, and we had a great experience with them. There are other companies with good reviews that we also considered. Ultimately, our choice was made based on availability, best value, and fair cancellation policy. We booked our tour 4 months in advance because we knew they would sell out fast. Also, we wanted the late morning time slot to get a better chance at seeing the light beams.
The Upper Antelope Canyon Experience
Our experience was wonderful from start to finish. After checking in at the tour meeting point, we sat at the waiting area until our names were called. Once the shuttles were ready, they divided us into groups of about 15 people. They let us know our group number so that we knew which shuttle to go on, and introduced us to our assigned tour guide.
The shuttles were open-air vehicles with two long benches on the back where the people in our group sat side-by-side. Although the ride was bumpy and sandy, it was fun to see the desert landscape as we approached the canyon. There were many shuttles arriving at the canyon’s entrance together for a tour with the same time slot. However, everything was well organized and flowed smoothly so we never felt rushed or overcrowded.
A Surreal Landscape
Inside the canyon, visitors had to move together as a group in one direction to ensure a smooth flow of traffic through the narrow passages. Our tour guide, Maya, was amazing and knowledgable. Throughout the tour, she shared cool facts about the geology, and pointed out unique rock formations. She also explained how the stunning light beams are created, and offered tips for capturing the best photographs.
Walking inside Upper Antelope Canyon felt like stepping into a surreal, otherworldly landscape. The air was cool and the light created beautiful patterns on the curving sandstone walls. As the light moved, the walls displayed a mix of changing colors, from deep reds to soft purples. The sandy ground was soft and easy to walk on. Everyone was being respectful to each other’s space as well as to the delicate surrounding and cultural significance of the site. It was a truly serene experience and we were thankful to be able to see this natural creation up close.
Exiting The Canyon
As soon as we reached the canyon exit, we continued on to a series of walkways and stairs that led us back to the canyon’s entrance where the shuttles were parked. From there, we rode the shuttles back to the tour meeting point.
Tips For Visiting Upper Antelope Canyon
If you are planning a tour to the Upper Antelope Canyon, see our tips and guidelines below so that you can make the most out of your tour.
- Book in Advance with Authorized Tours Only: Tours often sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons, so secure your spot well ahead of time. Always book through authorized tour companies to ensure a guided and regulated experience.
- Choose the Right Time: Late morning to early afternoon is the best time to visit for optimal lighting and the famous light beams.
- Arrive On Time: The tour required us to check in 30 minutes before the actual tour time. They would not wait for nor give a refund to anyone who arrived late. It’s also important to set your watch or phone to the correct time zone (Mountain Standard Time).
- Travel Light: Bags were not allowed during the tour. We were only allowed to bring a water bottle and our phone/camera.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes as well as sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the desert sun.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, as the desert environment can be very dry and hot.
- Photography: For the best photos, set your camera to capture low-light conditions.
- Soak It In: Inside the canyon, the tour groups move in one direction to ensure a smooth flow of traffic. Take photos and soak in the surrounding nature as you will not be allowed to go back to the previous spot once your group moves to the next section of the canyon.
- Respect the Environment: Follow all guidelines from your guide, stay on designated paths, and avoid touching the canyon walls to preserve their natural state.
- Restroom Stop: Restrooms were available at the tour meeting point/waiting area, but not at any point after. Be sure to use the restroom before boarding the shuttle.
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About Us
I'm a happily-married mom of two. Our family enjoys an active lifestyle and spending quality time together. We love creating memories through travel, learning about different cultures around the world.
