If you’re planning a trip to Page, Arizona, chances are you’re dreaming of seeing those iconic sights—Horseshoe Bend and Lower Antelope Canyon. This tour offers a quick, half-day glimpse into these top spots, and while it might not be for everyone, it can be a convenient way to tick these must-see attractions off your list.
What we really appreciate about this tour is that it includes professional guides and admission tickets for both sites, saving you some hassle. Plus, the option to upgrade into a limousine vehicle sounds like a nice touch if you’re seeking a bit more luxury. On the flip side, the price might give some pause—at $229 per person, it’s not exactly a bargain, especially considering some reviews point out that you could visit these sites independently for less.
This experience suits travelers who want a guided group outing and prefer having everything organized in advance. However, if you’re a solo explorer confident in navigating on your own, the cost and structure might seem less appealing. Overall, it’s a solid option for those wanting a guided snapshot of these stunning sites without the fuss of planning every detail.
Key Points
- Includes all admission fees for Horseshoe Bend and Lower Antelope Canyon, which simplifies your planning.
- Guides are praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful in many reviews.
- Timing is flexible with a start between 8:00 am and noon, but you’ll need to confirm your exact departure time.
- The tour is about four hours, making it a good half-day activity, but expect some quick stops and limited time at each site.
- Transportation options vary; there’s an upgrade available into a limousine for a more comfortable ride.
- Not suitable for spontaneous visits; most bookings are made about 19 days in advance, and the tour is non-refundable.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
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Horseshoe Bend
Your adventure kicks off with Horseshoe Bend, one of the most recognizable natural wonders in the world. This is a meander of the Colorado River, forming a dramatic horseshoe-shaped curve that’s popular among photographers and nature lovers alike. From the overlook, you’ll be about 1,000 feet above the river, gazing down at the stark contrast of the red cliffs and the lush river below.
Traveling to Horseshoe Bend is straightforward; admission is included in your ticket. Based on reviews like Sandy_L’s, the experience is highly enjoyable, with many praising the stunning views and the ease of access. The brief, hour-long stop allows for plenty of photo opportunities and taking in the scale of this natural marvel.
Lower Antelope Canyon
Next, you’ll head to Lower Antelope Canyon, often called “Corkscrew Canyon” for its narrow, twisting shape. This slot canyon is famous for its beautiful, shifting light beams and sinuous, layered walls—a photographer’s dream, especially if you’re into capturing those perfect angles.
The tour here lasts about an hour, and your guide will lead you through the V-shaped and A-shaped canyon walls, describing the geology and history along the way. It’s an accessible walk, though some parts involve navigating steep stairs and narrow passages. The guides are often praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging.
One reviewer, Paul_F, called it “spectacular,” emphasizing how helpful and friendly the guides are. However, if the weather is very windy or there are high winds, the canyon might close temporarily—as one review mentioned about a canceled tour.
The Final Stop: Page
The tour concludes back in Page, giving you a chance to reflect on the day or explore a bit more on your own. The two-hour window here is mostly about transferring and some free time, which could be enough if you want to grab a quick snack or browse local shops.
The Pros and Cons of This Tour
What Travelers Love
Many reviews highlight the quality of guidance as a real strength. Guides are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Sandy_L mentions, “We couldn’t have had a better experience from the transportation to the Navajo guide,” which really underscores how important good guides are for this kind of tour.
The views at Horseshoe Bend and Lower Antelope Canyon are consistently praised as breathtaking. Lina_N called the canyon “super wow,” and Rathana_L said the “view of the Lower Antelope is breath-taking.” These spots are genuinely stunning in person, and having a guide to share insights or suggest the best photo angles adds value.
The Drawbacks and Considerations
Several reviews express concerns about value for money. Ramianni_D was perplexed about paying nearly $300 for two people when the actual entry fees are much lower—$61 for the canyon and around $10 for Horseshoe Bend per car. This raises an important point: for some, the guided tour might feel overpriced if you’re comfortable exploring on your own.
Another common concern is flexibility. Since the tour is fixed in time and non-refundable, last-minute weather cancellations or schedule conflicts could disrupt plans. One reviewer, Richard_L, noted frustration with a schedule change from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, which wasn’t ideal.
Also, some travelers found that the transportation was a bit underwhelming—they said they could have done the same trip independently, especially since the stops are close to Page and the entry is free or inexpensive. The added cost for transportation can feel unnecessary if you’re comfortable driving yourself.
Comfort and Convenience
The option to upgrade to a limousine vehicle might appeal if you’re seeking a more comfortable ride, especially after a long day of exploring. However, it’s an extra expense, and not everyone felt the guide or driver went above and beyond in terms of service, as some reviews suggest.
What’s the Best Fit?
This tour is ideal if you want a guided experience and prefer not to plan logistics yourself. It works well for those who value convenience and wish to hear stories and insights from an expert guide. However, if you’re an independent traveler comfortable with driving or exploring on your own, you might find the tour’s cost hard to justify.
Practical Details and Tips
- Booking well in advance is recommended, as most travelers book about 19 days ahead.
- Timing varies; you’ll need to confirm your exact departure time after booking, with options in the morning or early afternoon.
- No hotel pickup is included, so plan to arrive at the meeting point on your own.
- Bring comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes for walking—no flip-flops or open shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Tour duration is about four hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without rushing.
- Weather can affect access; high winds have led to cancellations, so check the forecast before your trip.
- Tips for guides are appreciated but not included in the price; a few dollars per person is customary.
- No food or snacks are provided, but water is included, and there are opportunities to grab something in Page afterward.
- Kids are welcome, but note that strollers and backpacks aren’t permitted in the canyon, and infants need car seats for transport.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re after a straightforward, guided visit with knowledgeable guides and don’t mind paying a premium for convenience, this tour is a solid choice. It offers a taste of two bucket-list sites—Horseshoe Bend and Lower Antelope Canyon—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer being part of a group, want a structured schedule, and appreciate having someone handle logistics. If budget is a key concern or you prefer exploring independently, you might be better off visiting these sites on your own, especially since entrance fees are low, and the sites are accessible from Page.
Bear in mind that weather cancellations can happen, and last-minute schedule changes might be frustrating. That said, for many, the guided experience, helpful guides, and stunning scenery outweigh these drawbacks.
Half Day Lower Antelope Canyon + Horseshoe Bend Combo Tour from Page
“Mother and daughter trip to antelope canyon and horseshoe bend. We couldnt have had a better experience from the transportation to the Navajo guide…”
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included for this tour?
No, you need to make your own way to the meeting point at 683 S Lake Powell Blvd. in Page.
What’s the departure window?
Most bookings are set between 8:00 am and noon, but the exact time is confirmed after booking.
Can I request a specific departure time?
Yes, you can include a request in the “Special Requirements” box, but it isn’t guaranteed.
How early should I arrive?
Arrive about one hour before your scheduled departure time to check in and get ready.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Infants will need a car seat, and strollers aren’t allowed in the canyon. Kids should be able to handle walking over uneven terrain.
How strenuous is the walk?
The walk in Lower Antelope Canyon is relatively easy, but some parts involve navigating stairs and narrow passages.
Are restrooms available?
There are no on-site facilities, so use the restroom beforehand.
Are meals or snacks included?
No, but bottled water is provided; food is not included.
What about tips for guides?
Tips are not included in the tour price; $2-$5 per person is customary if you feel the guide was helpful.
What if the weather is bad?
Tours can be canceled due to high winds or poor weather, in which case you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This tour offers a good way to see two of the most photographed sites near Page with minimal fuss. Whether it’s worth the price depends on how much you value guided commentary and convenience. If you want an organized, informative experience and don’t mind paying a bit more, it’s a safe bet. Otherwise, exploring independently might save you some money and give you more flexibility.