Page: Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons Guided Tour

If you’re considering a trip to Arizona and want to see some of the most iconic landscapes the state has to offer, a guided tour of Antelope Canyons might just be at the top of your list. This experience promises to take you deep into the twisting, colorful passageways carved over centuries by water and wind, with the added bonus of exploring both the Upper and Lower sections—a combo that’s quite rare to find.

From what we’ve gathered, travelers love how this tour offers a comprehensive look at the canyons, with expert local guides sharing fascinating insights and helping you get those perfect photos. Plus, the chance to descend into the largest cavern of the Lower Antelope and hike through the spectacular viewpoints of the Upper canyon makes for a truly memorable day.

That said, there are a few things to keep in mind. The tour’s price point—$368 per person—is on the higher side, especially if you’re looking to just see one canyon. Also, the activity involves some steep inclines, stairs, and ladders, so it’s not suitable if you’re claustrophobic or have mobility issues.

This tour tends to suit those who want a deep, guided experience with plenty of time for photos and learning—perfect for travelers who really want to soak in the scenery and culture of this incredible Navajo landmark.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience covering both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons
• Expert Navajo guides enhance the storytelling and photo opportunities
• Includes all fees and permits, streamlining your visit
• Longer duration (3.5 hours) allowing ample exploration
• Physical activity involved—stairs, ladders, and uneven terrain
• Good value for those wanting a full canyon experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour of Antelope Canyons

When you book this guided experience, you’re signing up for a well-organized, informative journey into one of the most breathtaking natural formations in the U.S. From start to finish, the day is structured to maximize your time and enjoyment, with a few logistical details that you’ll want to keep in mind.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation within a specified area of Page, Arizona. You’ll be greeted by your guide, and from there, the journey kicks off with a comfortable ride between the two canyons. This part of the tour is an advantage—it saves you the hassle of figuring out transportation and gets you straight into the heart of the scenery.

Visiting Lower Antelope Canyon

Your first stop is the Lower Antelope Canyon, where you’ll descend five flights of stairs (82 steps total) into the canyon’s largest cavern. This descent starts you off with a bit of physical activity, but it’s manageable for most. Once inside, the guide takes you on a hike of about 1.1 miles, winding through the narrow, twisting corridors filled with light beams, dramatic shadows, and shimmering walls.

Throughout this part, the guide is usually quite good at pointing out the best photo spots and sharing stories about how the canyon was formed and its cultural significance. One reviewer appreciated that the guide in Lower Canyon was very knowledgeable, although some felt the pace was a bit rushed because of the group behind them. Still, the spectacular scenery makes it worth it, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities for photographs.

Transition to Upper Antelope Canyon

After exploring Lower Antelope Canyon, you’ll head over to the Upper section for the second half of your adventure. This involves a drive and check-in process, with a quick snack included en route. It’s a good chance to recharge and get ready for the next breathtaking phase.

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Exploring Upper Antelope Canyon

Arriving at Upper Antelope Canyon, you’ll get about an hour of exploration. The hike here is shorter—about 1/4 mile—but the scenery is no less impressive. This section is famous for the perfectly framed light beams that shine through the narrow openings, creating an almost surreal atmosphere.

The guide in Upper Canyon is usually attentive to photography, pointing out the best spots and giving enough time to set up your shots. One traveler noted that this part of the tour felt very different from Lower Canyon, with more opportunities to capture “those iconic photos.” The incline and 150-step descent are manageable, but definitely worth noting if you have mobility concerns.

Return and Drop-Off

After finishing your exploration, you’ll retrace your steps back to the shuttle, ascend the final set of stairs, and hop into your vehicle for the return trip to your lodging. The entire experience lasts roughly 3.5 hours, blending adventure, education, and plenty of stunning views.

The Value of This Canyon Tour

At $368 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it does include all fees, permits, bottled water, and limited snacks. The added convenience of skip-the-ticket line and a professional guide makes it easier to enjoy the experience without the hassle of navigating the logistics yourself.

Reviewers generally agree that the guides make a real difference—they’re knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive to photo tips. For example, one shared that their guide, Erwin, was “very responsible and gave interesting insights,” adding a layer of cultural context that enhances the visit.

While some feel the price is high, many note that they appreciated the comprehensive access to both canyons in one trip. If you’re after a full, guided experience with insights into Navajo culture and plenty of photo opportunities, this tour is a good investment.

Physical Considerations and Suitability

It’s important to recognize that this tour involves stairs, ladders, and uneven terrain. The descent into each canyon can be taxing if you’re not used to walking or climbing. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those with claustrophobia, pregnant women, or wheelchair users.

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a camera, and water. The tour discourages pets, smoking, drones, selfie sticks, tripods, and large bags—these are common restrictions in fragile natural areas to preserve the environment and ensure safety.

Authentic Feedback from Other Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides, with comments like “Erwin was very friendly and responsible,” and “our guides showed us the best photo spots and explained the formation of the canyons.”

Some noted that the guides in Lower Canyon could be a bit hurried, but overall, the scenery compensates for this. Others appreciated the extra time and tips in Upper Canyon, which is known for its photogenic light beams.

A few felt the cost was a bit steep, suggesting they could have visited the canyons separately for less money. Still, most agree that the full experience provides value by combining both sections and offering guided insights.

This tour is ideal if you want an all-inclusive, guided journey that covers both the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons with expert narration. It’s suited for photographers, culture enthusiasts, and those who appreciate well-organized trips. If you prefer to explore independently or are on a tight budget, you might find this a bit pricey, or you may prefer to visit each canyon separately.

It’s not suitable for people with mobility issues, pregnant women, or those sensitive to tight spaces, due to the stairs and confined sections. Families with older children who can handle physical activity and inclines might enjoy this, but younger kids should be prepared for the walking and climbing involved.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For lovers of natural beauty and photography, this tour offers a comprehensive, guided walkthrough of two of the most recognized canyons in the world. The expert guides, combined with stunning views and cultural insights, make this a worthwhile experience if you’re after a full, hassle-free visit.

The value lies in the convenience, the depth of exploration, and the expert commentary—elements that many travelers found well worth the price. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the quality and scope of the experience justify the expense for those who truly want to see and learn about Antelope Canyon.

If you’re fit enough for stairs and ladders and want a rich, guided adventure, this tour will likely meet your expectations and leave you with incredible photos and memories. Just be sure to prepare for the physical aspects and consider whether the price aligns with your travel priorities.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
The tour provides a pickup from your accommodation within a specific area of Page, Arizona. It’s included, so you don’t need to arrange your own transport to the canyon sites.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, which includes transportation, exploring both canyons, and some time for check-in and rest.

Are the guides professional and knowledgeable?
Yes, multiple reviews mention friendly, responsible guides who share interesting stories and photography tips. Guides at each canyon are experienced in pointing out the best views and explaining the formations.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and water. Note that large bags, tripods, and drones are not allowed to protect the environment and ensure safety.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with claustrophobia, or wheelchair users due to stairs and narrow passages. Children should be prepared for walking and climbing.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, this guided tour of Antelope Canyons combines convenience, expert insights, and breathtaking scenery—making it a solid choice for travelers who want the full canyon experience with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: