Page: Upper Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour

If you’re considering a trip to some of Arizona’s most iconic natural sights, the Upper Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour might catch your eye. With a decent overall rating of 3.8 out of 5 based on four reviews, this tour offers a chance to see two spectacular sites in one trip. While it isn’t the highest-rated tour out there, it does deliver some memorable moments — especially if you’re after scenic vistas and a taste of Navajo culture.

What we particularly like about this experience is the combination of a scenic 4×4 ride to the canyon and the opportunity to walk into the famous Antelope Canyon, seeing the light beams and sandstone walls up close. The Horseshoe Bend overlook provides a breathtaking view of the Colorado River winding into the shape of a giant horseshoe, which is perfect for photography and just soaking in the vastness. On the downside, some reviews mention crowds and a sense of rushing, which might diminish the feeling of serenity you’re after. This tour tends to suit travelers who want a structured day with guided insights, but if you’re after a more relaxed, less crowded experience, you might need to explore other options.

Key Points

• Includes both Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend in one streamlined tour
• Comfortable ride in a 4×4 to reach the canyon entrance
• Guided experience with a live English-speaking guide
• Stops at Big Lake Trading Post for snacks and souvenirs
• Duration of around 3 hours makes it a compact but rewarding outing
• Price point at $305 per person reflects a full experience with entry fees included

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to be accessible, organized, and packed with scenic highlights. It begins with check-in at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time, so arriving early helps avoid feeling rushed. Once everyone is ready, you’ll hop onto a 4×4 vehicle—a fun way to start the adventure—making your way through the desert landscape toward the Upper Antelope Canyon.

The 4×4 Ride and Walk to the Canyon

The ride itself is part of the experience, offering a glimpse of the rugged terrain Navajo lands are known for. Once you arrive at the canyon, you’ll hike approximately 1/4 mile into the canyon — a one-way walk through the narrow, twisting passageway famous for its light beams and stunning sandstone formations. The guide will provide insights about Navajo culture and the geological wonders, adding context to the visual feast.

The canyon walk involves some inclines and a descent of 150 steps as you exit, which is worth noting if mobility is a concern. The walk is generally manageable, but it’s not suitable for those with claustrophobia or mobility issues, as it’s a somewhat confined space.

The Horseshoe Bend Overlook

After exploring the canyon, your group will head to the Horseshoe Bend overlook, about 3/4 mile on a flat, smooth trail. The view into the Colorado River’s bend is jaw-dropping, with a drop of around 1,000 feet into the canyon. Expect plenty of photo opportunities and time to admire the vast, curving river.

Additional Stops and Flexibility

A stop at the Big Lake Trading Post allows for snacks, restrooms, or grabbing souvenirs. This break helps break up the tour and offers a chance to stretch your legs before the return trip.

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Practical Considerations and Tips

• Timing is key: Check-in early and be ready to load onto the 4×4 trucks 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes are essential for walking and hiking, along with a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Remember to stay hydrated — bottled water is provided.
• What’s not allowed: Pets, smoking, drones, selfie sticks, tripods, and large bags are prohibited, mainly for safety and preservation reasons. Open-toed shoes are also not permitted.
• Physical considerations: The tour isn’t suitable for those with claustrophobia, wheelchair users, or individuals with respiratory issues, given the narrow canyon and hike.

Insights from Reviews

One happy traveler from Germany praised the knowledgeable guide and the stories about Navajo culture, saying, “Thank you to Erwin — he really gave us a great insight.” This highlights the value of a friendly, informed guide in enriching the experience.

However, another reviewer from the UK expressed disappointment, citing crowds and rushing at photo spots. “You’ll have a chance to come back for more photos,” the guide said, but the walk was actually one-way, which limited photo opportunities and diminished the enjoyment for some. This points to a common issue in popular tourist spots—crowds can sometimes make the experience feel hurried rather than relaxed.

A U.S. traveler appreciated the landscape views and the guide, indicating that the scenery itself remains the main draw, despite some logistical frustrations.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $305 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience, with transportation, entry fees, and a guide included. It’s priced on the higher side, but when you consider the convenience of a guided trip that covers two major sights plus stops, it can be good value—especially if you want to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation and park entries yourself.

That said, the experience might feel somewhat rushed, especially during peak times, and the crowds can impact the overall mood. If your goal is to capture perfect photos and enjoy the beauty without feeling hurried, you might want to consider the timing carefully or explore smaller group or private options if available.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one day to see both the famous canyon and the incredible river bend. It’s ideal if you prefer comfort, structured schedules, and some cultural insights from a knowledgeable guide. It also works well for those wanting to tick off two major Arizona sights without the hassle of planning.

If you’re someone who values a quiet, contemplative visit, or prefers avoiding crowds, this tour might not be your perfect fit. Likewise, if mobility or claustrophobia are concerns, this probably isn’t suitable.

Final Thoughts

This Upper Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend tour offers a solid, well-organized way to experience two of Arizona’s most photographed sites. The guided element and included transportation add convenience, especially for first-time visitors unfamiliar with the area. The stunning scenery tends to be the highlight, and the knowledgeable guides help make the experience more meaningful.

While crowds and pacing have been points of critique, many participants still leave feeling they’ve seen something truly special. It’s a good tour for those looking for a comprehensive, guided visit with the assurance of logistics taken care of, rather than a secluded, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

If you’re prepared for some hustle and bustle, and want to see these iconic sights in a manageable timeframe, this could very well be worth the price.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour involves hiking and some climbing steps, it might not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility concerns. It’s best suited for older kids who can handle walking and standing comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, making it a concise yet full outing.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
Yes, pets, smoking, drones, selfie sticks, tripods, bags, and open-toed shoes are not allowed. Bring a camera, water, and comfortable shoes.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance booking is recommended to secure your spot, especially since this is a popular tour. You should check availability before planning.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers the Navajo Nation permit and all fees, entrance into Upper Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, bottled water, and limited snacks.

What if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking on uneven terrain and climbing steps, so it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with respiratory issues.

Is this tour good for photography?
While it offers fantastic photo opportunities, the crowds and one-way traffic might limit your ability to take multiple shots at certain spots.

What happens if I arrive late?
Arriving late could mean missing your scheduled time or rushing to catch up, so punctuality is important for a smooth experience.

In the end, whether this tour is right for you depends on your priorities—if scenic views, guided insights, and a straightforward experience matter most, it’s a solid choice. Just be prepared for some crowds and a brisk pace, and you’ll likely walk away with some memorable photos and stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: