With its desert landscape and picturesque photo ops, the Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona has exploded in popularity.
By: Heather Newgen | Twitter:
@hnvoluntourist
In recent years, Page has become a hotspot for travelers. The city was initially founded in 1957 as a housing community for workers building the Glen Canyon Dam. However, the area now attracts over 3 million visitors a year. The small Northern Arizona town offers endless adventures for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who wants to enjoy an unforgettable holiday.
Antelope Canyon is just one of the many reasons people visit Page. The bright orange glowing sandstone caves are not to be missed. The most renowned ones are the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. However, you can only access them by guided tours since they’re on Navajo Nation territory. Each Antelope Canyon has its similarities, but also distinct differences. While I highly recommend seeing both if you can, you can’t go wrong with either choice.
Upper Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona
Photo by: Heather Newgen
Lower Antelope
I took a tour with Dixie Ellis and loved it. My guide Tilford was personable and knowledgable and the canyon was so beautiful that it almost didn’t look real. The tour was $40, not including gratuity or the required $8 Navajo Nation fee, and I was able to book a reservation the day of.
Heather Newgen in Lower Antelope Canyon
Pros
-It’s less crowded than the Upper Antelope Canyon (although it has become busier lately)
-It’s less expensive
-There’s an entrance and an exit, which manages the flow of people
-Better lighting
Lower Antelope Canyon
Photo by: Heather Newgen
Cons
-There are several stairs throughout the Antelope Canyon guests must take. So if you have physical limitations this could be an issue.
-It’s a 10-15 minute walk to the entrance. Again if you have physical limitations this could be an issue.
-There is no photography tour
Lower Antelope Canyon
Photo by: Heather Newgen
Lower Antelope Canyon Tips
There’s a free parking lot to leave your car. There are porta potties and a bottle of hand sanitizer is strapped to a post near the front where you check in. Before the tour there will be a show with a Navajo local who does traditional tribal dances. Tips aren’t mandatory, but it’s a nice gesture.
Heather Newgen in Lower Antelope Canyon
Upper Antelope Canyon
The majestic canyon is becoming one of the most well-known photographed locations in the U.S. due to its layers of vibrant coloring and famous beam of light that shines through the rock formations.
For this tour you must book in advance because of its popularity. If you want to see the beam of light, it’s about $30 more since it’s considered “primetime.” I went with Adventurous Antelope Canyon Tours and paid $74.00, which included the $8.00 required Navajo Nation fee.
Pros
-You see the famed beam of light if you go during the peak hours 10:30am to 1:00pm
-A photography tour is offered
Photography Tour in the Upper Antelope Canyon
Cons
-It’s crowded
-There’s no exit So you have to go back the way you entered, which can be challenging with the mobs of people.
-It’s darker
-You can’t walk to the entrance. So you’re taken in a truck and it’s about a 15 minute drive. You’re placed in the back of the vehicle, however, the seats are comfortable and it’s almost completely covered. That said, you will still experience wind and dust kicking up in your face. In addition, the fumes can be overwhelming at times, but the it’s worth the hassle.
The famous beam of light in the Upper Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona
Upper Antelope Tips
Just like the Lower Antelope Canyon tour, there will be a show with a Navajo local who does traditional tribal dances. There is also a small jewelry stand where you can buy authentic Native American items. Make your reservation well in advance because this tour sells out quickly. There’s also a free parking lot and restrooms.
Where is the Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon
Located just under two hours from Zion. A little over two hours from the South Rim Grand Canyon. Two and a half hours from Bryce Canyon and three hours from the North Rim Grand Canyon. Page, Arizona is ideal for exploring America’s prized national parks and Navajo Nation Reservation.
Heather Newgen in Lower Antelope Canyon
Time to Go
June, July and August is incredibly hot, but the light is perfect. It’s also when many travelers go so beware of massive crowds.
April through September is still busy and the middays tours sell out fast.
Mid October through Mid March is a great time to visit, however, you may not see the beam of light.