Antelope Canyon is one of the most visited slot canyons in Arizona for a reason.
Last updated: August 23, 2023
How to Visit Antelope Canyon: A Complete Guide
Antelope Canyon is one of the most visited landmarks in Arizona. If it’s not enough, this slot canyon barely gives in to the Grand Canyon in the number of pictures taken here. So if you are is search of unique sandstone sculptures or famous light beams, Antelope Canyon is worth a visit.
Yet not all experiences in the canyon are the same. In order to avoid any unpleasant situations, do your research in advance. These practical tips for visiting Antelope Canyon aim to provide you with all the information you need before exploring this stunning wonder on the outskirts of Page, Arizona.
A COMPLETE GUIDE TO VISITING ANTELOPE CANYON, ARIZONA: 6 HELPFUL TIPS
1. Decide which Canyon to Visit
Antelope Canyon consists of two separate slot canyons: Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. Both or them are spectacular in their own ways. Upper Antelope Canyon is easily accessible and normally sees more visitors. Lower Antelope Canyon is more difficult to hike through and requires climbing pre-installed ladders is some sections.
2. Helpful Tips for Visiting Antelope Canyon with Kids
Among all tips for visiting Antelope Canyon, we find this one the most important. We traveled with a baby and thus our Antelope Canyon adventure was in question until the very end. All our prior researches indicated that babies and toddlers were not allowed inside Antelope Canyon.
We decided to test our luck and headed straight to reservation desk. A Navajo woman informed us that there was no age restriction for visiting Upper Antelope Canyon. People of six years of age and older could visit both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon.
3. Guided Antelope Canyon Tours are Mandatory
Visiting Antelope Canyon is possible only as part of a guided tour. Booking in advance is recommended, but not required. You can always get a ticket at the counter upon your arrival. Here you can check out a few tour companies near Page, Arizona.
We went with Adventurous Antelope Canyon Photo Tours and couldn’t recommend it enough. But let me pause here and share our next favorite practical trip for visiting Antelope Canyon.
Here you go. Although somewhat better if you strive for professional-looking Antelope Canyon images, prime-time tours are usually more expensive. Some people say they are not worth the money. So you choose what works best for you.
4. Choose Prime Time for Better Pictures
The prime time is usually from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. During this time more sun rays enter the slot canyons and create good conditions for perfect Antelope Canyon pictures.
5. Helpful Tips for Visiting Upper Antelope Canyon and Enjoying Light Beams
Although you can see some light beams while visiting Lower Antelope Canyon, Upper Antelope Canyon is a place that gets the most of them. The best time to see these rare phenomena is from late March until early October. The summer months usually bring more sun light.
Additionally, try to schedule your tour between 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to increase your chances of seeing the light beams. There are no light beams on a cloudy day.
6. You Can Skip Photography Tours
Even if you are a professional photographer, your visit to Antelope Canyon can benefit from any guided tours, not necessarily the photography tours. There is always enough time to set up your camera and take pictures. On top of that, most of the tour guides suggest camera settings prior to entering the canyon. Furthermore, they constantly show you the best spots for amazing Antelope Canyon pictures.
In case you need somebody to take a photo of you, the tour guides always offer their help. You will be surprised by their skills and professionalism. So, make sure to use such a vital knowledge and the always helpful tips without spending more on the expensive photography tours.
Bonus Tip
Page with its word-famous landmarks, including Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, is located in the middle of nowhere. The city is so distant that in order to see these natural wonders you have to plan at least one full day excursion. Renting a car, booking a hotel room (this is inevitable if you travel with a kid)… There is a lot to think about.
It never occurred to me how all-inclusive tours from a city where you travel to can make your trip so much more impactful, convenient, and comfortable until my trip to Ireland. I was able to see half of the country while starting and ending every day in Dublin.
With that being said, if you travel to Las Vegas, Nevada, consider booking an all-inclusive Antelope Canyon tour from the Entertainment Capital of the World. It will enhance your entire trip tenfold.
