Upper Antelope Canyon
A breathtaking slot canyon on Navajo land, famed for its sculpted sandstone and ethereal light beams, accessible only via guided tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for light beams
Upper Antelope Canyon
Best Time
Best chance for light beams
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking slot canyon on Navajo land, famed for its sculpted sandstone and ethereal light beams, accessible only via guided tours.
"The light beams, smooth sandstone walls, and colors are magical! The guided tour is short but unforgettable."
Book Tours Early! 🗓️
Upper Antelope Canyon tours sell out fast. Book your 'upper antelope canyon tour' months ahead, especially for peak times.
Clear Bags Only! 🎒
Only clear bags are allowed. This is for safety and to protect the delicate canyon walls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Famous Light Beams
Upper Antelope Canyon
Witness ethereal beams of sunlight piercing the narrow canyon, creating a magical, otherworldly glow.
Sculpted Sandstone Walls
Upper Antelope Canyon
Marvel at the smooth, flowing rock formations sculpted by wind and water over millennia.
Vibrant Canyon Colors
Upper Antelope Canyon
Experience a spectrum of warm oranges, reds, and purples that shift with the light.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Upper Antelope Canyon Tour in Advance
Understand Tour Differences & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours Early! 🗓️
Upper Antelope Canyon tours sell out fast. Book your 'upper antelope canyon tour' months ahead, especially for peak times.
Clear Bags Only! 🎒
Only clear bags are allowed. This is for safety and to protect the delicate canyon walls.
Listen to Your Guide! 🗣️
Guides are essential for safety and share photo tips. They know the best spots and angles.
Wear Comfortable Shoes! 👟
You'll be walking on sand and uneven surfaces. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours Early! 🗓️
Upper Antelope Canyon tours sell out fast. Book your 'upper antelope canyon tour' months ahead, especially for peak times.
Clear Bags Only! 🎒
Only clear bags are allowed. This is for safety and to protect the delicate canyon walls.
Listen to Your Guide! 🗣️
Guides are essential for safety and share photo tips. They know the best spots and angles.
Wear Comfortable Shoes! 👟
You'll be walking on sand and uneven surfaces. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must.
Stay Hydrated! 💧
Bring water, especially during warmer months. The canyon can be cool, but the desert sun is intense.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking beauty of Upper Antelope Canyon, describing the light beams and sculpted sandstone as magical and unforgettable. While tours are short and can be crowded, the unique geological formations and the expertise of the Navajo guides make it a highly recommended, once-in-a-lifetime experience. The cost is noted as high by some, but generally considered worth it for the stunning visuals.
"Upper Antelope Canyon is absolutely stunning. The light beams, smooth sandstone walls, and colors are magical! The guided tour is short but unforgettable, perfect for photos and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It can get crowded, but it’s 100% worth it!"
Imran Hanif
"Came here with one of the tour company. It was 200ft walkable canyon. Our guide showed us few tricks to take the pictures. Some are posted here. Worth seeing."
sho j
"It's a cool place to take unbeatable photos—but only if you don't have a group of Chinese tourists who need to take a picture every meter of the caves. Then, the 100 metres takes an hour to walk through. However, you see something special here that is not comparable to other fantastic places worldwide."
Honza M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Upper Antelope Canyon is located near Page, Arizona. You cannot visit independently; you must book a guided tour with an authorized Navajo tour operator. Most tours depart from Page, and the tour company will provide transportation to the canyon entrance, often via a 4x4 vehicle.
Upper Antelope Canyon is accessed by a short 4x4 ride and involves walking on flat sand. Lower Antelope Canyon requires climbing up and down steep metal staircases and ladders. Many find Upper Antelope Canyon easier for mobility, while Lower offers a more adventurous experience.
No, you cannot drive your own vehicle to Upper Antelope Canyon. Access is strictly controlled and requires a guided tour that includes transportation to the canyon entrance.
Upper Antelope Canyon is generally more accessible than Lower Antelope Canyon due to its flat terrain. However, it can still be challenging for those with significant mobility issues. Always check with your tour operator about specific accessibility concerns.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on sand. Layers are recommended as temperatures can vary. A hat and sunglasses are useful for the ride to the canyon.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Upper Antelope Canyon tours vary by operator and time of year, but expect them to be on the higher side, often ranging from $100 to over $200 per person. Booking 'upper antelope canyon tickets' or 'antelope canyon upper tickets' well in advance is essential.
You must purchase tickets through authorized Navajo tour companies. Avoid third-party resellers unless they are officially partnered. Check the 'upper antelope canyon official website' or directly with tour operators for booking.
Yes, absolutely. 'Upper antelope canyon tours' are mandatory and sell out very quickly. It's highly recommended to book your 'upper antelope tour' several months in advance, especially for popular times.
The most sought-after times for photography are between late morning and early afternoon (approximately 10 AM to 1 PM) when sunlight can create dramatic light beams. 'Photography tour antelope canyon' options are available for dedicated photographers.
Yes, specialized 'photography tour antelope canyon' or 'photo tour antelope canyon' options exist. These tours are typically longer, allow more time for photography, and may have stricter rules about equipment.
📸 📸 Photography
Guides often provide photography tips. Generally, a wider aperture (lower f-number) helps in low light. Experiment with ISO and shutter speed, and be prepared for dynamic lighting conditions. Many visitors use their smartphones effectively.
Tripods are generally not allowed on standard tours due to space constraints and the need to keep groups moving. Specialized 'upper antelope canyon photography tours' might permit them, but always confirm with the tour operator beforehand.
Expect stunning shots of flowing sandstone walls, dramatic light beams (especially midday), and vibrant colors. The narrowness of the canyon creates unique perspectives.
No, drones are strictly prohibited within Antelope Canyon and the surrounding Navajo Nation Parks for safety and preservation reasons.
Guides are very helpful! They'll point out the best angles, suggest compositions, and often demonstrate how to capture the light beams or colors using your phone or camera.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food or dining facilities inside Upper Antelope Canyon. You'll need to eat before or after your tour in Page, Arizona.
Only water is typically allowed. Food and other beverages are usually prohibited to maintain the cleanliness and integrity of the canyon.
The town of Page, Arizona, offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, serving American cuisine, pizza, and more.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Navajo Nation: Tour Operators and Rules
Each tour operator has specific rules, but common restrictions include no large bags, no tripods on standard tours, and no drones. The emphasis is on respecting the natural environment. Guides often share insights into the geology and cultural significance of the canyon, enriching the visitor's understanding beyond just the visual spectacle. Listening to their instructions is paramount for a safe and enjoyable visit.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips for Upper Antelope Canyon
For optimal shots, consider a 'photography tour antelope canyon' if you're serious about your craft. These tours are typically longer and may allow for tripods, which are usually prohibited on standard tours. Even with a smartphone, you can achieve stunning results. Guides are excellent resources, often demonstrating how to use your phone's camera settings to capture the vibrant colors and textures. Remember to keep your gear protected from sand and dust.
Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon: Choosing Your Adventure
Lower Antelope Canyon, on the other hand, offers a more adventurous experience. It involves navigating a series of steep metal stairs and ladders to descend into and ascend from the canyon. The formations here are equally breathtaking, with narrower passages and a different play of light. While it requires more physical exertion, many visitors find the ladders and narrower spaces to be a thrilling part of the adventure. Both offer unique and unforgettable experiences, so consider what kind of exploration you're seeking.
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