Visiting Antelope Canyon: 7 Things You Need To Know

Antelope Canyon is the most-visited slot canyon in the American southwest offering a rich history and fascinating structure that few natural wonders have. If you’re in Arizona, then visiting Antelope Canyon is a must-do.

Antelope Canyon is located just east of Page, Arizona on Navajo land, and is not a national park.

1. What’s so special about Antelope Canyon?

The sweeping curves of Antelope Canyon are what make this canyon so unique, the curves were created by water that rushed over its walls thousands of years ago. Despite its fame, this canyon won’t appear on your GPS, leaving many visitors wondering how to get there. The only way to actually enter and see Antelope Canyon up close is by guided tour, so be sure to book in advance!

There are two canyons – Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. You can opt to visit one or both of the canyons on the tours provided.

2. How do I get there?

The closest airport to Antelope Canyon is in Las Vegas. The drive from Las Vegas to Page is about 4.5 hours one way, and you’ll travel past numerous other iconic Southwest viewpoints along the way, including the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

3. How much will it cost?

You have a number of options when it comes to choosing a guided tour of Antelope Canyon:

Standard Upper Antelope Canyon Tour $65
Standard Upper Antelope Canyon Tour with light beams $75
Upper Antelope Canyon photo tour $150
Standard Upper Antelope Canyon night tour $80
Upper Antelope Canyon night photo tour $265
Standard Lower Antelope Canyon Tour $40

Please be aware that if you choose The Photo Tour; Mobile phones, GoPro cameras, compact cameras, gorillapods, and monopods are not permitted. And If you plan to sell your photos of Antelope Canyon, you’ll need a permit from Navajo Parks Management. Permits cost $50 if you purchase them in advance, but if you get caught selling a photo without a permit, the cost jumps to $200.

4. How long will it take?

Standard guided tours are about 1.5 hours long for both Upper and Lower Canyon. Photo tours are about 2.5 hours.

5. When is the best time to go?

Anytime between the end of March and early October. During this time the light beams that enter the Upper Antelope Canyon create a unique phenomenon. If you visit Antelope Canyon during winter, you will miss those bright haloes!

6. Where will I get the best photos?

1. Upper Antelope Canyon (Tsé bighánílíní in Navajo)
2. The Crack
3. Lower Antelope
4. The Corkscrew

7. Any insider tips?

1. Book a 10:30 AM tour—this is the best time to ensure you’ll be well-positioned for optimal light. Plus, you’ll still have time to explore Lower Antelope Canyon in the afternoon.
2. Bring a rain jacket or plastic bag to protect your camera from dust inside the Canyon.
3. Bring cash to cover the $8 entrance fee to the Navajo Reservation, and maybe for a tip your tour guides
4. Space is restricted, no backpacks are allowed inside the Canyon, so try to carry only essential items; water bottle, mobile phone, or camera equipment.