Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour

Key Points

• Visit three iconic landmarks in a single day: Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and the Grand Canyon South Rim.
• All entrance fees and lunch are included, offering a hassle-free experience.
• Small-group size (max 12) ensures a more personalized and engaging experience.
• Round-trip transportation from Las Vegas makes for a convenient travel option.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, with many reviews highlighting their friendliness and expertise.
• The tour lasts approximately 17 to 19 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Introduction to the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour

This full-day guided tour from Las Vegas costs $324 per person and offers an efficient way to explore three of the American Southwest’s most stunning landscapes. The tour departs from two pick-up points: Bellagio Hotel and Circus Circus Hotel. It is scheduled to last about 17 to 19 hours, making it a long but rewarding day.

The tour shines in its ability to combine Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and the Grand Canyon South Rim into a single trip. All admission fees and lunch are included, removing the hassle of planning individual tickets. The group size is limited to 12 travelers on the van option, ensuring a more intimate experience.

While the day is packed, the itinerary offers regular breaks and plenty of time to soak in the views. Reviewers frequently praise the knowledgeable guides and the value of visiting three major landmarks in one trip.

The Pick-up and Transportation Arrangements in Las Vegas

The tour begins with pick-up from designated locations in Las Vegas, specifically Bellagio or Circus Circus Hotels. After confirming your booking, detailed meeting instructions will be provided. The transportation is round-trip, directly from your hotel or specified pickup point.

The transport is in a van that accommodates up to 12 guests, ideal for those who prefer a smaller group. During peak seasons, the vehicle may be upgraded to a bus with a capacity of around 50 people, which can accommodate more travelers. The van’s size makes it easier to navigate traffic and access scenic spots more comfortably.

Travel time to each major stop is balanced with regular breaks, ensuring guests stay refreshed throughout the day. The guides are known for their efficiency and friendliness, making the long journey more enjoyable.

Visiting Horseshoe Bend: A Breathtaking Colorado River Viewpoint

The first stop on this tour is Horseshoe Bend, a landmark in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. After a brief 1.2 km hike along a sandy trail, visitors reach a viewpoint that offers one of the most striking views of the Colorado River. The river snakes in a horseshoe shape over a drop of more than 1,000 feet below.

We appreciate that admission is included, and the stay lasts about 45 minutes. The view is photogenic at all times of the year, with many visitors capturing memorable photos of the canyon’s sweeping curves. Note that in the summer, the hike can be exposed to extreme heat, sometimes reaching 100°F (38°C), so packing water and sun protection is wise.

This stop is ideal for those seeking a quick yet breathtaking introduction to the natural beauty of the Southwest. The stunning sight of the Colorado River makes it a standout feature of the tour.

Exploring Antelope Canyon: Light, Curves, and Navajo Guides

The tour then proceeds to Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon on Navajo land known for its photogenic curves and light beams. Visitors are guided by local Navajo guides through either Antelope Canyon X or Lower Antelope Canyon, depending on availability.

Inside, the smooth, wave-like formations of the canyon walls are formed by millions of years of natural erosion. Guides lead visitors through narrow passages with some sections requiring use of ladders with safety handrails, especially in Lower Antelope Canyon. The admission is included in the tour price, and the hike takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The canyon’s lighting conditions can vary, but many photos capture light beams streaming through narrow openings, creating an almost otherworldly glow. This stop offers excellent photo opportunities, making it a favorite among many travelers.

Grand Canyon South Rim: Views and Viewpoints

The third major stop is the Grand Canyon South Rim, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour includes visits to two viewpoints within the park, such as Lipan Point, Moran Point, Bright Angel, or Yavapai Point. These vantage points provide sweeping views of the vast canyon and its layered rock formations.

The lunch stop occurs en route, with a varied menu that can accommodate dietary restrictions if notified in advance. In the park, the group spends about 1 hour and 40 minutes, with around 40 minutes of actual sightseeing at viewpoints. Visitors can expect stunning panoramic views and the chance to explore the area briefly, with optional visits to nearby gift shops to purchase souvenirs or snacks.

This stop is perfect for taking in the grandeur of the canyon and capturing iconic photos. Despite the limited time, the viewpoints offer a clear sense of the scale and beauty of this natural wonder.

Route Stops at Seligman or Williams on Route 66

On the return journey, the tour makes a short break in Seligman or Williams, towns famous for their Route 66 heritage. This 10-minute stop allows visitors to enjoy the vintage American atmosphere, browse quaint shops, or snap photos of the nostalgic streetscape.

This extra stop adds a touch of Americana to the trip, providing a relaxed pause after a long day of sightseeing. It’s a chance to enjoy the charm of small-town America and stretch before heading back to Las Vegas.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers all entrance fees, including the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon (either X or Lower). It also includes lunch—a convenient way to fuel a long day—and round-trip transportation from Las Vegas.

Tips and gratuities are not included, so guests may choose to tip guides and drivers based on service quality. Dinner and breakfast are also not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The guides are known for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more enjoyable.

Practical Tips and Considerations

With a moderate physical fitness level recommended, travelers should wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and hiking, especially at Horseshoe Bend and inside Antelope Canyon. Dress according to the season: long pants and a warm jacket in cooler months, or shorts and a hat in warmer weather.

Since the tour includes ladders at Lower Antelope Canyon, those with mobility concerns should consider this when booking. The group size on the van is small, fostering a more personal experience but also requiring advance booking—the tour is often booked about 39 days in advance.

Weather can impact the itinerary; poor weather may lead to cancellations or partial refunds. The tour operates rain or shine, but extreme weather conditions could cause delays or modifications.

The Value and Overall Experience of the Tour

At $324 per person, the tour offers good value, considering it covers transportation, entrance fees, and lunch for visits to three major sites. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides—notably Richard, Terry, Raymond, and Noreen—whose expertise enhances the experience.

Guests praise the well-organized schedule and the breathtaking scenery at each stop, especially Lower Antelope Canyon’s unique formations and the sweeping vistas from the Grand Canyon South Rim. Though the day is long, the regular breaks and small group size make it manageable and enjoyable.

This tour suits those who want to see multiple landmarks in one day without driving, appreciate natural wonders, and value guided insights. It is especially ideal for those with moderate physical fitness who can handle walking and some hiking.

Final Thoughts on the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend Tour

This guided day trip from Las Vegas delivers a comprehensive experience of some of the most stunning landscapes in the American Southwest. The combination of scenic viewpoints, slot canyon exploration, and iconic vistas provides a well-rounded visit in a compact schedule.

The all-inclusive nature—covering entrance fees and lunch—takes the stress out of planning, and the small-group format ensures a more personal, engaging experience. The tour’s long duration requires stamina, but many reviewers find the breathtaking views and expert guides make it worthwhile.

While this tour is best suited for those comfortable with long days of sightseeing and walking, it offers exceptional value and memorable sights for anyone eager to see Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and the Grand Canyon in one trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I arrange pick-up for this tour?
Pick-up is available from select hotels in Las Vegas, including Bellagio and Circus Circus. The specific meeting details are provided after booking, and the local operator contacts travelers at least 24 hours prior to confirm.

Can children participate in this tour?
Yes, children as young as 3 years old can join, but infants are not permitted. Car seats are available free of charge for children weighing less than 60 lbs (27 kg) and under 6 years old, if requested in advance.

What should I wear for the trip?
Comfortable hiking or athletic shoes are recommended. Dress appropriately for the season: long pants and a warm jacket during cooler months or shorts and a hat when it’s warm.

What should I bring along?
Bring water, a hat, sunglasses, a camera, and a small backpack for personal items. Extra snacks or beverages are optional but can be helpful during long stretches.

How long is the sightseeing at each location?
Expect about 1-2 hours at each stop: Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and the Grand Canyon viewpoints. The actual time spent sightseeing is about 40 minutes at each major viewpoint.

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Some sections of Antelope Canyon involve ladders with safety handrails, so guests with mobility concerns should consider this. The small-group format allows for some flexibility, but overall walking is involved.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; in case of poor weather conditions, it may be canceled or rescheduled. Partial refunds are available if any attractions are closed due to weather.

Can I request a specific section of Antelope Canyon?
Requests can be made in advance, but availability depends on current bookings. The tour may visit Upper, Lower, or X sections, based on what is available that day.

What makes this tour stand out from other options?
The combination of three major landmarks, the small-group setting, and inclusive entrance fees and lunch set this tour apart. Many guides are praised for their knowledge, making the long day more engaging.