Monument Valley and Mystery Valley Full-Day Tour

Experience the iconic landscapes of Monument Valley and the lesser-known beauty of Mystery Valley on this full-day tour priced at $173 per person. Lasting about 7 hours, this tour offers an in-depth exploration of Navajo culture, stunning rock formations, and backcountry access in one seamless adventure. This tour is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive experience with knowledgeable guides, but it’s worth noting that lunch is not included, and there is a small additional fee for park entry.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of main sights and exclusive backcountry access. With a local Navajo guide, travelers learn about Navajo traditions, history, and legends, making it both educational and visually captivating. The tour is tailored for small groups, with up to 12 passengers in warm weather or 7 in colder conditions, ensuring a personalized experience. If you’re interested in authentic Navajo stories and breathtaking scenery, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and culture.

Key Points

• Full-day exploration of Monument Valley and Mystery Valley in 7 hours
• Local Navajo guides provide insights into culture, history, and traditions
• Access to restricted backcountry areas of Monument Valley with a Navajo guide
• See famous formations like the Three Sisters, John Ford Point, and the Totem Pole
• Visit a Navajo Hogan and enjoy a rug weaving demonstration and ceremonial music
• Includes park access, but $8 tribal park pass is paid separately

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Starting Point at The View Hotel in Monument Valley

This tour departs from the lobby of The View Hotel in Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ. Travelers are instructed to wait outside the hotel lobby at the Navajo loading area, as the driver will not come inside. The pickup is straightforward, with a guide from Monument Valley Tribal Tours waiting to lead the group.

The meeting point is convenient, and the tour begins in the morning, making it easy to fit into any travel plans. Remember, the tour operates on Utah Mountain Daylight Time, which is one hour ahead of Arizona from March to November. It’s advised to leave an hour earlier if coming from Arizona to avoid missing the start.

Exploring Monument Valley’s Most Iconic Sights

The core of this experience is seeing famous monuments like the Three Sisters, John Ford Point, Moccasin Arch, and the Big Hogan. These formations are photo musts, with stunning landscapes that often feature in movies and photographs. The North Window and Suns Eye provide especially dramatic views.

Aside from the main sights, the tour offers an exclusive visit to the backcountry, which is only accessible with a Navajo guide. This area is less crowded and allows for closer observation of the landscape. Travelers get stunning 360-degree views and the chance to see formations like the Sleeping Dragon and the Mitten Buttes in their natural setting.

Immersive Experience in Mystery Valley

After exploring Monument Valley, the tour moves to Mystery Valley, known for its ancient Navajo history and unique rock formations. Visitors learn about generations of Navajo people through stories and sites. The valley offers visual surprises, including petroglyphs and Anasazi ruins.

One of the highlights is the opportunity to climb into open bowls for breathtaking photo moments. The terrain can be rough, so moderate physical effort may be required. This part of the tour provides a deeper understanding of Navajo culture and ancient inhabitants.

Visiting a Navajo Hogan and Cultural Demonstrations

A traditional Navajo Hogan is included in the itinerary, giving visitors a chance to see a Navajo home firsthand. The tour features a rug weaving demonstration, showcasing craftsmanship passed through generations.

Live ceremonial music performed by the guide adds a personal touch, enriching the cultural experience. These activities help visitors connect with Navajo traditions beyond the scenic views, adding depth to the day.

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Access to Restricted Backcountry Areas

One of the tour’s biggest advantages is access to restricted backcountry areas of Monument Valley. This exclusive access is only possible with a Navajo guide, offering a more authentic and less touristy perspective of the landscape.

This special access allows travelers to see formations and areas that are not reachable on self-guided drives. It enhances the visual variety of the experience and provides insights into Navajo land management and cultural significance.

Scenic Drive and Vehicle Comfort

The journey is conducted in open-air safari-style vehicles in warm weather, providing a close-up view of the landscape. In colder or hotter conditions, the tour switches to an enclosed SUV, accommodating up to 7 passengers for comfort.

The drive through the valley is breathtaking, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, with guides readily available to answer questions and share stories.

Cultural Insights and Live Music Performances

Throughout the tour, guides share stories, legends, and cultural insights, making it informative and engaging. A musical performance by the guide adds a personal touch to the cultural education, enhancing the overall experience.

This element makes the tour not just about scenery but also about gaining a deeper understanding of Navajo traditions. It’s a chance to appreciate the land through its stories and songs.

Practical Tips and Additional Costs

Participants should bring sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen for sun protection. As the park entry pass ($8) is not included, visitors should carry cash to purchase it at the entrance. Since lunch is not provided, packing a snack or meal is recommended.

The tour does not suit infants under 1 year or women more than 5 months pregnant due to rough terrain. The small group size and outdoor nature mean flexibility and comfort vary with weather conditions.

Overall Experience and who will enjoy it

This full-day tour delivers a comprehensive look at Monument Valley and Mystery Valley, blending spectacular scenery with cultural storytelling. Expert guides, such as Sandra, Bruce, Larry, and Carol, bring knowledge and humor, making the experience personal and engaging.

The exclusivity of backcountry access and cultural demonstrations add value beyond just sightseeing. This tour is best suited for travelers who value authentic Navajo culture, stunning landscapes, and small-group intimacy. The cost reflects the full experience, but additional costs for park entry and lunch should be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
A local Navajo guide, access to restricted backcountry areas, a visit to a Navajo Hogan, and a musical performance are included. The $8 park entry fee is paid separately.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, typically starting in the morning.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from The View Hotel lobby in Oljato-Monument Valley.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch is not included; travelers should bring their own.

What do I need to bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and cash for the park fee are recommended.

How many people are in each vehicle?
In warm weather, up to 12 passengers in open-air vehicles; in cold/hot weather, up to 7 in enclosed SUVs.

Can I visit the backcountry without a guide?
No, access to backcountry areas is only available with a Navajo guide.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for infants or women more than 5 months pregnant due to terrain.

Do guides share cultural stories?
Yes, guides tell stories, legends, and perform music, enriching the experience.

Can I cancel?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of iconic monuments, backcountry access, and cultural activities makes this tour stand out among others in the area.

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