Antelope Canyon: Kayaking & Swimming Fun

Key Points

• Three-hour guided tour exploring Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon by kayak
• Includes kayaking, swimming, and canyon exploration suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers
• Starts at Antelope Point Launch Ramp with all necessary equipment provided
• Children are welcome, but some restrictions apply based on age and physical fitness
• Tour operates in the afternoon with flexible booking options and full cancellation rights
• Good for photography, nature lovers, and active explorers seeking a scenic adventure

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Antelope Canyon Kayaking Tour Overview

This $107, three-hour guided adventure takes you across Lake Powell to explore Antelope Canyon from the water. The tour departs from Antelope Point Launch Ramp, a well-known launch site, and offers a blend of kayaking, swimming, and canyon sightseeing. The experience is designed to be accessible for beginners and reasonably fit adventurers, with all gear included—kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and dry bags.

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to navigate through the winding, towering sandstone walls of Antelope Canyon, one of the most photographed locations in the area. The guides are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, making this a memorable experience whether you’re paddling for the first time or have some kayaking experience. The price includes all the necessary equipment but excludes items like park entry fees, water, sunscreen, and snacks, which you should bring along.

Meeting Point and Scheduling Details

The tour begins at the Antelope Point Launch Ramp, with directions easily found through Google Maps by searching for “ANTELPE POINT LAUNCH RAMP.” It’s important to arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled start to allow time for check-in and safety briefing. The afternoon schedule typically fits travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic activity after morning plans or other excursions.

This activity offers flexible booking options—you can reserve now and pay later—and full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance. The tour operates in Arizona time, so travelers should be mindful of potential phone time discrepancies, especially for those coming from Utah or nearby states.

Exploring Lake Powell by Kayak

Once on the water, you’ll paddle across the main channel of Lake Powell, enjoying views of crystal-clear waters and rugged red rock formations. The paddling journey offers a unique perspective of the lake’s expansive scenery and natural beauty. The guides lead the group at a comfortable pace, making it suitable for most ages and fitness levels, with an emphasis on safety and enjoyment.

As part of the experience, there are swim breaks before entering and after exiting the canyon, giving everyone a chance to cool off and relax in the tranquil waters. These breaks are appreciated for their refreshment value and the chance to unwind in the sun amid spectacular surroundings.

Navigating the Narrow Passages of Antelope Canyon

After paddling through Lake Powell’s broad waters, the group approaches the entrance to Antelope Canyon. The guides navigate the narrow, winding pathways that feature towering sandstone walls and vibrant colors. This section offers a stunning photo opportunity and a chance to witness the canyon’s quiet, almost sacred atmosphere.

Travelers reach the back of the canyon, where the sense of being surrounded by nature’s sculpture is most powerful. The guides take time to explain the geological features and help visitors appreciate the canyon’s natural artistry. At the end of the explored section, paddling back provides a different perspective of the canyon walls, complemented by another refreshing swim stop.

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Equipment and Safety Gear Provided

All necessary gear is included in the tour price, ensuring a smooth experience. Kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and dry bags are provided, allowing participants to carry essentials safely and stay dry. The dry bags are particularly useful for storing personal items like phones, cameras, or snacks during water breaks.

The tour emphasizes safety, with guides monitoring the group and ensuring everyone is comfortable, regardless of prior kayaking experience. The equipment is suitable for most sizes and physical abilities, though certain weight limits apply, and travelers with specific health conditions or mobility limitations may find the experience less suitable.

Who Can Join This Experience

Children are welcome on this tour, but there are restrictions based on age and physical condition. The activity is not suitable for children under 2 or 4 years old, and travelers with back problems, vertigo, epilepsy, or mobility issues may find it challenging. The physical nature of paddling and swimming excludes those over 130 lbs (59 kg) or with certain health concerns.

This tour is perfect for active travelers, nature lovers, and those looking to combine adventure with scenic beauty. It’s also a good choice for families with older children or groups seeking an outdoor activity that blends relaxation, exploration, and some light exercise.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Participants should be reasonably fit, as paddling involves some effort, especially during the longer crossing and canyon navigation. The tour is not suitable for people with serious back problems, vertigo, epilepsy, or those over weight limits specified in the guidelines. Non-folding wheelchairs, strollers, and other mobility aids are not permitted due to safety and equipment constraints.

Travelers are advised to bring sunscreen and water for the journey, and to arrive early to prepare for the safety briefing. The guides are attentive to safety, but the physical effort required means this tour is best suited for those comfortable on water and willing to paddle for parts of the trip.

What Makes This Tour Unique

This kayaking adventure into Antelope Canyon offers a rare water-based perspective of a world-famous geological formation. Unlike typical land tours, paddling allows a closer, more immersive experience with the canyon’s winding passages and towering walls. The inclusion of swimming breaks adds a refreshing element rarely found in other canyon tours.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides create an engaging environment, with personalized attention and safety in mind. The stunning views of Lake Powell’s expansive waters complement the canyon exploration, making this a comprehensive outdoor activity combining adventure, scenic beauty, and tranquility.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $107 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a three-hour guided experience that covers kayaking, swimming, and canyon exploration. The occupancy is limited by the small group format, ensuring a more personalized experience. The inclusion of all equipment and safety gear adds to the overall convenience and value.

While the park entry fee of $30 is not included, the overall experience justifies the cost, especially given the positive reviews praising guide quality, stunning scenery, and the overall adventure. The flexible booking options and full cancellation policy further enhance the value proposition.

Final Thoughts on the Antelope Canyon Kayaking & Swimming Tour

This guided kayaking tour in Lake Powell provides a unique way to experience Antelope Canyon’s natural beauty. The combination of paddling, swimming, and canyon exploration makes it stand out from traditional land-based tours. The experienced guides ensure safety and enrich the experience with their knowledge, making it suitable for most reasonably fit participants, including families.

The scenic views, tranquility of the water, and the chance to see this iconic canyon from a water level create lasting memories. Its affordable price, flexible booking, and positive reviews make it an appealing option for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers eager for an active, scenic adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but there are age restrictions and physical requirements to consider. It is best suited for older children who can paddle and swim comfortably.

What should I bring on the tour?
Participants should bring sunscreen and water. All kayaking equipment, life jackets, and dry bags are provided.

How early should I arrive?
It’s important to arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled start time at the Antelope Point Launch Ramp for check-in and safety briefing.

Are there any age or weight restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 2 or 4 years old, and certain weight limits apply. People with specific health issues or mobility challenges should consider their suitability before booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for travel plans.

What equipment is included?
All necessary gear—kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and dry bags—are provided for each participant.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, due to safety and equipment constraints, non-folding wheelchairs and strollers are not permitted.

What is the physical effort involved?
Participants should be reasonably fit as paddling involves physical exertion, especially during longer stretches and canyon navigation.

What makes this tour different from other lake or canyon tours?
The water-based exploration provides a more intimate view of Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell, with swimming breaks and the chance to paddle through winding canyon passages—a rare experience not typically available in land-based tours.

Is there any guidance on weather or safety?
Guides monitor safety throughout the trip, and participants are encouraged to bring sunscreen and water. The tour operates mainly in the afternoon, when weather conditions are generally favorable.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, this Antelope Canyon kayaking and swimming experience combines scenic water routes, canyon exploration, and a chance to cool off in Lake Powell’s tranquil waters—all with the guidance of knowledgeable locals. It suits active travelers looking for a scenic, outdoor adventure with a touch of serenity and awe-inspiring views.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby