Guided Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Las Vegas

Discover the stunning landscapes of the Southwest on this full-day guided tour from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. Priced at $209 per person, this experience offers a comprehensive day out, approximately 13 to 14 hours long, with round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and expert Navajo guides. The tour departs early in the morning at 6:30 am, making it ideal for those interested in covering multiple iconic landmarks in one trip.

While the tour is praised for its stunning vistas and knowledgeable guides, it also involves significant walking—about 1.5 miles—and requires comfortable walking shoes. Some reviews mention issues with logistics or timing, so travelers should be prepared for a long day with potential delays. This tour suits visitors eager for a comprehensive, well-organized experience of some of the Southwest’s most famous sights.

Key Points

• Price of $209 per person includes entrance fees to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon
• Round-trip transportation from a designated meeting point near Las Vegas
• Travel in comfort via air-conditioned coach or van, with WiFi and restroom on full-size buses
• Stops at St. George, Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon Dam, and Antelope Canyon
• Guides are Navajo, providing local insights and historical context
• Tour duration is approximately 13-14 hours, with early start and late return

Meeting Point and Transportation in Comfort

The tour begins at 6:30 am outside the North Entrance of the Luxor Hotel and Casino, facing Excalibur. The transportation used depends on group size; most travelers ride in an air-conditioned coach or van, both equipped with WiFi and restrooms on full-size buses. The drive from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon covers roughly 275 miles, with about 4.5 hours of travel each way, allowing for a scenic trip through desert landscapes.

Travelers should note that parking is available at the Luxor, with rates applying, and hotel pickup is not included. Visitors arriving via ride-share or public transit can access the meeting point easily. The group size is limited to 99, helping ensure a comfortable experience, though some reviews mention being part of larger groups.

Stops in Navajo Territory: From St. George to Glen Canyon

The first stop occurs in St. George, Utah, where travelers enjoy a breakfast and view the historic Mormon temple. This stop lasts about 20 minutes and is free of charge. The journey then continues to Horseshoe Bend, a spectacular view where the Colorado River curves around sandstone cliffs in a horseshoe shape.

At Horseshoe Bend, visitors stand atop a cliff 1,000 feet above the river, capturing breathtaking photos of the vivid canyon walls. The one-hour stop allows for ample photo opportunities and taking in the awe-inspiring scenery. Travelers should be prepared for standing on uneven surfaces and walking to the viewpoint, approximately 1.5 miles round-trip.

Next, the tour heads to Glen Canyon Dam Overlook for a panoramic view of the vast canyon landscape. The site provides a 1 hour and 15 minutes stop, where visitors can admire the massive dam and the surrounding geology before beginning the return journey to Las Vegas.

Exploring Antelope Canyon with a Navajo Guide

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Lower Antelope Canyon, where water, wind, and sand have carved surreal sandstone formations. The 1 hour and 30 minutes spent in the canyon include walking approximately 1.1 miles on uneven terrain.

A Navajo guide leads visitors through the narrow, winding passages, explaining local folklore, geology, and the significance of the canyon. Expect to see beams of sunlight piercing through narrow openings, creating stunning light shafts perfect for photography. The tour visits either Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, depending on weather and crowd conditions.

Entrance fees are included in the ticket price, but travelers should be aware that tips for guides are not included. The guide’s storytelling and local insights are often praised for adding meaningful context to the natural beauty.

Scenic Drive Through Glen Canyon

After exploring Antelope Canyon, the tour makes a final stop at Glen Canyon for a panoramic view of the canyon’s sweeping landscape. This 1 hour and 15 minutes stop allows visitors to take in the vast vistas and appreciate the scale of the Southwest’s geology.

The view from the Glen Canyon Overlook highlights the massive rock formations and the Colorado River winding through the canyon. This stop offers an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to reflect on the natural wonders visited during the day.

Returning to Las Vegas: Long Day with Notable Highlights

The return trip begins after the Glen Canyon stop, with the journey back to Las Vegas typically arriving around 7 pm. Some reviews indicate the journey can be longer due to traffic or delays, with early mornings and late evenings involved.

Despite the long hours, many travelers find the scenic drive and viewing opportunities worthwhile. The tour concludes at the original meeting point, with no hotel pickup included, so planning accordingly is advised.

The Experience with Guides and Customer Feedback

The Navajo guides are generally praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share local stories. Several reviews highlight guides like Walter and Patricia as particularly engaging, making the experience informative and enjoyable.

Some visitors mention minor issues with logistics or timing—such as delays, unclear meet-up instructions, or disappointing bus amenities like broken air conditioning or absence of WiFi. Travel can be long and physically demanding due to walking and uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are strongly recommended.

The tour has received an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5, with many travelers expressing satisfaction with the scenery, guides, and value. However, some reviews caution about potential delays and discrepancies in the itinerary or bus comfort.

Who Should Book This Tour

This full-day experience is ideal for adventurous visitors eager to see multiple landmarks in one trip. It’s particularly suited for those comfortable with long hours of travel and walking, and who want insightful narration from local Navajo guides.

Travelers seeking luxury amenities or a more relaxed pace might find some aspects of the trip less ideal. The tour is not suitable for children under 7 or for those with mobility challenges due to walking distances and uneven surfaces.

The Sum Up: A Well-Organized Day of Southwest Wonders

This guided tour from Las Vegas offers a comprehensive view of some of the Southwest’s most iconic sights—Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and Glen Canyon—all in one day. The inclusion of entrance fees, expert Navajo guides, and comfortable transportation adds value.

While the long hours and possible logistical hiccups are worth noting, the breathtaking scenery and informative guides make this tour a worthwhile choice for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. It’s an exciting way to explore northern Arizona’s geological marvels without the need for multiple separate trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?
No, hotel pickup is not included. The meeting point is outside the Luxor Hotel and Casino near the North Entrance.

How long is the drive from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon?
The drive takes approximately 4.5 hours, covering about 275 miles in each direction.

Which section of Antelope Canyon will I visit?
The tour visits either Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, depending on availability and weather conditions.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended due to walking on uneven surfaces.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance fees for Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon are included in the $209 price.

How physically demanding is the walk through Antelope Canyon?
It involves walking about 1.1 miles in uneven terrain, so good walking shoes and physical readiness are advised.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 13 to 14 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Can children participate?
The minimum age for this tour is 7 years old. Children under 7 are not permitted.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. Bottled water is provided; travelers should bring snacks if desired.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but Antelope Canyon may be closed for safety reasons during inclement weather, and refunds are at the discretion of the Navajo guides.

Is WiFi or restroom access guaranteed on the bus?
WiFi and restrooms are available on full-size buses, but not guaranteed on vans or smaller vehicles.

How do I book this tour?
Tickets can be purchased via Viator, with most bookings made 19 days in advance. The tour is popular, so early booking is recommended for availability.