Las Vegas > Grand Canyon Sunrise + Antelope + Horseshoe Bend

Experience the Best of Arizona in a Single Day Trip from Las Vegas

This 18-hour tour offers an incredible journey through some of Arizona’s most iconic sights, starting with a sunrise at the Grand Canyon South Rim. For $319 per person, travelers explore the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and visit notable sites like Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell. The trip is led by a professional, photo-oriented tour guide in a small group limited to 13 participants, ensuring personalized attention and smoother access to popular viewpoints.

The tour departs from Las Vegas with pickup offered from hotels along the Las Vegas Strip or Downtown. While it involves a long day of travel and sightseeing, reviewers highlight the expert guidance, breathtaking views, and well-organized schedule as key strengths. It suits those eager to see multiple major landmarks in one day and who are comfortable with early mornings and extended hours.

This trip balances scenic stops with cultural insights, but note that lunch and breakfast are not included. The tour’s success depends on reservation timing, especially for Antelope Canyon, which requires advanced tickets. This small group adventure combines natural beauty and photography with knowledgeable guides making it ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and families.

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Key Points

• Includes sunrise at the Grand Canyon South Rim for stunning early morning views
• Explores Antelope Canyon with a local Navajo guide, rich in cultural stories
• Visit Horseshoe Bend for iconic river views and photography opportunities
• Stops at Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell for scenic desert water vistas
• Small group limited to 13 participants ensures personalized service
• Duration of 18 hours with hotel pickup from Las Vegas

Starting the Journey with Hotel Pickup in Las Vegas

The tour begins late at night, with pickup times between 10:00 PM and 1:00 AM depending on the season, from hotels located on the Las Vegas Strip or Downtown. The exact pickup time is confirmed at least 24 hours prior, and travelers are advised to arrive 5 to 10 minutes early. This early start is essential to arrive at the Grand Canyon for the spectacular sunrise.

The comfortable transportation includes air-conditioned vehicles like Mercedes Benz Sprinters and Ford Transit vans, equipped with leather or synthetic leather seats for a smooth ride across Arizona. The small group setting allows for more flexibility and attention from the guide, making the long hours of travel more manageable.

Witnessing the Sunrise at Grand Canyon South Rim

The first major highlight is watching the sunrise over the Grand Canyon South Rim, a truly breathtaking scene filled with vibrant colors. This early start allows visitors to experience the canyon’s natural glow before the crowds arrive, creating ideal conditions for photography.

After sunrise, there’s time to enjoy panoramic views from both the South Rim and East Rim. The scenery is filled with colorful canyon layers, and the quiet morning atmosphere adds a sense of peacefulness. The admission fee of $8 is included, giving access to the canyon’s viewpoints and facilities.

Exploring Antelope Canyon with a Navajo Guide

Following the Grand Canyon, the tour heads to Antelope Canyon, one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world. Entry tickets, either $75 for the Lower Antelope Canyon or $60 for Antelope X, are included in the tour price, but advance reservations are necessary due to high demand.

Inside, the local Navajo guide leads visitors through winding sandstone walls, offering insights into the canyon’s geological formation and cultural significance. Expect stairs and narrow walkways, which may require some physical effort, especially for those with mobility concerns. The guide’s storytelling adds depth to the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

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Capturing Iconic Photos at Horseshoe Bend

Next, the journey continues to Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River curves dramatically through red rock cliffs. This overlook is a popular spot for photographers and hikers, offering unmatched views of the river and the canyon walls.

The overlook presents a photogenic scene, especially during early morning or late afternoon light. The stop is usually brief but highly memorable, allowing visitors to take stunning photos of this natural arch. The entrance fee of $5 is included, and there are options to hike down a short trail to view the bend from different angles.

Visiting Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell

A visit to Glen Canyon Dam offers insight into the engineering marvel that controls water flow in the region. The tour includes a stop at the dam for photos and explanations of its historical and environmental significance.

From there, travelers enjoy views of Lake Powell, a vast desert water body that contrasts with the surrounding red rocks. The scenery here provides fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the water reflecting the sky and canyon walls.

Returning to Las Vegas After a Full Day

After a day packed with sightseeing, the tour begins its return journey to Las Vegas in the early evening, arriving between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. The comfortable ride allows for rest and reflection on the day’s highlights.

Throughout the trip, the professional guide shares local stories and offers photography tips, enhancing the overall experience. Reviewers frequently praise the guides’ knowledge, friendliness, and attention to detail, which make the long day enjoyable and informative.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Travelers are encouraged to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and cash for optional expenses. While lunch and breakfast are not included, the tour makes several rest stops for snacks, restroom breaks, and photos.

Note that children under 8 or under 4’9” (145 cm) require a car seat, and the tour is not suitable for children under 5, individuals with mobility issues, or those with certain health conditions. Drones, pets, large luggage, and alcohol are not permitted on the vehicle.

The Value and Popularity of This Tour

This small group tour costs $319 per person and includes all entrance fees, bottled water, and transportation. Reviewers highlight excellent value for the opportunity to see multiple iconic sites in one day with expert guides and comfortable transportation.

The tour is highly rated at 4.7 out of 5 based on 194 reviews, with many emphasizing the guides’ knowledge, warmth, and photography assistance. The limited group size ensures a more personal experience, and the early start allows for unique sunrise views rarely accessible on standard tours.

Ideal for Who?

This tour suits photographers, families, and nature enthusiasts eager to see Arizona’s most famous landmarks without multiple trips or extensive planning. It is especially recommended for those comfortable with long travel days and early mornings. The inclusion of professional guides and small group size offers a personalized feel that many reviewers cherish.

Final Thoughts on the Arizona Day Trip from Las Vegas

The 18-hour Grand Canyon Sunrise + Antelope + Horseshoe Bend tour combines spectacular scenery, cultural insights, and professional guidance into one comprehensive package. Its unique focus on sunrise at the Grand Canyon sets it apart, providing unforgettable lighting and views.

While the tour demands a long day and some physical effort at specific stops, the well-organized schedule, expert guides, and breathtaking sights make it a worthy choice for those wanting a full Arizona experience in a single trip. Advance reservations are essential, especially for Antelope Canyon, and travelers should come prepared for a full day of exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
It is recommended to arrive 5 to 10 minutes early at the designated hotel pickup point, with pickup times between 10:30 PM and 1:00 AM depending on the season.

Does the tour include meals?
No, lunch and breakfast are not included. Rest stops will be made for snacks or meals, but travelers should plan accordingly.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 5 years or under 4’9” (145 cm) require a car seat. The tour is not suitable for guests with certain mobility or health issues.

What are the main highlights I will see?
Expect to visit Grand Canyon South Rim at sunrise, Antelope Canyon with Navajo guides, Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon Dam, and Lake Powell for scenic views and photography.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 18 hours, with a return to Las Vegas between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

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