Upper Antelope Canyon Sightseeing Tour with Entry Ticket

Discover the mesmerizing beauty of Upper Antelope Canyon on a 1 hour 30 minute guided tour priced at $149 per person. Based in Page, USA, this small-group excursion offers an intimate glimpse inside one of the Southwest’s most captivating natural wonders. Led by knowledgeable Navajo guides, the tour combines scenic walks, photo opportunities, and cultural insights, making it a memorable outing for all ages. The tour departs from Tse Bighanilini Tours and includes your entry ticket, Navajo permit fee, and the guiding expertise that elevates the experience.

While the tour is limited to 15 participants for a personal touch, it’s especially popular during prime hours when sunlight streams through the canyon’s narrow openings. Booking about 30 days in advance is typical, as this is a well-loved activity with high demand. Perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty and don’t mind a rough ride in a truck to reach the canyon, this tour promises a surreal, photo-rich experience in a short but spectacular window into the desert’s geological artistry.

Key Points

• Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes, including transportation and walking
• Price: $149 per person, with advance booking recommended
• Location: Page, Arizona, starting at Tse Bighanilini Tours
• Highlights: Guided walk through Upper Antelope Canyon, photo opportunities, cultural insights, and small group size (max 15)
• Best time: Prime time hours when sunlight pierces the canyon openings, especially from April to September
• What to wear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential; no bags, tripods, drones, or selfie-sticks allowed

The Unique Entrance to Antelope Canyon in a Shuttle

The tour begins at the Tse Bighanilini Tours meeting point, where you check in before boarding a tent-covered truck. This off-road ride through the deep red sand lasts about 15 minutes and gives a Mars-like feel as you ascend into the canyon wash. The shuttle is the only way to access the canyon, and it’s part of the adventure.

Walking Through the Surreal Landscape of Upper Antelope Canyon

Once you arrive, your Navajo guide leads you into the narrow slot canyon, where the walls have been carved by water and wind over thousands of years. The 15-minute walk offers numerous spots for photo opportunities thanks to the canyon’s vivid colors and striking formations. Expect to see deep reds, oranges, and purples that intensify with the time of day, especially midday when sunlight streams through the narrow openings.

The Best Times for Light and Color in the Canyon

The timing of your visit has a significant impact on your experience. From April to September, mid-day visits give you the chance to see beams of sunlight illuminate the canyon floor, creating a dazzling display. The morning and afternoon visits also reveal beautiful colors, but the midday sun produces the most spectacular lighting effects.

Climbing Over the Canyon’s Top Using Metal Ramps and Stairs

After exploring inside, the tour continues with a walk over the top of the canyon, where you’ll ascend metal ramps and stairs. This part of the experience offers panoramic views and a different perspective of the canyon’s sculpted walls and formations. Returning to the entrance, the entire walk remains easy enough for most participants, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Guides Who Share Knowledge and Take Photos

Whether it’s Sonny, Keanu, Dana, or Mariah, guides are praised for being friendly, informative, and helpful. They share insights into the geology, flora, fauna, and cultural significance of the canyon. Several reviews highlight guides taking photos of participants, helping visitors capture the best angles of the spectacular scenery.

Practical Considerations and Restrictions

Participants must arrive 45 minutes early to ensure timely departure, as late arrivals will result in no refunds. The tour strictly prohibits bags, selfie-sticks, drones, and tripods to protect the canyon environment. Children under 55 pounds should bring a child’s car or booster seat for the shuttle. The activity is not suitable for those who want to bring large equipment or seek a more flexible schedule.

Physical Demands and Accessibility

While most travelers can participate, the tour involves walking over uneven terrain and climbing ramps and stairs. It’s suitable for all ages, but comfortable shoes are a must. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, but the physical activity level remains moderate.

The Value of a Guided Canyon Experience

The entry ticket and permit fee are included in the $149 price, and guides enhance the visit with stories and photography. Many reviews emphasize the value of having an expert guide who knows the best spots and helps preserve the canyon’s environment. The tour’s limited size ensures a more intimate and less crowded experience, especially during less busy times.

Risks, Cancellations, and Weather Concerns

The tour is non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled unless canceled due to poor weather. A snowstorm in Northern Arizona was noted in a review, but the tour departed on schedule. Travelers are advised to arrive early and plan for weather conditions, as poor weather can lead to cancellations with a full refund or rescheduling options.

Final Thoughts on the Upper Antelope Canyon Sightseeing Tour

This guided tour offers a shortcut into a world of stunning natural beauty with expert guides and photo assistance. The small group size and prime time hours make for a personalized and visually spectacular experience. While the restrictions on bags and equipment limit some types of photography, the spectacular lighting during midday makes it well worth planning around.

Most visitors who value guide-led insights, photo opportunities, and short, impactful visits find this tour a worthwhile investment. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to see one of the most iconic slot canyons in the world in a comfortable, well-organized setting. However, travelers should be prepared for the physical activity and strict check-in rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, including transportation and walking inside the canyon.

What is included in the price?
The entry ticket, Navajo permit fee, and guiding services are included in the $149 fee.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, all ages are welcome, but children under 55 pounds should bring a car or booster seat for the shuttle.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable walking shoes; no bags or drones are allowed, and selfie-sticks are prohibited.

When is the best time to visit?
From April to September, especially midday, when sunlight streams through the canyon, creating spectacular light beams.

Can I bring a tripod or camera equipment?
No tripods, selfie-sticks, or drones are allowed on this tour.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Tse Bighanilini Tours, Page, AZ, and ends back at the same location.

What do guides share during the tour?
Guides provide insights into canyon formation, geology, and cultural history, and often take photos of participants.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled in poor weather conditions; in such cases, a full refund or reschedule is offered.

What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals forfeit the ticket with no refund, so arrive 45 minutes early to avoid missing the experience.