Best Time to Visit Antelope Canyon in 2024 (Complete Guide with Tips)
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Is Antelope Canyon worth visiting?
Antelope Canyon is one of the most famous canyons in the world, located in the Navajo Nation near Page, Arizona. Unlike the nearby Grand Canyon that stretches far and wide, Antelope Canyon offers a different type of splendor due to it being a slot canyon in the red-sand desert of Arizona.
Slot canyons are very narrow gorges with steep, high walls often made from soft rock such as basalt or sandstone that have been carved by hundreds of years of erosion. Due to this, the walls of Antelope Canyon have very unique, wavy shapes all throughout and present a marvelous combination of colors, gradients, and lines to follow when the light bounces off of them. In addition, there are concentrated light beams that shine down into parts of the canyon, which is a beautiful sight to see for nature lovers and photographers alike. You may have seen the famous photograph by Peter Lik called “Phantom” that sold for $6.5 million dollars – it was this that inspired my trip to Antelope Canyon in the first place!
There is a lot of wonder and awe to be experienced in those canyons, especially when you see how the power of nature has shaped and created such beautiful formations that are unique to this canyon alone. I would say that extending my trip from the Grand Canyon to include this tour was well worth it – I now have unforgettable memories and amazing photos to add to my collection!
When is the best time of year to visit Antelope Canyon?
The best time to visit Antelope Canyon is between the months of March through October, because you will experience drier weather, clearer skies, and more daylight hours compared to other months. This makes it easier to capture the stunning light beams that Antelope Canyon is famous for, especially during mid-day when the sun is at its highest point in the sky.
It’s worth noting that peak season is between June and August, which means that the crowds are likely to be larger during this time. However, if you prefer a quieter experience, you can opt to visit during the shoulder months of March to May or September to October.
It’s important to check the weather forecast before visiting Antelope Canyon, as flash flooding can occur and cause the canyon to close temporarily for safety reasons.
What is the weather like in Antelope Canyon?
Antelope Canyon is located in a desert region, which means that it typically receives very little rainfall throughout the year. However, during the rainy season, which runs from July to September, there is a chance of rain and flash floods in the area.
Flash floods can occur quickly and without warning, and can be extremely powerful and destructive. As a result, the Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation Department may close the canyon during times of heavy rain or potential flooding, so it is advised to check the weather forecast and contact the park before planning a visit during the rainy season.
When is the best time of day to visit Antelope Canyon?
The best time of day to visit Antelope Canyon is during the mid-morning to mid-afternoon hours, typically between 10 am and 2 pm, when the sun is highest in the sky. This is when the famous light beams are most visible and intense, and the colors of the sandstone are most vibrant. However, the exact timing and intensity of the light beams can vary depending on the time of year and weather conditions.
When is the least crowded time for visiting Antelope Canyon?
Antelope Canyon is typically less busy during the winter months from December to February. During this time, the weather is cooler, and there are fewer tourists compared to the peak season, which is from March to October. Additionally, visiting during weekdays, especially on Tuesday or Wednesday, can also help you avoid crowds. However, it’s important to note that Antelope Canyon is a popular tourist destination, and there may still be a significant number of visitors even during the off-season. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to book your tour in advance and arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds.
What months is Antelope Canyon open?
Fortunately, Antelope Canyon is open year-round, with tours for both Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon, Canyon X, and Secret Canyon running every day of the week, weather permitting.
Tours for either section of the canyon can start as early as 7:30 a.m. and usually last 1.5 to 2 hours long, with the last tour of the day ending early to mid-afternoon.
Do you need reservations to go to Antelope Canyon?
You do not need a reservation to visit the Antelope Canyon area, but you cannot enter any section of the canyon without a local guide from a licensed tour company that has permission to operate on Navajo land.
There are now four different sections of Antelope Canyon that can be toured: Lower Antelope Canyon, Upper Antelope Canyon, Canyon X, and Secret Antelope Canyon. Each one has a unique set of characteristics but all are equally as magical and unlike anywhere else on earth that you simply cannot go wrong!
These are some of the most highly rated tour companies that are licensed to operate in the area, categorized by different sections of Antelope Canyon.
Lower Antelope Canyon Tours
Dixie’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tours (read reviews here) – https://www.antelopelowercanyon.com/
Ken’s Tours Lower Antelope Canyon (read reviews here) – https://www.lowerantelope.com/
Upper Antelope Canyon Tours
Antelope Canyon Tours (read reviews here) – https://www.antelopecanyon.com/
Navajo Tours (read reviews here) – https://navajotours.com/
Antelope Slot Canyon Tours (read reviews here) – https://antelopeslotcanyon.com/
Adventurous Antelope Canyon Tours (read reviews here) – https://adventurousantelopecanyon.com/
Antelope Canyon X Tours
Taadidiin Tours (read reviews here) – https://www.antelopecanyon-x.com/antelope-canyon-x-hiking-tours/
Secret Antelope Canyon Tours
Horseshoe Bend Slot Canyon Tours (read reviews here) – https://horseshoebendtours.com/
During peak season (March to October), tours can fill up quickly, so it’s best to book your tour well in advance. It’s also a good idea to confirm your reservation a few days before your scheduled visit to make sure there haven’t been any changes or cancellations due to imminent weather.
How much does it cost to visit Antelope Canyon?
Prices depend on the section of Antelope Canyon you are wanting to visit and the ages of those in your group.
Lower Antelope Canyon Ticket Prices
Adults (ages 13 & up): $55
Children (ages 8-12): $35
Children (ages 4-7): $35 (no $8 permit fee required)
Infants (ages 3 & under): $0 (no $8 permit fee required)
Upper Antelope Canyon Ticket Prices
Adults (ages 8 & up): $100-$130 (midday slot can be pricier during peak season April 1- August 31)
Children and Infants (ages 0-7): $75-$120 (midday slot can be pricier during peak season April 1- August 31)
Antelope Canyon X Ticket Prices
Adults (ages 18+): $39.62
Children (ages 0-17): $30.19
Secret Antelope Canyon Ticket Prices
Adults (ages 6+): $159 (this is a combo tour that also includes a tour of Horseshoe Bend)
Most tour prices listed include the $8 Navajo Parks and Recreation permit fee, with the exception of Ken’s Tours (Lower Antelope Canyon), Taadidiin Tours (Antelope Canyon X), and Horseshoe Bend Slot Canyon Tours (Secret Antelope Canyon). Be sure to have some cash on hand for tips if you enjoyed the tour! Tipping is not expected but definitely regarded as good etiquette for sharing expert knowledge on the history, culture, and geology of the area you are visiting. Our tour guide pointed out the best spots for great photos and even taught us how to adjust the exposure levels on our phone cameras to get the most out of each photo op!
Is it safe to bring your kids to Antelope Canyon?
Yes! Antelope Canyon is very much a kid-friendly excursion, and most tours in the area allow families with toddlers to experience all that Antelope Canyon has to offer. Some tours also permit infants to come along, and it’s easily doable with just a bit of extra planning plus knowing what to expect (check the Common Questions and Travel Tips section further down in the post for more details).
Here are the tours that have discounted pricing for kids:
Antelope Canyon Tours That Have Discounts for Children
Dixie’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tours (read reviews here) – https://www.antelopelowercanyon.com/
Ken’s Tours Lower Antelope Canyon (read reviews here) – https://www.lowerantelope.com/
Antelope Canyon Tours (read reviews here) – https://www.antelopecanyon.com/
Adventurous Antelope Canyon Tours (read reviews here) – https://adventurousantelopecanyon.com/
Taadidiin Tours (read reviews here) – https://www.antelopecanyon-x.com/antelope-canyon-x-hiking-tours/
Which is the Best Antelope Canyon Tour – Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, or Canyon X versus Secret Canyon?
The best Antelope Canyon tour for you depends on many factors. Here is a comparison table for each type of tour so you can easily weigh what matters most for your trip.
| Lower Antelope Canyon | Upper Antelope Canyon | Antelope Canyon X | Secret Antelope Canyon | |
| Light Beams | Less chance | High chance | Least chance | Less chance |
| Crowds | Most busy | Fairly busy | Less busy | Least busy |
| Difficulty | Has many ladders, the steepest ones at the descent and ascent into and out of the canyon | No stairs, easy and flat walk through the canyon, although narrower than Lower Antelope Canyon | Has a steep hill with stairs going in and out, but otherwise easy hike | Easy in and out, small hill at entrance and exit |
| Price | $ – $$ | $$ – $$$ | $ | $$$ |
| Duration | 60 min | 90 min | 60 min | 60 min |
| Photography Tour | Available only during off season | Not Available | Available year-round | Not available, but tripods are allowed on regular tours |
| Capacity | 10 persons/tour | 15 persons/tour | 40 persons/tour | 25 persons/tour |
| Kid Friendly | Yes | Yes | Yes | No, must be 6+ years |
How many days for Antelope Canyon?
One day is more than enough for visiting Antelope Canyon! In fact, many visitors opt to book a tour of one section of Antelope Canyon for part of the day and then go on to explore other famous landmarks in the area. Many companies offer a combination tour that also includes activities like kayaking at Lake Powell or rafting at Horseshoe Bend, to name a few. Since touring Antelope Canyon may only take a maximum of 2 hours, it’s very easy to squeeze in another fun activity to your day. Or you could even reserve multiple tours of different sections to get the full Antelope Canyon experience! If going this route, I recommend booking Upper Antelope Canyon for midday to see the iconic light beams and another section or early morning or late afternoon.
What are other things to do near Antelope Canyon?
Lake Powell
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Glen Canyon
Canyon Boat Tours
Trout Fishing
Off Roading
Camping
Hiking & Biking
Horseshoe Bend
Rafting
Wahweap Overlook
Scenic Drives
Monument Valley Loop
Fredonia to Vermillion Cliffs
Vermillion Cliffs National Monument (The Wave)
Reflection Canyon
Redwall Cavern
Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument
Zion National Park
Grand Canyon National Park
Common Questions and Travel Tips for Visiting Antelope Canyon?
Is it cold inside Antelope Canyon?
Generally, the deeper parts of Antelope Canyon are chillier than the areas closer to the surface, but it mostly depends on the season you visit. The summer months keep the air inside the canyons fairly warm while spring, fall, and winter seasons can bring cool breezes into the area. Dressing in layers is your best bet to ensure you are prepared for any type of climate!
Are the bathrooms at Antelope Canyon?
There are no bathrooms at the Antelope Canyon site, so you should make sure everyone in your group goes at the facility before the start of the tour.
What should I bring to Antelope Canyon?
A water bottle to stay hydrated, a light jacket to keep warm, closed-toe shoes to wear (not necessarily hiking shoes, but something comfortable and athletic), and your camera! Many tour guides can teach you how to get the best photos on your phone and where to take them.
If you’re a photo enthusiast, be sure to check whether tripods are allowed on the tour or not, as well as gimbals and selfie sticks. As for cameras, both compact and DSLRs are allowed; I personally love the travel-friendly, compact mirrorless Sony Alpha a6000 camera I’ve been using since 2014! It packs the same punch as a much larger, heavier DSLR with the ability to switch out lenses, as well.
What is not allowed inside Antelope Canyon?
Filming video is prohibited at Antelope Canyon, including the use of GoPro cameras.
Tripods and selfie sticks are also prohibited, unless you book a photography tour.
Backpacks, bags, and purses are not allowed due to their size – they could potentially damage the canyon walls. This also goes for strollers and backpack carriers for children.
Food and drink are not available at the canyons, nor can they be taken into the canyons.
Can pregnant women visit Antelope Canyon?
Pregnant women are strongly advised against hiking Antelope Canyon due to the possibility of injury during transport to and from Antelope Canyon, as well as during the tour itself. But it is possible to enjoy the tour if you take additional precautions such as wearing comfortable clothing and shoes and knowing whether the canyon has steep ladders to climb, or requires truck transport versus a short walk to the entrance. It is also encouraged to reach out to the tour company or guide to clarify these details before you book.
What time zone is Antelope Canyon in?
Because Antelope Canyon is located in Arizona, they are in the Mountain Standard Time (MST) and do not observe Daylight Savings like the other nearby areas of Utah and Navajo Nation. Monument Valley, for example, will be an hour ahead of Antelope Canyon during DST which runs from the 2nd Sunday in March through the 1st Sunday in November. Here is a clock to reference the different times for Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley at your convenience.
How do you get to Antelope Canyon?
Closest airport to Antelope Canyon :
is Page Municipal Airport (PGA). However, this is a small regional airport that primarily serves private planes and small commercial aircraft. The nearest major airports are Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS), both being approximately 4.5 hours away from Page by rental car. From these airports, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Antelope Canyon.
Closest Highway to Antelope Canyon :
If you have your vehicle or are renting one, you can drive to Antelope Canyon. The canyon is located about 5 miles east of Page, Arizona, just off Highway 98. It’s approximately a 4-hour drive from Phoenix and a 2.5-hour drive from Flagstaff.
Shuttles Provided by Tour Companies from a Nearby City :
Another popular way to visit Antelope Canyon is through guided tours. Many companies offer guided tours from nearby towns like Page, Flagstaff, and Sedona, and they typically include transportation to and from the canyon when you purchase a tour.
Where to stay near Antelope Canyon?
I recommend staying in the town of Page, Arizona since hotel prices there are generally cheaper than those in Flagstaff, Sedona, or Las Vegas. This also means you won’t have to travel as far to get to Antelope Canyon in time for your tour, which is especially helpful when traveling with a family or large group.
Here are some hotels in Page that are very close distance to Antelope Canyon :
[Best Hotel for Couples] Country Inn & Suites by Radisson – won the TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Award for 2021 and 2022. It is highly rated for cleanliness and comfort, and features spacious, modern rooms with mountain views, indoor pool and hot tub. Breakfast is included in the price, as well as parking and WiFi.
[Best Hotel for Families] Holiday Inn Express Hotels Page, an IHG Hotel – this hotel is located 10 minutes away from most tours and features family rooms, a swimming pool, and included breakfast! They also offer free parking and WiFi.
[Best Hotel for Large Groups] Adventurers Paradise – this is an entire private vacation home that offers 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, and a full kitchen with on-site parking. There are 6 beds but can accommodate a large group of 8 people, including those who need accessible facilities. Your group would also have the convenience of a washer and dryer in-house. There is free cancellation up to about a month before your trip if you book with booking.com, which makes travel planning for large groups easy and flexible!
[Best Hotel on a Budget (also Pet Friendly)] La Quinta by Wyndham – I personally have enjoyed staying at La Quinta for many trips over the years due to their clean, comfy facilities, included breakfasts, and reasonable price point. This location is no different! An added benefit to this chain of hotels is their pet friendliness – they welcome cats and dogs, especially service animals!
All in All: When is the best time to visit Antelope Canyon?
Considering there are many options in terms of tours, ways to get there, and accommodations near Antelope Canyon, the best time to visit would be between the months of March and October, so that you have the best chance of drier weather, good lighting, and seeing light beams inside the canyon.
Even during the rainy season, the desert doesn’t get a lot of rainfall, so chances are that storms pass quickly even when they come. You’ll just need to check the weather the day of to know whether to call your tour guide for updates or cancellations.
The number of Antelope Canyon tours has doubled over the past few years with the addition of Canyon X and Secret Canyon, so now there really is something for everybody. Whether you want to enjoy the splendors of the canyon without crowds or you want to book a fun summer trip for the whole family this year, planning an adventure to Antelope Canyon is easier than ever.