4-Day Southern Utah & Arizona: Zion, Bryce, Antelope Canyon & The Wave Small-Group Tour
Covering Zion, Bryce, Antelope Canyon and The Wave in four days, this small-group tour stitches the Southwest’s dramatic geology and living cultural history into a compact, well-guided itinerary. Expect short hikes, scenic drives along Highway 12, guided slot-canyon time, and a permit-dependent visit to The Wave.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate and carry filtration
Carry 2–3 liters and a small filter or purification tablets—water refills are available at lodges but desert heat can deplete reserves quickly.
Footwear for slickrock and sand
Wear grippy hiking shoes with good side support; slickrock and sandy approaches to viewpoints can be deceptively slippery.
Permit planning for The Wave
The Wave allows 20 visitors per day via lottery—book early and have backup plans like Coral Pink Sand Dunes if you don’t get permits.
Sun timing for photos
Antelope’s light beams are strongest mid-morning; Bryce and Zion are best at golden hour—structure your camera time around sunrise/sunset for dramatic color.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Goblin Valley’s off-trail hoodoo groves—explore early to avoid crowds
- •Scenic pullouts along Highway 12 for unmarked views and quiet sandstone overlooks
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Western scrub-jay and raven
Conservation Note
Access restrictions (The Wave permit) and guided Antelope tours protect fragile sandstone and cultural sites—stay on routes, pack out trash, and avoid climbing fragile features.
The region contains Fremont pictographs and 19th-century Mormon settler remnants; Navajo and other Indigenous peoples have long histories connected to these canyons.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bryce Amphitheater viewpoint
- • Horseshoe Bend overlook
- • Checkerboard Mesa pullout on the way into Zion
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on slickrock, sand and uneven trails such as Navajo-Queen’s Garden and Angel’s Landing approaches.
3L hydration reservoir or water bottlesEssential
Keeps you hydrated through long drives and desert hikes—refill at lodges and visitor centers.
Sun protection (hat, SPF 30+, sunglasses)Essential
Open desert and high rims mean strong UV—protect skin and eyes during midday stops.
Light insulating layer and wind shell
High-elevation mornings can be cool; a packable layer handles temperature swings between canyon bottoms and rims.
Common Questions
Do I need a permit for The Wave?
Yes—The Wave is limited to 20 daily visitors via a lottery; your operator can advise on entry attempts and suggest alternatives if permits aren’t secured.
Are park entrance fees included?
Yes—all national and state park entrance fees listed in the itinerary are included in the tour price.
Is Antelope Canyon accessible for all fitness levels?
Antelope Canyon tours are guided and short walks, but narrow sections and sandy footing can be challenging; ask for guidance if you have mobility concerns.
Can solo travelers join?
Tours require a two-person minimum but the operator helps solo travelers join other groups—contact them directly after booking.
What's the luggage policy for pickup/drop-off?
Private transportation is provided and standard luggage is accommodated; specify pickup point and any oversized gear in booking questions.
Are meals included?
Three breakfasts and one lunch are included; the itinerary also provides unlimited snacks and bottled water and a traditional Navajo dinner is offered with the Red Heritage show option.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 days
Location
Kanab, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required—able to hike 2–6 miles over uneven ground and handle short exposed sections.
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