Explore Mystery Valley and Monument Valley: A Full-Day Adventure through Monumental Landscapes
Discover the rugged beauty and ancient secrets of Mystery Valley and Monument Valley on this 8-hour guided tour. Traverse iconic buttes, remote backcountry sites, and Anasazi ruins while enjoying cultural insights and a hearty barbecue lunch in the heart of Navajo country.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring plenty of water
The desert environment is dry and temperatures can soar; carry at least 2 liters per person.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Uneven, rocky terrain requires durable footwear with good grip for comfort and safety.
Start early to avoid midday heat
Morning departures help you experience cooler temperatures and softer light for photography.
Respect cultural sites
Many stops are sacred Navajo lands—observe guidelines, avoid touching rock art, and photograph respectfully.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The Sun’s Eye natural arch, Hidden Valley Hogan
Wildlife
- •Desert cottontail rabbits
- •Red-tailed hawks
Conservation Note
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park practices sustainable tourism by limiting group sizes and educating visitors on preserving fragile rock art and natural features.
The Mystery Valley area contains Anasazi ruins and petroglyphs dating back over 700 years, offering a glimpse into ancient indigenous cultures of the Southwest.
Photographer's Notes
- • East and West Mittens
- • John Ford’s Point
- • North Window
What to Bring
Hydration pack or water bottlesEssential
Keeps you hydrated throughout the dry, hot day in the desert.
Wide-brimmed hatEssential
Protects your face and neck from intense sun exposure.
Lightweight layersEssential
Temperatures can vary dramatically, especially in mornings and evenings.
Camera with zoom lens
Capture sweeping vistas and distant rock formations in detail.
Common Questions
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over the age of 8 who can tolerate moderate walking and long hours in a vehicle can typically participate, but check with the operator for specific age restrictions.
Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a barbecued lunch prepared by the guide during the midpoint break.
What kind of vehicle is used?
The tour uses 4x4 vehicles to handle the rough backcountry roads inaccessible to standard cars.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely; photography stops are part of the itinerary, but please respect any no-photography signs around sacred sites.
Are restrooms available during the tour?
Basic restrooms are available at the start point and some stopovers, but facilities in the backcountry are primitive or absent.
Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, but extreme weather conditions in summer and winter may affect comfort and accessibility; spring and fall are ideal seasons.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Kayenta, Arizona
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness, capable of walking on uneven terrain and sitting in off-road vehicles for extended periods.
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