From Vegas to the Colorado: Guided Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Day Tour
Leave Vegas before dawn for a long-day sweep across the Colorado Plateau: rim views at Horseshoe Bend and guided access through Antelope Canyon’s sculpted walls. This guided tour blends Navajo-guided interpretation, photogenic light, and straightforward logistics for a packed, one-day Southwest experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate for a long day
Carry at least 2–3 liters of water; bottled water is recommended since stops are limited and temperatures can spike.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Trails include sand, uneven rock, and slick stone—grippy shoes reduce the risk of slips and make canyon walking more comfortable.
Time your photos
Midday often brings the best light beams in Antelope Canyon; late afternoon softens colors at Horseshoe Bend—bring a small tripod if you shoot slow exposures.
Respect Navajo rules
Follow your Navajo guide, stay on assigned routes, and avoid touching fragile rock surfaces—guidelines preserve the site and ensure access.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Glen Canyon overlook near the dam for sweeping water-and-rock contrasts
- •Small Navajo-run craft stalls near Page for jewelry and local stories
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep spotted on distant rims
- •Ravens and other canyon-dwelling birds
Conservation Note
Access is managed by the Navajo Nation to protect fragile slot canyon formations; visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles and obey local regulations to minimize impact.
Antelope Canyon sits on Navajo Nation land where Navajo guides interpret both geological processes and cultural significance; the nearby Glen Canyon was dramatically altered by the construction of Glen Canyon Dam in the 1960s.
Photographer's Notes
- • Inside Lower Antelope Canyon near the narrowest turns
- • The rim at Horseshoe Bend, centered on the river’s outer curve
- • Glen Canyon viewpoint above Lake Powell for wide panoramas
What to Bring
Insulated water bottle (1–2L)Essential
Keeps you hydrated for the long stretches between stops and helps regulate drink temperature in desert heat.
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Provides traction on sand, slickrock, and stair sections inside slot canyons.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)Essential
The rim exposures are unshaded and UV can be intense even on cooler days.
Compact tripod or monopod
Useful for low-light canyon interiors and for photographing the river bend at slower shutter speeds.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what time do we return to Las Vegas?
Expect a 13–14 hour day with early morning departures; return times vary with traffic and conditions but typically late evening.
Are guided entrance fees included?
Yes—Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend entrance fees and Navajo-guided access are included in this tour's price.
Is this suitable for children or travelers with limited mobility?
The tour is generally suitable for many ages, but participants must walk about 1.5 miles over uneven terrain; it is not recommended for those with significant mobility limitations.
Can I use a tripod inside Antelope Canyon?
Tripods may be allowed in some canyon sections but are sometimes restricted by guide companies to keep traffic moving—ask your guide on arrival.
What happens if Antelope Canyon is closed for weather?
The canyon can close for safety in inclement weather; if that happens refunds or alternatives are handled per Navajo policy and tour operator terms.
Are restroom facilities available during the tour?
The coach has onboard restrooms; additional public restrooms are available at stops such as St. George and Page.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
13–14 hours
Location
Page, Arizona
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Good stamina for a long day of driving with multiple short walks; must manage uneven terrain and some stairs.
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