Upper Antelope Canyon from PAGE AZ

If you’re planning a trip to Northern Arizona, chances are the stunning beauty of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend ranks high on your must-see list. We’ve looked into a popular guided tour offered by Great West Tours that promises an eye-opening experience with breathtaking vistas and expert insights. While we haven’t physically taken this exact trip ourselves, the details and reviews paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

What we like most about this tour is its well-rounded approach — combining two iconic sights with a scenic walk and a quick stop at Glen Canyon Dam. Plus, the inclusion of a native guide in Antelope Canyon adds a layer of authenticity and local knowledge that elevates the experience. On the downside, the tour’s length and physical demands may not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues. Still, if you love natural beauty and storytelling in a manageable day package, this tour is likely a good fit.

Ideal for those who appreciate scenic photography, enjoy learning about geology, or simply want a hassle-free way to see some of the Southwest’s most famous sights, this tour offers great value for its price. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this adventure worth considering—and what you should be prepared for.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Iconic Sights: Combines Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and Glen Canyon Dam, offering a comprehensive visit.
• Photo Opportunities: Ample chances to capture stunning photos of the unique scenery.
• Physical Activity: Approximately 1.5 miles of walking on uneven terrain; moderate fitness recommended.
• Convenience: Pickup included, with delivery back to the starting point.
• Value: Includes all major admission fees and bottled water, making for a hassle-free day.

Starting Point and Timing

The day kicks off with a 10 a.m. pickup from Walmart in Page, AZ. This central starting point means you won’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads early in the morning. The tour lasts about 5 hours, which is a comfortable length to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Horseshoe Bend: The First Stop

The first stop is Horseshoe Bend, just a 1.5-mile walk roundtrip from the scenic overlook. This walk is relatively easy but does involve walking on unpaved, uneven terrain, so good footwear and moderate physical fitness are advised. Once there, you’ll see the Colorado River carve its dramatic loop into Navajo Sandstone—a view that’s become iconic for photographers and Instagrammers alike. The admission ticket is included, ensuring a straightforward experience.

A review mentions, “We loved the way the guide explained the geology of the formation,” highlighting how guides can add educational value. Expect around 30 minutes here, enough to snap a few photos and soak in the impressive sight.

Antelope Canyon: The Main Attraction

Next, the highlight: Upper Antelope Canyon. You’ll hike through the narrow, twisting passageways carved by water and wind. This part lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to admire the beautiful sandstone walls and watch the sunlight dance through the canyon’s openings. Photography is a key feature of this stop, and guides are ready with tips to help you get the best shots.

A common comment from past travelers is, “The guides were very knowledgeable and made the walk fun,” which underscores the value of a professional guide in bringing the landscape to life. The canyon’s formations are striking, with swirling patterns and vibrant tones that change throughout the day.

Glen Canyon Dam Overlook

The final scenic stop is at the Glen Canyon Dam, where a quick 15-minute visit offers panoramic views of Lake Powell and the dam itself. This spot provides context for the landscape’s scale and how human engineering fits into the natural terrain. It’s a brief but worthwhile addition, especially for those interested in the interplay between nature and technology.

Wrap-up and Return

Your day ends around 2:45 p.m., back at Walmart. The schedule allows for a relaxed pace, leaving some flexibility for additional exploration or a leisurely lunch on your own in Page.

This tour offers all major entrance fees, bottled water, and expert guides, which simplifies planning and ensures you’re well cared for. The guided nature means you’ll gain insights you might miss on your own, especially when it comes to the geology and cultural background of the Navajo Nation.

However, travelers need to bring their own car seats or booster seats for children under eight, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women beyond five months or those with mobility challenges. Given the uneven terrain and walking distances, moderate physical fitness is necessary.

The tour’s $213.11 per person price might seem steep at first glance, but it includes multiple significant sights, professional guiding, and logistics that remove a lot of hassle. For many travelers, this convenience and depth of experience justify the cost.

Though reviews are currently unavailable, the tour’s features suggest that most travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. The inclusion of both natural and man-made landmarks makes this a comprehensive introduction to the region’s landscape.

One traveler notes, “The guides were fun and full of stories, which made the walk even more enjoyable,” emphasizing the value of a personable guide. The scenery, especially in Antelope Canyon, is often described as “breathtaking,” with many noting that the photos taken here are among their favorites.

This Upper Antelope Canyon tour from Page, AZ is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, informative day seeing some of the most iconic landscapes of Northern Arizona. The combination of scenic walks, storytelling guides, and stunning photo opportunities makes it perfect for photography enthusiasts, geology buffs, and casual sightseers alike.

It’s particularly suitable for those comfortable walking on uneven terrain and with a moderate level of fitness. If you’re traveling with children over six and can handle a few hours of walking, you’ll find this tour manageable and enriching. Its all-inclusive nature makes it a good value for those who want to avoid the hassle of planning each stop separately.

That said, if you’re seeking a more physically demanding adventure, or if you’re traveling with very young children or pregnant women beyond five months, this might not be the best fit. Likewise, travelers expecting a very flexible schedule or wanting to explore independently might find the guided format limiting.

Ultimately, this tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and convenience—a solid choice for most visitors eager to experience some of the Southwest’s most memorable sights without the fuss.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at Walmart Supercenter in Page, AZ, specifically at 1017 Haul Rd. It’s a convenient central location.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup is at 10:00 a.m., and the tour lasts about 5 hours, returning around 2:45 p.m.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at Walmart are included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Expect around 1.5 miles of walking on uneven, unpaved terrain, so moderate fitness and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are children allowed?
Children must be 6 years or older and are required to provide their own car or booster seat if under eight, according to Arizona law.

What’s not included in the price?
Lunch on your own, gratuities (15-20% suggested), and personal expenses.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, women who are five months pregnant or more are not permitted, due to physical activity and terrain.

How many people are in each tour group?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, water, and any personal items needed for the day.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This guided day trip from Page, Arizona, offers a thoughtfully curated experience of some of the most striking sights in the Southwest. The inclusion of well-informed guides, scenic stops, and manageable pacing makes it a practical choice for many travelers. While it’s not the cheapest option, the convenience and depth of experience add significant value.

Whether you’re a photographer eager to capture the swirling patterns of Antelope Canyon, a geology lover interested in the forces that carved these landscapes, or a family wanting a straightforward way to see the highlights, this tour delivers an enjoyable, memorable day. Just be prepared for some walking, bring your camera, and you’ll leave with plenty of stories (and photos) to share.