Page: Upper & Lower Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Arizona, this Upper & Lower Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour presents an incredible way to see some of the most iconic geological and cultural sights near Page. It’s a full 6-hour adventure that takes you through the twisting, colorful slot canyons and finishes with a panoramic view of the Colorado River’s famous horseshoe-shaped bend. From start to finish, it promises a blend of spectacular scenery, interesting cultural insights, and a comfortable, organized experience.

One thing we particularly love about this tour is the guided component—the guides are not only knowledgeable but also enthusiastic, making it easier to appreciate the significance of what you’re seeing. Plus, the inclusion of lunch, permits, and park fees in the price simplifies planning, so you can focus on the experience rather than logistics. A potential consideration is that the itinerary involves some walking on rocky terrain, ladders, and stairs, which may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. This tour appeals most to those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free journey into some of Arizona’s most photogenic and culturally rich sites.

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic hikes, geology, and photography. If you’re after a well-organized tour that offers both natural beauty and cultural insight, with a reliable guide and all logistics taken care of, this could be an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Visit both the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons, as well as Horseshoe Bend, with all permits and fees included.
• Expert Guides: Guides share insights into the geology and Navajo culture, making the tour educational and engaging.
• All-Inclusive Value: Includes a Subway lunch, bottled water, snacks, transportation, and park access.
• Physical Nature: Moderate hiking with ladders, stairs, and rocky paths, suitable for those with good mobility.
• Timing and Flexibility: Six-hour tour with multiple pickup locations in Page, making it accessible.
• Photographic Opportunities: Light beams in the canyons and the dramatic Horseshoe Bend provide perfect photo moments.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins with a pickup from one of 28 convenient hotel locations in Page, from well-known options like the Holiday Inn Express, Best Western Plus, and La Quinta Inn, to more budget-friendly choices like the Walmart Supercenter. The tour provider, Dineh Tours LLC, operates a spacious Ford Transit van, which helps keep the ride comfortable and relaxed, especially considering the 6-hour duration.

The transfer time from your hotel to the canyon area is about 30 minutes, giving you a brief window to settle in before diving into the day’s highlights. The van’s size also means a small group environment, fostering a more intimate experience—and plenty of opportunities to ask questions or share the excitement with fellow travelers.

Lower Antelope Canyon

After a short coach ride, you’ll arrive at the Lower Antelope Canyon, where your guide will lead you into the vibrant, twisting passageways. The guided walk lasts about 75 minutes and covers roughly 1.1 miles of terrain. This part of the canyon is particularly fun because it involves climbing down ladders, maneuvering through narrow passageways, and exploring spiraling rock formations sculpted by the forces of water and wind over thousands of years.

Many reviews mention guides who are both passionate and knowledgeable, sharing fascinating details about the canyon’s formation and Navajo traditions. One reviewer noted, “Our guide, Sarah, was fantastic—she knew the canyon like the back of her hand and pointed out all the best photo spots.” Expect to learn about the geology and the significance of the slot canyons to the Navajo people, including a quick stop at a traditional hogan, which adds a cultural dimension to the walk.

The Scenic Break and Lunch

After exploring the Lower Canyon, you return to the bus for a short 10-minute drive to the Upper Antelope Canyon. Here, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours soaking in the ethereal beauty of the flowing sandstone shapes. The upper canyon is famous for its light beams that pierce through openings at the top, creating stunning, almost otherworldly shafts of light that highlight the canyon’s curves and colors. Photographers particularly love this part, though guides advise on the best camera settings to capture the light.

It’s noteworthy that this tour includes a subway lunch at the visitor center—a welcome break to refuel and regroup. The meal includes a sandwich and bottled water, with additional snacks available for purchase. Some reviews mention the convenience of having all park fees and permits covered, saving travelers from unexpected charges or lines.

Horseshoe Bend and Final Views

The last part of your adventure takes you to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook—a flat, wide path leads you to a viewing platform that offers panoramic views of the Colorado River’s dramatic horseshoe-shaped meander. This is a relatively easy walk of about one hour, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of one of the most iconic river meanders in the United States.

The view is breathtaking: a sweeping curve of water framed by sheer cliffs, often with the Colorado River shimmering far below. Many reviewers highlight this as a “must-see,” and some mention that the best time for photos is late morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and shadows more pronounced.

Practical Details and Considerations

The entire tour is structured to be about 6 hours, with hotel pickups, transfers, guided walks, and free time built in. The tour operates with English-speaking guides, whose enthusiasm and knowledge help bring each site to life.

It’s important to note that the hike is moderate—it involves inclines, stairs, ladders, and rocky terrain that might be challenging for those with mobility issues or low fitness levels. The tour explicitly states that wheelchair users and those with mobility impairments may find this experience unsuitable.

Travelers are advised to bring closed-toe shoes and a camera, but to avoid carrying backpacks, selfie sticks, tripods, or large bags, as these are not permitted inside the canyons. The guides often share photo tips to help you make the most of the lighting conditions and formations.

Value for Money

At $600 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive visit to two of the most spectacular slot canyons and one of the most photographed river bends in the world. Considering that the price includes all permits, park fees, lunch, bottled water, snacks, and transportation, it presents good value—especially for a guided experience that minimizes logistical hassle. The small group setting also enhances the overall experience, making it more personal and engaging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for travelers who want an all-in-one experience—combining natural beauty, cultural insights, and photography opportunities—without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transportation. It suits those who enjoy moderate physical activity and are comfortable with a bit of climbing and walking on uneven terrain.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the canyon light beams and scenic vistas are a major draw. Culture lovers will appreciate the Navajo insights and the visit to the hogan. Families with older children or teenagers who are comfortable with walking and stairs will find it manageable, but those with mobility limitations should consider other options.

The Sum Up

This tour provides a balanced, well-organized way to explore some of the Southwest’s most iconic sights. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with all the logistics taken care of, freeing them up to focus on enjoying the scenery and capturing stunning photos. The knowledgeable guides enhance the visit with stories and insights, and the inclusion of a meal and all park fees offers excellent value.

While the physical demands mean it’s not suitable for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues—it remains a fantastic choice for active travelers eager to see the natural and cultural wonders of the Navajo Nation.

For anyone looking for a full-day, memorable adventure that balances scenery, culture, and comfort, this tour from Page hits the mark. The combination of vibrant slot canyons, the breathtaking Horseshoe Bend, and expert guides makes it a standout experience in the Arizona desert.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at select hotels in Page, with comfortable van transportation throughout the day.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, including transportation, guided walks, breaks, and lunch.

Are the canyons accessible for people with mobility issues?
The hike involves inclines, stairs, ladders, and rocky terrain, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
You should bring a camera and closed-toe shoes for the hike. Large bags, selfie sticks, tripods, and strollers are not permitted.

Does the tour include permits and park fees?
Yes, all permits and park fees are included in the price.

Is food provided?
Yes, a Subway lunch is included, along with bottled water and snacks available for purchase.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the best time for photos?
Late morning or late afternoon is ideal, especially in the upper canyon, to catch the light beams and softer sunlight.

This tour strikes a good balance between adventure, education, and comfort—perfect for those eager to see some of Arizona’s most spectacular sights without the fuss of planning every detail themselves.