Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell from Page, AZ

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to some of the Southwest’s most photographed and awe-inspiring sights. While we haven’t personally taken it, the experience promises a smooth, organized way to see Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Lake Powell, all from the comfort of a fully guided trip.

What we love about this tour is the focus on prime time access to Antelope Canyon, which means capturing photos in the best possible light, and the convenience of hotel pickup in Page. The fact that it’s led by local Navajo drivers adds an authentic touch, giving you insights you simply wouldn’t get on your own.

A potential consideration is the mixed reviews regarding the overall value; some feel the tour is a bit pricey for what is essentially transportation and guides, especially when parts of the trip are unguided. Still, if you’re after stunning views and a hassle-free experience, this tour is a strong choice, especially suited for travelers who want to maximize their time and minimize stress.

This tour will especially appeal to those who appreciate organized outings that include transportation, guided commentary, and premium access times, making it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone looking for a seamless way to see these iconic landmarks.

Key Points

• Prime Time Access: The tour secures the best lighting conditions for photos in Antelope Canyon.
• Authentic Local Guides: Navajo drivers provide cultural insights and personalized service.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned shuttle from Page makes the day more pleasant.
• Flexible Itineraries: Options for different departure times cater to various schedules.
• Limited Unguided Time: Some stops, like Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell, are unguided or only briefly narrated.
• Price vs. Experience: At $214, it offers convenience but may seem costly compared to self-guided options, especially given some reviews about the tour’s value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details: What to Expect on This Tour

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Page, Arizona, which is a real bonus for travelers staying locally. The shuttle, a 15-seater air-conditioned van, ensures comfort during the roughly 4-hour journey. We appreciate the effort to keep things simple — just look for the Roaming Tour decals on the van, and you’re good to go. The morning options, starting around 8:15-8:30 AM, are perfect for early risers eager to beat the crowds, while the later morning slot at 10:15-10:30 AM offers a more relaxed start.

Antelope Canyon: The Highlight

Antelope Canyon is the star of the show, and the tour’s main selling point is the “Prime Time” ticket access. This is crucial because the canyon’s unique light rays and shadows create spectacular photographs, especially around mid-morning to noon. The tour offers the choice of visiting either the Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, with specific departure times and tickets included in your package — either around 11:15 AM or 11:30 AM.

We love that the tour takes care of securing these coveted slots, which can be difficult to book independently during high season. You’ll join a guided walk led by a Navajo guide, who will share insights into the canyon’s formation and cultural significance.

However, a review pointed out that the guided experience in the canyon itself can sometimes feel rushed — “the rest of the tour was disappointing,” one traveler mentioned, noting that beyond the canyon, the stops felt more like transportation than guided experiences.

Horseshoe Bend: Iconic and Brief

After the canyon, the tour heads to Horseshoe Bend, one of the most recognizable bends of the Colorado River. The highlight here is the short walk to the viewpoint, which offers a breathtaking view of the river as it curves through the rock.

But it’s worth noting that Horseshoe Bend will be closed for maintenance from November 3 to 6, with an alternative planned. So if you’re traveling during those dates, it’s good to check your tour provider’s update.

Some reviewers, like Marianne from the Netherlands, found the experience somewhat underwhelming — especially since the guide provided only minimal commentary, saying, “You have 20 minutes here,” with little additional insight.

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Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam Overlook

The tour includes a stop at Lake Powell and the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook. Here, you’ll take in expansive views of the artificial lake and the dam that controls water flow in the region. The view from the overlook offers a sense of the scale of this engineering marvel, complemented by the stunning natural surroundings.

The guide’s commentary at this stop is brief — just a quick overview — and some travelers may find themselves wanting more contextual information about the dam’s history and significance. Still, the panoramic vistas are impressive on their own.

Return and Hotel Drop-off

After these stops, the journey wraps up with a comfortable ride back to Page, where the shuttle drops you off at your hotel. The entire experience is designed for maximum convenience, with minimal hassle about navigation or timing.

The Balance of Value and Experience

At $214 per person, this tour is priced at the higher end, but it reflects a combination of guided service, prime access tickets, and transportation. Some travelers, like Lauren, loved their guide Omar and appreciated the well-organized nature of the tour. Others, such as Jean-Thierry, found it overpriced for what is essentially transportation and a guide, with some parts feeling unguided.

From our perspective, the value depends heavily on your expectations. If you’re after the most stunning photos at Antelope Canyon and want someone else to handle the logistics, this tour is a good fit. But if you prefer a more flexible, self-guided approach — perhaps renting a car and exploring independently — it might feel costly.

Cultural and Practical Details

The tour is led by local Navajo drivers, offering an authentic perspective on the land and its cultural importance. This enriches the experience, especially if you’re interested in understanding the significance of these landmarks beyond their visual appeal.

The tour includes navajo permit fees and taxes, which streamlines the process and ensures compliance with local regulations. The guides provide bottled water, but travelers should remember to bring essentials like comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera.

Accessibility and Restrictions

This tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or wheelchair users. The stops involve walking and some uneven terrain, especially at Horseshoe Bend. Drones aren’t allowed, so if aerial shots are your thing, you’ll need to rely on handheld photography.

Reviews and Real Experiences

Authentic reviews give us a well-rounded picture. Lauren, who praised the guide at Antelope Canyon, highlights how much a knowledgeable guide can enhance the experience. Conversely, Marianne’s comment about the minimal guidance at Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend reminds us to temper expectations about guided commentary during the stops outside the canyon.

Mark and Loretta appreciated the stunning views and well-organized process, reaffirming that the tour delivers on its core promise of spectacular scenery and smooth logistics.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits travelers who value convenience and guided service — especially those who want to avoid the logistics of booking tickets or navigating alone. It’s also ideal for photography enthusiasts eager for prime time access to Antelope Canyon’s best light.

If you’re short on time or prefer an all-in-one package, this tour offers a tidy solution. However, if you’re budget-conscious or seeking a more in-depth, unguided exploration, self-guided trips or renting a car might serve you better.

The Sum Up

This tour from Page, AZ, provides a solid way to see some of the Southwest’s most iconic sights without the stress of planning each detail yourself. The combination of professional Navajo guides, comfortable transportation, and prime access times makes it a practical choice for many travelers.

While some might find the value a bit high, the experience’s convenience and guaranteed access to Antelope Canyon’s best lighting conditions are hard to beat. It’s especially good for first-timers or anyone eager for a hassle-free, scenic day out.

If you’re after breathtaking views, authentic local insights, and an organized itinerary, this tour delivers. Just be prepared for some brief stops without much commentary and ensure your expectations align with what the tour offers.

FAQ

Will I see Horseshoe Bend during this tour?
Yes, the tour visits Horseshoe Bend, offering a short walk to the view. Keep in mind that it will be closed for maintenance from November 3 to 6, with an alternative provided if needed.

What time does the tour start?
There are options starting around 8:15-8:30 AM or 10:15-10:30 AM, depending on your preferred schedule. The exact pickup time will be confirmed when you book.

Are the tickets for Antelope Canyon included?
Yes, the tour includes tickets for Antelope Canyon based on your selection, with options for “Prime Time” or morning visits.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended. The tour provides bottled water, but extras are always a good idea.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or people with back problems due to walking and uneven terrain, particularly at Horseshoe Bend.

How long is the entire tour?
The experience lasts about 4 hours, including pickup, sightseeing, and return to your hotel.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This guided tour from Page offers a balanced mix of iconic scenery and hassle-free logistics, making it a practical option for travelers eager to see the best of Arizona’s Southwest with minimal fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby