Walk through waves of stone and shafts of light in one of the world’s most photogenic natural wonders.
Introduction: Nature’s Masterpiece in the Arizona Desert
Hidden beneath the arid surface of northern Arizona lies a geological wonder that feels more like a dream than reality. Antelope Canyon — with its flowing red rock walls, sunbeam-lit chambers, and winding sandstone corridors — is one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world. Located just outside the town of Page, this magical place draws travelers, photographers, and adventure-seekers from around the globe.
In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about visiting Antelope Canyon — from choosing the right tour to capturing that perfect shot.
Where Is Antelope Canyon?
Antelope Canyon is located on Navajo land, just east of Page, Arizona, near the Arizona-Utah border and Lake Powell. It consists of two main sections:
- Upper Antelope Canyon (“The Crack”): Famous for its light beams and easy walk-through experience.
- Lower Antelope Canyon (“The Corkscrew”): Narrower, with ladders and steeper descents, offering a more adventurous feel.
Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon: Which One Should You Choose?
While both sections of Antelope Canyon are incredibly beautiful and carved by the same forces of nature, they offer very different experiences. Here’s an in-depth comparison to help you decide which one fits your travel style — or why you might want to visit both.
Upper Antelope Canyon (“The Crack”)
Best for: First-time visitors, photographers, families, and those looking for ease and iconic light beams.
Key Features:
- Famous light beams: These iconic shafts of sunlight only occur in the Upper Canyon (especially May–August, around midday).
- Wider, flat floor: The canyon is easily walkable, with no stairs or ladders, making it ideal for people of all ages and mobility levels.
- Easier lighting conditions: Because it’s darker inside with wide openings above, photos tend to have softer contrasts and stunning colors.
Things to consider:
- More crowded: This section is extremely popular, especially during peak light beam hours.
- Shorter tour: The walk is about 100 meters (330 ft) long and takes ~1 hour, with a simple in-and-out route.
- Higher prices: Because of its popularity and light beams, Upper Canyon tours are usually more expensive than Lower Canyon tours.
Lower Antelope Canyon (“The Corkscrew”)
Best for: Adventurous travelers, photographers looking for unique angles, and those seeking a slightly more active experience.
Key Features:
- Narrower and deeper: Expect tighter passageways and more dynamic, wave-like shapes in the rock formations.
- Ladders and stairs: You’ll climb up and down steel staircases and walk through narrow slots. It’s safe, but not ideal for claustrophobic or mobility-impaired visitors.
- Unique photo opportunities: The textures, angles, and curves make for dramatic compositions — especially with morning or late-afternoon light.
Why Antelope Canyon Should Be on Your Bucket List
- Incredible light beams (April to October, late morning)
- Sculpted sandstone walls that glow red, orange, and purple
- Photographer’s paradise: no filters required
- One-of-a-kind landscapes formed over thousands of years by flash floods
- Close to other attractions like Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell
You Can’t Go Alone — Tours Are Mandatory
Since Antelope Canyon lies on Navajo land, access is only allowed with a licensed Navajo guide. You’ll need to book a guided tour — and they fill up fast, especially during peak season (spring/summer).
Recommended tour platforms:
Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon: Which Should You Choose?
| Upper Canyon | Lower Canyon | |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Easy, flat walk | Steeper, with ladders |
| Light beams | YES (best in summer, midday) | Less common |
| Photo ops | Iconic sunrays + wide shots | More dynamic textures |
| Crowds | Busier | Slightly less crowded |
| Duration | ~1 hour | ~1–1.5 hours |
Tip: Do both if you can — they offer completely different perspectives of the same magical geology.
Best Time to Visit (For Light Beams & Photos)
- Best months: Late March to October
- Best time of day: Between 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM (sun directly overhead)
- For photography: Bring a DSLR or phone with wide-angle mode. Tripods often not allowed unless you book a specialized photo tour.
What to Bring (and Not Bring)
Do bring:
- Water bottle
- Hat & sunscreen (it gets hot!)
- Comfortable shoes (closed-toe recommended)
- Camera or phone
Leave at home:
- Tripods (unless approved)
- Bags/luggage (most tours ban large bags)
- Drones (strictly prohibited)
How Much Does It Cost?
Pricing depends on the provider and canyon section, but here’s a general range (2025):
| Type | Price (per person) |
|---|---|
| Upper Antelope Canyon Tour | $85–$120 |
| Lower Antelope Canyon Tour | $60–$90 |
| Combined Canyon Tours | $140–$200 |
| Photography Tours (limited) | $150–$250 |
Some tours include park entry; others charge the Navajo permit ($8) separately.
Where to Stay
Best base: Page, Arizona
This small desert town offers great access to Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, and Horseshoe Bend.
Recommended stay:
Lake powell resort:
Other Bucket List Stops Nearby
- Horseshoe Bend – 10 minutes away, epic sunset views
- Lake Powell – kayaking, boating, scenic cruises
- Glen Canyon Dam – lesser-known but impressive
- The Wave – limited access, permit-only (lottery system)
- Zion National Park – 2 hours west
Respect the Land and Culture
Antelope Canyon is sacred to the Navajo people. Always be respectful of:
- Your Navajo guide
- Local customs and rules
- The land (no littering, climbing, or touching the canyon walls)
Sample Itinerary (Perfect Half-Day Plan)
8:30 AM – Depart from Page
10:00 AM – Tour of Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon
11:30 AM – Drive to Horseshoe Bend
12:00 PM – Hike and take photos
1:00 PM – Lunch at Big John’s Texas BBQ
Afternoon – Optional: Lake Powell cruise or relax at your resort
Final Thoughts: Antelope Canyon Is Worth the Hype
Whether you’re a professional photographer or simply a traveler chasing the most beautiful corners of Earth, Antelope Canyon is a surreal, bucket list–worthy destination. The light beams, textures, and shapes of the slot canyon feel like walking through a living sculpture.
This place is more than a photo op — it’s an unforgettable experience carved by nature and preserved by a people who honor its power.
Book Your Tour Now
