All About Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

Located in the northeast corner of Arizona is the beautiful Antelope Canyon.  This slot canyon was formed from flash flooding and is a popular sight for photographers and tourists with almost all of its tours being sold out daily.  You’ll have to plan early your visit early since the canyon is exclusively visited through guided tours and split into two canyons.  An added bonus would be a  visit to Horseshoe Bend since it’s only 10 minutes away from the tour sites!  Keep on reading to see all you need to know about the canyon and plan your trip accordingly!

 

Upper vs Lower Canyon

Antelope Canyon is split into the upper and lower canyon and there is not a tour that will allow you to see both due to the distance between them.  You’ll read articles that claim upper is better than lower and vice versa, but the truth is both are beautiful and you will not be disappointed in your choice.  There are slight differences that you should keep in mind when booking your tour to ensure it would be the best fit for you.  The entire length of the upper canyon is at ground level while the lower canyon is a little more tricky as you will need to climb stairways, ladders, and watch your footing.  Additionally, the famous light beams you see in pictures of Antelope Canyon are more commonly found in the upper portion with your best chances being from March 20th to October 7th.  However, keep in mind that there is no guarantee that you will see the light beam during your visit even if your tour is at the optimal time.

 

Booking Your Tour

Antelope Canyon is on Navajo land and subject to flash flooding so to visit the canyon you must be with a guide.  Book your tour well in advance!   This is a popular destination and there are limited spots on each tour since the canyon is narrow and can only accommodate around 20 people.  I’ve only tour the upper canyon and booked my tour through Antelope Canyon Tours and had an amazing experience.  Their are 2 types of tours available, the sightseer’s and photographic tour, with the photographic being specifically for photographer’s since tripods are only allowed on this tour.  The sightseer tour is perfect since the guides stop at each spot and show you how to angle your camera to get those perfect shots of the canyon walls.  We would all line up and take turns capturing our shot and everyone was very considerate and ensured everyone had enough time taking photos.  Your best shot for seeing the light beam will be on the 11:30 am tour, which is why it is more expensive.  When I go back to tour the lower canyon, I’m planning on booking with Ken’s Tours since I’ve heard great reviews from those who completed this tour.

 

Things to Keep in Mind

DO bring water! It is HOT in Arizona and being right in the sun will take a toll on you especially if you’re not used to this climate

DON’T bring a backpack or selfie stick.  These are not allowed since the canyon is so narrow and the tour guides will have you leave them in your car.  All you really need is some water and camera anyways!

 

Horseshoe Bend

If you’re visiting Antelope Canyon, then you have to go to Horseshoe Bend!  It’s about a 10 minute drive from where the tours from Antelope Canyon leave so there’s really no reason not to go see this beautiful sight and it’s FREE! There’s a lot for parking but if it’s full you’ll see cars parking along the street.  Once you’re at the trail head, it’s a short climb up the hill and then you’ll see the bend, which is only about a half mile away.  It is crowded, but I had no issues taking photos and they turned out great!

 

Hope this helps you plan your trip for Antelope Canyon! Share your pictures below, especially if you catch the light beam!