Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Reviews

Wonderful morning tour with Vern our Navajo driver. Very knowledgeable, shared many traditions with us and life as he grew up.

On site at John Ford’s point is the absolute BEST NAVAJO BREAD anywhere. Don’t forget to get one and share, they are HUGE!

The place is not really put into words. Breathtakingly, it's most likely to hit. You drive on pre-booked jeep tours with natives into the terrain and have 3-4 stops there. Be sure to book and join the tour.

This is a place everyone should see at least once. It is a bit of a drive to go there no matter where you are coming from but you will be glad you did. The road for the 17 mile drive as many have described. The first mike is very rough requiring vehicles with clearance. The views are spectacular but I would highly recommend downloading one of the audio tours which use GPS to describe the scenery. They make the drive much more interesting. I wish the tribe would charge a little more and use the money to grade the road to make the visit more visitor friendly

This place is a must stop on any visit to the southwest! Absolutely stunning! Would recommend a guided jeep/truck tour as we had the best time and our guide made the time there much more interesting!

Dont take your own car, may a rental and be ready for the toughest road you will meet in your life. Suited for horses and donkeys, right before leaving this nightmare road/course a poor guy with plate from PA stops next to us in his kind of brand new BMW asking if it was worth it to keep going down the road with his car... our answer the same one some gave him before he decided to give it a try,..

There are not enough words to describe the beauty of Monument Valley! Luogo scenico che va assolutamente visitato!

The most beautiful place I have Ever been and I travel alot.Its a very sacred place and something that can't be explained, only felt. Please give yourself 2 /3 days to experience this beauty,very well worth it!!

Fantastic immersive experience throughout the 17 miles of the route. We started a little before 9am and were lucky enough to meet few people at that time. At times we were alone and were able to enjoy absolute silence.

One of the most special places on earth, it is truly spectacular without comparison. Not the easiest loop road to travel on, I would though, highly recommend it to everyone to do once in their lives. Every stopping point is breathtaking and so picturesque too. A place so very close to my heart having watched the classic cowboy films as a boy. In many ways it felt like I was returning to place so familiar that I'd never visited before. Remarkable!

Such an amazing, beautiful and interesting tour. So much history and information on the culture of the Navajo Nation. Our guide, Comasheena, was outstanding! She provided fun facts, the history of the land, the customs and was such a heart warming person. Highly recommend to all!

Let's start with the obvious, the view is very beautiful, the view from the visitor center is wide.
Here the positive notes end.
Paid 16 USD for 2 people and they immediately told us that we couldn't do the scenic drive by car since we arrived too late (it closes at 4pm and we were queuing to enter at 3.50pm).
Each service offered is paid and at exaggerated prices. No map of the location or directions are offered.
The restaurant and the souvenir shop have highly inflated prices, as does the tour guided by them (obviously despite the indicated closing time being 4pm they were allowed to pass).
The road is very rough and narrow: there is a risk of damaging the vehicle.
Having taken a road trip, you don't notice much of the difference in landscape between the surrounding areas and the paid site. If you have your own transport available, it is much better to explore the surrounding area rather than pay for no service.

This was our second visit to MV. Last time, in 2018 it was in winter with snowy scenery but cloudy. This year we've visited in late summer, on a very sunny September day.
Entering the park costs 8$ per person - US NP passes are not accepted.
I suggest visiting the visitor center first to get some info, buy snacks and drinks (no cash, cc only) and then drive the iconic 17 mi loop.
Drive is easy and well signed. You can do it in a sedan, but be very careful, specially in spring, summer and fall. Last time, in winter 2018 we did it in a sedan and potholes were covered with snow and ice so it wasn't that difficult. However, in other seasons they're not. This time we had an SUV, but saw also many passenger cars around.
Driving the loop takes around 3-4 hours depending on how many places you stop, and I suggest stopping frequently and almost at all places as the scenery is out of this world.

I have been to Monument Valley a few times over the last forty years and enjoyed it immensely each time. This time, not so much. First the good. There is a new hotel/visitor center that is very nice and blends in with the landscape. It has a great view of the mittens. Now, the not so good. The road into the valley is almost impassable in cars. First, you drop off the side of a cliff and then the road is either rocky and bumpy or has a deep layer of gravel to negotiate. Either way, you are concentrating so much on the road that you can't enjoy the views. We opted for having a car to get home in and turned around. I don't recommend it unless you have a high clearance vehicle and possibly four wheel drive. I don't remember the road being so rough and I have driven it in a car in the past. You can take a tour in the back of a truck if you don't want to drive. For those you sit in the open and hang on while the driver speeds along in a cloud of dust. I don't recall anyone smiling. I would still recommend going to Monument Valley, but would make sure to inform them about what to expect.

My mom and I visited Monument Valley during a 10 day trip from Washington to Florida and are glad that we did!

We drove from Page, Arizona to Monument Valley, which took us over 2 hours, but it was worth it!

Monument Valley sits on Navajo land, so an $8 fee per person is required to enter.

The visitor's center sits on top of the hill and has one of the best views of the valley, in my opinion, but was extremely overcrowded at the viewpoints. The road that goes into the valley states it requires AWD or 4WD vehicles only, but my SUV (without either) made it just fine. The majority of the road is gravel and bumpy, but the sand is minimal, except for one small hill leading up to the horseback riding area where we saw a few cars/trucks spin tires.

Overall, the drive is pretty, but the best view of the whole valley is across from the horseback riding area, where the famous John Wayne picture was taken. This has the best views and best photo locations. We even saw a cowboy offering pictures on his horse in the exact spot John Wayne stood, but it was $5 for a picture of his horse only and $10 with a picture on the horse.

Monument Valley is definitely unique, but if you are not in the area, honestly I would say it is something you could skip!

Monument Valley was amazing. They used to film all of the John Wayne western movies here. I would recommend driving an SUV or Pickup truck here since the roads are hard on a sedan.

This place is well known among Western-film enthusiasts. If you enjoy cowboy movies and you're in the area, check this place out.

I paid a small fee, and drove to the visitor center. From here, there's a balcony you can stand on to check out the place. There's a Navajo museum, gift store, and cafe inside.

If you want to actually go to the monuments, you'll need to plan ahead more.

Monument Valley is definitely worth seeing but the road is not well kept. It has a lot of washboard sections. Best if you have a high clearance vehicle. I was sure to see that they did not even give you a map of the road with the monument names. There was alot of times you did not know which road to take. I downloaded a monument valley informational app which showed which gave information about the monuments and the Navajo Indians and help navigate through the roads. Otherwise we would have been lost. The people we saw on the tours were choking on road dust and were trying to get photos while they vehicle was still moving

One of the best days of my life. This is truly one of the most majestic and breathtakingly places I have ever seen in the world. The vista is absolutely amazing. We drove around on our own and took our time taking in the sheer beauty of the valley.

Extraordinary visit and lunch with the Indians, a moment of emotion and landscapes changing depending on the clouds and the sun, we could take thousands of photos

The scenic drive was spectacular, but the start (and the end as it is a loop) is very challenging given the very poor condition of the road ( VERY rough and a couple of hair pin turns). Would be great if the beginning section could be made safer -- even to have a staff person on hand to help direct the two-way traffic. Once you are in the valley itself, the drive is very pleasant.

For those like me who have seen hundreds of western films, these places may seem more than familiar. The Monument Valley is located within the Navajo Reservation (along the Utah-Arizona border) and on our tour we were accompanied by a friendly Native American. This valley is considered sacred by the Navajo Nation.

The trip with a Navajo guide was very informative and is highly recommended. We would like to repeat the tour.

Visitors to Monument Valley Tribal Park can explore the scenic vistas and natural wonders through a variety of activities, including guided tours, hiking trails, and photography opportunities. Guided tours, typically conducted by Navajo guides, offer insights into the area's rich cultural heritage and geological significance. Additionally, visitors can enjoy camping facilities, picnic areas, and visitor centers that provide information about the park's history, geology, and cultural significance.

The landscape of Monument Valley is not only visually stunning but also holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Navajo people, who have inhabited the region for centuries. The towering rock formations are believed to be imbued with spiritual power and are central to Navajo mythology and traditions.

A December visit brought snow (!), fog and plenty of sunshine -- a remarkable and inspiring adventure.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is an awe-inspiring destination that exceeded all my expectations! I chose to explore the park on a self-guided tour, and it was an unforgettable experience. The freedom to take in the breathtaking landscapes at my own pace allowed me to fully appreciate the stunning red rock formations and vast, open spaces.
The park’s natural beauty is truly otherworldly, with iconic landmarks like the Mittens and the towering mesas creating a dramatic and serene backdrop. The well-marked trails and scenic driving routes made it easy to navigate, and there were plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, and soak in the incredible views.
The self-guided option gave me the flexibility to spend as much time as I wanted at each location, and the sense of solitude and connection with nature was profound. Monument Valley is not just a place to visit—it’s a place to experience. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a truly unique and soul-stirring adventure!

What a beautiful place to drive through. $8 per person to enter. We drove the 17 mile loo-A little bumpy not bad. There are several pull offs for pictures. There were several Native Americans selling beautiful jewelry . Scenic beauty everywhere. A nice gift shop & hotel overlooking the valley! Just stunning.

You will realize that you already know many of the most beautiful views of the Monument Valley because inserted in so many movies and advertisements that are constantly seen around.

Nevertheless, the impact is formidable. Even the view from the terrace of The View rewards you for the miles you’ve made to get there.

The tour inside the park can be done by car at a cost of $8 per person to enter or using Indian guides in their open Jeeps with towel cover.

We opted for the tour with the guide. The roads in some places are unfortunately not in very good condition and we have seen so many people with their own cars in difficulty.

Inside the park the guide stops at all the most famous spots and leaves time to capture the view. If you go with the Navajo guide you will also have access to the "sacred" area after the village of Hogan. Our guide was very nice, sometimes a bit picturesque seasoning the various descriptions with some "beautiful, beautiful, mamma miaaaa"

Highly recommended

No place like it on earth. The views are what every old western movie had. Is dusty and make sure you have a vehicle made for the road. We had four wheel drive SUV which the 4 wheel drive is not crucial but need a little ground clearance. Watched several sport cars bottom out and a few electric cars turn around and go back. Electric pickup of SUV would have been ok. Take some water and can be very warm when sun is directly overhead.

I had very high expectations which were not disappointed at all.
The dream of a lifetime.
The dirt road that leads to the discovery of the various panoramic points must be traveled with caution because it is certainly not in good condition and there are several potholes, however we tackled it in a minivan, obviously going very slowly.

This was our first time visiting, and we were excited to be seeing the iconic sights of Monument Valley and grateful to be allowed onto the Navajo tribal land to enjoy it. We got to the park around lunch time, and there is only one option for lunch in the gift shop (mostly packaged sandwiches), but the options in the nearby town of Kayenta are pretty much all fast food. (You may want to eat before you get there or pack a picnic.) The gift shop is large and sells lovely native dolls/figures and pottery along with "typical"souvenirs like t-shirts and post cards. Overall I have to say that our only disappointment was with the visitors center. There was no one working there so it was really impossible to get information there. (The booths that seemed intended for disseminating information were unstaffed.) We walked around trying to find maps, displays, or other information but were disappointed. Since we'd been in the car a lot during our trip, we opted out of the driving tour and instead hiked the Wildcat Trail. I highly recommend that as it was a wonderful opportunity to actually walk down amongst the rocks and see the desert flora up close. The valley is simply majestic, and it was truly a blessing to be able to take this lovely walk there. There are many options for tours from locals including driving tours and horseback tours. I would recommend taking advantage of one of those options if you have the time. We stayed the night at The View Inn so we were able to watch the sunset and sunrise as well as see the incredibly brilliant stars at night. Monument Valley is a beautiful and awe-inspriring place that I think everyone should visit at least once in their lives, and we are very glad that we did!

This was a great off road experience.
We drove a Ford Bronco through the park . It was very bumpy, but definitely worth the trip.
The rock formations were awesome.
Not crowded at all. Several good photo opportunities.

This tribal park is definitely a "must do and experience" if in the area; it's not just a drive by. We debated doing the tour with our vehicle vs paying for a tour & the latter is strongly encouraged, in our opinion. The tour offers the explanations, cultures and customs and attaches meaning to the Tribal Park, and not just beautiful scenery, which is all you'd get, if you drove yourself. A tour is well well worth it; we took Dineh Bekeyah Tours, with Navajo native himself, Larry Team!!

**An important thing to note is that there is no cash in Navajo Tribal Park, credit card only. Be sure you have plenty of cash for your tip for the tour AND your hotel cash tip. We stayed at The View, which is in the park and expected to break a larger bill in the hotel restaurant, to leave a hotel tip - again, no cash, credit card only. (If you need an ATM, there is one located a few miles out of the park, at Gouldings, where there is a gas station and local store.)

CELL SERVICE: some at visitor center.

NO DRONE ZONE!

FOOD/DRINKS:
Visitor center has restaurant attached.
***visitor center had jewelry, Tshirts, mugs… etc. VERY WINDY at top of visitor center taking pictures of M.V.

Free water stations: NO

RESTROOMS: Yes! At visitor center. 4 women’s stalls (one handicap).
Restrooms easy to find: Yes! All the way in back to the right.

COST: $8 per person to enter M.V.
PARKING: lots of parking!

***Small area in parking lot with picnic tables to eat and grill if wanted to. Too windy for us to sit there beginning of May 2024.

LENGTH OF TIME spent here: drove 17mile loop in 1.5 hours, taking pictures along the way.

Perfect time of day to go: anytime!!

For Kids/Couples: anyone!

LOOP: Driving 17 mile loop - need high clearance SUV!! Road is rough & plenty of pot holes! Take your time! Look at map!! Marker numbers/stops are NOT WELL MARKED! Our favorite photo spots #8 and #9!!!
** bathrooms at marker/stops #7 and #9 that I saw.

Special shoes/clothes: tennis/hiking shoes & sun shirts. NO SHADE!

TOURS: Small building in parking lot- info about Guided tour. Plenty of trucks with seating in bed for tours. Didn’t see cost! The truck is completely open- VERY WINDY! Wear FACE MASKS AND SUNGLASSES!! Drive the loop if you can! People looked miserable on tour!

Don’t bother with the tribal park, it’s staffed by mostly rude and obnoxious people who seem to want to rip you off. You can get good views of the monument valley rock formations from the surrounding highways.

The tribe has started charging $8 person to enter the valley. This appears to be a error in judgement. This once busy place has fallen on hard times. The visitor center (once a bustling, busy place) is now falling into decay. The restaurant is now a self-service deli (with what appear to be premade sandwiches) and overpriced drinks. There are things to buy, but only using a credit card because there is no cash onsite! There were no paper towels in the restroom and the paint was chipping all over the visitor center walls. The road through the monuments was so bad that we turned around before even reaching the first pull out. I have been to this site a number of times and think it is a real shame the way it has lost its charm!!!

I explored Monument Valley on a tour departing from Gouldings. It was a cold and windy day, but even the dust blowing around did nit detract from my enjoyment. The scenery is spectacular. The tour stops at several places where you can get out to take photos. It is definitely worth seeing and taking a tour to hear the stories behind the hoodoos.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is a marvel! Experiencing the beauty and spirit of this area is magical. But don't drive it yourself. Use one of the talented and informative Native tour companies to be your guide. It will enhance both your enjoyment and education.

A breathtaking drive through one of the most cinematic landscapes on Earth. The views are huge, silent and unforgettable. Perfect for photography or simply enjoying the vast desert scenery.

Beautiful sites to see. But good job we had SUV hire vehicle as the road was bumpy, potholes and rocky. Not maintained and poor for a national park. We had been to Zion, grand canyon and arches national parks and these roads and parks were brilliant. Cheeky charging entry which was not included in usa national park pass.

This is a great place to visit. You paid entrance fee to enter the park. But some of the areas are closed, and you have to join private tour, operate by local tribe, they will take you on their vehicle to see some of the restricted sites.

We stayed 4 nights, with unobstructed views. What a magical place. Sunsets were fabulous, Sunrises were beautiful and the stars...........

We had a very interesting tour, very interesting, well organised, with a super guide. 👍👍👍👍👍
He told us about the Valley, about the Indians, he and his colleague made Indian music for us. Very well done.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is an extraordinary destination that provides an immersive experience of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The park is located on the Navajo Nation and offers a unique opportunity to learn about the Navajo people and their connection to the land. The park is home to a variety of iconic sandstone formations, including the famous Mittens, Elephant Butte, and Three Sisters rock formations, each with its own unique shape and history.

One of the best ways to experience the park is through a guided tour, and there are a variety of options available to suit every interest and budget. The Extended Backcountry Tour offered by Tribal Tours is a standout choice, providing an exclusive view of the park's most iconic landmarks and natural wonders. Visitors can also take a sunrise or sunset tour, offering a breathtaking view of the park's stunning vistas as the sun rises or sets. These tours are a photographer's dream, offering an opportunity to capture the beauty of the park at its most dramatic.

In addition to the park's natural wonders, Monument Valley also offers a rich cultural experience. Visitors can learn about the Navajo people, their history, traditions, and way of life through a variety of activities and experiences. The park features a Navajo Cultural Center, which provides an opportunity to learn about Navajo history, art, and culture through exhibits, demonstrations, and presentations.

Amazing natural beauty, came back after 15 years, well worth it. Stunning views. Follow the trails by car (SUV only, don't attempt with a saloon car you will regret it as the tracks are rocky and very rough in places). Many opportunities for amazing pictures.

We did the scenic drive around Monument Valley by car but decided to book a tour at sunset. Our guide Larry took us all around the park and we also got the chance to see some things that are not accessible to ordinary visitors. Breathtaking views and rock formations. Larry lent a hand to take pictures and covered everything in a humorous way. We got a fantastic sunset.

Beautiful landscaping do not miss this one.
The weird thing is if you book the hotel and for whatever reason you don’t want to do the park…….you have to pay the fees anyway, wasn’t like that few years back.

I’ve been wanting to visit Monument Valley ever since I saw Clark Griswold make his journey through the desert, and I’m so glad I finally went. First thing is first, the loop drive is not that bad. We had an SUV, but saw many similar vehicles and sedans making the drive. A higher clearance vehicle definitely helps but it wasn’t a requirement when we went. Yes, you need to drive slowly, be cautious, avoid pot holes and share the road with others (sometimes waiting for oncoming traffic to pass so you can drive on the better side to avoid a rough area), but it is doable. Of course the recent weather can have an effect on road conditions, making them worse, but our driving experience was nothing to complain about. It is a rough road and may do some long term wear and tear on your vehicle, but if you’re careful it can be done by the average driver.
The scenery is beautiful and an absolute bargain for the entrance fee. We loved seeing the iconic spots that were familiar from the movies, but each spot in the drive was unique.
Would recommend a visit to anyone!

We've seen a lot, but the landscape here is just special. Anyone who's in the area will definitely come here!

One of the best attractions in Arizona, featuring huge sandstone formations scattered across the desert. The rocks come in many unique shapes—you can let your imagination run wild!

There is an $8 entrance fee per person. You can easily spend a full day exploring everything, but even a half-day visit offers a great experience.

This location has been featured in many movies, especially Westerns, so John Wayne fans will really appreciate it.

There’s also a nice shop and restaurant inside.

I enjoyed it very much!

If you don't know what "majestic" means, well, visit Monument Valley and you will understand it instantly. Splendid masterpiece of nature that is impossible to describe in words, you have to experience it and breathe the dust of this wonderful valley. I recommend taking the jeep tour because you enter the heart of the valley. Immense.

It started at the Visitor Center. We arrived about 8:00am. The plan was get breakfast at the View Restaurant. Unfortunately they were only serving hotel guests. The only offering was some pre packaged sandwiches. No thanks. So back thru the gift shop we had every intention of buying shirts and hats, the selection was as bad as the food choices. Off to our Outback and the trail, since we were self driving we expected the trail to muddy and rough which was cool. The views were awesome, but (sorry for so many buts) you can’t get close enough to the mesas unless you were with a guided tour. That sucked. The map you get is very sparse on information. So since I missed a couple of things we went around again. One recommendation is at John Ford point get the Navajo fry bread. But overall the beauty of the park is worth it. .

We decided to use the 21 Miles circle and drive our own SUV, which was absolutely feasible. No stress with the car on the bumpy roads. The monuments are very impressive. I felt sorry for the tourists who drove the circle with an organized tour. An open pickup truck in this heat and dust is far from convenient, and prices per person are very expensive
Ambience: wonderful
Price / performance: USD 8/person , absolutely fair
to Recommend A must

What a beautiful spot, we almost didn’t take the time to drive out here on our very long road trip but I’m so glad we did. All the vistas were absolutely stunning and even if you don’t have a high clearance vehicle or time to take a tour the views from the visitor center alone are with it. Thank you to the Navajo people for sharing such a beautiful special place with all of us.

Firstly, I think the $8 entrance 'fee' should be spent on the road going around Monument Valley - how much they take in a day could certainly cover it!
The road was shocking in parts for my Nissan Sentra - if it had been human it probably would have needed therapy.
Apart from that, although a challenge, the views from the road were magnificent, the photos 📸 you see aren't even close when you see them for real, a truly worthwhile experience

Had not planned on taking the self guided tour at the Navajo Park but decided at the last minute to take this side trip. We were not disappointed. Note that this is not a NPS park so you will pay admission per person. Also the road can be a little rough so be prepared for gravel, dirt and sand. No real issues for our regular car however. Also, on the day we were there at least, the road to the monuments closed at 3pm so get there early! Great rock formations. Look for the mittens at the start of your drive. Other interesting HUGE formation’s elsewhere. It’s just a beautiful area. The area around the gift shop has great views as well. (Another note—masks required indoors on Native American land). Glad we made time. Recommend.

We went around mid morning and the crowds weren't bad at all. The place itself defies any descriptions. No words to describe the stunning views and the natural beauty in front of your eyes. It is Nature in all glory .. we drove the scenic loop drive and beware the ride is very bumpy. You can stop at scenic View points, but the road is quite dusty and a dirt track. The place itself is beyond amazing!

Stopped here as a family with small kids. It's a must see one time in your life. We did a self guided tour in our own vehicle. We ate from the little shack on the trail (good tacos for dinner but just ok fry bread). We got to stop at our own convenience to take photos. Our van did get a little stuck going up the hill on the way out. They are dirt roads and our speed a little too slow for the steep incline.

The far west, the wild west, the westerns...here we are!!! An incredible and unmissable place in Arizona...To visit by car and taking your time...

The Navajo Reservation in Monument Valley is the icon of the American western, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world managed by the Navajo natives so it is not part of the American national parks. Almost exclusively inhabited by Native Americans who work with tourism, there are museums and outlets of various clothing items and other related to their ancient traditions, accompanying us all with a kind of motorized carriages to admire this spectacle of nature.

In anyone's language this is undeniably a must-see place. How you do it is up to you, but to really experience the land, culture and history, you really need to go on a guided tour with a Navajo guide.

Not only do they go into detail you can't possibly get from a book or by self-touring, they take you to unique parts of the Valley to really immerse you in the whole experience. Plus they know the best spots for taking the perfect photo, and heaven knows there's plenty of those opportunities.

The price for me as realistic too. We paid around £70 each for a 3.5 hour sunset guide which included unlimited bottled water. An unforgettable experience.

Emblematic of the American West and Hollywood representations, whether you arrive at Forrest Gump or Flagstaff Road, the scenery remains surprising.
Entrance fees will be required to visit the area on foot, by car or even on horseback, even for hotel guests.

I highly recommend taking a guided tour into the valley. The Navajo guides are so knowledgeable and you get to see places you can’t visit on your own. I was worried about the comfort of the truck you ride in for the tour, but I found it to be just fine and the guides know the roads well and where the pot holes are. The rode is doable on your own but you’ll miss out on so much information and additional sites you can’t visit without a guide. We took the deluxe tour from Goulding and it was worth every penny.

A breathtaking experience, the landscape is just incredible, it is difficult for me to find superlatives to express this timeless moment, rare and pure beauty

No communication back with me regarding a concern I had. Do not expect any customer service or response whatsoever. It would have taken someone 10 seconds to respond to the email and phone calls I left over 3 months ago.

Very fun driving tour at a very reasonable price. The Taos is very rough and if you don’t have a vehicle with high clearance I’d suggest the guided tour. Very enjoyable!

Great trip around the trip
It is a very uneven dirt road where you have to have clearance on the car. An SUV is perfect.
$8 per muzzle to enter.
There are also few hikes you can get in there.

You can easily spend 2 hours just by car.

If you have seen Western movies, you will recognize the landscapes.

took a guided tour with Navaho. guide and vehicle best way to do this
really looks like the movies .very different from previous trips

Our guide, Don Mose, made our tour of Monument Valley something that we will never forget. It was beautiful, informative, and surprisingly emotional. Don showed us all of the best places for photographs, showed us petroglyphs and explained their meaning, and he had a very clever demonstration of how the butes were formed. Don is a intelligent, educated, well-traveled humble man who is a gem. Time spent with him is worth far more than the tour price.

We arrived well before the official closure of the park, paid the entry fee, but were not allowed to enter the Monument Valley loop road - there was an angry woman, shouting at us to turn around and leave. The brochure that we were given at the entry booth clearly stated winter/summer operational times, and there was more than 1hr left for us to enjoy the park, yet the entry was refused. Closure times in their website also indicated the park should have been operating. We asked for refund, of course that didn't happen. Came back next morning, paid for the entry again.
The road itself is getting worse and worse. If you drive regular vehicle, you are at your own risk. It is ridiculous that they don't do anything about it. I saw other travellers' comments here that they faced the same situation - driving long hours just to learn that they will not be allowed to enter. Needless to say, I will skip it. Its a shame that visit to such a beautiful place is spoiled by arrogance and neglect.

We booked a 6 hour combi tour in Monument Valley and Mystery Valley through Dineh Bekeyah.
Wow! In a word Great!
Thanks to the two tour guides Duffy and Stephen, we were able to enjoy this beautiful Navjo Nation Tribal Park intensely and we learned a lot about the Dineh, their culture, customs and rituals.

Highly recommended!

Awesome experience with a knowledgeable guide.
“Dirty” Harry was full of hints and tips to get the perfect shot, and showed us his favourite part of Monument Valley. By using a guide, meant you could access off limit areas. The sunrise tour also meant very few people about.
Our tour was in a 4x4 with just four people.

A place mythologized by movies but it does not disappoint. The tour is done quietly in your own vehicle (preferably all-terrain or SUV). I think the ideal is to visit it first.
Time or Just at sunset. If you do it very early in the morning there is hardly anyone during the route.

Amazing scenery here and on the way down from Bluff Utah. We chose the self guided tour - obviously they would like to book a guided tour, but we wanted to have our own pace. That's no problem since the roads are rugged - perhaps because of recent flooding. It's 17 miles of loose gravel, big rocks, mud, dirt, some kind of mesh. But we made it fine in a Nissan sedan FWD. Have to keep your eyes on the signs to know what direction to follow. North Window Overlook is very impressive, but there is beauty at every turn.

We had a great time at Monument Valley. Be prepared with water, gas and sunglasses. This is a seventeen mile dirt road through many towering mesas and sandstone buttes. You can take as long as you want to drive through the valley. Before you go, be sure to visit the huge visitor center. This drive was one of the highlights of our trip, we will never forget Monument Vally. Your car will be covered in red dust. Road can be rough sometimes.

We spent the morning in this mythical place through a walk guided by Navajo Indians. Monument Valley is located on the border of Arizona and Utah its area is 120 km2. The natural setting of "The Fantastic Ride" and many other westerns, frankly it was even more grandiose than I imagined pure happiness. You think back to all the American films you've seen. Monument Valley erects its enormous sandstone chimneys (monoliths up to 60 meters) to varying degrees of evolution: mesas, mounds, needles, arches, dunes with fantastic colors, varying according to the light of dawn or sunset. The lunch barbecue took place on the reserve certainly it was not great but we were surrounded by a mythical and unique desert so we do with grills made by the Indians.

Monument Valley is something that takes your breath away. However, the Indians who run it could be a little more friendly. You pay 8 dollars per person to enter (so it's not worth the National Park Pass) and they make a fuss because apparently the car ride on the scenic drive can only be done with a 4X4 car (something not reported on their official website). We took the risk and did it anyway, despite the disapproval of the lady at the toll booth who didn't want to let us through! The road at the end is quite ok, just go slowly and watch out for potholes. But it can also be done with a normal car! I also recommend taking a horseback ride, immersed in nature the ride has a completely different charm!

The place is great and stunning views, shame the roads around area have so much litter in the tribal land., disgusting by forest gump lookout. The main off-road tour was much better with no litter but the road was in poor state of repair and even in dry weather with SUV has tricky. Real shame as the landscape was stunning to visit.

We did the 15 mile loop through the valley. It was beautiful and worth the trip! $8 per person in the car and took us about 3 hrs, stopping at a few view points for pictures. Make sure you have a sturdy vehicle as the road is not paved.

For those like me, who wondered if MV was absolutely to be done, I would say that it is very nice to see but that it does not justify a great detour.
Moab side, further north, Arches Nat. Park is much more breathtaking.
But to take a picture of Mom or Dad with the John Wayne decor in the background, it is a must do!!!!!

This is a must stop if you are anywhere in the area. The size and height of these monuments must be seen in person.

Monument Valley is the iconic valley of sandstone sculpted rock formations. Photographs of its formations are recognizable worldwide and it has been featured in many films over the years. It is much larger and more advertised than the nearby "Valley of the Gods." It is one of those famous places to visit.

Great views. Only takes a couple hours to drive through but it is very bumpy and you need to take it slow. No paved roads. All sand and dirt and it knocks you around a bit.

Breathtaking sites around every turn. Our guide was knowledgeable and even provided flute music at one of our stops. This tour is a must if you are in the area.

Monument Valley is one of the most exciting sights of my trip to the Americas. Three symbolic giant rocks quietly standing on Red Earth, as if time had stopped, is the magnificence that no photograph can truly convey. Standing at the viewing table, especially at sunrise or sunset, the color of the rocks and shadows are intertwined with a living western painting. The park is managed by the Navajo tribe, the cultural atmosphere is intense, and the visitor centre is also rich with background information and souvenirs. Although this time because of physical relationships can not participate in the jeep tour to the bottom, only in the viewing area to feel the tranquility and majesty of this land, has been very touching. It is not just an attraction, but a soul touch and awe.

The views, formations, colors and history is second to none. The backcountry and Mystery Valley tours are filled with information on how it was formed and history of the Navajo Nation. I look forward to visiting in the future.

As soon as you arrive, you are immersed in a western film atmosphere. Wonderful panorama, with enchanting views. It really feels like being in the middle of a scene from a Sergio Leone or John Wayne film. To redo.

The rates during the summer are exceptionally high but the canyon is beautiful! Our guide, Nathaniel, would get us the best photos of certain rock formations that made us go wow!!
It takes an hour inside the canyon and it's way cooler than the outside temperature.

Absolutely worth seeing!
We opted for the independent tour along the scenic drive, with stops at well-marked points of interest. The road is dirt but easily passable. Monument Valley offers priceless views.
Toilets available along the route as well as at the visitor center.

We visited the tribal park in September 2022. It was a bucket list item and it was spectacular. The visitor center is very nice and clean. They did require masks when we visited. The scenery grabs you right at the visitor center and never stops! Get reservations on- line prior to your visit for seamless entry. It's not expensive. The road is not paved so be prepared for a very dusty car at the end of this wonderful tour. Don't miss Forrest Gump Hill on your way into the park, which by the way, is in Arizona but the only entrance is in Utah! Movie buffs will recognize many iconic places. Go!

A visit here is an absolute must as the views are totally spectacular. This is a photographers dream place to visit at any time of the time as the light changes.

Must-see visit, you will be in a western, in an American classic, the “rocks” are impressive, more imposing in reality. Going on the road to the movie Forest gump you will have a magnificent view of monument valley l one of the most beautiful viewpoint I have had. (8$ per person the tour is by car)

Friendly reception at the pay station. Many expensive souvenirs “Made in China” in the visitor center. The circular path offers many unforgettable views of the rock formations, but the light conditions in the morning are not optimal. Unfortunately, you are not allowed to go anywhere in the countryside and must stay at the “viewpoints”. Only at “Totem Point” could we move away from the vehicle and enjoy “intimate moments” unobserved. The road is quite navigable by car, only a lot of dust is created. Be sure to visit for the extraordinary scenery, perhaps in conjunction with the Valley of the Gods nearby. The price is quite reasonable. If you want to protect your car, you can also book sightseeing tours in open off-road vehicles that stop at almost all viewpoints.

Anyone can drive the 17 mile track through Monument Valley proper. We did it in September of 2025 and it’s pretty cool. But it also has some very rough terrain, which can lead to highly unpleasant outcomes with the wrong vehicle. If you’re staying at The View Hotel (see below), or even visiting the area for the day, you really should consider hiring a Navajo tour, for a couple reasons. Most important, the guides will take you to beautiful spots that are not accessible on the 17 mile track. Second, they have high clearance, 4 wheel drive vehicles and know how to navigate across the rocks and sand. We took a starlight tour with Dineh Bekeyah Tours, and the next morning, a sunrise tour with 3 Sisters Navajo Guided Tours. We were happy with both. The guides were knowledgable and made sure we got to some spectacular locations for prime photo opportunities. Click the link Navajo Guided Tours link for a full list of Navajo tour companies.

It's well worth the trip... you drive through the park.
Landscape with beautiful views of all the rocks.
I recommend going with a tall car...
Very cool!

Amazing views from everywhere great photo spots and iconic shots . went with a group of photographers we all loved it and got great shots

The Navajo Tribal Park in Monument Valley contains much of the most stunning and iconic scenery in the area. There is a hotel and visitor centre with shop.

One must pay to enter and even if paid ahead of time must queue up to drive in. We paid in advance to enter around a certain time, but still had to wait in the queue, which took some time.

There is a rough dirt rood loop to drive on for the scenery. Visitors may drive on their own on the drive if early enough in the day. However, after a certain time of day, one may no longer drive on it and must instead pay to take a tour. These see to be readily available at the parking lot at the visitor centre and we ended up having to take one since we were only there for that day as we drove through. We researched it ahead of time (given the time we had to plan this trip, a replacement for a UK trip cancelled due to Omicron), and found out about the park, scenic drive, entrance fee which we could pay in advance, but did not discover any information about the time limit for driving through the park on one's own.

Either way, if you want to see this, it is well worth it. The tour was great and took us all over the place. In fact, the road is extremely rough in places and even though we have a Subaru all well drive, we were thankful not to have to negotiate that ourselves. We loved the magnificent and iconic setting, magnificent in its own right, but also so iconic and famous from many Westerns.

Booked 2.5 hour tour with Dineh Bekayah tours. Joe was our guide on the tour and was outstanding! He gave us tips for the best photo spots, and also explained about the culture and history of the Navajo. The tour was very relaxed and it takes you to places you can’t see if you do the self driving tour. would highly recommend Dineh Bekayah tour and hopefully you get Joe as your guide.

The landscapes are as expected. I hesitate to recommend paying to enter the park. Although some monuments are seen closer and from different perspectives, the landscape is repetitive. The road that makes the route through the park is in very poor condition in some areas. Possibly it is done on purpose so that you buy the tour with the Navajo Indians.

Dazzling in beauty, you learn a lot with a Guide! Guide Navajos on top! Exceptional morning! It was the second time! Not to be missed 🙏

Beautiful place...we entered with our car ($8 each) and stayed there for almost 3 hours...we stopped at all the spots to admire the formations...beautiful park

No matter how many photos you see, arriving for the first time will take your breath away. Monument Valley is just overwhelmingly beautiful, espcially at sunrise and sunset. This is a must-see place, and a reason in itself to visit northern Arizona. There are pull-outs along the roads leading to the park giving great vistas, and also a 17-mile loop trail you can self-drive inside the park with 11 marked stops. (Note, the loop is dirt and not well graded--there are some big holes so a 4-wheel drive is recommended and in bad weather it's necessary.) There are not many services around the park, so plan your visit well ahead. Most are located on the West (Utah) side of US-163. Only The View hotel and restaurant is located within the park itself, on the east (Arizona) side of the highway.

We had a wonderful tour w Vera. We traveled on part of the scenic drive but then went out in the outback of monument valley and she pointed out amazing rock formations such as the Suns Eye, camel & elephant Butte and petroglyphs by Anasazi people
We learned about the many films and commercials that were filmed at Monument Valley. In the Navajo land we stopped and learned a bit about their way of life and culture. She was very personable and ended the tour with a beautiful song, that was a chant that her father sang to her and her 11 siblings.
I would highly recommend this tour.

We were here again in 2013. We had booked a tour with the natives at the time. I think that would have been a great option too. We didn't think, though, had a car and why not drive ourselves. There would be many reasons why you don't have to drive yourself. I was glad that my daughter drove, partly at walking pace, as the paths were difficult to drive on. But the park is just great. Again, it's native and great. The stalls have changed massively in the last 12 years. Partly so expensive that it's already unpleasant.

The entire 17 mile scenic drive was amazing. We can literally stop anywhere, take a walk around and snap pictures. The Fry Bread at the Ford Point was the best we ever had. We are vegetarian and both the beans and the oil they fry in were vegetarian. We stayed at The View hotel and what a location it is situated at. We did astrophotography from our room balcony at night and we woke up to the most amazing Sunrise, again from our room balcony. They had free breakfast and it was really good. We did Goosenecks State Park, Mexican Hat and Forest Gump point as well.

Ruined experience as the person at the gate failed to say DO NOT drive your car into the valley (or you will get stuck and damage your car). So simple, so stupid. Maintain the road please!

Wonderful experience with breathtaking views! Drive in from the Utah side (from Mexican Hat) and see the Forrest Gump road! We paid to enter the park (this is Navajo lands, NOT a national park) and there are fantastic views there. You can drive as little or as much as you want on the road yourself- it’s a typical country dirt road. We did it in a minivan and it was fine. Ignore the crazy reviews haha. Nice visitor center/gift shop and a restaurant (that wasn’t open, we were there around noon) and a lodge as well. I would like to return to spend a night. Highly recommend!

A truly stunning landscape that changes with the light. Take a tour with one of the local companies to get a more in-depth experience. A fantastic morning travelling through the me as and buttes!

The views here are just amazing. Everything is striking, and it all all worth looking at from a different perspective and at a different time of day.

Driving up to MV on Highway 193 you will find a lot of scenic turnoffs that allow you to stop your car and take pictures. We stopped at many of them, only to find that the next turnoff offered closer views. And then closer views. In retrospect, we would have done better skipping the more remote turnoffs. I said above that it's worth seeking it all from different perspectives, but the road offers the same perspective at different distances. It is not terrible to stop often, but you are likely to erase your early photos in favor of those you take on the highway at later turnoffs.

As part of our fantastic trip we stopped in MV; I was almost afraid of disappointment, mostly because I had seen her in films, photos, cartoons, cartoons, etc etc.
reality surpasses imagination, there is a magical atmosphere. especially in the sunset-night-dawn period.

practical issues:
- TKT: entrance fee, 8 dollars each

- STAYING: we slept with our trailer in the DIS-equipped area of The View, which as you know is the only place where you can stay. I will review this facility separately, but here I will only state that unfortunately it was the most expensive but on the other hand also the worst (not equipped, dirty, no assistance, etc.) of the entire 23-day trip. However, this allowed us to enjoy the spectacle of the sunset, the night and the dawn, and I recommend doing so if you can, because it gives a totally different and almost mystical image of the park. The View has a hotel, but also some small recently built chalets (in front of the trailer park), which I think are quite expensive but absolutely worth the stop, for the same reason: you can enjoy the peace, the tranquility, the view. ...a truly magical atmosphere. Each chalet has a small terrace, everyone has a guaranteed view, even if in terms of time and economy it may seem like a waste I assure you it is not. we met several people who were stopping at MV or who were coming/returning to Page during the day but the essence and magic of the place can be enjoyed in those hours.

- TOUR OF THE VALLEY: we had a super 4x4 pick up truck and we didn't worry; we saw several "normal" cars tackling the road; in truth the route itself is almost entirely flat, or in any case with a beaten road where only a minimum of attention needs to be paid; the difficulty lies in the entry and exit, because it is a very steep stretch of about 150 meters (on entry you go downhill, but it is full of potholes and unevenness, on exit it is obviously uphill), and uneven. Disrupted how? uneven like sandy soil through which a steep stream has flowed, thus leaving a sort of irregular, dry bed, which is what creates the differences in level.

After being there, would I do it with a normal car? I don't know, in the sense that I personally, alone, would be incapable, but: a. I've seen many cars do this b. I didn't see any stalled or broken cars or tow trucks. so it seems feasible to me. I repeat, the difficulty is only in this initial stretch.
the ADVANTAGE of doing it alone is that I go with the car closed and the air conditioning (while the Navajo tour is in an open jeep, with a canopy), but above all I stop where and how long I want and I have greater autonomy. Besides the fact that obviously it is absolutely much cheaper.

- DURATION: done independently, therefore stopping in many points, even just to walk in the sand, photos, look here look at etc, about 3 hours.
We did it in the afternoon, leaving around 4.00 pm and returning at around 7.00 pm; at 8pm all cars must be out. Having to do it with the Navajo tour I would say that it would be appropriate to choose the beginning or the end of the day, because as I was saying the jeeps only have a roof but they are open and you really get hot. When we say "Hot" we don't mean the "impossible extremely hot heat" that we can experience in Italy, it is an absolute, debilitating heat, an experience unknown to us.

- TIPS: bring water and food as much as you can: on the internal route there are no "refreshment" points but only souvenir stands; at the hotel there is a café/restaurant with obviously very high prices, and quality that we didn't try but it was all pre-packaged.
Before arriving at the MV you pass through Kayenta, the only real city in Navajo land, if you need something, refuel there.
Needless to say, it's very hot, we even bring water to pour on our heads.
Most of the things can be seen from pitches where you stop by car so it is not necessary to go with trekking equipment and even flip-flops are enough. Then obviously there are various paths, in which case you go in boots, but the heat requires careful planning.

- SOUVENIRS: just for information, the prices of the various junk (which we bought anyway) is the same if not lower than the MV stalls compared to the stalls on the street, and obviously except for a few things, they all sell the same type of objects, so buy where it is most convenient for you simply without much research.

A breathtaking wonder!
Visiting Monument Valley is, certainly, one of the things to do in life.
A unique panorama in one of the most iconic places in the world.

I recommend visiting at sunrise or sunset.
If you have a 4x4 I recommend doing the tour independently.
I did it with a front-wheel drive SUV.

The initial road is steep and rugged.
So if you are not an expert driver, I recommend taking the guided tour.

I do not recommend carrying out the tour independently if the road is icy/wet and/or muddy.

The self-guided tour costs nothing (just $16-18 for park entry).

If you are interested in a hotel in the area, I recommend The View (right inside the Monument). Remember that inside the reserve they do not sell any type of alcohol (as it is prohibited).

Have a good trip!

My husband and I unexpectedly and delightfully ended up on a private tour with Carol when the other people failed to show. She was a wealth of knowledge, having been a guide here since 1995. We loved hearing her stories about her family, Navajo customs and heritage. She set up incredible photo ops for us, led us up close to ancient puebloan petroglyphs, and entertained us with several Navajo songs. We briefly shared Big Hogan with another tour group, where Frank, their guide, played a haunting flute melody for us. I would most definitely recommend this 3.5 hour extended backcountry tour if you want to get an intimate look at Monument Valley.

Highway 163 crosses Monument Valley. We took it from Bluff (Utah) to Monument Valley (Arizona). The highway is stunning! It is clean, paved, almost empty, and with many view points (approximately 16) where you can stop to see the scenery and take pictures. The view points are almost empty and there is a lot of space to park. You can cross the road by walking as there are no cars and to stand in the middle of this wide highway watching or taking pictures of the monument valley is magical! I did not see tour groups; my impression is that they come from the South and stop at the ticket entrance of Monument Valley; therefore, when you come from the North, the site is empty, quiet, relaxing, magical. To see the Monument Valley from the distance at Highway 163 is incredible; at sunset, the monument valley changes colors from violet to red or orange. You can see all the Monument Valley formations.

You don't have to pay anything to visit monument valley when you drive though Highway 163. Honestly, I think is better to see the monument valley by driving to highway 163 than by paying the entrance ticket and/or tours. When you pay, you have to take a dusty, bumpy, road with a lot of potholes and your car suffers a lot and although you are closer to the different formations, they actually look much nicer from Highway 163!

The scenery around Highway 163 is not only beautiful at the Monument Valley, just before you arrive, you will see the impressive Mexican Hat, and before the Mexican Hat , you see the wonderful red scenery of the San Juan river valley of Southern Utah and Bluff.

If you use Wize, be careful as it will frequently deviate you to take an alternative road that is shorter than 163. Just indicate to Wize that you want to take Highway 163.

A foray into the western settings of our childhood. The open minibus ride is nice and our Navajo Guide, Joe, very interesting. In addition to the many anecdotes about the site and the films that were shot there, he told us the most beautiful photo spots and rewarded us with a Navajo song.

Take a tour to get the most out of your visit. I would not recommend driving your private vehicle on the grounds - quite rough and dusty.

This is a beautiful place to visit that you can drive your own vehicle however after talking to the park rep, we decided to do the 3 1/2 tour and it did not disappoint. Our Navajo Indian tour guide was awesome with providing information on the area, showing us small details within both the areas traveled by normal car and off the beaten path including stops where John Wayne westerns were filmed. He also sang us a song in his native language. The scenario is beautiful so plan to take lots of pictures and we were thrilled to see things we would not have been able to see if we had done our own car. There are several guides doing the tours so it's a good way to have small groups. Highly recommend.

We first stopped at the visitors’s center for information and were told no cars. No where on their web site does it say no cars. Got to the pay booth and there’s a sign flashing”no cars”. Lady at the booth confirmed . We’d have to buy a tour. No thank you and turned around. We continued on highway 163 to find Forest Gump Point. Lots of families taking pictures of running on the road that Forest ran. The whole area is filled with beautiful formations and pull offs to take pictures. Disappointing management. Bait and Switch.

Great experience. Learned a lot. Felt the power and warmth of the Navajo people. Wilderness Tour Guide, Shawn, should write a book. This is a place not to be misses.

A very nice stopping point for a break from our drive between Page, AZ and Moab, UT. The drive and vistas are beautiful and otherworldly. The visitors center is small and most of the merchandize was out of our budget but we found some nice souvenirs for the kids and were happy to support the Navajo people.

This is a must-see experience! What beautiful views, so much Navajo history and a great hiking trails. You don't have to take a guided tour and drive yourself. Of course, you need a SUV cause the road is dusty and bumpy but it is doable if your car doesn't sit too low. You don't get the full narration by a Navajo but you are also in your AC car with the windows up. Plus, you can stay as long as you like at each site and just gaze, take photos and drink up the view. You can definitely feel the Navajo spirit! The admission is only $8 per person and worth every penny! Stop at the visitors center first for a quick informative preview.

We were scared by all the comments about taking a 4 x 4 car for the tour. It's not necessary, with a normal car it can be done perfectly. There are only 3 or 4 sections with potholes that you have to go with more care, but the rest of the road is dirt, you can go perfectly. The valley is impressive. No matter how much you see photos, until you see it in person you don't get the idea of its magnitude. Recommended 💯

We had an amazing fun tour hosted by Marjory. She is very funny and very knowledgeable. She even took pictures with our cell phone when we could not walk over some of the uneven terrain. We will recommend your tour service to our friends & family.

We enjoyed the visitor center. There are many items for sale, but if you want a nice souvenir, take one of the tours(pricey). The vehicles stop at several sites where artists are displaying handmade jewelry, dream catchers, and other artifacts.

Hard to be objective about a Monument Valley review. One of the most famous places in the world, symbol of an entire era of TV movies. Live is as impressive as in the photographs.
The tour inside the park can be done by car at a cost of $8 per person to enter or using Indian guides.
We opted for the car ride ourselves. The roads in some places are unfortunately not in very good condition so it is preferable to use a car that is a little higher off the ground like an SUV.
Inside the park you can stop at several spots to admire the view and take some pictures. At one of the most famous sightseeing spots, John Ford's Point you can have a picture taken on horseback.
Just outside the entrance to the park there is a visit point with adjoining restaurant.

This park is splendid, it is a real pleasure to travel the valley drive and discover these fabulous landscapes. Unavoidable !

We had a wonderful tour with our guide, Will. Great explanations, fun stories, beautiful sights. Highly recommended. We originally scheduled this tour for 2020 but it was cancelled due to Covid. Our trip was fully refunded and applied to our tour in 2025. Thank you for a great experience.

When planning a Southwest US vacation, there are choices to make. We found Monument Valley very much worth the time it took to get there. The scenery is beautiful and the ability to take a tour with a Navajo guide and learn about the culture and landscape make it a must-do stop.

We were staying in Grand Canyon but had hired a car, so decided to make the trip to Monument Valley and were super glad we made the effort, what an amazing place.

The journey from Grand Canyon Village to Monument Valley takes about 3 hours, but it’s a very easy route on just 4 roads with very easy junctions and long stretches of super straight roads with amazing scenery. The trip in itself is worth the effort.

But what an amazing place this is. Visiting in winter was bliss, super quiet and we were able to easily get around the trail, although a couple of places were a little squidgy, we easily got round in our hire car. We were also really lucky with the weather, although it was cold the sun was out and there was clear blue skies.

And the entry price was very reasonable, just $8 per person.

This was definitely a trip to remember. No it's not the Bahama's or Hawaii, it was better. Walking amongst the tribal ruins was a very powerful and spiritual experience for my entire family. It was amazing to tour and see how my ancestors actually lived. If you're from Utah and haven't gone yet you and your family are missing out. A big reason why so many movies have been made there is the stunning beauty this amazing place!!!

This place that we see in all Western has lost its superb. Yes, there are these atypical mountains that we see in the photos, but after a few minutes, go 1h, we went around the question. Go that far to see that?
Do not think you will spend a day like us, you will be very disappointed! A quick round trip will suffice. It's likely that in a few years, with the omission of the Westerners, not many people will come this far.

Monument Valley is an Indian reserve that is still managed by American Indians.
It is probably with Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon and Amtelope Valley one of the most beautiful sites in the American West. These vast plains are bordered by emerging red sandstone rocks and offer an incredible panorama in terms of both scenic and colour. You don’t want to go to the area without going to this park and ideally sleep in the Pension there to enjoy the sunset and sunrise either from the room or from the restaurant.
A car tour of more or less 90 minutes is possible through a tour operator or with his own vehicle.
However, I recommend having an SUV or a 4x4 because low cars will have problems or even serious problems with some climbs a little difficult and especially some rocks that can damage the underbody or even block the vehicle. The conservation of the site is unique it is definitely worth the trip.

Breathtaking view of "The Mittens" from the visitor center. Unfortunately, did not have time to so the scenic drive for the other 10 sites. Big gift shop and indoor plumbing restrooms.

We have always wanted to visit Monument Valley, and I knew while planning our road trip this was a must do for our family!! They have a fantastic gift shop that you must check out as well!

We didn't do a tour, but we did the drive through experience and it was nothing less than amazing! To see the size of these monuments just blows your mind.

The road is rough, it is bumpy, there is no way that you could even do the speed limit, but it also makes you slow down a take a little around.

There are a lot of vendors through out the park selling hand made jewelry and other goods.

There are plenty of pull offs to get out of your car and take photos of the more "well known" formations.

It was not expensive to enter, and if you are in the area, take the time to go, even on the drive through experience. It took us about 3 hours to complete, but it didn't seem like that long at all!

Breathtaking landscape, It seems to be catapulted into a western movie. We took the ride with our car and also stayed inside (booking many months in advance).
The park is managed by the Navajo.
Da non perdere!!!!!

I want to start by saying that if you’re driving a sedan and not a 4x4 or AWD then the valley drive is perfectly doable if you take it slow and keep your eyes open. I was in two minds after reading a few reviews since I had a rented BMW 3-series sedan (rear wheel drive) but wanted to visit Monument Valley so badly that I took a chance and had no problems at all. I can’t explain how glad I was to ignore the reviews touting nothing but a truck or SUV could traverse the dirt track - the valley drive, the views and the entire experience was the highlight of my entire trip! This is a must-do, must-see, must-drive, simply must-must-must experience!

Sean was an incredible guide — knowledgeable, eloquent, and deeply passionate about the history of the Navajo Nation and Monument Valley. I learned so much from him, and he took us to all the best spots within the restricted area. I highly recommend this tour for anyone looking to experience the beauty of nature while gaining a meaningful understanding of Navajo history and culture.

I put a star because you can't not put anything on. We went to visit Monument Valley National Park and at the entrance the Navajos charged us $8 a head and told us that the drive inside could be about two hours.
But we have not been warned and when we arrive to do the route it turns out that the road was closed and we could not pass, because they had a private event and after charging us in the entrance gate we have not been able to pass or see... they are scammers and on returning to the main entrance they said that they did not know... and that they could not return the money, which was the norm of the park. The Navajos are scoundrels and they're only interested in money and collecting. And the other tourists who were coming in were still charged admission without caring. Disappointment at not being able to see it and at the poor treatment by Los Navajos, who thought they were more honest and not thieves and fraudsters.

we stayed @ "The View" rooms were large and clean. staff was friendly , did our own driving tour used a downloaded app for info , loved it. so huge and so much to see. also sat on the horse at john ford point ! was a highlight

One of the most beautiful national parks in the United States: Monument Valley (the National Park does not take the America Beautiful Pass, $8 per person admission). A must: see the site at sunset. Provided you have had the information that the tourist road closes at 5:00 pm (except for the tourist guides in 4WD who are numerous in the parking lot and waiting for you for an exhorbitant price!).The Visitor center, almost invisible under the shop, supposed to be open is closed. It has an interesting little exhibition. Welcoming more than mixed in the shop which is ultimately the only place where you can ask for information and a site map. Fortunately the site is beautiful it consoles us.

Monument Valley is one place I have always dreamed of going. Really cannot say why but after a week of doing several national parks in Utah and Arizona one always wonders if burn out will occur. I mean once you hit Utah the landscape is barren and heading into Arizona, desert like.
We did our research and felt pretty good driving our Jeep, maybe I missed the reviews as there were many places along the loop trail where I noticed regular cars bottoming out. All they say at the visitor center is the road is a bit bumpy.

I was blown away by Monument Valley. it is like no other place I have been too.
Tried to get photos of me on Ford's Point and a zoom lens would have been a good choice.

I travel now to experience and not worry so much about the perfect picture.
wish the kids at the Forest Gump road would take that advice. there's more to life than spending hours getting that perfect instagram photo

Even from the highway, you can see how pretty and cool monument valley is. The scenic drive took us a little under two hours and we did get out at most stops. We were there in mid-April, so it’s definitely not summer time crowds, but it was still pretty busy. The weather changed super quickly. It was raining when we drove in, then it got super windy and seemed like a sand storm, then it cleared up with sun and blue skies. It was a very cool experience, but the animal neglect was put in the spotlight. We saw around half a dozen dogs wandering around the valley. The dogs look exhausted, underfed, matted, and overall neglected. It was quite upsetting to see, and after looking into it, we learned that nothing could be done to help the animals because they live on the reservation. That left us with a sour taste leaving monument valley.

Travis was a wonderful guide. The canyon was breath taking. Guide's personal family stories enhanced the trip. Would do it again.

We made Monument Valley a destination when we were planning a trip from Tucson to Keystone, CO. We arrived later on a weekday afternoon towards the end of August and were able to enter the park with just a small delay at the entrance. By late afternoon, there was less of a crowd. We paid $8 person to drive into the park. Remember that the park is on tribal land and may follow a different time zone than where you are traveling from, so stay aware of that if you are arriving late in the day since the entrance hours are restricted. We mainly followed the scenic road through the park which has plenty of opportunities to park and take photos or do a hike. Unlike some national parks, the internal park road is not paved. It was very rough and can be a bit jarring to drive on. Make sure your shocks are in good order. The park is filled with many remarkable land formations -- some very familiar and others less familiar but just as spectacular. There are often identifying signs and additional information at some of the sites. The park has an extensive gift shop with restaurant. You can get tours once in the park but check ahead about hours and need for reservations. This park is very close to The Arches and Canyonlands National parks.

This 73-year-old photographer came to Monument Valley enjoy her craft. Information in the cabin said the road would be open until 8pm.

Before 5pm, I was HONKED AT AND SCREAMED AT by someone who assumed that I should know that they were closing at 2:30pm. WHO ON EARTH CLOSES A PARK THAT MAKES THEM A FORTUNE AT 2:30PM, especially when their own documentation states otherwise?

They want to FORCE people to sit on tour buses. Not my style. Buh, bye.

The scenic 17 mile drive is well worth your time. The description is accurate, the road is rough and a low clearance car will have a hard time. If you don't have all wheel drive I would recommend taking a tour. We went early in the morning (7 am) when the park opened and we had the place almost all to ourselves. It was magical! The whole drive took about 90 min and we stopped several times to enjoy the view and take some photos. Sunrise over the viewpoint is also well worth it!

Flew from Europe and drove 6 hours to arrive at park entrance to be informed park was closed for 2 days (17 and 18 Feb 2023) due to an event. No info about the closure was posted on their official website or any closure info posted on any of the roads en route to the park. Disappointed and disgusted at the way this amazing national park is managed by incompetents.

Truly the highlight of our Utah parks trip, Monument Valley, located in Arizona is breathtakingly beautiful. We took a 2.5 hour guided tour with a reputable company and our Native guide gave us a fascinating history of the Navajo Nation in relation to Monument Valley and the stories behind each monument. And don't miss Forest Gump Hill where you'll see amazing views, but avoid the crowds and go early.

We had tried the Jeep tour, too bad that when we got there, it was too windy and they canceled the tour since the Jeeps were open. So we decide to do the tour alone, with our hyundai Venue... it went great! Apart from the initial stretch, a bit slippery, the roads are easy to follow and being autonomous we could do the lap we wanted and stop as much as we wanted. What about the Monument Valley is just like in the Jhon Wayne movies... absurd it felt like being on a movie set!

Our nation has some great natural beauty venues and Monument Valley is one of the best. The eroded sandstone monuments are unique and awe-inspiring examples of how nature performs it magic. Added to the enjoyment of the landscape is the appreciation we have for the Dineh people. Not only are they personable and friendly guests, but their willingness to help others understand the Dineh culture in as much detail as we are willing to ask is also unique. Their cultural stories that are passed from generation to generation is an education for we "immigrants." This park is not a one-and-done event. Each trip has something new to see and learn.

Wonderful Experience. We took a private tour, Monument Valley Tribal Tours, it was great. Our guide, Bruce, was a native American who sung a Navajo song in it's native language. He was very knowledgeable and took great photos. Highly recommended.

The views were amazing as other reviewers have noted. My negative review is because the road was TERRIBLE. We have a low-clearance RV and hit bottom several times. It appears they may not maintain the road to promote the use of their guides and vehicles. BY ALL MEANS - go, just be cautious of you have clearance issues.

My wife and I tried visiting the tribal park a couple of years ago, but the weather turned nasty on us. As it turned out, maybe it wasn't that great of a loss. Maybe? If the road was anything then like it was today, then the weather actually saved us. The tribe advertises the road as a 17-mile loop. If you dig deep enough, you may find some place that tells you the speed limit is 15 mph. They may assert that their limit is there for safety reasons, but I'm here to tell you that's bunk. 15 mph is about as fast as the road permits it's so bumpy. In many place 5 mph is too fast. We only took in about 4 miles of the loop before we turned around and returned.

To some degree I'm glad we did the 4 miles in and back out, but I would never do it again. Why the tribe doesn't do more to maintain the road usable at 25 mph is beyond me. Monument Valley should be enjoyed by everyone. It's stunning. But charging $8 a piece for that disaster they call a road is ridiculous.

The Monument Valley is one of those spots on a dream itinerary. Already from its entrance you can perceive the immensity of the spaces that represent it. Whether it's a jeep tour with the Navajos or on your own with your car, I highly recommend taking a full day to explore every corner of it in every perspective. A full day on its bumpy roads will put even the most experienced driver to the test. But it's really worth it. Don't forget to stop by "Forrest Gump Point" for movie lovers. Eat at one of the restaurants and remember that a souvenir is a must. You won't regret it!

This classic is something not to be missed when visiting the great West of the United States. Breathtaking views, easily accessible by car or with organized tours, all really beautiful. I must say that in itself the park (which is not part of the system of American national parks) is not very organized (it is not very clear where the visitor center is and where you can get information, we could not get a map of the routes by car, which are well signposted anyway) and unfortunately a bit 'too touristy (but it fits, given the beauty). However, it is, as mentioned, absolutely not to be missed. 

A place to enjoy the experience of visiting a special geological area with a lot of history. Take advantage and search for information on geology and history on Indian reserves and you will enjoy the stay much more.

This has been a bucket list location for me for many years! The trip lived up to my expectations in every way. I took a 3 1/2 hour guided tour with one of the many providers (Monument Valley Safari) which enhanced the visit due to the Navajo guide and being able to visit closed off locations! Some of those off road locations are accessible over some rough terrain but again, was well worth the bumps!

Really scenic and spectacular place, at times it seems to be in a western film with a set set set, beautiful route to do by car on your own or tour possibilities. Very honest price.

Being brought up on the Road Runner cartoons, I have always wanted to visit this amazing location and have been lucky enough to do it this October. The drive in from Kayenta, AZ just sets you up for what you are about to experience, some of the world's most awesome vistas! We stayed at Gouldings Lodge which I have reviewed separately to see the sunset over the monuments, this was a truly magical experience for my wife and I. Then following day we drove to the visitors centre which has an $8 cover charge per person, this includes the drive round the monuments which is fantastic value for money. The off road drive although very uneven in places is tremendous and well worth it, plenty amazing photo stops and a good laugh actually especially in our compact hire car! The visitors centre itself it's very overpriced so we bought our souvenirs from the Navajo stalls on the valley drive, fantastic prices and lovely to meet these graceful people who love to share a story or two and ask you about your story! Would 100% go again.

Majestic, stunning, otherworldly rock formations in their natural setting on the Navajo reservation. This park is extremely unique and begs multiple visits. Entry fee is per person. Gift shop near entrance with limited snacks. Driving loop is unpaved. Off-road vehicles recommended or take guided tour. No restroom facilities on driving loop except a few porta potties. Take bottled water. Allow about three hours for exploring and expect to take many photos!

It's impossible not to go. You will dive back into the settings of your favorite westerns. Remember to come in 4x4 so you can make the loop by car. FYI, you will have to pay $8 per person in your car to access the site. You are with the Navajo and this park does not count in the list accessible with the National Parks Pass.

This was a great experience I loved the sights and the tour guides they was awesome. I would recommend this to my friends

Breathtaking landmarks. We went there in the morning so it weren't many people here. Later on it started to be crowded . Road is not that bad you can drive regular car

The scenery is the legendary. The roadway is treacherous. Eight dollars per person to drive this 17 mile road allowed for great photo ops , but was going to be long- lasting on our car! Be careful.

We took a tour organize by get your Guide which subtracts Monument valley Tribal tours c was very good and the perfect Guide in English of course. We have discovered great places and some corners cannot be done individually. A grandiose show where we imagined John Wayne or John Ford at the time the Westerns appeared, I recommend this Attraction of course.

OH - MY - GOODNESS! That's all I can say. Just GO! It's a bucket list destination. Take the 3.5 hour Monument Valley Safari guided tour as well. We drove through ourselves and then took the tour the next day and you'll get so much more from a tour. On our tour, we got to see 3 private arches that are not open to the public. This place is simply amazing.

We did the 3 1/2 hour extended tour and our guide was Larry an amazing Navajo. He told stories he explained history and went out of his way to make our trip the most amazing thing we’ve ever experienced in this type of location. He added to the magnificent that is Monument Valley. we could not have hoped for a better guide his stories his playing of his original flute in one of the arches made the whole tour magical and emphasize the spiritual nature of this amazing place

The views were amazing and we had plenty of photo ops! The only downside for us was that we were in a minivan. It was doable but bumpy and one or two rough spots. I would recommend a higher sitting vehicle. Other than that take water with you and enjoy! There is an opportunity to take pics with horses or do a horse trail ride. Reasonably priced and is by the three sisters.

GPS is non-existent in this remote area. No signage either. Very difficult to find. Unless you have 4-wheel drive with large tires (and high undercarriage clearance), I recommend you hire the Jeep tour guides. Be warned: it’s dust, dirty, and windy! If you take the open air Jeep tour, you will be filthy. If you do the self drive, your vehicle will be filthy. The roads are somewhat improved, but very rough and uneven in several places. LOTS of potholes. Posted speed limit is 15 mph, but you’ll be lucky to get over 10 mph for most of the 17- mile loop. Very stressful drive. Still, the scenery was spectacular.

I have flown over the valley at least 30 times. It is incredible from the especially when the sun is low and the shadows long. Clearly, a bucket list site! We went far out of our way to get the valley to experience it close up.
Sadly, we arrived late in the afternoon and the reality of the poor state of the venue did not meet my expectations. There is one entry shack manned by a woman who had no clue as to what her job is--get people into the park! It took her 20 minutes to let three cars get checked in, and it is credit cards only.
When in, the signage to the valley road is poor. When on the road, we quickly found the road to be horribly maintained. It has ruts, holes, rocks and bumps that can take your car out of commission. We went 250 feet and turned around to exit. The thought of driving on this mess for two hours to see the monuments very similar to what we had seen from the road seemed insane. And, we had just driven south on 95 to see landscapes far more beautiful than anything here.
I strongly suggest that any fellow TA contributors follow the recommendations to get one of the Native American guides to take you through in their vehicles-- not yours. We had a schedule to keep, and had to be in Gallup the next day, so we missed it.
This the first time I have ever been disappointed with a bucket list site. I will be more careful in the future to follow the TA advice.

Was absolutely stunning, would recommend spending a whole day driving around. The visitors centre is pretty average but definitely worth the visit.

I have always wanted to see Monument Valley - words can’t describe the vastness and beauty of the valley. Photos don’t do it justice. A large number of films were done here and I can understand why. It is like a land that time forgot. Breathtakingly beautiful. The local American Indian population are managing this area with incredible competence- well done to them. You can also take jeep tours into the valley that puts you face to face with the monoliths.

We were delighted with this tour, better than anything we could have dreamed of! Our guide Larry was nice. We made this tour at sunset...beautiful and unforgettable!

An unforgettable experience when you immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of the rock formations.

Monument Valley is not to be missed. It is a Navajo Nation Park, not run but a State or Federal government. There is a 17 mile loop that the public can drive. Be warned that the sand is deep in some places and I would not recommend this drive without an SUV and preferably 4 wheel drive. The best way to enjoy and see the park are the Navajo led tours. We took the Sunrise Tour and the Mystery Valley tour. Led by local Navajo, you see areas that are off limit to the public without a Navajo guide. Both of our tours were fantastic. There are multiple companies that give them and they all seem to be well rated. Mornings and evenings are best. Summer midday can be brutally hot. Sunset from The View Hotel is spectacular. We had a 1/2 day, a full day and 2 nights. I feel like that was plenty and we didn’t run ourselves ragged.

Alert! There is no internet on this tour. My experience! I bought a bracelet from a a vender who told me the bracelet was $12. There are no tags on the items you are purchasing. They will not take cash. The vender used square which sends the receipt to your phone but you can’t see it until you get cell phone service!! I was charged $65. Thief! You can’t dispute it on your credit card either, because you can’t prove she said $12. So video your conversation, try to get a hand written receipt. Do what you can to prove the amount they told you. This happened at JOHN FORD POINT. Please tell everyone on your tour!!

Amazing! I have wanted to see Monument Valley ever since I watched John Ford's westerns when I was a kid. I went in with very high expectations, and MV fully delivered!

Some advice: the "road" through the valley barely qualifies as one. Extreme elevations changes, "potholes" as large as a truck, and hairpin turns means you want an AWD at least, or better yet a true off-road vehicle like a Jeep. Schedule a full 2+ hours for the drive.

The visitor center seemed a little run down, but some of the views from it are spectacular.

Beautiful trip to the canyon. Despite mass crowds very worth seeing and impressive. Nice guide who was very helpful to take good photos

It was a shame that it rained, but it was great as soon as it rained.
It was great to be able to see scenes from the movie.

It was raining so hard that I couldn't get close, but I'm glad I was able to see it anyway.
It was nice to be able to make good memories. If I get the chance next time, I want to see it again on a clear day.

Know that the entrances with your own car (most likely with the rental car) are allowed until 15, because then by 17 you must complete the tour and go out. So if you plan a trip to the USA that includes this stage you must rent a car type SUV and possibly with four-wheel drive. At the entrance kiosk to the park, where you pay the not particularly expensive ticket (if you take the tour with "your" car, otherwise the price changes) in theory they should admit only vehicles with four-wheel drive, in reality the controls did not seem particularly strict, in fact we entered with an SUV but two-wheel drive. The route must be done slowly, also given the dirt road that in some places is definitely bumpy, making all the stops suggested by the map that will give you at the entrance and enjoying, with different vantage points, these giants that seem to come out of nowhere, in a Martian scenario.

Not worth the $8/person admission. VERY bumpy drive! As the driver, I didn't really get to see many of the rock formations due to trying to navigate the narrow dusty dirt road, big ruts, sand pits and curves (probably will need new struts/shocks soon!). Really didn't think there was anything spectacular to see, as most of AZ has similar formations.

The Monument Valley is beautiful, BUT, the atrocious condition of the road was a huge deterrent. Definitely do not go with a low clearance vehicle. Our rental is a Nissan Sintra and was NOT high enough clearance for all the craters we had to drive through. This is not only a dirt road, but THE WORST CONDITION imaginable - barely even passable unless you have a Jeep. The tours aren’t a viable option because they’re open back which means you’re exposed to the sand storm blowing through. Navajo Tribal Park needs to do better. No excuse for roads this bad.

The Backcountry Tour of Monument Valley was exceptional. Not only did we see beautiful vistas but were also treated to three musical performances - guitar, flute and vocal accompanied by drum. In addition, we were given detailed insights into Navaho culture as well very knowledgeable explanations of the meanings of ancient petroglyphs. The memories of this tour will last me the rest of my life. Amazing!

Monument Valley is an amazing place. It is nothing and everything at the same time, magnificent and fascinating from every angle. The circuit to explore it closes early, be careful with that! Of the road trip that began in Los Angeles, this was the furthest point of the tour. It was so worth it to have extended it to Monument Valley. To get there from Las Vegas we did it through Zion Park and Page, and after Monument Valley we visited the Grand Canyon (entering from the East) and returned to Las Vegas via Route 66. An unmissable circle.

Loved this! We had a mustang convertible so driving the roads was a bit wonky at times and we were afraid of ruining our car. But it ended up being fine. We enjoyed the stops along the way and getting to see the monuments from far and close. There was a cool overlook that we stopped at as well and this was a nice stop

Beautiful scenery but difficult touring road. Views from Tribal Center are special.

Loop driving tour of valley is on a rocky, gravel road which is hard on your car and back. It was not enjoyable. Suggest you avoid this loop whether in your car or on a tour unless you can tolerate many large bumps. Settle for the views.

Accommodations at Goulding’s were very nice. There are grocery and restaurants and gas station there.

Great place to visit. Majestic vies. Do the drive loop because it's amazing. A little on the demanding side for the car since it's not paved, but worth the wile. Personnel at the gate could have been a little bit more polite and the portable toilets are a disgrace, both to see and use. Pit toilets could be built like you have in National Parks and they will be better in every way.

Duffy was the best guide who taught us all so much about this beautiful place and the great history. Thank you for an incredible day!!

Wow! Beautiful area. Drove through here while in the area and definitely worth the drive! Such beautiful scenery and several photo ops!

A highlight! We stopped on the 163. The rock formations are breathtakingly beautiful and the valley is so vast..... A Diné drove us two girls for almost three hours along the dusty roads, showing us some tourist attractions. Then he turned off and showed us the world of his people - arches, caves, petroglyphs and stones formed by wind, weather and time. Flute music wafted over from a grotto, a shaman stood there and played old melodies. The old Diné told stories of his people and repeatedly pointed out particularly impressive formations. He enjoyed telling us the stories. We were really in awe. The remains of a mountain range that was formed millions of years ago command our respect, awe and reverence. The Diné people preserve the legacy of their fathers and helped the USA in WWII as Navajo Code Talkers with their unique language that no one else in the world spoke. We will be back.

My 4th visit. Please take a local Navajo guide with you. They are all different bringing different perspectives to the experience but do support them it’s important.
A great guide with a dry sense of humour and good historical knowledge. We had a great time and extended by 30 minutes. Worthwhile

We took the horse back ride into Monument Valley and our guide was Deion. We really enjoyed the experience and Deion did a great job leading us and sharing his native culture and beliefs. The horses were better than we expected and the experience was first rate.

How fun it was to see this famous view that I have seen so often in pop culture. Be careful driving though, because people are all over the road getting pictures. You feel so small, but so alive! Definitely drive through here, but be sure to make a reservation!

We took the Sunset tour with Dineh Bekeyah Tours. Our guide, Herb, was outstanding and had an extensive amount of knowledge of the area and the valley. He was Navajo, native to the area, and told very interesting stories passed down to him from his parents and grand parents who also lived in the area all of their lives. The afternoon was very windy and fortunately our tour company utilizes standard passenger vans rather than the open sided vehicles many of the other companies use. The wind kicked up a lot of dust and it would have been very unpleasant in an open vehicle. While you can self-drive some of the valley I would strongly recommend taking a native tour as they are allowed into many interesting areas that you cannot access on your own.

We did the self drive which I would only recommend to do if you have a truck or equivalent. The road was so uneven and bumpy. Had we known how bad the road/track was, we would have probably done a tour and saved the suspension in our vehicle (Ford expedition)
The scenery is absolutely stunning. The viewpoints can get quite crowded as can the little native cafe which serves native food.
There is a man with a horse at the John Ford point. To take a photo of him costs $5, to sit on the horse for a photo costs $5 and to sit on the horse for a photo at the point costs $10. There are a lot of signs saying 'no photos' (unless you pay/tip) which makes the experience quite sad as they're obviously out to get as much money as possible.
There is a nice gift shop but very expensive. I bought a mug and fridge magnet for $28.
Well worth the visit though and, despite the roads and costs, highly recommended.

Went twice, once in summer and once in winter. On both occasions I was moved. For me this place is magical! You can ride in an hour with the car or you can also choose the tour with the open buses that you find on the site but it is clear that there is so much dust that you have to take it into account. With the car even if you do not have an SUV and 'absolutely feasible just proceed slowly and avoid the stones. You pay the entrance and you have to look at the timetable because especially in winter it closes early. Many do not know that the most beautiful photograph is taken at the forrest gump point about 15 km east of the site. Don't miss it because it's a wonderful spot

Magical place! We enjoyed our trip through the sacred Monument Valley in August. We booked with Dineh Bekeya Tours and we were so lucky to have CJ as our guide. What a wonderful experience - we learned so much and saw the amazing beauty of this area. Having a Navajo guide that knew the history and nature of the area made it special.

Our original plans were to visit in afternoon after travelling from Zion NP that morning. When we arrived, everything was a blur from sand blowing in 40 MPH winds, so we decided to try another day. When we did visit, Monument Valley lives up to the hype. You see the light playing off the huge buttes as you drive towards it from the north and you know you are somewhere special. Its no wonder its an inspirational and sacred place. We decided not to do the drive watching cars bumping along below. Im sure it would have been fun, but we were happy to walk along the rim and enjoy the views from the observation points in the visitor center. The visitor center also had a very interesting display about the Navajo Code Talkers and clean restrooms. I think to best enjoy Monument Valley you should get a room in the View Hotel. Its right overlooking the valley, it has a lot of connections to the John Wayne and John Ford movies, and most importantly, it must be absolutely magical to sit on your deck and watch the light in the valley during sunrise and sunset, or to enjoy more stars than ever in the dark skies at night.

The park itself was stunning! We towed a Jeep so drove the loop ourselves . So glad we went out of our way to visit and see natures awesomeness . We stayed at Gouldings Rv campground - overpriced for what it is ….

We went to monument valley and was charged $48 ($8 each ) to enter to go into a gift shop to see $200 handmade crap dolls and the people there were very unenthusiastic towards the customers !
It also included a dusty drive 17 mile loop with scenery you can see from the road for free ! We went to Forrest Gump highway point and that was a good view! ( again free )
The rocks warranted a Hhmmmm response from my 4 kids !
Go to zion and Bryce Canyon as they are good !

Is it really worth visiting?
The answer is yes, but beware there are certain details to keep in mind.

Admission is $8 per person, you go through a cabin with the car (there is no barrier and when we went on November 22, 2024 we saw a car passing through the next door being that there was no one and did not pay, we do not know if it was staying at The View hotel).
This park is NOT included within the annual National Park Pass.

First tip: DO NOT buy anything inside unless it is necessary as the prices are high, we order two cappuccinos for 14 dollars, so go well stocked.

Regarding the vehicle we used a Nissan Altima, sedan type and quite low, and we had no problem whatsoever. The road is somewhat wrong at its beginning and in a small intermediate section but going slowly and carefully it becomes enjoyable (so do not be alarmed), fully accessible without being 4x4 so unless it rained the previous days or is snowy (it would form quite mud), I would save a money in 4x4 cars and especially tours of the Navajos.

We did the tour in about 2 hours and 20 minutes standing quietly at the designated points and taking photos, the truth that is left over since in the end it does something repetitive unless you get a different perspective and you really like photography / nature, but it is a place of must visit, do not miss it.

We did a sunset tour and it was one of the most amazing places on earth. We felt we were in another planet. The tour guide was amazing and it helped that it was just us on the tour.

Very nice valley with interesting rock formations. You drive four-wheel trucks into the valley at 3 to 4 stopping points.

In total, it takes between 2.0 and 2.5 hours.

This is one of the best views I’ve ever seen. It’s kinda out there away from everything and that makes it a better place. Not like you can’t get a drink of water or gas and lunch but like… NO TRAFFIC … few places to pull off the road for a quick selfie but one of the most amazing geophysical places I’ve been!

An overrwhelming experience. The park is absolutely worth the visit. I caution, though, if you take the drive through the park without a high clearance vehicle and 4WD, you are doing so at your own risk. We have a 4WD truck and even we cringed at the condition of the road. The descent into the canyon is steep and rough. The road is very bumpy and rutted in areas. The cost is $8 a person. Tours start at $79.

We were so disappointed when we learned that we couldn't tour Monument Valley with our passenger car BUT it turned out that it was so much better to have a Navajo guide. Bobby Atene, with Monument Valley Safari, gave us so much more than we ever would have experienced on our own. We were able to see special sites, hear the history, learn more about Navajo culture and even experience him playing his flute while the sound echoed through the valley. It was truly a memorable experience. Thank you Bobby!

I have always wanted to see Monument Valley and I finally got there! The views were stunning and I enjoyed every minute. We stayed one night and I was able to see a gorgeous sunrise and sunset. Highly recommend!

I had expected to only be able to view it from afar,
but I didn't know that you could get in a car and go down to the bottom of the valley and explore.

It was an unpaved, rogue road, but it was open air,
so even someone like me who gets carsick easily was fine
and was able to enjoy the scenery on the way there and back.

After taking a break at John Ford Point on the way, we went around one place and then headed back.

Beautiful scenery, guide at the top, his name is Harry and it was with dineh bekeyah tours. Booked on getieyourguide, very easy

Very interesting rock formations. Driving trail is very rough and could damage a car without 4-wheel drive. Two really interesting and informative museums. Nice gift shop with many Indian crafts but limited food/drink availability. The staff is very reservd, not very friendly.

The whole place was just absolutely stunning. We got there just in time to watch the sunset from our cabin. We also got up BEFORE the crack of dawn to watch the sunrise, and WOW. It was absolutely stunning. We did the loop and it was really cool. Sat on the horse, Spirit at John Ford’s Point. Everything was just beautiful.

After visiting lower antelope Canyon, on the 8 AM tour, we took the 2 Hour Dr. out to Monument Valley. We did the self guided Park Loop tour, which was interesting but if I had to do it over again, I would probably go on one of the guided tours. Still the landscape is magnificent and is such an iconic view of the southwest. Note that Forrest Gump point is not in the park and it’s about 12 miles north of the park. With a 2 Hour Dr. back to Page. We opted not to do it. Be advised that the view restaurant is not open for lunch so we had a quick lunch in Kayenta before entering the park.

We have been to Monument Valley several times, this time for the first time with children. In the past, you only had to pay if you wanted to do the scenic drive, but now you have to pay $8 per person if you just want to go to the viewing point! We also paid $7 each for cheap coffee with powdered milk in the hotel. In our opinion, the entrance fee is only worth it if you want to do the scenic drive, otherwise you can see the monoliths quite well a little further west without driving into the park.

Great experience. Many thanks to Larry. Something really amazing. I would suggest this tour to everyone

Beautiful scenery and you have the feeling your are in a western movie.
We traveled with 2 kids (1y and 4y old) and 2 adults. We made a roadtrip and of course Monument Valley was on it. I advise you go inside the park by car, we did a small stop at the parking and went to the gift shop/view spot. We took some pictures and ate our picnic while enjoying the view.

Then we took the car to drive in the park on our own. Personally I would advise this because it is off road and just really fun, also you may not drive fast at all so everybody is just cruising and enjoying the scenery.

Will Cowboy was awesome!! I learned so much about the DINE and the geology and spiritual significance of Monument Valley.

Amazing! Some of the best views of monuments. Fantastic. We did not take the tours available to drive into Monument Valley. Some hiking. Don't miss stopping on Forest Gump Point to take pictures.

The first time we visited Monument Valley (staying at The View Hotel), we took a Navajo guided tour of the monuments, which was great. This time, we drove our own car, around the designated trail (TRIBAL PARK LOOP) without having to pay a cent. Obviously, you don’t get the informative commentary of a local, but I think most tourists remember none of what we’re told anyway. The self Drive still takes in all the main highlights, and at the end of the day, it’s the scenery that most of us are there for.
The track is a little rough in spots, but a regular sedan is capable of completing the trip. Just take it slow, avoid the soft sand, and you’ll be fine. A 4WD is not required. We completed the round trip in under 2 hours, so I’d recommend starting the loop by 2pm , to avoid any stress.

This Valley is a place everyone should visit once or twice in their lifetime. The Navajo have taken great care of this land while also treating all visitors with such kindness. The Premium Valley View cabins are the best way to take in the park, views and solitude while having a little comfort.

This was definitely worth the stop. Make sure you hire a guide (ask for Duffy at Monument Valley Safari) to get the full experience.

We've only ever driven by once and so glad we finally stayed three nights to fully experience Monument Valley (amazing panoramic views, excellent night sky, low crowds at the end of their season, two great hikes from The View Hotel, and an excellent guided tour of the park.

I have always seen this park on westerns but wanted to visit for a while. It is a definite jewel of our country. The buttes and scenery is just amazing. I could not stop looking. We stayed in the cabins right on the rim and saw sunset and sunrise. It was an amazing experience,

These majestic and gorgeous rock formations are well worth trekking here to see. You have the option of driving the tour route in your own vehicle or paying to be driven around by a guide in their vehicle. We opted to drive our rental car, which was very nearly a massive mistake -- the road is truly terrible, with massive potholes and sand dunes, it was scarcely safe for a normal car.

To inaugurate the first visit of the Monument we opted for a horseback ride with the Navajo, although not knowing how to ride it was an exceptional experience, we fell into a western movie or a comic by Tex Willer, once finished "the ride". We made the rounds of the whole ring in the car stopping at the most panoramic wiew.Veramente a beautiful experience to recommend

Visited the week before Thanksgiving (Tuesday) and did the self driving tour. I only had about 4 hours since I drove up from Flagstaff in the morning. I had a pre-paid ticket ($8.00 plus $1.00 admin fee) so I entered the park and started the tour. The scenery was stunning and I repeatedly pulled over during the 17 mile course and took photos while admiring the great views.

I had read other posts about the poor road conditions, so I had rented an SUV and I was glad I did. The road was in terrible condition as I constantly had to slow up for potholes, dips in the road, rocky areas and deep ruts. In fact, an SUV in front of me (Nissan Armada) actually hit the bottom of his vehicle on a deep rut as he pulled out from a scenic pullover. I do not recommend taking the self driving tour with a lower sitting sedan as you will risk causing damage to the underneath of your vehicle. If you do drive a sedan, you may want to consider taking one of the several jeep tours offered by the Navajo. The posted speed limit was 15 mph, but there were many times I had to drive slower than that. The road is also very dusty which resulted in a heavy coat of dust on my vehicle at the end of my visit.

I saw at least 2-3 portable toilets at the scenic pullover sections for those needing a bathroom break. I also brought my own water and snacks which saved time from going to the visitor's center. The entire tour lasted just under 3 hours which included taking a lot of stops to admire the scenery and take photos. It wasn't crowded and I didn't have to wait to get it, but I'm sure it does get more crowded during holiday weeks and weekends so plan accordingly.

If you go, have fun and enjoy the stunning views as it was a thrill to finally see this famous icon of the southwest.

To all those interested in this trip to the heart of westerns, here is my opinion it is personal.
If you plan to visit Monument Valley go ahead, the scenery is superb, you see the main monuments from the road, with a simple smartphone you will be close enough to make great photos, if you want you can enter the park for the modest fee of $8 per person and use your own car to ride off-piste see the rocks up close. On the other hand, going around with a guide in their vehicle is not worth it, they have the possibility to use other paths that bring you close to the rocks but too close to take pictures all this for 80$ per person, I find it a little useless, more be careful with the jewelry you buy, my friend bought a very nice ring with a turquoise, it became dessert and under the stone there was sawdust, it is what I call a good scam.

Beautiful views everywhere but road is very steep and rutted going down into the valley and coming back out. Not recommended for low to the ground sedans. Road is a one way loop. We were in a FWD SUV that had plenty of ground clearance. Take refreshments as there are no facilities after you enter the valley.

Needless to say, this site is magnificent and deserves to be seen. That's not the question.
Where it is: is it really honest on the part of the Navajos to ensure that they cannot use the discovery trail other than by their means...??
Everyone knows, this track must be done using an SUV or 4x4 to be safe, otherwise you can do it with a normal car in good weather and if you take your time. Only here: arrived at a certain place, it's over! And even an SUV or even a 4x4 no longer passes...
I don't mind taking the trail through the old, battered and high Navajo 4x4s for the sum of 60 to 70 dollars... but in this case, prohibit the passage of tourist vehicles!!

a truly unique experience...viewing these mysterious monuments up close and learning about the Navajo culture is quite an adventure...the best way to truly experience this wonderful place is to hire a Navajo guide and go on a backcountry tour...and make sure one has a good camera to document the experience...highly recommended place to visit

Guidare dentro la Monument Valley è come entrare in un film. Quei monoliti rossi, il silenzio intorno, l’orizzonte infinito… è un’esperienza che ti resta dentro. Non c'è niente di artificiale, solo natura pura e maestosa. Il tramonto qui è pura poesia.

The vast West you’ve always dreamed of
Driving through Monument Valley feels like stepping into a movie. Those red monoliths, the surrounding silence, the endless horizon... it’s an experience that stays with you. Nothing feels staged — just raw, majestic nature. Sunset here? Pure poetry.

Spectacular place. Experience absolutely to live, at one point of the tour there is the opportunity to take a photo with the horse "Spirit", beautiful.

Even though we had a four-wheel-drive SUV, we decided not to drive through the park. It had snowed within the past week, and we were concerned about the road conditions inside the park, since it is a dirt road with variable driveability. We’re still not certain driving in this park would void our car rental agreement, so we didn’t want to take the chance. And we didn’t want to take an open air Navajo tour. Getting dirt in our faces in 40°F weather was just not an option! So, I’m happy to report that there is plenty to see just driving up Rt. 163 which bisects the park.

We drove up from Flagstaff, about a 3 hour drive (without stops). It is a very remote park, coming in from nearly any direction. That’s probably why there was very little traffic. Make sure you plan your pit stops at some of the local towns because you are driving in the middle of nowhere. The early morning sunny views just lit up the impressive scenery. In addition to these dramatic views we also took pictures at famous Forrest Gump Point near mile marker 13. You know you are getting close since the speed will decrease from 65 to 45, with pullouts on either side of the road. There are only scenic view signs, now, no official Forrest Gump sign. We think they removed it since too many people would gather here and stand in the road creating a safety hazard. That’s too bad.

We drove up past Mexican Hat and up to Goosenecks State Park. Mexican Hat was no big deal, but Goosenecks was more spectacular than Horseshoe Bend and easier to walk to. On the way back we stopped at Moenave Dinosaur Tracks and Cameron’s Trading Post. The scenery the entire way was gorgeous, and we thoroughly enjoyed our road trip. FYI, be careful as you get near any towns and mind the speed limits. We saw many cars stopped by the local police along the way. Enjoy!

You can see why this is area is sacred to the Navajo. It is otherworldly and magical. The photos, however excellent they can be, do not compare with seeing this landscape in person.

Over from the UK on a road trip, we arrived after a 5 hour drive to be told last entry is 1500 MT / 1400 PT and we should come back tomorrow. Not an option for us. They hadn't bothered to update the Google maps opening hours to reflect this so many others were also being turned away

Beautiful views, well worth the time. Very peaceful space. We arrived early so as to catch the sunrise, but happened to pick a cloudy day. Even without the sunrise, driving the loop was amazing and something I will never forget. I’d highly recommend. We also suggest renting an SUV/vehicle with a higher ground clearance as some parts of the road are bumpy.

Came here with my family for a short trip to see the Buttes. It was a great experience. We didn’t join the tour but drove the loop ourselves. The trail is unpaved and so it’s easier with a higher clearance vehicle. Although, the rough road didn’t stop sedans from going. It snowed during our visit and so the trail also got muddy. But I like offroading and so I had so much fun. The view was very nice. Great spots for picture taking and/or photography. When doing the loop drive, visitors are not permitted to hike around. The Navajo tribe are strict about their rules. We completed the loop in about 1.5 hrs.

I messed up seeing monument valley after coming from the Mighty 5 of Utah. It needs to be seen 1st to be enjoyed. I'm sorry it just isn't as good as those are. I did appreciate the viewpoint by Forrest Gump.

This trip through Monument Valley is amazing and the hosts, Navajo Nation, were, in general, helpful and engaged. To enter the park, you must have a permit that can be purchased online prior to your trip or on site as you enter the park. We did the former and made an error on the date. We purchased a permit for the day we planned to tour the park rather than the day we entered the park (which was the day before). Therefore, we had to purchase another permit--that's one permit for each person, not each vehicle. So, be certain you're purchasing for the day you enter or just wait until you get there. There was a long line of cars, but you have to wait in that line anyway. Also, the only person we met in the Tribal Park who was not helpful was the gate keeper. She was terse in her dealings about the permit date and kept our credit card for the second permit purchase. When we went back to get the card, she didn't say a word, just thrust the card through the window. A most unpleasant encounter.

We opted to tour the park using Monument Valley Navajo Tours and they did a superb job. We heartily recommend them.

We looked forward to Monumental Valley for a long time, it didn’t disappoint. Navajo Nation had everything well run, clean.

You are visiting Navajo Tribal land. There is a park entrance fee, the National Parks pass is not valid for Monument Valley. Cash is not accepted, only credit card. Entry in May was $8 per person.

The drive is 15 miles / 24 km and they suggest allowing 1.5 to 2 hours to drive the loop. The loop is an unpaved dirt road and can be bumpy at times.

There is plenty of places to pull over to enjoy the views, however, during the busier periods, I am sure there won't many vacant spaces.

We entered the scenic drive early, there was a greeter at the start of the loop, who was really friendly. We went early to avoid lots of cars and although we did see other cars along the way, we felt like we had the place to ourselves. It was magic.

The site is exceptional... we were able to take fabulous photos... but we stayed hungry compared to the price of the excursion per person... it is exaggerated..... we visited the museum, and the gift shop... excessive prices too... but this visit is not to be missed....

This place is a crazy beautiful place to visit. The views are lovely at sunrise, sunset and most anytime in between. Some of the roads are pretty rough but a car can make it if it has decent clearance.

The views are spectacular even from the highway, but we went for the 3.5 hour backcountry tour with Dineh Bekeyah tours. It included the 17 mile tour you can take in your own car, but it adds a large area that you must be in a tour to access. We were able to see many additional sites and visit a hogan and talk to a Navajo woman who was spinning wool and weaving. The Hogans are very interesting homes that they have been building for centuries and many Navajo still live in them. Our tour guide, Elvis, was excellent and gave us a lot of color and history that we would have missed if we drove our own vehicle.

You can't describe the wonders and magnificent landscape of Monument Valley. You have to see it to believe it. Color photographs and even John Ford's seven Western movies that were filmed on the famous backdrop--from Stagecoach in 1939 to She Wore A Yellow Ribbon in 1949 to The Searchers in 1956 to Cheyenne Autumn in 1964--don't do it justice. My wife and I have visited Monument Valley on four occasions and we've never ceased to be awed by it beauty and majesty. We have viewed the Grand Canyon from the South Rim and the North Rim and it is as magnificent as advertised. But we always want to go back to Monument Valley. Located on U.S. Route 163 on the Utah/Arizona border, within the territory of the Navajo Nation Reservation, near the Four Corners area, it is a five-square-mile region of the Colorado Plateau characterized by a cluster of sandstone buttes, the largest reaching 1,000 feet above the valley floor. It can be experienced by taking a guided tour, hiring a private Navajo guide or driving the rough 17-mile dirt road that begins at the visitor center and swings through the park. No hiking or driving off the posted track is allowed. The road passes many notable features, including the West and East Mitten Buttes, Three Sisters, the 500-foot-tall Totem Pole, Merrick Butte, Hunts Mesa, Eye of the Sun, North Window, Elephant Butte, John Ford's Point, Camel Butte and The Thumb. The Navajo Tribe was the first group of people to settle in Monument Valley but it didn't become one of the most iconic images of the American West and a popular tourist attraction until Harry Goulding opened a trading post in the valley in the 1920s and went to Hollywood to promote the landscape to the motion picture industry. Since John Wayne starred in Stagecoach in 1939, Monument Valley has become the setting for numerous motion pictures and countless commercials, music videos and other productions. For years, Goulding's Lodge was the only overnight accommodation in the valley. But the Navajo Nation opened the View Hotel in 2008. Since then, there have been several improvements, including a visitor center and Navajo Market, a hub for local handicraft. Yes, Monument Valley has changed a bit over the years. But I'm sure John Ford and John Wayne would still recognize the place.

For fans of westerns but not only...
This site is simply magnificent. Probably one of my favorites... 🤩
The ideal is to visit it at sunrise.
Allow $8 per person for entry.

I think everything has already been said about Monument Valley, an incredible place of breathtaking beauty, we have seen it in classic western films and cult films like Forrest Gump, we dreamed it imagining what it could be like to see the majestic butte live, the Navajo reserve should be on every traveler’s wish list. There are various ways to visit it, we did it with our car, a midsize SUV and we had no problems. At the entrance you pay 8 usd per person, the map is provided with highlighted the ring tour viable independently. The best is to wait for sunset and see the sunrise, staying in the only structure within the reserve. In any case, the Monument is a must-see during a trip to the US Southwest.

We arrived at our Monument Valley accommodation in the Navajo Tribal Park in the dark and had no idea what was awaiting us in the morning. From our bedroom window of the View Hotel we had a magnificent view of the park bathed in sunrise. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Monument Valley which was stark, unusual and fascinating. We did the 6km Wildcat walk which was well sign posted with seats along the way and well worth doing. We then drove the Monument Valley loop stopping off along the way to look at the amazing landscape.

The Wild West like in the movies. A site of breathtaking beauty. The souvenir store offers a wide choice of products and an exceptional view of the park. Simply unmissable.

Really easy to do. Well sign posted and you can get a map of the internet of each monument (the one they give at the gate has been photocopied into oblivion).

There is an entry fee, seperate to all the other parks, but not too hefty.

Around the loop drive are dotted Navajo people selling jewellery etc or you can get bottle water etc for about $2. They aren’t pushy at all and it’s worth a look.

You’ll need a car with good road clearance as the track is quite rutted.

One piece of advice if you do decide to jump on an organised tour, avoid Sacret Monument Tour like you’d avoid plague. Heap of sh!t vehicle and the woman running the tour is a dragon.

If you’re staying, Goulding’s Lodge across the road is good. The photos I’ve included were taken from their balcony.

Be aware the whole area is tribal so you can’t buy alcohol, but we still managed to BYO beer or two to enjoy on our balcony.

We enjoyed every second of our visit to this place. The car tour is very nice and definitely worth doing.

Was well organised. We had purchased entrance tickets online in advance, but that was really unnecessary and 1 dollar more expensive than at the entrance. Staff in the entrance house were very unfriendly.

A walk on the Indian trail with extraordinary landscapes. Pay 8 euros per person to immerse yourself in a western

We had the privilege of visiting the vastness of Monument Valley in a 4x4 with a guide Navajo Jimmy. He has made us discover the enormous rock formations. We even enjoyed a typical Navajo meal. It was beautiful and very nice thanks to Jimmy's kindness.

If you're a fan of Westerns this is a must-see :)

I CANNOT stress enough how important it is to follow recommendations that you have a high clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicle on the self-driving tour, the dirt road is VERY rough and we saw many small cars struggling. If you don't have one or can't rent one just go on the guided tour, but bring a bandana and sunglasses to protect against blowing dust.

This is one of those bucket list things that you need to do at least once. It is one of God's wonders. The lighting, wind and weather are constantly changing making for a totally new look of the same view. We stayed two nights did a hike one day and a very enjoyable Jeep/Truck tour the second. (separate review of tour company & person).The View Hotel and cabins which are within the park, I also reviewed separately.
I read a number of reviews that highlighted the poor attitude of park booth employees. I met a few other employees that were not very welcoming. Given that tourism is the entire economy on the reservation, I think that the Navajo Nation needs a cabinet level Tourism position to impress upon employees the importance of tourism to the nation. Still this is something you have to do!

It was an amazing experience thanks to our Navajo guide Tesla. She told great stories about the Navojo people and made very nice pictures.

"The most beautiful place on earth"
Edward Abbey
Climbed in Moab and Indian Creek.
Saw the huge sandstone arches!
Just magical and gorgeous landscape.
Text me if you want more info on visiting the spot as a climber...

This is such a beautiful park to visit! The iconic rock formations are amazing to see up close. The entrance fee is very reasonable, and we did not have to wait to get into the park (we visited on a weekday). The staff was pleasant and the buildings were clean.

As many other reviews state, the park drive is quite an adventure! We were in a newer Nissan Armada, and the entrance attendant said we would be fine with our ground clearance even though we did not have 4x4 or AWD. So, we decided to go for it. My husband is an experienced driver, and he had a blast with the "off-road" experience and the Armada handled it with ease. It is not a drive for the inexperienced or the faint of heart! . I would NOT recommend a sedan, sports car, or other low-clearance vehicle. It most likely will experience some damage from bottoming out, and might not make it back up the hills to the visitor center.

I would definitely recommend visiting Monument Valley (we liked it better than Arches National Park!).

The roads in Monument Valley are horrible! Instead of being able to enjoy the views...we were busy trying to navigate the potholes. The guide given was worthless since signs are not posted near many of the monuments.

There is a section of the park that is designated as a one way because the road is very narrow. Apparently, the residents are not aware of the signage since we encountered a red pickup truck speeding around the corner that was going in the wrong direction.

Enjoy the views from the visitor's center...

This was our third time at Monument Valley, and probably the last, unless the roads through the park get fixed.
As before, of course the scenery is stunning, but the state of the roads make it difficult to truly appreciate the surroundings. There were large bumps, lumps, gravel, soft sand everywhere. We had a BMW X5 and despite it being very comfortable, we all had bad backs at the end. We assumed that in the past 2-3 years, there had been lots of rain, hence the state of the roads. We saw a few (less than usual) open vehicles, I can assure you people were hanging on to dear life and had put scarves over their faces due to the dust. We felt truly sorry for the,.
We hope that the Navajo nation will fix their roads to make it a more enjoyable experience.

I'm really on the fence on writing this as I've been through Navajo Nation many times and love the area. It's worth spending time and money in this xommi but....I don't think it's worth one's time or money to enter the tribal park unless you're planning a tour (i can't speak to that as we drove ourselves).

Entry to the park is $8.00 per person, affordable enough but we didn't even get a map as they were out. The road is dirt and very rough in places but passable even for regular cars (we were driving an SUV). There are barely any signs as you drive so it's possible to get disoriented and go the wrong way. There's signs with names of various valleys and rocks but no explanation of anything, I normally get bored of reading plaques but it would have been nice to have some context! Honestly, the road is so rough that it's hard to really enjoy what you're seeing and I found the views up close in the park weren't as awing as those seen from afar for free.

My suggestion: save the money and time and stop at either the Tribal market just outside the park and/or at a casual jewellery market just South (Arizona side) on Hwy 173. We did this and got to spend a lot of time buying reasonable jewelry and taking to Navajo artists. There's also many casual food vendors around and I loved my fry bread and blue Mush (corn meal mixed with sage I believe).

The views from Hwy 173 are spectacular and there are lots of pull outs. If you're looking to hike know that there's only one trail in the park that we could see. It's definitely a driving park.

This was a bucket list place. It far exceed my expectations. The natural beauty blew my sister and myself away. If you can possibly drive your vehicle down into the valley that's the best way. You can take your time to just...enjoy the awe and air of it all. Words can't really explain the feelings you have when you go down to see what is there. I ask some natives of the area if the view ever gets old and they all said NO! I can understand that lol.

I purchased the entrance to the park for the self-guided tour of the Navajo Trail.
It was a beautiful day.
Arriving at the park we discover that, for no apparent reason, the path in the park is closed. The only information was written on paper stuck to the windows of the restaurant. The two supposed Tourist Points were closed. At that point we decide to continue to the next destination. Back home I send two emails requesting a refund of the ticket. Never got a response. I'm very sorry, because an answer with a justification would have been appreciated. It's not for the $17.12, but it's for transparency and honesty.

It was our 2d time there but 1st time with a SUV so we decided to drive in the valley. The beginning of the tour is quite rough on the car and our backs, but it's easier afterwards. The view are very nice from down there, it's definitely a plus to drive though it rather than just looking at it from the visitor's centre. If we had to do it again, it would be later in the day to see part of it at sunset.

Admission costs $8 per person, and access was until 8pm (in August).
Inside the visitor center there is a large shop selling souvenirs typical of the area.
With the private car it is possible to do the "Scenic drive" independently but the road is very rough with several ditches and you touch often; if you have a jeep it is better but we have traveled with a "low" car being very careful and going very slowly in certain places not to touch.
Alternatively it is possible to do the tour with "shuttles" and out of curiosity we asked and cost about 1h and a half $110 the simple tour; if not the 2 hours $120.
We with the private car went around and took about 3 hours and a half very calmly and changing the weather from rain to sun in 3 hours was useful by taking the time we needed!
The entrance is given the map with the main attractions.

I have a passion for Native American Fetish necklaces The ones with the hand carved animal shaped beads. My last trip to Monument Valley I missed out on purchasing one. I bought someone line which were costly. I went back hoping to get another chance. I found a few bought four. Only one is genuine I should have looked closer. I was caught in the moment. Be careful of fake stone's and jewelry at the vendor tables set up within the valley. The people re nice but their products may be fakes. They are still pretty but not turquoise or stone (they are resin)

Wow!!! Monument is just, special. I have seen the photos but actually going , well that is a must do event.
We stayed at The View Hotel . Wonderful location on the tribal park with the most magnificent views. Make sure you get a premium view room on the second or third floor . Be warned , no lunch other than old sandwiches and snacks and restaurant is basic and quirky but it does the job.
You must get a Navajo guide we used Sacred Monument Jeep Tour. Booked at the parking lot. Our guide Roy was superb . Gentle , full of information about the area and had a very cheeky laugh. Book him, you won’t be disappointed .

The trip here was on our last day of our vacation. We had previously toured Arches and Canyonlands. The experience here is unique. The guide tour by Blackwater was great, our guide Margie was wonderful, she was very knowledgeable and helpful in pointing out all of the vistas and provided the history of the area as well as the Navajo culture.
The entirety experience was wonderful.

The views of Monument Valley from the road are impressive and remind you of many films that were shot here.

We actually wanted to drive the Scenic Drive. According to the website, they are open until 5 p.m. or sunset... when we were there, the Scenic Drive unfortunately closed at 2:30 p.m.... we couldn't find this information anywhere online beforehand. After asking at the pay station, we also learned that these times vary from day to day and depending on how we feel.

We could have driven to the visitor center (for the same price) or taken an organized tour for a lot more money. In the end, that just felt like a rip-off, so we just took a few more pictures of the free viewpoints.

It’s $8 per person to get in that’s fine you can drive the scenic route for free! If you have a 4x4 I’ve seen people say you can drive it with a 2 wheel drive we were in a hire car and not going to risk it.
The woman on the gates put the fear of god in you that they won’t tow you out if you get stuck… so ok we go and see how much a tour would be ( open mini truck with about 6/8 seats they were charging $110 dollars each! For an hour tour. I couldn’t believe how the Navajo feel this is just!
So my advise to anyone heading all that way and hiring a car get yourself a Jeep or similar! It’s FREE!

Monument Valley is gorgeous landscapes and geological rock formations on Navajo (Native American) land. Recommend doing a tour as the loop road is an uneven dirt road and tours can take you off the loop rood too see other parts of the valley. It is no wonder that many films have used Monument Valley in movie scenes….the land is just breath taking and is worth the fee to enter this tribal park.

On our first visit years ago, we just did the self drive tour ... We recently returned to to MV and decided to do a tour with 3 Sisters Tours.

It is a no brainer ... a tour is well worth the cost as you really get more than just a visual expanse of not really knowing what you are seeing.

Just the background and historical information from a tour brings it all together

This is NOT a national park and not worth the entrance fee. The person who collected our $8 per person fee said I would be fine taking my AWD Mercedes. on the partially paved scenic loop. A tourist in a sedan emerging from the loop warned us not to go because his vehicle got scratched several times. The visitor center had no one staffed at the information booth and there was nothing else to do inside the so called park except look at the same spectacular views you can see from outside.

This park's entry fee is more expensive than a National Park or Arizona State Park. We arrived one day and paid $8 per person ($24 in total for us) to get in to see the sunset on the rock formations. The fee is only waived if you are staying at their on-site The View Hotel. We couldn't because it was sold out a month in advance, when I tried to book it. Therefore we stayed at the Goulding Lodge across the highway.

The next morning we arrived at the park to meet our tour group at the front of the hotel. Just to get in for the tour they wanted another $8 per person. They ended their 24-hour passes and now charge for each day.

So if you are going to this Tribal Park, plan on only going for one day. They are going to get more money from any tour you book anyway.

An exceptional place of beauty and grandeur that we visited in 4x4 with a Navajo driver. The dinner took place at the foot of a very beautiful cliff

Well worth a visit to see the amazing landscape. We visited without long wait times or inclement weather. Early March is not the peak season. The drive along the 17-mile loop road can be challenging and extremely dusty, so be warned if you drive in your own vehicle. That being said, if you are in a rental car, please slow down and be courteous to other drivers. We value our automobiles and don’t appreciate rocks and dust!

If you love desert landscapes then this park will blow your mind! The drive in is spectacular but as you drive the loop road you realise how big and expansive the park is. The landscape provides an excellent backdrop for memorable photos. Talk to the locals Navajo tribals and buy some handmade jewellery and tokens to remember the trip. The cost of entry is a very low $8 per person … great value! The loop road is a little rough in places, but do able in a 2 wheel drive … just be mindful of the loose rocks in places and sandy surfaces. This is a BIG TICKET item,e specially for those who grew up on John Wayne westerns!

Great park with beautiful new views at every turn! This park has been on my bucket list and we were able to visit in September. We went on a tour and it was great. The sky was getting really dark and the wind was really blowing but it made for some really unique and awesome photos that way!

easy to find. there is a fee to drive thru. some of the roads are alittle bumpy. might be a little hard to get thru with a regualr car close to the ground. can be dusty. views are good. a guided map to help you drive thru. the rocks formations are colorful. you drive thru at your own pace(or they do offer guided tours.) nice bathrooms in the vistors station. have food and gifts. plenty of parking.

It was the most amazing experience of my life. If the Grand Canyon is Wonderful, Monument Valley is majestic. We also did the horse back ride, guieded for a navaja named Eric who took us to famous movie places and really near of the atonishing rock formations, what a treat it was. This Park is absolutely a must see, minimally, once in a lifetime.

You can enjoy many good views of Monument valley just passing by on HY163, but for just $8 per person you can drive the 17 mile round trip dirt roads close up. It is an uneven dirt and gravel road but an easy drive in a standard SUV, saloon car a little more care but ok. And the views are just outstanding. Just when you think you won't take another shot another stunning view pops up. With viewpoint stops and a short visitors centre look it will take two hours. Escorted open truck tours also available.

My travel partner was at Monument Valley a few years ago and it was supposed to have been completely different. I was really looking forward to it... and so that we could experience the park up close, we had booked an overnight stay in the hotel BEFORE the Scenic Drive. In the evening we paid 8 EUR so that we could watch the sunset... that was OK. But a few minutes later we were thrown out in a very unfriendly manner by an Indian woman and had to leave the car park immediately. Really hard for two photographers when you're travelling from Germany and planning extra time for Monument Valley. The next morning: exactly the same thing... We were able to do without Monument Valley. The worst thing about it was the opening times. We had no chance of seeing Monument Valley at sunrise, let alone taking photos. The access road was closed - simply on principle. We could have saved ourselves the completely overpriced overnight stay in the hotel there.

I'm writing this so that the same thing doesn't happen to you... if you're mentally prepared for it, it might not hurt so much. We were very disappointed.

Our guide Vera was excellent. We were excited to see this beautiful place and she brought all the pieces together—geologic, archeologic, historic, and spiritual—beyond our expectations.

The rustic unspoiled setting made the experience perfect. A truly amazing place. My sincere thanks to the Navajo nation for allowing me to visit their sacred land. God knows we white people do not deserve there kindness.

Where to begin? Goudling's motel is old and worn out. It needs a radical overhaul, The carpeting,in the rooms is shot,bathrooms tiny and outdated.Of course the Navajo now have a monopoly so good luck finding other accomodations. The whole place is NOT handicapped accessible.The restaurant is on top of a steep staircase,the only place to get a meal.I mad tour reservations months ago.They didn't have them. We got a four pm tour with a man who could have cared less about our experience.He also got us stuck in the sand and screwed around for an hour.He had absolutely no tools,not even a shovel on his vehicle.Then he found another tour shuttle ,to try to push us out.These were paying customers asked to push his ridiculous vehicle out of the sand.Eventually we got a ride back with the shuttle driver who tried to help us out.If I ever go again it ill be a day trip and Goulding's will not get my money.

Top!
For me one of the best on the roadtrip!
Of course the place is mythical, but also I had fun driving on the tracks of the circuit that is proposed (2h of dust, quite a few holes, but the city car came out like one of their 4x4, paying attention)
It is a magical place!

Wow! Simply wow! Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.

If you decide to do the self drive 17 mile tour, make sure you have an AWD vehicle as the road is not paved.

Do not miss out! This was such a beautiful stop on our trip and not busy. Bring binoculars so you can really get a close look at the structures. It was pretty windy at the top of the canyon so bring a jacket.

It's absolutely magnificent, the real western setting, done in 4/4, very friendly Navajo driver, plus we had the chance to see an eclipse

Absolutely breathtaking! Take a monument valley tribal tour and ask for Jameson to be your guide! This place is incredible!

A beautiful park that we enjoyed both from our hotel and through guided tour by 4WD.
Beautiful and charming, with its open spaces and its colors... it gave us fabulous moments.

Iconic place. Since last visit about 10 years ago much better organised and presented. Big gift shop and cafe but you go for the wonderful view.

Both at sunset where the rocks seem to burn in the fire, and at dawn this place, now no longer wild, is truly splendid.
The tour with the off-road vehicle is nice even if ours was half broken to scrap.
An experience that is still unique and leaves indelible memories
Navajo Indians indolent and unempathic

I drive a 4 Runner and was told by many people that the roads were not that bad. Yes, yes they were. I have a French bulldog and a Boston terrier so I was unable to find a tour operator that had an enclosed truck or vehicle to drive us thru. I had also bought the audio tour from action tours. It was ok. If the roads weren’t so terrible I may have enjoyed it more. I truly wish we would have skipped that. I was advised to do Valley of the Gods which is near but we didn’t. There is no way I believe that with the money that is being made at Monument Valley that those roads could not be improved. It’s definitely not worth tearing up or knocking ur vehicle out of line. 10 out of 10 would NOT recommend.

Better then any movies you have to see this for yourself! Just incredible in expanse and drama. I really enjoyed the 4x4 ride.

Excellent vantage point, especially at dawn as there are very few people, except for photography enthusiasts. Truly a place that knows the 'incredible; unique and majestic .. obvious to say that it is to be seen absolutely.
here there is also a large gift shop (I found nothing to my liking and the prices I found high)

If you are a fan of western films and scenarios this is the right place.
Getting around in your own car, to be done with a 4x4, offers beautiful views and the possibility of getting closer to the cliffs.
It is managed by the Navajo Indians and therefore the parks card is not valid.
The cost is €8 per person.

After seeing all those old westerns I was excited to see Monument Valley. Unfortunately, I was a bit disappointed. Unfortunately, there isn’t any mention of the poor condition of the dirt road that goes through the park on the hotel website or the park website. . We had a rental car and had to be super careful. As we did not know the road was in such a poor condition that taking one of their tours was really the only sensible option, we did not get to the park early enough to sign up for a tour. One commentor indicated the road is treacherous and that is completely correct and not an exaggeration. Pictures and the old movies give you the impression that it is 17 miles of a wide open area that you drive around but it is more of a windy road in a smaller area. Not quite the grandeur a lot of pictures show.

It is definitely worth a visit to see the beauty of Monument Valley. Also, we found the Visitor Center’s wall panels to be very informative about the Navajo history, and worth a stop to read. The Visitor Center employee was not particularly welcoming, but she did answer my questions. We opted to not do the drive as we could see there was a good bit of traffic on the Valley floor. The gift shop has a huge selection of beautiful jewelry. Due to Navajo policy, no alcohol is served…it would have been lovely to sit on the deck and enjoy the view with a glass of wine. The drive northeast towards Mexican Hat commands grand views including the Valley, and worth the drive.

Visited on a beautiful sunny day mid September around 11am on Sunday and experienced no waiting at all. We had prepaid the Loop fee. It’s an awesome sight and a must on any travel itinerary in the area. Very bumpy road, take it slow and a high profile vehicle is a very good idea. Stop in at the visitor center but the restaurant is currently closed. You can do a tour in small open profile vehicles but it can be very dusty especially on a breezy day. Masks are currently required in the visitor center.

Beautiful surroundings. Sunset tour with guide interesting but explanation in open vehicles difficult to understand. Guide does not make any extra effort at stops to provide additional explanations. The setting is beautiful. The guide may raise the bar

If you like old westerns, you will recognize the scenery in this tribal park. You have to pay an entrance fee to enter the park ($8 per person when we were there) which gains you access to the overlook, gift shop, etc. They also have a hotel, cabins, and campground. Because we stayed in the cabins, our entrance fee was good for driving around the valley drive the next morning. The drive is along a bumpy dirt road (RV's and motorcycles are not alllowed) that has a one-way loop for the second half. There are about a dozen pull offs where you can view or photograph the rock formations. During certain times you can find Navajo craftspeople selling their goods at some of the stops or find a man with a horse who will ride out to the point for your photos.
It takes about 2 hours to do the drive and there is a port-o-potty about halfway through, but plan ahead. The restaurant at the gift shop serves dinner, but does not serve lunch. Breakfast is for hotel and cabin guests only.
If you are a fan of Forrest Gump, be sure to stop at the Forrest Gump parking area outside the park (in Utah) to take a picture of the place where Forrest stopped running. Even if you don't like the movie, you get a beautiful view.