Antelope Canyon Tour

Question

We are planning a trip the end of April to Sedona for a week. Planning on driving to Page and doing a tour of Antelope Canyon. What tour company is recommended and what is the best time to do a tour? Thank you in advance for any advice you can give.

Answer

Visiting Antelope Canyon is an amazing experience, and planning ahead will make your trip smooth and memorable. Since Antelope Canyon is on Navajo land, all visits require a guided tour. There are two main sections: Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon, each with its own vibe and accessibility.

Tour Companies: There are several reputable operators in Page that provide guided tours for both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon:

Upper Antelope Canyon: Companies like Ken’s Tours, Dixie Ellis, and Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours are well-reviewed. Upper is easier to walk through and is mostly flat, making it good for families or anyone preferring minimal physical strain.
Lower Antelope Canyon: Tours by Ken’s Tours and Dixie Ellis also cover this section. Lower is narrower, requires climbing ladders and stairs, and is slightly more physically demanding, but offers striking views and fewer crowds if you book early.

Best Time to Visit:

For photography and iconic light beams, late morning (around 11 AM–1 PM) is ideal, especially in Upper Antelope Canyon. In April, the sun is strong enough to create beautiful beams, particularly if the sky is clear.
If you prefer fewer crowds, consider booking the first tour of the morning or later afternoon tours. Early morning tours are usually less busy in Lower Antelope Canyon, but light beams may be limited.

Other Tips:

Book your tour well in advance; April is a popular time and tours can fill up quickly.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for sand and uneven surfaces.
Bring a camera or phone, but a small backpack is better than large bags, as some companies restrict oversized items.
Consider combining your trip with nearby attractions, like Horseshoe Bend or Lake Powell, which are close to Page and can make a full day outing.

In summary, Ken’s Tours and Dixie Ellis are reliable choices. For a first-timer or a less strenuous walk, Upper Antelope Canyon around midday offers iconic light beams. Lower Antelope Canyon is more adventurous and less crowded if booked early, but requires more physical effort.

Antelope Canyon Tour

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