Antelope Canyon, Arizona Travel Guide

Discover the mystical allure of Antelope Canyon, a captivating slot canyon in Arizona, known for its stunning light beams and wave-like rock formations.

Home
Travel Guides
Arizona
Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is a breathtaking slot canyon located in the heart of Navajo land in Arizona. Known for its wave-like structure and the light beams that shine down into the openings of the canyon, it offers a mesmerizing experience for photographers and nature lovers alike. The canyon is divided into two sections, Lower Antelope Canyon and Upper Antelope Canyon, each offering unique and stunning views. Upper Antelope Canyon, also known as 'The Crack,' is famous for its easy access and the dramatic light beams that occur, particularly during the summer months. The canyon walls, sculpted by centuries of flash flooding and erosion, create an ethereal glow that changes with the sun's position, making every visit unique. Lower Antelope Canyon, known as 'The Corkscrew,' offers a more adventurous experience with its narrow, steep pathways and ladders. Visiting Antelope Canyon requires a guided tour, as it is located on Navajo land. The guides, often from the Navajo Nation, provide not only safe passage but also share the history and cultural significance of the canyon. Each tour offers ample opportunities for photography, and the guides often assist visitors in capturing the best shots. Whether you are an avid photographer or simply someone who appreciates natural wonders, Antelope Canyon is a must-visit destination that will leave you in awe.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Antelope Canyon.

Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
Visit during midday for the best light beams in Upper Antelope Canyon.
Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the stunning views.
Be prepared for temperature changes; bring layers to stay comfortable.
Respect the local Navajo customs and follow your guide's instructions.

Explore Antelope Canyon: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Antelope Canyon

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours

Explore the enchanting Antelope Canyon in Arizona, a stunning natural wonder with vibrant colors and breathtaking formations, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

4.3

Antelope Slot Canyon Tours by Chief Tsosie

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Antelope Slot Canyon with guided tours showcasing its stunning sandstone walls and captivating light beams.

4.7

Adventurous Antelope Canyon

Explore the enchanting beauty of Adventurous Antelope Canyon, a natural wonder featuring stunning slot canyons and vibrant sandstone formations.

4.4

Historic Navajo Bridge

Explore the Historic Navajo Bridge in Marble Canyon, Arizona, where history meets breathtaking natural beauty along the Colorado River.

4.8

Best landmarks in Antelope Canyon

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Antelope canyon

Discover the mesmerizing beauty of Antelope Canyon, a natural wonder sculpted by time and light on Navajo Nation land in Arizona.

4.2

Upper Antelope Canyon

Discover the magical world of Upper Antelope Canyon, a sacred Navajo site sculpted by time and illuminated by breathtaking light.

4.6

Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours

Discover the magic of Upper Antelope Canyon with authentic Navajo-guided tours. Experience breathtaking beauty and cultural insights in this natural sandstone masterpiece.

4.3

Lower Antelope Canyon

Explore the mesmerizing depths of Lower Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon sculpted by time, water, and Navajo heritage in the heart of Arizona.

4.8

Best restaurants in Antelope Canyon

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Rustler’s Rooste

Experience authentic American cuisine with stunning views at Rustler's Rooste - where every meal is an adventure into the Wild West.

4.2

Big John's Texas BBQ

Discover the authentic taste of Texas-style barbecue at Big John's Texas BBQ in Page, Arizona—where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.4

El Tapatio

Experience authentic Mexican flavors at El Tapatio in Page, Arizona - where every meal is a celebration of taste.

4.3

Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant

Discover the authentic taste of Mexico at Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant in Page, Arizona – where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.3

Best bars in Antelope Canyon

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Big John's Texas BBQ

Experience the rich flavors of Texas-style barbecue at Big John's Texas BBQ, the perfect dining spot for meat lovers in Page, Arizona.

4.4

El Tapatio

Discover the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at El Tapatio, a must-visit restaurant in Page, Arizona, perfect for all food lovers.

4.3

Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant, where every dish tells a story and every visit feels like a fiesta.

4.3

BirdHouse

Discover BirdHouse in Page, AZ, where delicious chicken dishes meet a friendly atmosphere, perfect for travelers seeking a flavorful dining experience.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Antelope Canyon

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Blue Bar & Wine

Discover the lively Blue Bar & Wine in Page, Arizona, where exquisite wines and vibrant atmosphere meet for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

4.5

Driftwood Lounge

Discover Driftwood Lounge, where American cuisine meets stunning views of Lake Powell, creating an unforgettable dining experience in Arizona.

3.7

Best shops in Antelope Canyon

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Walmart Supercenter

Discover convenience and variety at Walmart Supercenter in Page, AZ—your ultimate shopping destination for all your travel needs.

4.1

Dollar General

Explore a wide variety of affordable products at Dollar General, your convenient shopping destination in Page, Arizona.

4.0

Lost Clouds

Explore the world of vaping at Lost Clouds, Page's premier vaporizer store, offering quality products and exceptional service in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.6

Dollar Tree

Explore endless savings and unique finds at Dollar Tree in Page, Arizona - your go-to for budget-friendly shopping!

4.1

Explore Antelope Canyon on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Antelope Canyon, mapped for you.

Antelope Canyon Essentials

Antelope Canyon is located near the town of Page in northern Arizona. The nearest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, approximately 280 miles away. From Phoenix, you can either rent a car and drive up to Page, which takes about 4-5 hours, or take a domestic flight to Page Municipal Airport. Another option is to drive from Las Vegas, Nevada, which is about 275 miles away and takes around 4.5 hours by car.
Once in Page, the primary way to reach Antelope Canyon is by guided tour, as the canyon is located on Navajo land and requires a guide for entry. Several tour companies operate from Page, offering both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon tours. It's advisable to book these tours in advance, especially during peak seasons. Rental cars are available in Page for exploring the surrounding areas, and taxis are also an option for local transportation.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Most businesses in Page and the tour operators accept credit and debit cards. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, tips, and emergencies. ATMs are available in Page for cash withdrawals.
Antelope Canyon and Page are generally safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it's essential to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables in your car. Be cautious of the weather, especially during monsoon season, as flash floods can occur in the canyon. Always follow the guidance of your tour guide for safety.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital is Page Hospital, located in the town of Page. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Page where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking in sandy and rocky terrain. Avoid wearing high heels or open-toed shoes. Religion: Do show respect for the Navajo culture and traditions. Avoid touching or disturbing any cultural artifacts. Public Transport: Do rent a car for convenience, as public transportation options are limited. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Hi'. Navajo people appreciate politeness and respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Navajo cuisine if you get the chance. Don't litter; always dispose of your trash properly.
To experience Antelope Canyon like a local, visit during the off-peak seasons (late fall and early spring) when the canyon is less crowded. Early morning and late afternoon tours offer the best lighting for photography. Engage with your tour guide, who can share fascinating stories and cultural insights about the Navajo Nation. Don't miss exploring other nearby attractions like Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell for a more comprehensive experience of the region.

When is the best time to visit Antelope Canyon?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Antelope Canyon

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Antelope Canyon. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloYá'át'ééh
  [yah-ah-tay]
- GoodbyeHágoónee'
  [hah-goo-ney]
- YesHaa
  [hah]
- NoDóó
  [doh]
- Please/You're welcomeAhe'hee'
  [ah-hay-hee]
- Thank youAhéhee'
  [ah-hay-hee]
- Excuse me/SorryShicheii
  [shee-chay]
- How are you?Ahee'hee nínízin?
  [ah-hay-hee nee-neez-een]
- Fine. And you?Háádéé
  [hah-deh]
- Do you speak English?Nihizaad igoo shí
  [nee-hee-zaad ee-goo shee]
- I don't understandBilasáana
  [bee-lah-sah-nah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBéésh bee hózhǫ́
  [beh-sh bay hoh-zhohn]
- I don't eat meatBilasáana díí nináálééh
  [bee-lah-sah-nah dee nee-nah-ah-lay]
- Cheers!Ahe'hee'
  [ah-hay-hee]
- I would like to pay, pleaseBéésh bee yá'át'ééh
  [beh-sh bay yah-ah-tay]
- Help!Ánííníshní
  [ah-nee-nee-shnee]
- Go away!Tsééhééh
  [tsay-hay]
- Call the Police!Wóhoot'éego nít'éego baa hózhǫ́
  [woh-ho-tay-go nee-tay-go bah hoh-zhohn]
- Call a doctor!Ániiníshní
  [ah-nee-nee-shnee]
- I'm lostNíłtso
  [neel-tso]
- I'm illNítsá
  [neet-sah]
- I'd like to buy...Béésh bee yá'át'ééh
  [beh-sh bay yah-ah-tay]
- I'm just lookingBéésh bee díí níłtso
  [beh-sh bay dee nee-ltso]
- How much is it?Háádéé nít'éego baa hózhǫ́
  [hah-deh nee-tay-go bah hoh-zhohn]
- That's too expensiveAhéhee' díí nínízin
  [ah-hay-hee dee nee-neez-een]
- Can you lower the price?Níltsá dóó baa hózhǫ́
  [neel-tsa doh bah hoh-zhohn]
- What time is it?T'áá hwóóhóó baa hózhǫ́
  [taa-ah hwoh-hwoh bah hoh-zhohn]
- It's one o'clockT'áá hwóóhóó baa éí
  [taa-ah hwoh-hwoh bah ay]
- Half past (10)Níłjoolí
  [neel-joh-lee]
- MorningT'áá hwóóhóó
  [taa-ah hwoh-hwoh]
- AfternoonHa'át'éego
  [hah-ah-tay-ay-go]
- EveningT'áá hwóóhóó
  [taa-ah hwoh-hwoh]
- YesterdayNíłjoolí
  [neel-joh-lee]
- TodayYá'át'ééh
  [yah-ah-tay]
- TomorrowBéésh aníízí
  [beh-sh ah-nee-zee]
- 1T'áá
  [taa-ah]
- 2Naaki
  [nah-kee]
- 3Táá'
  [taa-ah]
- 4Dį́į́'
  [dee-ee]
- 5Ashdla'
  [ash-dlah]
- 6Hastąą'
  [has-taan]
- 7Tseebíí'
  [tsee-bee]
- 8T'ąą'
  [taan]
- 9Náhást'éí
  [nah-hast-ay]
- 10Naakwóó'
  [nah-kwoh]
- Where's a/the...?Hádí
  [hah-dee]
- What's the address?Hádí
  [hah-dee]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Dóó chééh dah nínízin
  [doh chay-hay dah nee-neez-een]
- When's the next (bus)?Nílyéé'
  [neel-yay]
- A ticket (to ....)Béésh bee yá'át'ééh
  [beh-sh bay yah-ah-tay]

History of Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon, located in the American Southwest, was formed over thousands of years by the erosion of Navajo Sandstone. Flash flooding and wind have carved its narrow passageways, creating the stunning visual effects seen today. This geological wonder is divided into two separate sections known as Upper Antelope Canyon (The Crack) and Lower Antelope Canyon (The Corkscrew).
Antelope Canyon is situated within the Navajo Nation and holds significant cultural and spiritual importance for the Navajo people. The Navajo term for Upper Antelope Canyon is 'Tsé bighánílíní', meaning 'the place where water runs through rocks'. For Lower Antelope Canyon, the term is 'Hazdistazí' or 'spiral rock arches'.
Though Antelope Canyon had been known to Native Americans for centuries, it was 'discovered' by European settlers much later. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, explorers and ranchers began to document the area, but it remained relatively unknown to the broader public until the late 20th century.
Antelope Canyon gained international fame largely due to the stunning photographs captured by photographers, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. The unique lighting within the canyon's narrow passageways creates ethereal images, making it a popular destination for both amateur and professional photographers.
Antelope Canyon has been the site of several dangerous flash floods, which are a natural part of its formation process. A tragic incident occurred in 1997 when 11 tourists lost their lives in Lower Antelope Canyon due to sudden flooding. This event led to increased safety measures and regulations for visitors.
Due to its popularity and fragile environment, Antelope Canyon has been the focus of various conservation efforts. The Navajo Nation, along with local and federal agencies, have implemented measures to protect the canyon's delicate sandstone formations while allowing for sustainable tourism.
Today, Antelope Canyon can only be visited through guided tours operated by Navajo tour companies. These tours provide educational information about the canyon's geology, history, and cultural significance, ensuring that visitors have a safe and enriching experience while respecting Navajo traditions.