Havasu Falls: A Natural Oasis in the Heart of the Grand Canyon

Discover Havasu Falls in Arizona: A Hidden Gem with Turquoise Waters and Red Rock Cliffs, Perfect for Nature Lovers and Adventurers Seeking a Unique Experience.

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Havasu Falls

Nestled deep within the Havasupai Reservation in Arizona, Havasu Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its stunning turquoise blue waters cascading over vibrant red rocks. This enchanting waterfall is a must-see for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The falls are part of the Havasu Creek, which flows into the Colorado River, adding to the mesmerizing beauty of the Grand Canyon. Reaching Havasu Falls requires a bit of effort, as it involves a 10-mile hike from the trailhead at Hualapai Hilltop. The journey, however, is well worth it. The trail offers stunning desert landscapes, towering cliffs, and the chance to encounter local wildlife. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted with the sight of the falls plunging into a tranquil pool, perfect for a refreshing swim. The Havasupai people, who have lived in this area for centuries, manage the falls. Their rich culture and history add a unique dimension to the visit. Tourists are encouraged to respect the land and the customs of the Havasupai Tribe. Nearby, the village of Supai offers basic amenities and a glimpse into the lives of the local people. Exploring Havasu Falls provides not only a visual feast but also an opportunity to connect with the natural and cultural heritage of this unique destination.

Local tips in Havasu Falls

Book your permit well in advance; the area is highly regulated and permits sell out quickly.
Pack light but ensure you have essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit for the hike.
Wear sturdy hiking boots; the trail can be rocky and uneven.
Consider visiting in the off-season to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
Respect the local customs and the environment; leave no trace and follow the guidelines set by the Havasupai Tribe.

File:New havasu falls.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Mooney Falls, Arizona, 2006.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Beaver falls.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:SupaiNondenomBibleChurch.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Havasu Falls, Grand Canyon.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Havasu Falls?

Unmissable attractions to see

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Guano Point

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London Bridge

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Lake Havasu State Park

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London Bridge Beach

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Rotary Community Park & Playgrounds

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Grand Canyon Caverns

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Pipe Creek Vista

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Raptor Ranch

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Cattail Cove State Park

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Trail View Overlook

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Le Fevre Overlook

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Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument

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Pima Point

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Havasupai Trailhead

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Shops At Lake Havasu

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Ross Dress for Less

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Havasu Falls

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Mooney Falls

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GCC Park Store at Grand Canyon Visitor Center

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Sunset Plaza

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Double Eagle Trading Co

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Rocks & More

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The Havasupai Tribal Cafe

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Grand Canyon Trading Post

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Desert Rose Gifts & Interiors

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Beaver Falls

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General Store

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Havasu Rocks

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Chic Again

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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Shugrue's Restaurant and Brewery Group

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Yavapai Tavern

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Nellie E Saloon -The Desert Bar

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Tavern 95

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Barley Brothers Brewery

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Legendz Sports Bar & Grill

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Flying X Saloon

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Martini Bay

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McKee's Pub & Grill

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Kokomo Beach Club

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Babaloo Lounge

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The Office Cocktail Lounge & Grill

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Havasu Falls

Discover Havasu Falls with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Havasu Falls

- HelloYá'át'ééh
  [yah-ah-tay]
- GoodbyeHa'íí adíí
  [ha-ee ah-dee]
- YesHaa
  [haa]
- NoT'a'
  [ta]
- Please/You're welcomeBéésh baa hózhǫ́ǫ
  [beh-sh bah hoh-zhoh]
- Thank youAhe'hee
  [ah-hay-hee]
- Excuse me/SorryAak'eed
  [ah-keed]
- How are you?Anííníshní
  [ah-nee-nee-shnee]
- Fine. And you?Hózhó. Áá'áníníshní?
  [hoh-zhoh. ah-ah-nee-nee-shnee]
- Do you speak English?Baa shíni dooleeł?
  [bah shee-nee doh-lay-l]
- I don't understandDoo akóó hózhǫ́ǫ
  [doh ah-koh hoh-zhoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseHaa'óósh t'éego ánít'é
  [haa-oh-sh tay-go ah-nee-tay]
- I don't eat meatNaaldlooshii bizaad
  [nah-ald-loh-shii bee-zaad]
- Cheers!Ahe'hee
  [ah-hay-hee]
- I would like to pay, pleaseHaa'óósh baa yá'át'ééh
  [haa-oh-sh bah yah-ah-tay]
- Help!Tááshé
  [taa-shey]
- Go away!T'áá hwó'ó
  [taa hwoh-oh]
- Call the Police!Bilasáana baa hózhóogo
  [bee-lah-saa-nah bah hoh-zhoh-go]
- Call a doctor!Bilasáana baa nááts'ózí
  [bee-lah-saa-nah bah nah-tsoh-zee]
- I'm lostNíłch'íí'
  [neel-chi]
- I'm illNíłch'íí'
  [neel-chi]
- I'd like to buy...Haa'óósh bee nihiké
  [haa-oh-sh bee nee-hee-kay]
- I'm just lookingBihédah baa
  [bee-hay-dah bah]
- How much is it?Béésh bee dóó haa
  [beh-sh bee doh haa]
- That's too expensiveT'áá hwó'ó
  [taa hwoh-oh]
- Can you lower the price?Béésh bee dóó bidziil yída?
  [beh-sh bee doh bee-zee-yil yee-dah]
- What time is it?T'áá hwó'ó
  [taa hwoh-oh]
- It's one o'clockHwó'ó táá éí
  [hwoh-oh taa ay]
- Half past (10)Naakai
  [nah-kai]
- MorningHózhǫ́ǫ
  [hoh-zhoh]
- AfternoonT'áá hwó'ó
  [taa hwoh-oh]
- EveningHwó'ó hahoodzo
  [hwoh-oh hah-hoo-dzoh]
- YesterdayHawííł
  [hah-wee-ll]
- TodayYá'át'ééh
  [yah-ah-tay]
- TomorrowAnííníshní
  [ah-nee-nee-shnee]
- 1Táá'
  [taa]
- 2Naaki
  [nah-kee]
- 3Tááłá'
  [taa-laa]
- 4Dį́į́'
  [dee-dee]
- 5Asdzą́ą́'
  [ah-sdzaan]
- 6Hastą́ą́'
  [hah-staan]
- 7Tseebíí'
  [tsee-bee]
- 8T'ááłá'
  [taa-laa]
- 9Náhást'éí
  [nah-has-tay-ee]
- 10Dį́į́'
  [dee-dee]
- Where's a/the...?Háásh
  [haash]
- What's the address?Ahxéheeł
  [ah-hay-hay-l]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Áko'ó
  [ah-koh-oh]
- When's the next (bus)?Yá'át'ééh
  [yah-ah-tay]
- A ticket (to ....)Haa'óósh yinishyé
  [haa-oh-sh yee-neesh-yay]

History of Havasu Falls

The Havasupai people, known as the 'People of the Blue-Green Waters,' have inhabited the Grand Canyon region for over 800 years. Their name is derived from the vibrant turquoise waters of Havasu Creek. The Havasupai have a deep connection to the land and water, which are central to their cultural and spiritual practices.
The first recorded European contact with the Havasupai tribe occurred in the late 18th century when Spanish explorers ventured into the region. The tribe managed to maintain much of their autonomy due to the remoteness of their homeland, though there were sporadic interactions with explorers and settlers over the years.
In 1882, the United States government established the Havasupai Reservation, which initially encompassed only a small portion of the tribe's ancestral lands. This limited area constrained their traditional way of life, but over time, the reservation was expanded to better accommodate their needs.
By the early 1900s, word of the stunning beauty of Havasu Falls began to spread, attracting adventurous tourists. The Havasupai tribe started to guide visitors to the falls, sharing their knowledge of the land and culture. This marked the beginning of tourism as a significant aspect of the local economy.
Throughout the 20th century, both the Havasupai tribe and various environmental organizations have worked to preserve the natural beauty of Havasu Falls. These efforts include managing visitor access to reduce environmental impact and implementing sustainable tourism practices.
Today, Havasu Falls is a sought-after destination for nature lovers and adventurers from around the world. The Havasupai tribe continues to manage the area, balancing the influx of tourists with the preservation of their cultural heritage and the natural environment. Visitors are required to obtain permits and follow guidelines to ensure the falls remain pristine for future generations.

Havasu Falls Essentials

Havasu Falls is located in the Havasupai Indian Reservation within the Grand Canyon, Arizona. The nearest major city is Flagstaff, approximately 200 miles away. To reach Havasu Falls, first drive to Hualapai Hilltop, the trailhead for the hike to the falls. From Flagstaff, take I-40 west to Seligman, then Route 66 to Indian Route 18, which leads to Hualapai Hilltop. The drive takes around 3-4 hours. From Hualapai Hilltop, it's an 8-mile hike to the Supai Village and an additional 2-mile hike to Havasu Falls. Alternatively, helicopter services are available from Hualapai Hilltop to Supai Village, or you can arrange for mule transport for your gear.
Once you arrive at the Hualapai Hilltop, the primary means of reaching Havasu Falls is by hiking. The trail is rugged and challenging, so be prepared with appropriate hiking gear. Helicopter services are available on certain days, offering a quicker, though more expensive, option to reach Supai Village. Mules can also be rented to carry gear. Within the Supai Village and surrounding falls area, walking is the main mode of transportation.
The official currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). In Supai Village, cash is the preferred method of payment, as credit card facilities are limited. Make sure to carry enough cash for your needs, including for meals, souvenirs, and any additional fees. There are no ATMs in the village, so plan accordingly.
Havasu Falls is generally a safe destination, but due to its remote location, it's important to take certain precautions. Always stay on marked trails and avoid hiking alone. Be aware of the weather conditions, as flash floods can occur. There are no high-crime areas specifically targeting tourists, but always keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious. The village and campsite are patrolled, and the local Havasupai tribe members are helpful and friendly.
In case of emergency, dial 911. There is a small medical clinic in Supai Village, but for serious medical emergencies, air evacuation may be necessary. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers such situations. Notify a ranger or local authority if you need assistance. For minor health issues, carry a well-stocked first-aid kit. Hydrate well and be aware of signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and appropriate clothing for hiking. Avoid wearing fashion items that are impractical for rugged terrain. Religion: Do respect the local Havasupai customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do use the helicopter or mule services respectfully and follow guidelines. Greetings: Do greet locals with respect and friendliness. A simple 'hello' or 'good day' is sufficient. Eating & Drinking: Do hydrate well and carry enough food and water. Don't litter; always pack out what you pack in.
To experience Havasu Falls like a local, take time to engage with the Havasupai people and learn about their culture and history. Visit the local store in Supai Village for basic supplies and souvenirs. Respect the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles. Early morning hikes offer the best light for photography and cooler temperatures. Be sure to explore the other nearby waterfalls like Mooney Falls and Beaver Falls for a complete experience.

Havasu Falls: A Natural Oasis in the Heart of the Grand Canyon

Local tips in Havasu Falls