Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour From Sedona

Exploring the stunning natural wonders of northern Arizona is a must for any visitor to Sedona. The Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour offers an unforgettable day-long adventure, guiding travelers through the captivating slot canyons and to the breathtaking overlook of the Colorado River. With knowledgeable Navajo guides and a focus on photography, this highly-acclaimed tour promises an immersive experience amidst the region’s remarkable landscapes. Discover why this tour continues to captivate adventurers and photographers alike.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Sedona visits Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon Dam, and Painted Desert, accompanied by a Navajo guide for photography assistance.
• The tour includes lunch, bottled water, and hotel pickup/drop-off, with a moderate fitness level required due to 90 minutes of walking on uneven terrain.
• Antelope Canyon exploration lasts approximately 1.5 hours, focusing on the stunning sandstone colors and light formations, with assistance from a Navajo guide.
• Highlights include dramatic views of the Colorado River at Horseshoe Bend, a visit to Glen Canyon Dam, and local artisan crafts shopping at Cameron Trading Post.
• The tour is highly recommended by 97% of travelers, with an average rating of 4.9 stars, and is considered a must-do experience in the region.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The tour includes visits to the iconic Antelope Canyon, the breathtaking Horseshoe Bend, the Glen Canyon Dam, and the vibrant Painted Desert.

Travelers are accompanied by a Navajo guide who assists with photography in Antelope Canyon, showcasing the stunning sandstone colors and light.

The tour offers views of the Glen Dam, Lake Powell, and the Colorado River.

Highly recommended by 97% of travelers, this tour has 960 reviews with an average rating of 4.9 stars, making it a must-do experience in the region.

Logistics and Itinerary

Full-day tours depart hotels in Sedona between 6:00-6:30 am and return around 5:30-6:00 pm.

A minimum of 4 guests is required for the tour to operate, with a maximum group size of 12. The tour includes lunch, bottled water, and hotel pickup/drop-off within city limits.

Guests can expect to spend around 11.5 hours visiting various attractions, including 1.5 hours at Antelope Canyon, 30 minutes at Horseshoe Bend, and 20 minutes at Glen Canyon Dam.

Guests can expect an 11.5-hour tour visiting Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Glen Canyon Dam.

A moderate fitness level is required, as the tour involves 90 minutes of walking on uneven terrain.

Attractions and Activities

Guests can explore Antelope Canyon for approximately 1.5 hours, marveling at the vibrant sandstone colors and captivating light formations.

With a Navajo guide‘s assistance, they’ll learn about the canyon’s history and discover the best photographic angles.

After Antelope, the tour heads to Horseshoe Bend, where guests spend 30 minutes taking in the dramatic views of the Colorado River below.

The day also includes a visit to the iconic Glen Canyon Dam and the Cameron Trading Post, where guests can shop for local artisan crafts.

The tour involves 90 minutes of walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable clothing is recommended.

Health and Safety Guidelines

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s generally suitable for most travelers.

Guests with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions may want to reconsider participating.

Children 8 and under must have a car or booster seat, which guests must provide themselves.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, with around 90 minutes of walking on uneven terrain.

The minimum age is 6 years old.

While gratuity for the knowledgeable, friendly, and skilled guides is recommended at 20%, this is ultimately at the discretion of each traveler.

Traveler Experiences and Recommendations

Guides are widely praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and photography skills that help visitors capture stunning images within Antelope Canyon.

Guides are widely praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and photography skills that help visitors capture stunning images within Antelope Canyon.

Highlights of the tour include:

1. Breathtaking views of the canyon’s vibrant sandstone colors and mesmerizing light patterns.
2. Well-organized logistics that make the long day trip comfortable and efficient.
3. Quality lunch service and bottled water provided throughout the journey.
4. Overall experiences considered valuable, despite some concerns about the suggested gratuity amount for guides.

While a few guests have minor criticisms, the tour receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with 97% of travelers recommending the experience.

Exploring Antelope Canyon

The journey into Antelope Canyon begins with a guided trek through the slot canyon’s winding, sandstone walls.

Your Navajo guide leads the way, sharing insights about the canyon’s formation and cultural significance. As you descend, the light filters in, casting mesmerizing patterns on the rock.

You’ll have ample time to capture the vibrant colors and textures, with your guide offering photography tips to make the most of the unique lighting.

The smooth, undulating curves and slot-like formations create a truly breathtaking environment, making Antelope Canyon a highlight of the day’s adventures.

Capturing the Beauty of Horseshoe Bend

After exploring the winding sandstone walls of Antelope Canyon, the tour continues to the breathtaking Horseshoe Bend.

Visitors are treated to panoramic views of the iconic meander in the Colorado River. At the overlook, they can:

1. Capture the dramatic sweeping curve of the river.
2. Admire the vibrant red and orange hues of the surrounding rock formations.
3. Witness the stark contrast between the blue sky and the turquoise waters.
4. Snap photos from the safe viewing platform, staying back from the edge.

The Horseshoe Bend segment offers a stunning visual finale to this well-rounded tour.

Discovering Glen Canyon Dam and the Painted Desert

As the tour makes its way back from Horseshoe Bend, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the impressive Glen Canyon Dam and the vibrant Painted Desert.

At the dam, they’ll marvel at the scale of this engineering feat, which holds back the mighty Colorado River to form the vast Lake Powell.

Visitors marvel at the vast scale of the Glen Canyon Dam, which holds back the mighty Colorado River to form Lake Powell.

Next, the tour travels through the Painted Desert, a stunning landscape of multicolored badlands and mesas. Guests can capture the region’s distinctive geology and hues, which range from deep reds to shades of lavender.

These final stops provide a well-rounded experience of the area’s natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment to the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own camera equipment on the tour. The Navajo guide will provide assistance with photography in Antelope Canyon to help capture the stunning sandstone colors and natural light.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for the Tour?

The tour operator occasionally offers discounts and promotions, such as early booking or multi-tour packages. Guests should check the company’s website or inquire directly to see if any special offers are available at the time of booking.

How Is the Weather Typically Like During the Tour Season?

The weather is typically mild and dry during the tour season, with average temperatures ranging from 60-80°F. Sunny skies are common, making it an ideal time to explore the stunning landscapes of the Southwest.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Visit Additional Attractions?

While the standard tour itinerary is fixed, many operators may allow you to customize your experience by adding optional stops at nearby attractions, subject to availability and additional fees. It’s best to discuss any customization requests directly with the tour provider.

What Is the Best Way to Avoid Motion Sickness During the Long Drive?

To avoid motion sickness during the long drive, consider taking motion sickness medication before the trip, sitting in the front seat, and focusing on the horizon. Staying hydrated and avoiding heavy meals can also help minimize discomfort.

The Sum Up

The Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour from Sedona offers an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the stunning natural beauty of the American Southwest. With knowledgeable guides, breathtaking vistas, and a focus on photography, this tour promises an exceptional experience for all participants. Whether marveling at the sculpted sandstone formations or capturing the iconic Horseshoe Bend, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the Sedona region.