Visiting Lower Antelope Canyon

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One of the most visited natural wonders of Arizona is the stunningly gorgeous Antelope Canyon. This gem is not to be missed if you’re heading to the northern part of the state. It is located five miles east of Page, Arizona and is on the Navajo Indian Reservation. Keep reading and I’ll share everything you need to know about visiting Lower Antelope Canyon.

Entrance Fee For Antelope Canyon

The canyon is actually two separate canyons, Lower Antelope Canyon and Upper Antelope Canyon, and they both have their own entrances and separate entrance fees. You’ll need to purchase a ticket for a guided tour which you can do ahead of time (which I recommend especially if you’re trying to go at a certain time) and you’ll also need to pay the $8 Navajo permit/entrance fee which is only acceptable in cash. I’ve booked both times with Ken’s Tours which I ended up doing the same day because we weren’t sure what time we would get to Page.

*As of January 4, 2018, the Lower Antelope Canyon entrance fee is $40, which is separate from the $8 Navajo permit that is paid in cash. The total is $48 however, do check the website of the tour companies to confirm their most current pricing. The Upper Antelope Canyon entrance fee is separate is a bit higher priced.

Best Time To Visit Lower Antelope Canyon

I have visited Lower Antelope Canyon now twice, once on a high season weekend and the other time during a low season weekday. I don’t advise going during a busy holiday weekend, it’s already a crowded place and a small space. Take it from me, I’ve been on Memorial Day Weekend, it’s a lot more enjoyable with fewer people.

If you’re looking to beat the crowds your best bets are weekdays and the low season months of October through March. Do note that January is the slowest month but maintenance to the canyon can take place during this time so it’s best to check the tour website for the most updated information. Also, weekdays don’t sell out as quickly as a weekend so if you are planning on visiting on a weekend just book in advance.

The best time of day to visit Lower Antelope Canyon is mid-day when the sun is the highest and more light enters the canyon. This time also books up the quickest so if you want to go then, definitely book in advance.

Getting the Best Photos at Antelope Canyon

If you’re wondering how to get the best photos at Lower Antelope Canyon it is advisable to go when it is less crowded so that you have a little more time to stop and a bit more room within the space. You’ll be taken through the canyon where you’ll be able to snap as many photos as you like but you’ll need to keep the line moving. You’ll have time to stop for photos in designated places where you’ll guide will tell you a bit more about that particular part of the canyon. The guide is also happy to take photos of you in some of the best spots. They are knowledgeable and know the best angles of the canyon so don’t fret about not getting a great photo.

My trick to getting more photos is to either be in the front of the tour line or the back. Each guide leads a group of about 15 people. There will always be another group in front of you and behind you (except for the first and last group, of course). If you’re in the front you can easily snap photos without anyone else in them as long as the group in front of you is a few feet ahead. And if you’re in the back you can do the same as long as the next group isn’t tailing you. Also, be courteous to your guides and respect the rules, they are far more likely to snap a couple extra photos if you’re not being an obnoxious tourist.

A post shared by Jeanine Romo ✈️ (@lewildexplorer) on Jan 5, 2018 at 2:24pm PST

*Note that tripods, monopods and selfie sticks are not allowed during the general tour. There used to be a photographer tour offered but as of January 1, 2018, it no longer offered. Also, filming of any kind is not allowed in the canyon.

How Long is the Tour?

The Lower Antelope Canyon tour is approximately one hour and tours run every 30 minutes until close. The walk into the canyon and back to the parking lot is about a mile. The hike isn’t strenuous but there are a few ladders and tight spaces. If you are scared of heights or claustrophobic, this tour might not be for you.

How to Get to Antelope Canyon

You’ll want to get to the closest major city and if you’re wondering how to get to Page, Arizona, allow me to break it down. The closest major airports are McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas (LAS) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) which are about a 4.5-hour drive away from Page, Arizona. Your best bet is to first fly into one of these major airports.

Then you’ll need to get from either of those cities to Page. Here are the three options:

1. Rent a Car
This is the best option I can recommend as it will be useful for you to have a car to tour this area. This is also the most economical. There are various car rental companies at the airports and there are plenty of things to do in those cities if you wanted to make a stop.

2. Charter a Flight to Page Municipal Airport
From Las Vegas, Bar 10 offers charter flights. And from Phoenix, Great Lakes Airlines offers charter flights.  From here you can:
Rent a car from Avis – 928-645-2024 or
Take a taxi to your hotel
Destination Taxi:  928-645-2789
Buggy Taxi:  928-645-6664

3. Take a Shuttle Bus from Las Vegas or Phoenix to Page
From Las Vegas, Bar 10 offers shuttles. And Al’s Transport (928-660-8320) offers shuttles from Las Vegas and Phoenix.

*If you decide not to drive, there are a number of tour agencies that offer tours to Antelope Canyon and other destinations in Page such as Horseshoe Bend.

Where to Stay

The closest city is Page, Arizona and is the most central place for visiting locations such as Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon Recreational Area and more. Search hotels here:


Booking.com

This post contains affiliate links. If you click my link, I make a small percentage (at no extra cost to you). This helps me keep the travel blog running.

Other Helpful Information for Visiting Lower Antelope Canyon

If you’re purchasing a ticket at the canyon you’ll need to wait until the next available tour. This can be right away or a few hours. There is an air-conditioned waiting room and there are snacks and beverages available for purchase. Your group time will be called a few minutes before your tour. It’s suggested you get to waiting area at least 10 minutes before your tour time. Bring comfortable shoes are you’ll be walking the canyon and going up and down ladders. 

And that’s everything you need to know about visiting Lower Antelope Canyon. Have fun and enjoy the beauty of the canyon. If you have any questions or anything to add, please leave a comment below. 

Want to Add More to You Trip?

If you’re planning a trip to Arizona check out the beautiful desert city of Sedona or consider a camping adventure in the mountains at Fossil Creek. Also, if you’re planning a trip to Havasupai Falls near the Grand Canyon or need information on getting permits, check out my guide here. And if you don’t want to cut your trip too short consider heading up to the National Parks of Utah!

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