Monument Valley’s most rewarding tours come in three main flavors: guided 4×4 backcountry excursions, sunrise/sunset viewings, and authentic Navajo cultural experiences. The rugged red-rock terrain demands expert navigation, making guided tours the smartest way to explore this spectacular landscape.
We particularly love the off-road adventures through restricted areas – they access hidden arches and ancient petroglyphs that most visitors never see. The Navajo-led cultural tours stand out for their authentic storytelling and traditional demonstrations, while sunrise tours offer the valley’s most dramatic photo opportunities.
Check out our carefully selected top tours below, each tested for quality and value.
Key Points
- The Monument Valley Backcountry 4×4 Tour offers a 2.5-hour exploration of remote terrain with a maximum group size of 12 travelers.
- The Sunrise or Sunset 4×4 Tour provides a 3-hour experience to capture the golden hour landscapes, with a 97% recommendation rate.
- The Cultural Engagement tour, such as the Backcountry Tour with Navajo Guide, offers cultural activities and a 5.0-star rating from 451 reviews.
- The 2-hour Horseback Tour through the Mitten and Merrick Buttes features personalized attention for small groups and a 4.6-star average rating.
- The Stargazing Tour, led by knowledgeable local guides, is highly recommended at 97% and rated 4.9/5 from 37 reviews.
5 Hours of Monument Valleys Backcountry 4×4 Tour
The Monument Valley Backcountry 4×4 Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the park’s remote and rugged terrain. This 2.5-hour tour takes visitors on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.
With a maximum of 12 travelers per tour, guests can expect an intimate and personalized experience. The tour departs either in the morning or afternoon, with the option of an open-air safari vehicle or an air-conditioned van.
Guests can look forward to visiting iconic filming locations, such as John Ford’s Point, and stunning natural wonders like Suns Eye Arch, Big Hogan, and the Ear of the Wind arch. Along the way, knowledgeable guides provide insightful storytelling about the area’s geology and Navajo culture.
With no entrance fee to the park and local taxes included, the Monument Valley Backcountry 4×4 Tour offers excellent value for money.
Travelers are advised to dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour operates in all conditions, and to be mindful of the uneven walking surfaces.
0 Hours of Monument Valleys Sunrise or Sunset 4×4 Tour
A 3-hour sunrise or sunset tour of Lower Monument Valley offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the stunning landscape in the golden hours of the day.
With a 97% traveler recommendation and 639 reviews, this tour has become a popular choice for those seeking to capture the vibrant hues and must-see landmarks of the region. Guides create custom itineraries, taking visitors to iconic formations like John Ford’s Point, the Big Hogan, Ear of the Wind, and Tei Bi Cheii Monuments.
The tour includes private transportation in an all-terrain vehicle, bottled water, and a knowledgeable local guide who shares extensive history and legends of the area.
With a maximum of 24 travelers, the experience provides personalized attention and ample opportunities for photography.
While not recommended for those with back problems or in wheelchairs, the tour is pet-friendly and observes COVID-19 protocols for a safe and enjoyable outing.
Monument Valley Tour
Monument Valley Safari, LLC offers a comprehensive Monument Valley Tour that has captured the attention of 97% of travelers, earning it a Badge of Excellence.
This 1,497-reviewed tour provides an immersive exploration of the iconic formations with a local Navajo guide, traversing backcountry routes and restricted areas in an open-air vehicle.
Guests can expect to visit must-see sites like Mitten Buttes, John Fords Point, Yeibichai, Three Sisters Spires, and Sun Eyes Arch, while also enjoying a live Navajo musical performance.
The small-group format (maximum 24 travelers) ensures personalized attention throughout the experience.
Priced at $85.00 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour includes the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Entrance Fee, bottled water, and live entertainment.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and cultural insights, though some note initial pickup coordination challenges that were resolved.
Read our full review: Monument Valley Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Navajo Spirit Tours offers a 3-hour Monument Valley Daytime Tour that captivates 99% of travelers, earning it a Badge of Excellence. At $85 per person, the tour provides access to restricted areas and unique sites within the iconic landscape.
Led by knowledgeable local Navajo guides, the experience combines stunning scenery with cultural enrichment through traditional music and storytelling.
Travelers can choose between open-air or enclosed vehicles for their private group tour, which is limited to a maximum of 12 people. The tour starts and ends at the Navajo Welcome Center, with the admission fee to Monument Valley Tribal Park included.
Guests praise the guides for their expertise, friendliness, and ability to offer personal insights into Navajo heritage. Common highlights include photography opportunities at special locations and the educational value of learning about the valley’s history, geology, and indigenous culture.
Read our full review: Monument Valley Daytime Tour – 3 Hours – Navajo Spirit Tours Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunset Tour of Monument Valley
Capturing the essence of Monument Valley at its most picturesque, the Sunset Tour offers travelers a chance to experience the iconic landscape illuminated by the fading daylight.
Led by a certified Navajo guide, the tour provides access to backcountry sites typically off-limits, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage. With 534 reviews and a 97% traveler recommendation, the tour has earned a Badge of Excellence for its exceptional experience.
During the tour, guests witness Navajo culture demonstrations, including rug weaving and traditional performances.
The tour’s inclusions, such as pick-up and drop-off, bottled water, and the $8 tribal park admission fee, ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions.
With prices starting at $85 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, the Sunset Tour is a must-consider for those seeking an unforgettable encounter with Monument Valley.
Read our full review: Sunset Tour of Monument Valley Review
Book now: Check availability
Monument Valley Extended Backcountry Tour
The Monument Valley Extended Backcountry Tour offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to venture deep into the heart of this iconic landscape.
Led by knowledgeable Navajo guides, this 28-mile journey showcases the region’s most stunning natural wonders, from the towering mesas and buttes to the intricate arches and canyons.
Guests will enjoy exclusive access to off-the-beaten-path sites like Big Hogan and John Ford’s Point, while also learning about the rich Navajo culture, legends, and the area’s cinematic history.
The tour includes a visit to a traditional hogan for a rug-weaving demonstration, providing a unique culture.
With a maximum group size of 15 travelers, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions.
The overwhelmingly positive reviews and 98% traveler recommendation make this tour a must-do for anyone visiting Monument Valley.
Read our full review: Monument Valley Extended Backcountry Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
5 Hours of Monument Valleys Cultural 4×4 Tour
Offering an immersive cultural experience, the Monument Valley Cultural 4×4 Tour delves into the rich heritage and natural wonders of this iconic landscape.
Lasting 3.5 hours, this tour takes visitors on a journey through the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park in the USA. With a 99% recommendation rate from 226 reviews, the tour is priced from $90.00 per person, meeting at The View Hotel and returning to the same location.
Guests can expect to learn about Navajo culture, witnessing demonstrations at a traditional hogan and hearing stories from local guides.
The tour highlights significant rock formations featured in films, including John Ford’s Point, Suns Eye Arch, Big Hogan, Ear of the Wind, Totem Pole, and Yei Bi Cheii monuments, as well as the North Window view of the Mittens Buttes.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes service animals and adheres to COVID-19 safety protocols.
5 Hour Tour of Monument Valleys Loop Drive
Although the Monument Valley Loop Drive tour lasts only 1.5 hours, it provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of this iconic landscape.
With 298 reviews and a 95% traveler recommendation, this guided tour is a must-do for those seeking an immersive experience in Monument Valley.
The tour includes stops at renowned landmarks like John Ford’s Point, Totem Pole, Yei Bi Cheii, and North Window, offering unique insights into the area’s geologic history and Navajo mythology.
Travelers can expect to embark from The View Hotel lobby and choose from various transportation options, including open-air safari vehicles, enclosed SUVs, and full-size vans.
With a maximum of 12 travelers per tour, the experience caters to families and those with limited mobility, ensuring a personalized and comfortable journey.
Throughout the tour, guests will have ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs, making it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts.
2 Hour Monument Valley Horseback Tour
Visitors seeking a more immersive Monument Valley experience can embark on the 2 Hour Monument Valley Horseback Tour. Operated by Sacred Monument Tours, this tour offers a scenic horseback ride through the iconic sandstone buttes, including the Mitten Buttes, Merrick Buttes, and Sentinel Mesa.
Travelers can expect personalized attention in small groups of up to 3 people, with horses selected to suit their experience, skill level, and size. The tour includes the Navajo Tribal Park entry fee and all necessary equipment, such as cowboy hats, helmets, and personal protective gear.
The relaxed 2-hour tour pace is suitable for beginners, allowing riders to soak in the stunning natural beauty at a leisurely tempo. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 337 reviews, the tour has garnered praise for its knowledgeable guides and memorable experiences.
While some guests desired more historical context or a faster pace, the overwhelming feedback highlights the tour as an excellent way to explore Monument Valley’s breathtaking landscapes on horseback.
Read our full review: 2 Hour Monument Valley Horseback Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
1 Hour Monument Valley Horseback Tour
The 1-Hour Monument Valley Horseback Tour, operated by Sacred Monument Tours, provides visitors with an immersive exploration of the iconic sandstone buttes.
This small group tour, limited to a maximum of 3 travelers, promises an authentic experience as riders journey through the Mitten Buttes and Sentinel Mesa. The tour includes the provision of cowboy hats, helmets, and personal protective equipment, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride.
With a 4.5-star rating from 157 reviews, this tour has consistently delivered on its promise of showcasing the natural beauty of Monument Valley. Guides share Navajo customs and folklore, adding cultural depth to the experience.
Travelers commend the knowledgeable and friendly guides, although some note challenges in finding the meeting location and navigating the Navajo Tribal Park entry fees.
While the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions, most travelers report feeling a deep connection to the environment and enjoying a “once in a lifetime” adventure.
Read our full review: 1 Hour Monument Valley Horseback Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Monument Valley’s backcountry, the Monument Valley Backcountry Tour with Navajo Guide provides travelers with an immersive cultural experience. Rated an impressive 5.0 stars based on 451 reviews, this tour boasts 99% recommendation from satisfied travelers.
For $75 per person, guests embark on a guided journey led by knowledgeable Navajo experts, who share deep insights into the land and its indigenous culture.
The tour features engaging cultural activities, including rug weaving demonstrations and performances that offer unique glimpses into Navajo life. Pickup from select hotels ensures hassle-free accessibility, while the inclusion of the $8 tribal park admission fee simplifies the experience.
With a maximum group size of 12, the tour prioritizes personalized attention. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Monument Valley Backcountry Tour With Navajo Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunrise Tour of Monument Valley
Why start the day in Monument Valley with the awe-inspiring Sunrise Tour? This early morning excursion promises to illuminate the stunning sandstone formations of this iconic landscape.
With an expert Navajo guide, you’ll explore areas of the park not accessible to non-tour travelers, gaining cultural insights through music, crafts, and storytelling.
The tour’s 99% recommendation rate and 4.9-star rating speak to its exceptional quality. For just $85 per person, you’ll witness the sunrise over Monument Valley’s iconic buttes and mesas, capturing unforgettable memories.
The small group size of up to 45 travelers ensures an intimate experience.
Pickup is available at the View Hotel and KOA Campground, with a 15-minute arrival recommendation. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes service animals and infants.
However, those with back problems, heart issues, or who are pregnant beyond five months should consider their health before booking.
Read our full review: Sunrise Tour of Monument Valley Review
Book now: Check availability
Monument Valley 4×4 Tour
Exploring Monument Valley’s iconic landscapes is a must-do on many travelers’ itineraries. The Monument Valley 4×4 Tour offers an immersive experience to discover this unique Navajo Tribal Park.
Led by knowledgeable local Navajo guides, the tour takes visitors through the valley’s striking red rock formations, including highlights like John Ford’s Point, Ear of the Wind, Artists Point, and Big Hogan.
Travelers can choose between open-air vehicles or enclosed vans, depending on the weather. Along the way, they’ll enjoy a Navajo musical demonstration and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region.
With a 96% recommendation rate from 149 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a top-rated way to explore Monument Valley.
The tour starts and ends at the Navajo Welcome Center, and the $8 per person entrance fee to the tribal park is included. While gratuities aren’t covered, the maximum group size of 15 travelers ensures a personalized experience.
Advance reservations are recommended, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Monument Valley 4×4 Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Monument Valleys Mystery Valley 4×4 Tour
The Monument Valleys Mystery Valley 4×4 Tour offers an exceptional opportunity for visitors to explore the lesser-known reaches of this iconic Navajo Tribal Park.
This 3.5-hour guided tour boasts a remarkable 99% traveler recommendation rate from 78 glowing reviews, earning it a prestigious Badge of Excellence.
Guests will marvel at ancient Anasazi dwellings, captivating petroglyphs, the stunning Honeymoon Arch, and the region’s breathtaking desert vistas.
Led by knowledgeable Navajo guides, the fully narrated experience includes local taxes, bottled water, cultural insights, and admission to the Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for travelers with back problems, children are welcome when accompanied by paying adults.
Departing from the iconic The View Hotel, this off-the-beaten-path adventure offers a more intimate encounter with the Navajo land, away from the crowds of Monument Valley’s main attractions.
Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s scenic beauty, informative content, and overall enjoyment, making it a must-do for families and adventure-seekers alike.
Read our full review: Monument Valleys Mystery Valley 4×4 Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
5 HR Tour (Tsngt)
Although the HR Tour (Tsngt) covers roughly 28 miles (45 kilometers) of Monument Valley’s rugged terrain over 2.5 hours, it’s a small-group experience praised by 96% of its 71 reviewers.
Led by knowledgeable Navajo guides, the tour takes visitors to see natural arches, Anasazi ruins, petroglyphs, and movie locations while learning about Navajo culture. Guests can also opt for a demonstration on Navajo weaving and wool dyeing traditions.
The tour includes bottled water, and guests can bring their own snacks. The meeting point is the Monument Valley Visitor Center parking lot, and the tour concludes back at the same location.
While the Navajo Nation Park Entrance Fee is separate, gratuities for guides are appreciated. The maximum group size is 15 travelers, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. Visitors should be prepared for varying weather conditions throughout the year.
5 Hours Monument Valley Historical Sightseeing Tour by Jeep
For travelers seeking a comprehensive look at Monument Valley’s historical and cultural highlights, the 2.5-Hour Monument Valley Historical Sightseeing Tour by Jeep offers an immersive experience. Priced from $75 per person, this tour takes visitors on a 17-mile loop, including restricted backcountry areas, providing an enriched educational journey.
Along the way, guests can enjoy a demonstration in a traditional Navajo hogan and capture stunning photographs of the natural beauty.
With a maximum of 12 travelers and a 2-person minimum, the tour ensures an intimate experience. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who offer valuable insights into the region’s history and culture.
However, some reviewers note minor concerns about guide engagement and vehicle conditions. The tour’s 4.6-star rating from 67 reviews highlights its value for those seeking an immersive Monument Valley experience.
5 Hour Jeep Tour in Monument Valley
Travelers with limited time in Monument Valley can experience the park’s breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage through the 1.5-Hour Jeep Tour. This guided tour takes visitors on a 17-mile sightseeing route, showcasing iconic landmarks like John Ford’s Point, North Window Overlook, and the Three Sisters.
Along the way, knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history and traditions of the Navajo Nation.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers per group, ensuring a personalized experience. Travelers can choose between open-air Jeeps or enclosed flatbed trucks, depending on weather conditions.
With a 97% recommendation rate from previous visitors, the tour has earned a Badge of Excellence and boasts an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 32 reviews.
Priced from $65.00 per person, the tour includes water and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a convenient and flexible option for visitors to Monument Valley.
7 Hour Hunts Mesa Tour
The 7-Hour Hunts Mesa Tour immerses visitors in the awe-inspiring natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Monument Valley’s Mystery Valley. Guided by a local Navajo expert, the tour takes travelers on a 29-mile journey through the area, featuring a drive and hike to witness Anasazi ruins, petroglyphs, and pictographs.
Highlights include natural wonders like Skull Arch, Honey Moon Arch, and Lone Pine Arch, as well as archaeological sites such as Square House Ruins and House of Many Hands Ruins.
The tour is suitable for families, with a maximum of 12 travelers to ensure a personalized experience. Included in the tour are bottled water and the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park entrance fee. Hotel pick-up is available, and the tour concludes back at the meeting point on the Main Monument Valley Road.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness and is a kid-friendly activity.
Read our full review: 7 Hour Hunts Mesa Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Monument Valley Stargazing Tour
What better way to experience the otherworldly beauty of Monument Valley than under the glow of a thousand twinkling stars? The Monument Valley Stargazing Tour offers just that, a chance to learn about the captivating landscape after dark.
This tour boasts a 97% traveler recommendation, a Badge of Excellence, and an average rating of 4.9/5 from 37 reviews.
For just $95 per person, you’ll embark on a mesmerizing journey led by a knowledgeable local Navajo guide. Sip on refreshing bottled water as you’re transported from the View Hotel Lobby or the nearby KOA campground to the heart of this iconic destination.
The tour accommodates up to 15 travelers and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.
Guests rave about the expertise of guides Cheryl and Comie, who provide insights into Navajo culture and help capture breathtaking photographs, including the elusive Northern Lights.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour is a must-do for any Monument Valley adventure.
Read our full review: Monument Valley: Stargazing Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Blackwater Tours – Extended 2.5 Hour Tour – 2 Person Minimum
For those seeking a more immersive experience in Monument Valley, Blackwater Tours offers an extended 2.5-hour tour of the Navajo Tribal Park. Minimum two participants are required, and the small-group experience caps at six travelers.
The tour includes visits to popular filming locations and a traditional demo home showcasing Navajo craft making, allowing visitors to learn about the rich history and culture.
The tour meeting point is at the Monument Valley Visitor Center parking lot, 7 miles east of Highway 163. Travelers can contact the on-site tour coordinator, Perry, at (928) 429-1479 for assistance.
The $90 per person price includes bottled water and the Monument Valley Tribal entrance fee, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, a moderate fitness level is required.
With an overall rating of 4.0 based on 7 reviews, the Blackwater Tours extended experience provides a unique and immersive look into the stunning landscapes of Monument Valley.
Read our full review: Blackwater Tours – Extended 2.5 Hour Tour – 2 Person Minimum Review
Book now: Check availability
Monument Valley Loop Drive Tour
One of the most popular tour options in Monument Valley is the Monument Valley Loop Drive Tour. This tour offers visitors the chance to experience the iconic landscape by Jeep, with a knowledgeable Navajo guide sharing ancient legends along the way.
Travelers can choose between a shorter or longer drive, with the shorter tour visiting highlights like John Ford Point, Totem Pole, and North Window Overlook. The longer tour includes these sites plus additional stops at arches, Anasazi ruins, petroglyphs, and a Navajo rug-weaving demonstration.
The tour features comfortable Jeep transportation and a maximum group size of 12 travelers, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience. Visitors will also have the opportunity to see filming locations from popular movies like Transformers and Forrest Gump.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, it offers a unique and immersive way to explore the stunning landscapes of Monument Valley.
Read our full review: Monument Valley Loop Drive Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Monument Valley offers a variety of tours to suit visitors’ interests. From 4×4 adventures and scenic drives to sunrise, sunset, and stargazing experiences, there’s something for all. Visitors can explore the iconic buttes and mesas, learn about Navajo culture, and enjoy the breathtaking desert landscape. With so many options, travelers can easily find the perfect tour to make the most of their Monument Valley visit.