If you’re looking for a way to explore Utah’s bizarre, Mars-like terrain and sharpen your photography skills, this Bentonite Hills Drone/Photography Tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, scenery, and expert guidance. Billed as a 3-hour journey through some of the most striking geological formations near Hanksville, this tour has earned a perfect 5-star rating from those fortunate enough to experience it.
We’re drawn to how this tour combines off-road exploration with the chance to capture surreal vistas from the air and ground. The easy inclusion of drone video footage (available as an add-on) adds an extra dimension for those who love seeing their shots from above. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that reaching the best vantage points involves some climbing—about 50 to 100 feet—which might not suit everyone. Still, for those with a sense of adventure and a passion for photography, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially attractive for drone enthusiasts and curious travelers eager to see landscapes that seem pulled from another planet.
Who should consider this? If you’re someone who appreciates geological marvels, loves learning from knowledgeable guides, or wants to capture breathtaking images of rugged terrain, this experience could be a highlight of your Utah trip. It’s also a great choice for those who want a private, tailored adventure with flexible scheduling and the convenience of pickup and drop-off.
Key Points
- Unique landscapes: Experience the Martian-like Bentonite Hills, with vibrant reds and rugged formations.
- Expert-guided: Guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights into geology and the area’s secrets.
- Photo opportunities: Perfect for photographers and drone enthusiasts aiming for stunning vistas.
- Private group experience: Ensures personalized attention and a more intimate adventure.
- Convenient logistics: Pickup and drop-off included from popular nearby towns and along Highway 24.
- Value for the price: With 3 hours of off-road exploration, guided insight, and optional drone footage, it offers solid value for lovers of adventure and photography.
Exploring Utah’s Otherworldly Terrain: What To Expect
This tour takes you into the heart of the Bentonite Hills, a landscape that feels like walking on Mars. Located near NASA’s Mars research facility in Hanksville, these vivid red hills and strange geological formations make for unforgettable photos. The terrain’s rough, rocky trails are traversed in a comfortable SUV, but it’s the views from the cliffs and vantage points that truly blow visitors away.
The itinerary is straightforward but packed with visual highlights. You’ll meet your guides—fluent in English, Russian, and Italian—and get into a Black or White SUV marked with the Meridian logo. From there, participants are driven into the hills, where the exploration begins. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both informative and relaxed.
Since reaching the best viewpoints involves some climbing (about 50-100 feet), this tour is best suited for those with good mobility and a moderate fitness level. The climb is necessary to fully appreciate the patterns and colors that make this landscape so distinctive. If you’re mobility-impaired or over 60, this might not be the best fit for you, but for most adventurous travelers, it’s manageable.
Throughout the tour, you’ll have ample opportunities to capture vivid images—whether on your camera or drone. The guides encourage photography, and the scenery’s vivid reds contrasted with rugged browns create dramatic compositions. Many reviews mention how the guides share geological insights, adding depth to the visual experience.
You can also read our reviews of more photography tours in Hanksville Utah
What’s Included & What to Bring
Included in the tour are pickup and drop-off, transportation, a professional guide, and water. Plus, drone video footage is available as an add-on—a real treat for drone enthusiasts wanting to preserve their aerial shots.
Participants are advised to bring closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort on rocky terrain. Weather can influence the tour’s schedule or route, with the guides reserving the right to modify or reschedule based on real-time conditions.
The Journey in Detail
The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or specified location along Highway 24, making it super convenient, especially if you’re staying in Hanksville, Torrey, or Teasdale. The private group setting ensures personalized attention, and the three-hour duration gives you plenty of time to soak in the scenery and get those perfect shots.
After pickup, your guides will lead you into the Bentonite Hills, a landscape characterized by vibrant red hues and intricate geological patterns. The terrain is rugged but accessible with off-road capable vehicles. Once on-site, your guide will point out interesting features, helping you understand the geological processes that created this surreal environment.
The best vantage points are often climbable ridges or ledges—these provide sweeping views of the landscape, perfect for wide-angle shots and drone footage. Many travelers comment on how the guides share their knowledge, making the experience both educational and inspiring. Jessica, one reviewer, mentioned how her guide Jenny was “the best,” which highlights the importance of a friendly, experienced guide in making the outing memorable.
Throughout the journey, you’ll encounter stunning vistas that showcase vivid reds, browns, and rugged textures. These views are not only perfect for photography but also provide an authentic sense of the desert’s raw beauty. The landscape’s similarity to Martian terrain makes it a unique photo subject, especially if you’re interested in space-themed or science fiction imagery.
Drone & Photography Opportunities
The optional drone footage is a big draw—many visitors are eager to see their aerial shots of this alien landscape. The guides support drone use, provided you rent a DJI Mini 4 (also available to rent). This extra layer of perspective really elevates your experience, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the sweeping vistas.
Photographers will appreciate the diversity of angles and compositions available, from ground-level close-ups of geological formations to panoramic shots from the cliffs. Many reviews express excitement about seeing their drone footage, which they describe as a bonus that adds lasting value to the tour.
More Great Tours NearbyPricing & Value Analysis
At $210 per person, this tour presents a solid value, especially considering the expert guides, private group setting, transportation, and the opportunity to photograph landscapes that are hard to access on your own. The three-hour duration balances a thorough exploration without feeling rushed.
The included transportation makes this hassle-free, especially after a long drive or if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The option to add drone video footage is a nice extra, particularly for those keen on aerial photography or sharing their experience vividly with friends and family.
While the cost might seem high compared to a simple sightseeing drive, the value lies in the guided expertise, the access to hard-to-reach sites, and the photographic opportunities. Many travelers found it worthwhile, and the positive reviews confirm that guides make a difference in tailoring the experience and sharing their knowledge.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This adventure is ideal for photographers, drone enthusiasts, and curious explorers eager to see Utah’s otherworldly landscapes. It suits those who enjoy off-road adventures, are comfortable with some climbing, and value guided expertise.
Because of its private group format, it’s perfect for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a more intimate experience. If you’re over 60 or have mobility issues, this might not be suitable due to the climbing involved. Similarly, those without an interest in photography or geology might find the experience less engaging.
The Sum Up
This Bentonite Hills Drone/Photography Tour offers a rare opportunity to witness Utah’s alien-looking terrain with the added thrill of off-road driving and aerial photography. The landscape’s vivid reds and striking geological formations make it a must-see for anyone wanting to capture images that look like they belong on Mars. The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor turn a scenic drive into an educational adventure, making it well worth the investment.
For travelers who love adventure, photography, and learning, this tour delivers a balanced mix of excitement and insight. It’s especially suitable for those seeking a personalized, private experience that connects them with Utah’s most surreal landscapes. Prepare for some climbing, bring your camera, and get ready for an experience that will leave you feeling inspired and in awe.
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, with transportation in a Black or White SUV marked with Meridian.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.
Can I rent a drone for the tour?
Yes, drone rental is available, and drone footage can be added as an extra.
What should I bring?
Bring closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort on rocky terrain.
Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, due to the climbing involved to reach vantage points, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.
Are there flexible scheduling options?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this tour private?
Yes, it operates as a private group, ensuring a personalized experience.
What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Russian, and Italian.
What happens in case of bad weather?
The guides may modify, reschedule, or cancel the tour if weather conditions are unsafe, at their discretion.
In essence, this tour turns Utah’s most surreal landscapes into a photo lover’s paradise with the added bonus of expert guidance and optional drone footage. It’s a fantastic way to combine adventure, education, and photography in one memorable trip.
You can check availability for your dates here: