Mystery Valley & Monument Valley All Day Tour

Exploring the Mysteries and Majesties of Monument Valley with a Guided All-Day Tour

Our review covers an experience that promises to take you beyond the typical postcard shots—the Mystery Valley & Monument Valley All Day Tour. Designed for those eager to see the iconic rock formations and explore hidden corners, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of must-see sights and off-the-beaten-path adventures. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the overwhelmingly positive reviews, detailed itinerary, and expert guide commentary suggest this is a compelling choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive Navajo-owned experience.

What we love about this tour? First, the inclusion of Mystery Valley, a less-visited area filled with ancient ruins and rock art that truly adds an element of discovery. Second, the knowledgeable guides who deepen the experience with storytelling and local insights. The only thing to consider? The tour can be dusty, especially in the bus, and it involves some walking over rough terrain—so packing a bandana or hat is wise. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a full day of sightseeing, culture, and are comfortable with moderate physical activity.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Covers the main 17-mile Monument Valley loop plus backcountry stops and Mystery Valley.
• Cultural Insight: Provides access to Navajo history, ruins, and rock art, offering a richer understanding of the landscape.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Henry impress visitors with friendly attitude and local knowledge.
• Value for Money: At $180, it includes both the scenic drive and admission tickets, along with a hearty BBQ lunch.
• Ideal for Moderate Fitness: Some walking over uneven terrain required, so it’s a good fit for those with decent mobility.
• Limited Group Size: Max 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

A Deep Dive into the Monument Valley & Mystery Valley Experience

The journey begins early at Goulding’s Trading Post, a well-known lodge with a storied history in the area. Starting at 9:00 am, your group will head into the landscape for a full 8-hour immersion. It’s worth noting that the tour includes admission tickets to both Mystery Valley and the Navajo Tribal Park, which simplifies planning since those costs are covered upfront.

Mystery Valley: An Unseen World of Anasazi Ruins

Your first stop is Mystery Valley, a site that’s less crowded but packed with significance. Here, you’ll explore rock formations and ruins left behind by the Anasazi, ancient peoples who once thrived in the area. The reviews describe it as “awe-inspiring” and a highlight for those wanting something more than just the classic vistas. This area isn’t accessible from the main highway, which makes it a special window into local history and culture that you otherwise wouldn’t see.

Expect to spend about five hours immersed in Mystery Valley’s corridors and rock art. Your guide will explain how these formations tell stories of past peoples, adding context that makes the scenery come alive. Keep in mind, the terrain may be uneven, so a reasonable level of mobility is needed to fully enjoy it.

Lunch Break with a Local Touch

After exploring Mystery Valley, you’ll stop for a barbecued lunch cooked by your guide—an authentic touch that enhances the experience. The outdoor setting and freshly prepared food are often praised, turning the midday break into a memorable part of the day.

Monument Valley: Icons and Overlooks

Post lunch, your journey continues into the famous Monument Valley Tribal Park. This segment lasts about three hours and includes stops at The East and West Mittens, John Ford’s Point, and the Three Sisters viewpoints, among others. These images are etched in the collective consciousness, and seeing them in person is a different experience altogether. The guide will point out details you might miss on your own, such as the geological features that give these formations their distinctive shapes.

Some reviews note dust from other tours as a minor drawback—“It’s very dusty on the Monument Valley tour due to other travelers,” one reviewer shared. But the views remain breathtaking, and the large-format scenery is impossible not to appreciate.

Backcountry Stops for a Deeper Look

What sets this tour apart is its access to restricted backcountry sites like The Suns Eye and Ear of the Wind. These stops are often off-limits to casual visitors, so this is a real perk. You’ll get a closer look at formations that are usually hidden from the main roads, providing a sense of exclusivity and discovery.

The tour also includes a visit to Artists Point and North Window, where the landscape’s variety becomes evident—from towering formations to delicate arches, each shot promising an iconic photo.

Hidden Valley and the Hogan

In the later part of the day, you’ll explore Hidden Valley—home to some of the most recognizable formations—and visit a traditional Hogan, giving you insight into Navajo culture. This contextual layer enriches what might otherwise be just a sightseeing trip, making it meaningful as well as photogenic.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour operates daily starting at 9:00 am, with pickup and ending back at Goulding’s. With a maximum group size of 20, expect a friendly, intimate atmosphere, perfect for asking questions and connecting with your guide. The tour lasts about 8 hours, so prepare for a full day of adventure.

The comfortable seating and moderate walking requirements make it accessible for most travelers in reasonable shape. The cost of $180 per person covers admission tickets, lunch, and expert guiding—an all-in-one package that reduces hassle and surprises.

Weather can impact the trip; if poor weather cancels the tour, you’re offered a full refund or the chance to reschedule. Given the dusty conditions mentioned by some travelers, packing a hat, sunglasses, or a bandana might improve comfort.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback from Travelers

The reviews echo what we anticipated: “Henry was very friendly and knowledgeable,” and many find the guided commentary adds depth and personality to the trip. Several travelers mention the fabulous views and the value of seeing hidden backcountry sites. Some noted the dustiness as a minor inconvenience but still felt the overall experience was worth it.

A review from a traveler who appreciated the personable guide pointed out that the guide took the time to ensure everyone understood what they were seeing, which is often a mark of a good tour.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour offers a well-rounded experience for those eager to see the classic monumental vistas while also exploring less-visited hidden sites. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, guided day that balances sightseeing with cultural education. The inclusion of Mystery Valley makes it stand out from simpler scenic drives, offering a sense of discovery.

If you’re okay with some walking over uneven ground and enjoy learning about the local Navajo culture, this tour provides impressive value. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a personal journey, and the full day means you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Monument Valley’s natural beauty and cultural significance.

Overall, if your goal is to see the iconic sights with expert narration and enjoy a mix of popular and secret spots, this tour is a smart choice. It’s a full, enriching day that balances scenery, culture, and comfort—an experience that’s hard to beat at this price point.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point in the evening.

What is included in the price?
The $180 fee covers admission tickets to Mystery Valley and Monument Valley, a hearty BBQ lunch, and guided commentary.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking over uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Children with good mobility may enjoy it, but check individual needs.

Are the viewpoints accessible by bus?
Yes, the main viewpoints are reached by vehicle, but some backcountry stops may require short walks or moderate hiking.

What should I bring?
Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and possibly a bandana or face covering for dust. Comfortable shoes and water are also recommended.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour can be canceled due to bad weather, in which case you’ll be offered a full refund or the chance to reschedule.

This guided adventure offers genuine, memorable sights in a landscape that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat explorer, it delivers a meaningful peek into the heart of Navajo country, packed with iconic views and surprising secrets.