Upper Antelope Canyon Admission Ticket (AACT)

If you’ve ever dreamed of walking through a slot canyon that looks like it belongs on another planet, then the Upper Antelope Canyon guided tour might be just what you’re after. This experience is often called the “8th Wonder of the World” by those fortunate enough to see it in person, and for good reason. Its swirling sandstone walls, dramatic light beams, and photogenic formations make it an unforgettable stop in Arizona’s desert landscape.

We love how this tour combines jaw-dropping scenery with straightforward accessibility, making it suitable for most travelers. The way the canyon filters sunlight into vibrant beams—especially in the right season—is truly magical. Plus, the short hike on top of the canyon provides a different vantage point, letting you appreciate its natural sculpting from above. One thing to keep in mind: the tour is quite structured, with a fixed itinerary and a non-refundable policy, so plan your timing carefully. This tour suits travelers who value iconic sights, photography enthusiasts, and those looking for an easy yet awe-inspiring adventure.

Key Points

• Breathtaking scenery with vivid light beams and sculpted sandstone
• Accessible for most, with flat, sandy floors and manageable stairs
• Guided experience ensures you see the best photo spots with local Navajo guides
• Timing and weather are important for optimal light and safety
• Good value for a one-hour-plus guided experience in such a famous location
• Non-refundable policy requires careful planning but provides confidence in weather conditions

What Is the Upper Antelope Canyon Tour?

This tour offers a fully guided experience through one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world. Located in Page, Arizona, the Upper Antelope Canyon is famous for its narrow passages and dramatic beams of sunlight that break through the top, creating a surreal light show. The tour, priced at $139 per person, lasts approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, including walking, photo stops, and a scenic hike over the canyon’s top.

What sets this apart from other canyon tours is its focus on accessibility and photography. The canyon has a flat, sandy floor, making it easy for most visitors to navigate. Your guide will lead you to all the prime photo spots—think wave-like formations, narrow corridors, and the legendary light beams that make photographers swoon. The Navajo guide service also includes an $8 Navajo Nation permit fee, which supports the local community and their ongoing stewardship of the land.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins at a designated meeting point on Highway 98, just outside Page. Once you gather with your group (typically up to 99 people), a Navajo guide will lead you into the canyon. This initial part is a walk into a natural cathedral of swirling sandstone, where the walls rise high above your head.

The real highlight is the light beams—if your timing aligns with the season and time of day, you’ll witness sun rays piercing deep into the canyon, illuminating the walls in golden, pink, and orange hues. The guide will take you to the most famous photo spots, but be prepared for the crowds—these moments are popular for a reason.

After about 40-50 minutes inside, the group exits the canyon for a scenic 15-minute hike over the top, which involves ascending 21 steps and descending 112 steps. This upper trek offers a chance to see the canyon from above and soak in the expansive desert views. It’s a gentle climb, but travelers should have moderate physical fitness and be comfortable navigating stairs.

The Experience Inside the Canyon

Walking through Upper Antelope Canyon feels like stepping into a fluid sculpture made of stone. The smooth, wave-like walls are shaped by water over thousands of years, and their textures and colors shift with the changing light and season. Many visitors describe it as a photo paradise, with specific spots designed to amplify the natural beauty.

Photographers find this tour especially rewarding, with guides often showing the best angles for capturing the famous sunbeams or the narrow, winding corridors. As one reviewer noted, the views are “stunning,” and the experience “feels like being in an otherworldly cathedral.”

However, the popularity of the canyon means it can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. Our recommendation is to try to book early or during less busy times for a more relaxed experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to see an iconic natural wonder with minimal physical effort. It’s suitable for most visitors, provided they can handle a moderate physical level and are comfortable with stairs and uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or those who dislike crowds.

Keep in mind, the cost of $139 might seem high for just over an hour of activity, but when you consider the location’s fame and the guide’s expertise in pointing out the best photo spots, many find it worthwhile. The tour’s inclusion of the Navajo permit fee also provides a bit of cultural context and support.

Practical Tips for Enjoying the Tour

• Book in advance: The tour is popular and sells out, especially during peak season.
• Timing matters: The best light beams typically occur in the late morning to early afternoon, so plan accordingly.
• Dress comfortably: The walk is on sand and involves stairs—wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing.
• Bring a camera: A smartphone with a good camera or a DSLR will help you capture the stunning views.
• Weather considerations: The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Non-Refundable Policy and Weather Cancellations

Since this is a non-refundable experience, it’s crucial to confirm your schedule and weather forecast beforehand. The tour provider, National Park Express, states that if the tour is canceled because of bad weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. This policy underscores the importance of planning ahead but also offers peace of mind regarding weather-related cancellations.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those seeking a visual feast, the Upper Antelope Canyon tour offers some of the most striking scenery you’ll ever see in a slot canyon. Its accessibility, guided commentary, and breathtaking photo opportunities make it a standout experience. While it’s on the pricier side, the quality of the sights and the professional guidance provide solid value.

This experience suits travelers who want a short, impactful visit to a natural wonder, especially if photography is a priority. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy scenic hikes and are interested in Navajo culture through the permit fee. If you’re after a more rugged or less crowded experience, other tours like the Lower Antelope Canyon might appeal more, but the Upper Canyon remains the most famous for its light beams and broad, spacious passages.

The Upper Antelope Canyon tour offers a captivating glimpse into one of the Southwest’s most iconic landscapes. Its striking light beams, sculpted sandstone walls, and accessible pathways make it a must-see for many travelers. With a knowledgeable Navajo guide leading the way, you’ll see the canyon in the best light—literally—and gain a memorable experience that feels both natural and spiritual.

While the cost might seem high for a short tour, the stunning visuals and cultural significance justify the price for many visitors. It’s especially suited for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those who want to tick off an incredible natural wonder from their bucket list.

If you’re prepared for the crowds and weather-dependent timing, this tour promises a spectacular journey into the heart of the desert’s artistic masterpiece. Be sure to book early, dress comfortably, and bring your camera—this is a scene you’ll want to remember forever.

How long is the Upper Antelope Canyon tour?
The guided tour lasts approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, including walking, photography stops, and the scenic hike over the top of the canyon.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the guided tour, local Navajo guide service, and the Navajo Nation permit fee of $8 per person. It does not include personal expenses or guide gratuities.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most visitors with moderate physical fitness can enjoy it. However, those uncomfortable with stairs or uneven terrain may find it challenging, as the hike involves some climbing on stairs and navigating sandy paths.

Can I see the famous sunbeams?
Yes, but it depends on the season and time of day. The best light beams are usually visible in the late morning to early afternoon, so plan your visit accordingly.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes suitable for walking on sand and stairs are recommended. Dress appropriately for the weather, as the canyon can be hot or cool depending on the season.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour provider states that poor weather may lead to cancellations. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour non-refundable?
Yes, the ticket is non-refundable. It’s important to confirm your plans and check the weather forecast beforehand to avoid losing your purchase.

This comprehensive look at the Upper Antelope Canyon tour aims to help you decide if this iconic experience belongs on your travel itinerary. With its stunning views, accessible pathways, and expert guides, it offers a memorable glimpse of one of the Southwest’s most photogenic landscapes.