Antelope Canyon is a narrow gorge through which the daylight rolls in soft, flowing shapes. The sandstone has been ground by water over thousands of years and looks like frozen waves. It is one of the most photographed places in the world, and there is a reason for that.
Only with a Navajo guide
The canyon lies on the land of the Navajo, and you may enter it only with one of their guided tours. Going in on your own is not possible. That protects the fragile place, and the guides tell their stories along the way.
Upper or Lower
There are two famous parts. The Upper Antelope Canyon is at ground level, easier to walk and known for the vertical light beams around midday. The Lower Antelope Canyon is narrower, involves stairs and ladders, is usually cheaper and quieter.
The light beams
When the sun stands high at midday in summer, the light beams fall vertically through the openings above into the gorge. That is the moment most people come for. It takes the right season and the right time of day.
Book early
The tours are often booked out weeks in advance, especially in summer. It rarely works spontaneously. Plan it firmly into your route.
