Can You Go to Antelope Canyon Without a Tour in 2024?
TRYING TO FIGURE OUT IF YOU CAN GO TO ANTELOPE CANYON WITHOUT A TOUR?
We’ve got all the info you need. We’ve been traveling together since 2010 and have toured Antelope Canyon many different times. We have visited both Canyon X and Lower Antelope Canyon.
One common inquiry is whether it’s possible to explore Antelope Canyon without being part of a guided tour. We are here to answer everything you need to know about touring Antelope Canyon and if you can go through without a tour.
Antelope Canyon, nestled in the American Southwest within Northern Arizona, is a mesmerizing slot canyon carved out by the erosive forces of the Little Colorado River over countless millennia. This natural marvel is segmented into three primary areas: the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons, along with Canyon X.
Our experiences at Antelope Canyon have been nothing short of extraordinary, with its breathtaking beauty making it a must-visit destination. The canyon’s unique and captivating landscape offers an unforgettable adventure.
Whether you’re planning a brief day visit or an extended stay in the vicinity of Page, your journey through Antelope Canyon is going to be a memorable part of your vacation to the Southwest.
Can You Go to Antelope Canyon Without a Tour
Antelope Canyon sits within the confines of the Navajo Nation, a protected area belonging to the Navajo people. Due to its status, self-guided tours are not permitted within Antelope Canyon. Visitors are required to navigate the canyon accompanied by an authorized tour guide and cannot explore it independently.
Therefore, is it possible to visit Antelope Canyon without joining a tour? The straightforward answer is no.
To explore this natural wonder, you must arrange your visit through accredited tour operators.
Antelope Canyon Tours
Antelope Canyon is divided into three distinct sections available for tours: Upper, Lower, and Canyon X. Each tour is exclusive to a specific area of the canyon, meaning that if you wish to explore various sections, booking separate tours for each is necessary.
Our experiences at Antelope Canyon have been truly amazing. Its stunning beauty makes it a highly recommended destination if you are going to be nearby. The canyon’s unique and mesmerizing appearance is something you won’t want to miss.
It is best to make your reservation ahead of time, especially if you are visiting during peak season. Typically the busiest times for the canyon are around November around Thanksgiving, the month of December through New Years, and March.
Tour companies can book out well in advance, especially if you are visiting Upper Antelope Canyon.
Upper Antelope Canyon
Upper Antelope Canyon stands as the most visited but tours here are the priciest compared to the other sections of the canyon. This part of the canyon is accessible at ground level and features a gentle incline of less than 2%.
For photography enthusiasts, Upper Antelope Canyon offers the most photogenic scenes, especially renowned for its light beams. These beams of light become visible starting in March and continue to illuminate the canyon beautifully throughout the summer, marking it the ideal period for a visit.
Additionally, for those facing challenges with mobility, Upper Antelope Canyon is the most accommodating section. It is the simplest portion to enter and navigate, making it highly suitable for visitors with such considerations.
➡ BOOK Upper Antelope Canyon Tour
Lower Antelope Canyon
Lower Antelope Canyon is a really fun canyon to tour but there are lots of really steep staircases in the canyon. You will have to go up and down multiple flights of stairs. My twins first went through the Lower Canyon when they were three and navigated it fine with a little assistance.
The staircases were a lot of fun and added some adventure to our tour. We did help our younger kids with the stairs because they were so steep.
Tours of Lower Antelope Slot Canyon also tend to be more affordable compared to those for Upper Antelope Canyon. While it wouldn’t be accurate to describe a visit to the lower canyon as cheap, opting for this part does offer an opportunity to save some money.
➡ BOOK Lower Antelope Canyon Tour
Canyon X
Canyon X is the least busy section of Antelope Canyon but still has the beautifully shaped sandstone formations you will find in the other two sections. The best part of Canyon X is that it isn’t nearly as busy, and you don’t have to make your reservations as early.
If you are making last-minute reservations and have found the upper and lower sections are sold out, book a tour for Canyon X. You will have way fewer people on your tour, which makes for a very nice experience going through the slot canyon.
During our last visit to Antelope Canyon, we went on a tour of Canyon X and had a great time. We had plenty of time to take all of the pictures that we wanted which was not the case during our Lower Antelope Canyon tour.
The only thing we didn’t love about Canyon X was that there are two out and back sections to the tour rather than a continuous walk through the canyon like the Lower Canyon tours.
Tips for Visiting
✔ You cannot bring any sort of backpack or fanny pack into the canyon. You can only take a small, clear bag into Lower Antelope Canyon.
✔ We were able to bring a soft baby carrier for our infant. The carrier must be a front carrier.
✔ Food and drinks are not allowed in. You can bring a small water bottle. If you are touring the lower part of the canyon, you will want to bring a clear bag to store your water in when you go up and down the ladders.
✔ You cannot bring a tripod, monopod, or selfie sticks into Antelope Canyon unless you are on a photography tour. You are also not allowed to bring large cameras or take videos.
✔ The tours operate on Arizona Standard Time. If you come from southern Utah or Las Vegas, keep the time change in mind during your Southwest roadtrip. The tours use the same time as Page, Phoenix, Grand Canyon National Park, and Las Vegas.
➡ BOOK Upper Antelope Canyon Tour
➡ BOOK Lower Antelope Canyon Tour
➡ BOOK Canyon X Tour
Weather in Antelope Canyon
Weather in Antelope Canyon varies widely throughout the year. Although snow is rare in Antelope Canyon, it is possible during the winter months. During the colder months, like January, you can expect freezing temperatures overnight with highs in the 40s.
During the summer months, you can expect warm temperatures. Make sure you are prepared with lots of water and adequate sun protection. Highs during the summer hover between 90 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit.
Average Temperatures in Antelope Canyon
What are the hottest months in Page? July-August, with an average high of about 90°F
What are the coldest months in Page? December-January
Sunshine in Antelope Canyon by Month
With the exception of July and August, you can expect mostly sunny weather in Antelope Canyon. Even in July and August, there are about 16 to 17 sunny days per month.
Best Time to Visit Antelope Canyon
The best time of year to visit Antelope Canyon is during the spring and summer months. This is when you will see the light beams in Upper Antelope Canyon and possibly in Lower Antelope Canyon. The light beams are most visible from March through July.
We did go through Lower Antelope Canyon in late-October and did see a light beam during our tour.
Additionally, it’s important to be aware that Antelope Canyon is susceptible to flash floods during the monsoon season, spanning from July to September. They are rare but can occur.
Before embarking on a tour, it’s advisable to verify the weather conditions and inquire about any potential cancellations due to recent heavy rains.
Nearby Hotels in Page
The closest place to stay to Antelope Canyon is in Page, Arizona. Page is a small town but has some great options for where to stay.
Under Canvas Page – Grand Staircase
⭐ Rating 9/10 | 📍 Location: 555 S Jacobs Tanks Rd, Big Water, UT | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
One of the most distinctive accommodation options in Page, AZ, is Under Canvas. This establishment boasts a collection of private canvas tents set against the stunning backdrop of the Utah desert.
Offering a luxurious camping (glamping) experience, these tents provide a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and comfort, all within a convenient drive to Page’s attractions.
Amazing and helpful staff, great customer service mindset, and awesome atmosphere overall. Highly recommended for a unique weekend getaway. Great hiking within a short drive!
– Scott (Read More reviews)
Guests can select from various tent options, such as the stargazer tents, suites with additional tents for children, and deluxe tents. Each tent is equipped with a private bathroom, plush beds, fireplaces, and fans, ensuring a comfortable stay. Visitors can also relish the magnificent views from their own furnished balcony.
Situated roughly 25 minutes north of Page, just across the Utah-Arizona border, Under Canvas is an ideal base for exploring the area’s natural beauty.
▶ Check Rates & Book: Under Canvas
Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell
⭐ Rating 9.2/10 | 📍 Location: 1126 North Navajo Drive, Page, AZ | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
The Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell is a great place to stay if you’re planning to visit Antelope Canyon. Page Hyatt Place Lake Powell is regarded as one of the most luxurious and modern hotels near Antelope Canyon.
Choosing to stay at this hotel offers unparalleled convenience for visitors heading to Lower Antelope Canyon, as it’s merely 6 miles away. It also boasts proximity to Lake Powell, situated just 7 miles away.
Great hotel and convenient to Page area activities. Great breakfast and bar/restaurant very nice and convenient. I appreciate the staff, very friendly and polite, they seem to do a very good job.
– Julie (read more reviews)
The hotel features amenities such as a fitness center, swimming pool, restaurant, and generously sized rooms. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, a hit, especially with children.
Moreover, certain rooms offer window views that capture the breathtaking rock formations of Arizona.
Hyatt Place provides a selection of room types, including king, deluxe, and standard options, catering to various preferences and needs. To secure a spot, especially during high-demand seasons, early booking is recommended, as the hotel often reaches full capacity.
▶ Check Rates & Book: Hyatt Place Here
Comfort Inn & Suites Page at Lake Powell
⭐ Rating 8.8/10 | 📍 890 Haul Rd, Page, AZ | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Situated alongside the Colorado River, this hotel offers a serene escape from the bustling pace of daily life. It’s conveniently located near a variety of outdoor activities, such as biking and hiking.
Comfort Inn & Suites presents a more affordable and simpler alternative to other hotels. It stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking budget-friendly accommodations near Horseshoe Bend.
We enjoyed our stay. The rooms are clean and quiet. My kids enjoyed the pool, and the breakfast was great!
– April (read more reviews)
The rooms are tastefully decorated, with prices fluctuating depending on the type of room selected and the booking season.
Guests can enjoy the use of a hot tub and an indoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day filled with hiking or exploring Arizona’s attractions. Additionally, the hotel provides access to high-speed internet, a fitness center, and superior room service.
Comfort Inn & Suites is a favored option among both solo travelers and families visiting Page. Its appealing price point and pool facilities make it particularly popular with families. Our children believe that a hotel stay featuring a pool and complimentary breakfast is the highlight of our vacation.
▶ Check Rates & Book: Comfort Inn & Suites
FAQ: Can You Go To Antelope Canyon Without a Tour
There are no self-guided tour options at Antelope Canyon in Page Arizona. You cannot go to Antelope Canyon without a tour. The Antelope Canyon Navajo tours are very easy to book but it is recommended to make your reservations with the tour company ahead of time.
It is required to book a tour to go through Lower Antelope Canyon. The Antelope Canyon Lower tour lasts one to two hours and is a great opportunity to see this amazing slot canyon. You cannot go through Lower Antelope Canyon without a guide.
You do need to reserve tickets to see Antelope Canyon. There are Antelope Canyon tours from Page, Arizona, or you can meet your guides at the Navajo Tribal Park. The tour company will have the Antelope Canyon permit that you need. Tickets for tours are usually available during the Antelope Canyon opening hours from about 9:00 am to 3:30 pm.
Antelope Canyon is open to the public; however, you cannot walk through the canyon on your own. Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon tours are available to take visitors through the canyon with an authorized Navajo guide.
You do have to pay to go through Antelope Canyon. You have to have a ticket to go through the canyon. The Antelope Canyon entrance fee will vary depending on the section of the canyon you are going through. Upper Antelope Canyon tours are the most expensive, and Canyon X tours are the most affordable.
Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are about four hours north of Phoenix and about 276 miles. The driving distance from Horseshoe Bend to Antelope Canyon is about 10 minutes.
Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are close to the small town of Page, which sits on the Utah-Arizona border.
The cost for a tour guide at Antelope Canyon depends on the section of the canyon you are touring, ranging from $65 to $125. The price for Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon tickets can be significant. Lower Antelope Canyon and Canyon X tickets will be less expensive than tickets to Upper Antelope Canyon.
Antelope Canyon tours vary in length but are typically 1-2 hours long.
Conclusion: Can You Go to Antelope Canyon Without a Tour
We hope this guide has given you an idea of how to visit Antelope Canyon. It is such an amazing and photogenic place to visit and well worth taking the time to see. We always have such a great time when we go through the canyon.
➡ BOOK Upper Antelope Canyon Tour
➡ BOOK Lower Antelope Canyon Tour
➡ BOOK Canyon X Tour
Although you have to book the Navajo tour because you are not able to go to Antelope Canyon without a tour group, it is still worth it to go through the canyon. It is so beautiful and something that is well worth seeing at least once.
We have loved visiting Antelope Canyon on multiple occasions and always have a great time admiring this natural wonder with its amazing sandstone walls.
