Antelope Canyon should be on EVERYONE’S bucket list! This not-so-hidden (anymore) gem is in Page, Arizona, located two hours south of Zion and a little over four hours north of Phoenix. From the outside, it doesn’t look like a lot, but don’t let the rolling hills of the desert fool you; it’s a natural masterpiece. Here are six things to know before hiking Antelope Canyon. 

Do You Need Reservations?

Yes!

These slot canyons require reservations! Also, they require you to book them well in advance. 

Since they are located on Navajo land, you must have a tour guide to go. 

You must book the upper and lower canyon separately because they are a ways away from each other and on opposite sides of the road.

What Time Of The Day Is Best?

It depends.

If you want to see blues, pinks, and purples, make your reservation early in the morning or mid-morning when the sun is not at its highest. 

If you want to see warm colors like bright oranges, yellows, and reds, book a slot for the afternoon when the sun is shining bright! 

*If there is any chance of rain, the guides will cancel because flash floods are hazardous, and you can die* 

What Items Do You Need To Bring?

I’m unsure if these strict rules are in place due to keeping the area free from litter and/or limiting people from distractions since there are stairs and places you can trip or a mix of both.

You can only bring a bottle of water, your car keys, yourself, a camera (You can NOT bring a go pro or tripod), a phone, and some sunglasses. 

I think a small bag is ok if it’s clear and you can see through it. 

I tried to bring in a black dust cover to go over my expensive camera, and they said it looked too much like a bag.

If I wanted to proceed, I had to either throw it away or take it back to my car. 

In the past, I had a clear weather cover I bought from Amazon and could take that in with no problems.

*All items you can take and those that you can’t are sent in an email once you complete your booking*

Can You Drive To The Canyons?

No, you can’t.

The fourth topic on my list of six things to know before hiking Antelope Canyon is the methods of transport to and from the canyon. 

For the Lower Canyon, a parking lot is provided at the registration area where a tour guide will meet the group.

For the upper canyon only, some tour companies take you to the entrance in an enclosed van, and other companies take you in the back of a truck. 

I have had experiences in each situation, and both were good! 

So, don’t let the looks of the vehicle getting you there let you down; it is very temporary. 

How Far Will You Have To Walk?

A few miles total.

Please wear closed-toe shoes that have a heel!  

Each canyon is about a mile long and is sandy and dusty; there are steep ladders and narrow places where you can trip.

I’m not saying don’t bring your newborn or 100-year-old grandma, but I wouldn’t recommend it. 

Tour Guides

Y’all, these people are awesome!

The four tour guides I have had the absolute pleasure of meeting were incredibly knowledgeable about the land and history of the canyons and the beautiful land surrounding them. 

They will tell everyone what settings your phone AND a professional camera need to be on for the best shots.

They also will take pictures for you if you want and know the best places to take photos of you.

Guys, they seriously know all the secrets and willingly share them.

Also, I know tipping in other cultures isn’t customary, but it is in the U.S. 

Please tip these wonderful humans! 

If these pictures don’t convince you to go, I don’t know what will. The upper and lower canyons are breathtaking at any time of the day, any time of the year. I have had great experiences with different companies and tour guides. Just remember to plan and book your trip early because the time slots get filled up fast! I hope you enjoyed my list of six things to know before hiking Antelope Canyon! Leave some comments below!