Tickets for Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is one of the most stunning geological formations in the southwest. Once a hidden gem, the canyon is now incredibly popular with people coming from around the world to see its beautiful colors and rock formations. However, unlike many natural wonders, you cannot just walk into Antelope Canyon. Instead, you have to have a ticket. Let’s take a more in-depth look at this beautiful place and how to get tickets for Antelope Canyon.
What Is Antelope Canyon?
Located in the Navajo Nation near Page, Arizona, Antelope Canyon is a sandstone slot canyon. Slot canyons are incredibly narrow canyons that are cut deep into softer types of rocks. They can be found throughout the southwest where hundreds of them abound. However, Antelope Canyon is by far the most famous slot canyon in the world for its beautiful colors, relatively easy access, and natural beauty. It is also a bit deceptive. You can stand near the top of some areas without even realizing the canyon is there.
Antelope Canyon was known by the Navajo as “the place where water runs through rocks.” Thus, it is not surprising to learn that it was formed by rainfall over the course of hundreds of years. The rain gradually cut away at the sandstone, forming a canyon that is 120 feet tall in places. Even today, rain can lead to water cascading rapidly through the canyon, continuing to carve it deeper.
Why Is Antelope Canyon Famous?
Antelope Canyon is famous for the beautiful photographs that have been taken here over the years. Photographers flock to this location for the perfect photo. Photos of the geologic wonder have been seen in magazines like National Geographic as well as on wallpaper for Windows computers. Even if you’ve never been to Antelope Canyon, you have probably seen it. In fact, a photo from the canyon once sold for $6.5 million.
Antelope Canyon got its name from the herds of antelope that once grazed in this area many years ago. Occasionally, an antelope would venture too close and fall into the canyon, trapping it – hence the name. Antelope Canyon actually consists of two different canyons – Upper Antelope Canyon and lower Antelope Canyon. Tickets for Antelope Canyon can be purchased for either of the two canyons.
Which Canyon Should I Visit?
Each canyon has its distinct features. Upper Antelope Canyon is known for the beams of light that penetrate it. It is shaped like an inverted V, narrow at the top and broader at the bottom. This means that when the sun is positioned directly above the canyon, light beams will shine into the canyon floor, making great opportunities for photos. Because of this particular effect, this is the more popular canyon for professional photographers. Although it is important to note that these beams can only be seen in just the right conditions.
Lower Antelope Canyon was the first portion of Antelope Canyon discovered, making it the original. In my opinion, it is also the better one to visit by far. It has a V-shape, meaning that it is very narrow at the bottom and wider at the top. This allows for maximum sunlight, revealing beautiful striated colors in the rock. Lower Antelope Canyon also has a number of famous formations such as the Shark, the Old Lady, and the Seal. A final benefit of Lower Antelope Canyon is that it is less popular, meaning you typically have more time to explore and can frequently get photos without others standing in them.
Both are amazing, so it really doesn't matter which Antelope slot canyon tour you choose. If we had to choose the best Antelope Canyon Tour, we would go with the Lower Antelope Canyon Tour offered by Ken's tours. It is truly amazing.
Why Do I Need Tickets for Antelope Canyon?
Antelope Canyon is a sacred site for the Navajo Nation. Thus, no one is allowed to enter the canyon unless they are accompanied by a Navajo guide as entering the canyon is viewed as a spiritual act. In fact, the canyon is blessed periodically in order to give thanks to the elements that continue to form it.
Admission is also needed in order to ensure that this landmark is preserved and appropriately enjoyed by all. As the canyon has become incredibly popular, limited tickets prevent too much traffic from damaging it while also controlling the number of visitors so that those who attend can get the full experience. A major benefit of this process is that the tours provided by your Navajo guide are very interesting, helping you see every aspect and truly get the most out of your experience. Making an Antelope Canyon reservation is the most important part of your trip, you can't see this amazing slot canyon without one. Book very early to secure your spot.
How Do I Get Tickets for Antelope Canyon?
Tickets operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors must book with a certified Navajo tour group. There are currently five groups that provide tours for Upper Antelope Canyon and two groups that provide tours for Lower Antelope Canyon. Booking in advance is essential particularly during the busiest times of year.
In addition to booking directly with a tour provider, you can get tickets for Antelope Canyon by booking a tour with Max Tour. We partner with Ken’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tours to ensure that our guests have the best possible Antelope Canyon experience. Whether you just want to visit the canyon or would prefer to do a larger tour that pairs the canyon with other things like the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, or Monument Valley, we have the perfect tour for you.
