Why Is Upper Antelope Canyon More Expensive?

Are you dreaming of a trip to the iconic Antelope Canyon? If so, you might be debating between which of the two sections — Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon — you should visit.

While both are breathtaking, one immediate difference is that Upper Antelope Canyon tends to be pricier. What's up with that? Why is Upper Antelope Canyon more expensive? Factors like accessibility, lighting, and capacity all come into play.

Let's dive deeper into the reasons why Upper Antelope Canyon is more expensive and explore what makes it a must-visit destination!

Accessibility

One of the main factors contributing to the price difference is accessibility. Upper Antelope Canyon is physically easier to explore than Lower Antelope Canyon, making it the preferred choice for many visitors, especially those with limited mobility. 

Unlike Lower Antelope Canyon, which requires navigating narrow and steep stairs, Upper Antelope Canyon allows tourists to enter at ground level on a flat, sandy path, making it more accommodating for a wider range of travelers.

Light Beams and Time of Day

The famous light beams that illuminate the narrow passageways of Antelope Canyon are another reason for the price difference. The sunlight on sandstone creates breathtaking scenes that every photographer and nature enthusiast craves to capture. Fun fact: Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed places in the world!

Related Reading: Antelope Canyon Tour from Las Vegas 

These enchanting beams are more visible and frequent in Upper Antelope Canyon during specific times. The best time of year to witness these incredible light beams is during the summer months. As for the time of day, your best bet is between late morning and early afternoon.

Tours scheduled during these peak times are in high demand, leading to higher prices. If you're aiming for that perfect shot, be prepared to pay a premium for it.

Capacity and Crowds

While the Upper Antelope Canyon may be more convenient for many visitors, capacity is a big consideration.

Though it has a higher capacity than its lower counterpart, Upper Antelope Canyon can still only accommodate a limited number of people at a time. Remember, Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon, characterized by narrow passages and confined spaces.

To limit crowds and maintain a peaceful and enjoyable experience for all, tour operators have to limit the number of visitors during each tour, which further drives up the price.

Photography

For the photography enthusiasts out there, Upper Antelope Canyon is often the preferred choice due to its unique lighting conditions and more frequent light beams.

This once led to the creation of specialized photography tours that cater to those looking to capture the canyon's beauty through their lenses. These photography tours provided additional time in the canyon and were led by guides who understood the best angles.

Sadly, these tours are no longer being offered, but you can still capture awesome photos by following Antelope Canyon photography tips. However, the potential for amazing photography is there all the same, which drives prices to be higher.

The Bottom Line: Demand

All of the above reasons for Upper Antelope Canyon being more expensive boil down to one thing: demand.

Due to its ease of access, more frequent light beams, low capacity in comparison to popularity, and better photography opportunities, Upper Antelope Canyon attracts more visitors. This results in higher demand for tours and permits. As demand increases, so does the price.

Tour operators and the Navajo Nation, which manages the canyons, need to maintain a balance between preserving the natural beauty and making the experience available to tourists.

While it may be more expensive than Lower Antelope Canyon, the unique features and ethereal beauty of Upper Antelope Canyon make it an unforgettable experience well worth the cost.

Whether you choose to explore Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, prepare yourself for an otherworldly adventure that will leave you in awe of Mother Nature's remarkable artistry. Happy exploring!