Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Day Trip from Las Vegas

Summary

Lower Antelope Canyon’s light, Horseshoe Bend’s curve, desert air on your skin

You’ll leave Las Vegas behind and cross into Navajo country for a guided walk through Lower Antelope Canyon’s twisting sandstone walls, then hike out to stare down at Horseshoe Bend’s wild curve in silence—or laughter if your group is like ours. Includes hotel pickup, lunch, entry fees, and stories from someone who lives here.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the way the Vegas neon faded behind us—one minute it was all slot machines and buzz, then suddenly we were rolling through empty desert. It’s a long drive to Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend (about four hours each way), but honestly, I liked watching the landscape change. Our driver cracked some jokes about desert mirages and passed around bottled water. By hour two I’d already eaten my granola bar (couldn’t help it) and started chatting with a couple from Phoenix who’d done this day trip before. They said the light in Lower Antelope is different every time.

When we finally reached Navajo land near Page, our guide—her name was Mariah—met us at the entrance to Lower Antelope Canyon. She handed out deli lunches but told us to save them for after because “the best photos happen on an empty stomach.” The canyon itself felt almost secret; you have to climb down these steep metal ladders (I hesitated for a second—my knees aren’t what they used to be), and then suddenly you’re inside this maze of orange stone. Sunlight slipped through cracks above, painting everything gold and pink. Mariah pointed out shapes in the rocks (“that one looks like an eagle,” she said—I saw more of a rabbit) and explained how flash floods carved out these walls over centuries. I tried to pronounce the Navajo name for the canyon; she laughed gently at my attempt.

Afterwards, we drove over to Horseshoe Bend. The hike’s not too tough—maybe 20 minutes—but it was hotter than I expected, so hats off if you bring an umbrella or something for shade. There’s this moment when you reach the edge: everyone goes quiet for a second because that view just drops away in front of you—the Colorado River curling below like a green ribbon caught in stone. Some people took selfies; I just stood there feeling small and kind of grateful for wide open spaces. Lunch tasted better after that (turkey sandwich never felt so earned), sitting on warm rocks with dust on my shoes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

• Depart Las Vegas by coach
• Drive through Virgin River Gorge
• Arrive at Lower Antelope Canyon
• Explore Lower Antelope Canyon with Navajo guide
• Enjoy deli lunch and bottled water
• Visit Horseshoe Bend viewpoint
• Hike 1.5 miles round-trip at Horseshoe Bend
• View Lake Powell scenery
• Return drive to Las Vegas

Top questions

How long is the drive from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon?

The drive is usually about 4.5 hours each way under normal conditions.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Yes, a deli lunch is included along with bottled water and a granola bar.

Do I need to book tickets for Lower Antelope Canyon separately?

No, admission fees are included as part of the tour package.

Is there a guide inside Lower Antelope Canyon?

Yes, a Navajo guide leads you through the canyon and shares history and tips.

How difficult is the hike at Horseshoe Bend?

The hike is about 1.5 miles round-trip on an easy trail suitable for most fitness levels.

Are there any steep climbs or ladders in Antelope Canyon?

Yes, you’ll need to climb moderately steep ladders with minimal assistance inside Lower Antelope Canyon.

What should I bring or wear for this tour?

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes; hats or umbrellas are recommended due to sun exposure.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, but children 17 or under must be accompanied by an adult; kids under 6 require a car seat.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from select Las Vegas hotels, round-trip transportation by coach with bottled water along the way, all admission fees for both Lower Antelope Canyon (with guided tour) and Horseshoe Bend, plus your Navajo Nation permit fee. A granola bar snack comes early in the drive—and after exploring both sites you’ll have a deli lunch before heading back across the desert in time for sunset lights outside Vegas.