Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend: Small Group Day Trip Vegas

Summary

Slot canyons’ quiet glow, horseshoe bend’s wild sweep, vegas day trip

You’ll start early from Las Vegas and head out with a small group toward Antelope Canyon’s swirling walls—guided by someone who knows every turn—then hike out to Horseshoe Bend’s rim for that dizzying view over the Colorado River. Expect moments of real quiet inside the canyon and plenty of time for photos or just standing still. Includes hotel pickup, entry fees, and endless bottled water.

What’s the experience like?

The van left Vegas before sunrise — I barely remember the Strip fading behind us, but I do remember the first real light hitting the desert outside Page. It’s this pale pink that makes everything feel softer than it should. Our guide, Marcus (born in Flagstaff, Navajo side of the family), had this calm way of explaining how Antelope Canyon formed — “wind and flash floods,” he said, like it was obvious. The air smelled dusty but kind of sweet near the canyon entrance. I picked Lower Antelope for the ladders; figured if I was going to do a day trip to Antelope Canyon from Las Vegas, might as well go all in.

Going down those metal stairs into the slot felt a bit like sneaking into another world — cool air brushing my arms after hours in the van. The walls twist in ways that don’t make sense until you’re standing inside them. Marcus pointed out shapes in the rock (“that one looks like an eagle,” he said; I saw more of a rabbit) and explained some Navajo words for the colors — I tried to repeat one and he just grinned, didn’t even bother correcting me. There were maybe ten people in our group, and at one point everyone just went quiet at once when a shaft of light cut through — honestly gave me chills.

After we climbed back out (my legs still sore), we drove over to Horseshoe Bend. The walk’s not long — maybe 20 minutes? — but it was hot by then and my water bottle was already half gone. You hear voices echoing off the rocks before you see anything. But then suddenly there’s this drop-off and you’re looking straight down at that wild curve of river, way deeper than photos ever show. Some folks were braver about sitting on the edge; I kept my distance but still felt my stomach flip a little.

We stopped at Wahweap Overlook on the way back — Lake Powell spread out below us like someone spilled blue paint across all that red stone. Honestly by then I was tired enough to just lean against the rail and watch boats moving slow as ants. Didn’t expect to end up thinking about silence so much on this tour. But yeah, sometimes it sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend tour

• Depart from Las Vegas
• Choose Lower Antelope or Canyon X tour
• Explore chosen Antelope Canyon
• Hike to Horseshoe Bend viewpoint
• View Horseshoe Bend cliffside
• Stop at Wahweap Overlook
• Enjoy Lake Powell views

Top questions

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

The drive takes about 4-5 hours each way depending on traffic and stops.

Is lunch included on this Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend tour?

No, lunch or snacks are not included—only unlimited bottled water is provided.

Which section should I choose: Lower Antelope or Canyon X?

Lower Antelope has stairs and ladders with more crowds; Canyon X is quieter with fewer people and two short hikes.

How difficult is the hike at Horseshoe Bend?

The hike is about 1 mile round-trip on mostly flat ground but can be hot and sunny—bring water.

Are entrance fees included for both attractions?

Yes, entry fees for both Antelope Canyon (your chosen section) and Horseshoe Bend are included in your booking.

Is there hotel pickup for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Las Vegas are included.

Can children join this day trip?

Specialized infant seats are available but it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

What should I wear on this tour?

Wear comfortable closed-toe walking shoes—no flip-flops or heels allowed for safety reasons.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Las Vegas, entry fees for both Antelope Canyon (your choice of section) and Horseshoe Bend, plus unlimited bottled water throughout—just bring your own snacks or lunch since food isn’t provided on this small group adventure.