Monument Valley: Navajo Backcountry Tour & Restricted Access

Summary

Stories, red earth and quiet light in Monument Valley’s heart

You’ll ride through Monument Valley’s iconic buttes and mesas with a local Navajo guide who shares personal stories and cultural history. Get rare access to restricted backcountry areas, stand beneath ancient arches, and see Anasazi petroglyphs up close. Expect shifting weather, traditional music, and moments of real connection—it lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to stand where those giant buttes just rise out of nowhere? I did. So when we rolled into Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, I was half-distracted by the color of the sky (kind of bruised purple that morning) and half-worried I’d forget my camera. Our guide—her name was Shandiin—greeted us with this easy smile, and right away it felt less like a tour and more like being invited along for something she genuinely cared about.

The open-air truck kicked up red dust as we followed that 17-mile loop. Sometimes you could smell sage, sometimes just the dry wind. Shandiin pointed out Elephant Butte and those spires you always see in old westerns, but then she started telling us about her grandfather’s stories tied to these rocks. She’d pause for questions or just let us sit in the silence—honestly, that silence is what sticks with me most. There’s a weight to it here.

I didn’t expect to get so close to the petroglyphs; you can actually see the grooves where someone carved them centuries ago. My fingers itched to touch them (don’t worry—I didn’t). We ducked under a natural arch while Shandiin explained what certain symbols meant in Navajo culture. At one point, she played a short piece of traditional music on her phone and said her uncle still sings it at family gatherings. It was kind of haunting with all that empty space around us.

The weather changed every twenty minutes—sun one second, drizzle the next—and nobody seemed bothered except maybe me fussing with my jacket. The group was small enough that we all got our questions answered (someone asked about movies filmed here; Shandiin just laughed and said yes, lots). The tour ended before I wanted it to. Even now, I keep thinking about that moment under the arch when everything went quiet except for the wind.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Monument Valley guided 3-hour tour

• Meet your local Navajo guide
• Drive 17-mile loop to see buttes and mesas
• Visit back country restricted areas
• Stand beneath natural arches and amp theaters
• View Anasazi petroglyphs up close
• Learn about Navajo culture and history
• Ask questions about spiritual and traditional topics

Top questions

How long does the Monument Valley group tour last?

The group tour lasts about 3 hours.

Is this a private or group tour?

This is a small group tour with up to 12 people—not private.

Do you visit restricted areas of Monument Valley?

Yes, the tour includes access to backcountry restricted areas not open to general visitors.

Are guides local Navajo people?

Yes, all guides are local Navajo who grew up in the area.

What will I see on this Monument Valley tour?

You’ll see iconic buttes, spires, mesas, natural arches, amphitheaters, and Anasazi petroglyphs.

Is pickup included in this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the designated starting point.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No lunch is included on this 3-hour group tour.

Are infants or strollers allowed?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

Can I bring my service animal?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your experience covers entry into Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park with a knowledgeable local guide leading you through both classic sights and restricted backcountry areas; you’ll travel in an open-air vehicle (unless you request an enclosed one), hear traditional Navajo music along the way, and have plenty of time for questions throughout your journey.