Antelope Canyon a Photographers Dream in Arizona

About the Canyon

Situated on Navajo land, the Antelope Canyon in Arizona is any photographer’s dream.

The canyon is divided into two slots namely the Upper Antelope Canyon which is 660 feet (200m) and the Lower Antelope Canyon which is 1,335 feet (407m) in length. The debth is about 120 feet (37m). The geological formations shaped through the years by wind and water erosion, are magnificent. The sandstone canyon is famous for its smooth and flowing shapes of stone as well as the light coming from above, which makes for a spectacular sight.

Map, location(s) & directions

The nearest town is Page which is about 10 miles from the canyon. Lake Powell is also nearby.

Entrance to the Antelope Canyon

To visit the Antelope Canyon in Arizona you will need a tour guide. The Canyon is a sacred site of the Navajo Tribe. Therefore it cannot be entered without a tour guide present and you will also need a permit to enter. Your tour guide should help you obtain a permit.

Is Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon better

Lower Antelope Canyon usually has smaller crowds. Alternatively Upper Antelope Canyon is more equipped to handle bigger crowds and more famous and therefore busier. I would recommend Upper Antelope as it is simply stunning.

However if you don’t like crowds the Lower Antelope would be a better choice.

For photographers the Upper Antelope is definitely the place you would want to visit. Especially to see the beams of light coming from above, this makes for spectacular photos. Both of these are definitely worth seeing.

What is the best time to visit

The best time would be between late March and early October. This is also the time when the light beams come in to the Upper Antelope Canyon.

Travel Tip: Book a tour between 11H00 and 13H00 for the optimal light. There are also special groups that specifically specialize in take photography groups to the canyon. Booking with them might cost extra but it will give you extra time in the canyon. They normally visit the Upper Canyon.

How many days do you need

Visitors to the Antelope Canyon do recommend a 2 day stay. One for each part of the Canyon, but that is totally up to you.

Planning your trip to Antelope Canyon in Arizona

Choose your month and decide if you are going for Upper or Lower Antelope or both.

Then book in advance with a licensed tour operator. They will also be able to help with accommodation, best times for viewing, obtaining a permit and stuff like, how to get there.

If possible, stay for a beautiful sunset photo opportunity. In my opinion a perfect end to a spectacular day.