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Can You Go to Antelope Canyon Without a Tour? Yes and Here’s How to Have the Best Time!

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Can you go to Antelope Canyon without a tour? That’s a great question and we’ve got you covered! We’ve visited Antelope Canyon and learned lots about what your options are to go to Antelope Canyon with or without a guide.

So can you visit antelope canyon without a tour? The short answer is yes! But it depends which canyon and when you plan your visit!

Antelope Canyon is one of the best spots to add to an Arizona itinerary! We’ve visited the USA several times and Antelope Canyon remains one of our best memories. It’s definitely a unique destination, worth sharing with your partner. If you’re hesitant between Lower Antelope Canyon and Upper Antelope Canyon or are wondering whether the new Canyon X is worth a visit, this post will help you choose as not all Antelope Canyons can be visited without a tour.

In this post, we share with you everything about visiting Antelope Canyon without a tour and what your best options are!

***Some of the links in this post are affiliate links meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This does not change the fact that we only recommend products, stays, activities and attractions we are satisfied with and all opinions expressed here are our own

Can you go to Antelope Canyon without a tour?

Can you visit Antelope Canyon without a tour? Yes, but it depends which section of Antelope Canyon!

Visiting Antelope Canyon without a guided tour is possible but also depends on the specific canyon you’re looking to explore. There are three Antelope Canyons: Upper, Lower, and Canyon X. All of them form part of the sacred Navajo Tribal Park, which was established in 1997 and is located within the LaChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation on the Navajo Reservation.

For both Upper Antelope Canyon and Antelope Canyon X, you and your partner will have to take a guided tour as these areas are only accessible with a permit and Antelope Canyon guide. Unfortunately, you cannot visit these two without a tour. However, Lower Antelope Canyon can be visited without a tour, and we’ll explain how you can have a Antelope Canyon self guided experience in the following sections.

Can you go to Upper Antelope Canyon without a tour?

No! Unfortunately, you cannot visit Upper Antelope Canyon without a guided tour. Known as ‘Tsé bighánílíní’ by the Navajo, meaning ‘the place where water runs through rocks’, this shorter hike of the three Antelope Canyons is also referred to as ‘The Crack’.

The tour of the Upper Antelope Canyon is around one hour to one hour and a half long, with a round trip distance of about 0.3 miles. It’s particularly famous for its sunbeams, which can be observed from April 1 to September 30. To preserve its sacred nature, only guided tours are allowed. You and your partner can learn more about Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon in our detailed guide.

Can you go to Canyon X without a tour?

Much like Upper Antelope Canyon, visiting Antelope Canyon X independently is not possible. This new canyon has only been open for a few years, and is quickly gaining popularity. Because it’s such a beautiful canyon, we wrote a dedicated guide on whether it’s worth it to visit Canyon X. If you decide that it is, just as with the Upper Antelope Canyon, a guided tour is necessary to experience the majestic beauty of Canyon X.

Can you go to Lower Antelope Canyon without a tour?

Yes, you can indeed visit Lower Antelope Canyon either with or without a tour, offering flexibility for you and your partner depending on your preferred pace and level of independence.

Lower Canyon with a tour

Lower Antelope Canyon, also known as ‘Hazdistazí’ by the Navajo, meaning ‘spiral rock arches’, or colloquially as ‘The Corkscrew’, is a bit longer than the Upper Antelope Canyon, with a round trip distance of about 0.5 miles. It typically takes about one hour to complete the tour. This canyon is slightly less popular because it doesn’t feature the signature light beams found in the Upper Canyon.

The tour does involve ascending and descending steep ladders, which I (Marie) found a bit intimidating because of my fear of heights. However, the tour guides offered a supportive and engaging experience, making the journey more manageable for us! It was great!

Lower Canyon without a tour: Antelope Canyon self tour

If you’re keen on exploring without a guide, Lower Antelope Canyon is your only option. While you won’t have a tour guide leading you, you can explore at your own pace, which is one of the main perks. There are also a lot less people choosing that option since it takes longer and demands a bit more physical effort. This is, however, an experience we recommend as it’s a once in a lifetime activity to do with your partner!

It’s important to note that this option is not free, unless you bring your own gear. To visit Antelope Canyon Lower without a tour, you’ll need to kayak to Lower Antelope Canyon. More details on this exciting opportunity are included in the following sections.

So, can you do Antelope Canyon without a tour? Yes, but only in Lower antelope Canyon!

Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon
Upper Antelope Canyon during August
Upper Antelope Canyon during August

Why can’t you hike through Upper Antelope Canyon and Canyon X without a tour?

Upper Antelope Canyon and Canyon X, both beautifully sculpted due to erosion in the Navajo sandstone, attract visitors from all around the globe. Due to their intense popularity, a permit and guide system has been implemented. This not only safeguards the natural beauty of these sites but also ensures the safety of the visitors. As such, it’s both illegal and disrespectful to the Navajo community to attempt to explore these canyons without a tour. While there are other hikes near Antelope Canyon that don’t require a permit, it’s crucial to understand that both Upper Antelope Canyon and Canyon X are more stringently regulated.

Hence, we recommend respecting the regulations and guidelines set forth by the Navajo community for these treasured sites.

Can I visit Antelope Canyon without a tour and still be respectful?

Yes! It’s allowed to visit Antelope Canyon Lower without a tour through the kayaking option (more on this below). You’ll see that parts of the canyon hike are closed to protect it. You’ll need to ensure to respect those boundaries and stick to the open public parts of the canyon.

How to go to Antelope Canyon?

You’ve got several options to reach Antelope Canyon. You can either drive (and/or kayak) there yourselves or book a tour, see as follows:

How to get to Antelope Canyon site

Reaching Antelope Canyon’s site is relatively straightforward. It’s conveniently located a mere 10-minute drive east of Page, AZ, and resides within the boundaries of the Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park. The Antelope Canyon entrance is just off Highway 98, making it a short, 2-mile drive if you’re coming from Page, AZ.

For you and your partner who are seeking a more organized adventure, there are guided day tours available from Las Vegas, Sedona, and Flagstaff. When it comes to visiting each specific canyon, booking a tour is the easiest and quickest way to experience these natural wonders whether you’re coming from Page of farther.

If you’re planning on an extended visit, staying in Page is likely the best option unless you’re traveling from Vegas. The convenience of Page’s location will allow you to maximize your time exploring Antelope Canyon.

Upper Antelope Canyon Tours

⭐️ RATING: 4.7 /5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: about 1.5 hours | ✅ Book it!

We spent around an hour and a half touring Upper Antelope Canyon. It’s a really popular place and they do tours all year round. Our guide knew a lot and showed us the best ways to take pictures, especially when it’s busy. Our group wasn’t too big and we had fun riding the 4×4 to the canyon. We think you and your partner would really enjoy this tour – we sure did, and we took some great pictures to remember it by.

Check availability for Upper Antelope Canyon tickets here

Best Lower Antelope Canyon Tours

⭐️ RATING: 4.7 /5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: about 1.5 hours | ✅ Book it!

This Antelope Canyon lower tour, which extends longer than the Upper Canyon, spans approximately an hour and a half. Our guide, Tyler, was exceptional, demonstrating patience, particularly when I experienced some trepidation due to the heights of the stairs as someone with acrophobia.

Tyler enriched our experience by sharing intriguing facts about the canyon and teaching us how to frame photos to best capture the unique, orange twists of the canyon walls. We recommend bringing a water bottle, although the tour can be quite exerting, guides usually carry water supplies. Please be aware, the stairs can be quite steep, so if you or your partner have any mobility issues, this might not be the most suitable of the Antelope Canyon Navajo tours for you.

Check availability for Lower Antelope Canyon tickets here

Can we go to Antelope Canyon without a tour: Lower Antelope Canyon without a tour

As we’ve mentioned, it is possible to explore Lower Antelope Canyon without a tour. In this case, you will need to kayak to the canyon. We provide further details below.

Canyon X tours

1. The basic Antelope Canyon X tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.6/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✅ Book it!

You and your partner will be transported by a shuttle to the canyon’s entrance, after which you’ll descend into the canyon’s depths.

You’ll have roughly an hour and a half to wander through the Antelope slot canyon, taking in the multitude of unique rock formations. Your slot canyon tour guide will not only assist you with your photography but also impart fascinating details about the canyon’s history and geology. This interactive experience will undoubtedly enhance your exploration of this natural marvel.

Great tour as well as great tour guide. We appreciate his sense of humor and the history of the Canyon that he included. Also appreciated his help in getting our cameras set for great pictures The whole experience was wonderful, simply beautiful Canyon! – Michael K., USA

This is the Antelope Canyon tour to take! Groups are no larger than 12 -14 and they DID NOT rush us. We had tour guide Brad, who had stepped in for the day we gathered (usually a driver), but he was terrific. could offer suggestions for photos and took a lot of photos for us. He had a fun sense of humor. Another guide we saw – the tours are spaced out but there are places where you cross paths – played what I assume was Navajo music during his tour. That sounds cheesy but it wasn’t – it seemed really respectful. – Susan M. (Read more reviews here)

🗓 Check availability here

2. Antelope Canyon Photography Tours

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 /5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  about 1 hour | ✅ Book it!

Should you and your partner possess a keen interest in capturing the beauty of the world through a lens, we strongly recommend considering the Antelope Canyon photography tours. These tours are an ideal match for your photographic pursuits, extending over an approximate duration of 3 hours. This extra time affords you the luxury of focusing on snapping breathtaking shots and identifying the optimal frames.

This photography tour is well-suited to anyone with a passion for photography, be it a hobbyist or a seasoned professional. It offers a wealth of opportunities to let your creative juices flow. Differing from standard tours, the Antelope Canyon X photo tours permit you to carry a camera bag and tripod. This provision facilitates you to set up your gear for those precise, steady shots that make all the difference in your photographic collection.

However, please keep in mind that if you plan to shoot video content during the tour, you’ll need a special permit from the Lake Powell Tribal Parks and Recreation Office.

Brandon was an excellent guide. Very knowledgeable about the area and helped us get some great photos. 10/10 recommended. – Linda T. (Read more reviews here)

🗓 Check availability here

How to visit Antelope Canyon without a guide?

For you and your partner looking to explore on your own terms, Lower Antelope Canyon can indeed be visited without a guide. Lower Antelope Canyon without guide is a full unique experience! Instead of following a traditional tour, you’ll embark on a unique adventure on Lake Powell. After renting a kayak, you’ll navigate the serene waters of the lake until reaching the mouth of Lower Antelope Canyon. There, you’ll park your kayak on a small beach and proceed to hike through the awe-inspiring canyon. These sections of the canyon are different from those explored with a tour, offering you a unique perspective. A detailed guide on how to explore Lower Antelope Canyon without a tour can be found here.

Kayaking to Antelope Canyon from Lake Powell
Kayaking to Antelope Canyon from Lake Powell

Can you kayak Antelope Canyon without a tour?

Absolutely! In fact, kayaking to the mouth of the canyon is the only way to independently explore Lower Antelope Canyon. So, if you’re wondering about Antelope Canyon Can you go without a tour, the answer is yes!

Can you hike Antelope Canyon without a guide?

Yes, but this option is only available for Lower Antelope Canyon. After kayaking to the canyon’s mouth, you will hike through the enchanting slot canyon. However, keep in mind that this is a there-and-back hike, with no round trip. A crucial safety tip we recommend is to ensure there is no rain in the forecast. Flash floods are common in the area and can result in a dangerous, potentially fatal, situation if the canyon floods.

So, if you’re wondering’ Can I go to Antelope Canyon without a tour’, the answer is yes but you’ll have to hike a bit!

Can you visit alone at Antelope Canyon and will it be safe?

Yes, it’s safe to visit Antelope Canyon without tour groups, and many individuals embark on this Antelope Canyon hike and kayak journey solo. However, it’s critical to be aware of the potential hazards, such as the possibility of flash floods in rainy weather. If tours are canceled due to weather conditions, it’s not advisable to kayak and hike Lower Antelope Canyon on your own. Waves created by other water sports can also pose a challenge, so we recommend kayaking earlier in the morning to avoid this issue.

You should be in good physical shape to manage the kayaking part and hiking Antelope Canyon. Overall, while it’s generally safe, it’s important to be prepared for a full-day adventure and to respect the elements and environment.

Tips for Antelope Canyon tours

Though the answer to Can you see Antelope Canyon without a tour is yes, there are still things you should know about visiting Antelope Canyon with a tour. When planning a visit to the majestic Antelope Canyons, there are a few key things you and your partner should keep in mind. First, know that there are three different sections of the Canyons to visit: Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, and Canyon X, each offering a unique experience.

The peak times for visiting are between March through October when you can witness the famous light beams in Upper Antelope Canyon. Given the popularity of this period, we recommend booking your tour in advance to secure your spot. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting between November to February during the off-season.

Do note that tours operate year-round, 7 days a week, offering plenty of flexibility. Upper Canyon tours are the most popular and, as such, the most expensive. Your journey will most likely start from the closest town, Page, AZ.

Check-in time for tours is 30 minutes prior and they run on Arizona Time. Interestingly, Antelope Canyon doesn’t observe daylight savings, so ensure you have the correct time as your phones may be unreliable near the border. This actually happened to us and we got the times confused! We had to call and reschedule so don’t make the same mistake!

Additionally, a Navajo permit is required for the tour, costing $8 per person in cash. We advise bringing extra cash for tipping your tour guide.

Lastly, keep in mind that the monsoon season runs from June to September. During this time, there is a risk of flash floods if there are heavy rains. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your tour.

Can you go to Antelope Canyon without a reservation?

Can I see Antelope Canyon without a tour is a different question from can I visit Antelope Canyon without a reservation.

While technically it is possible for you and your partner to visit Antelope Canyon without a reservation, we wouldn’t recommend hoping to get on last minute Antelope Canyon tours. The site has become quite popular, especially between March and October, which is considered high season. Due to the high demand, there’s a significant risk that you might not secure tickets if you arrive without a prior booking. This holds true whether you plan on visiting through a guided tour or kayaking independently without a guide. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, we strongly advise securing your reservations in advance.

The pros of getting a guide to Antelope Canyon

Insightful Knowledge

With a guide, you and your partner will gain insightful knowledge about the canyon and its unique features. The local experts provide valuable historical and geographical context that enhances the experience.

Exploring Multiple Sections

You’ll be shown the most notable parts of the three sections of Antelope Canyon. Tours are available throughout the day and only last a couple of hours, allowing you to conveniently cover at least two out of the three canyons in a single day. This is what we did and we got to visit both Lower and Upper Antelope Canyons in one day which we wouldn’t have been able to do without tours, considering our timing.

Minimal Physical Exertion

Compared to the kayaking alternative, there’s minimal physical exertion required. This can make the tour more comfortable for some visitors.

Photography Tips and Photo Opportunities

The guide will also offer handy tips for capturing the perfect photos of the enchanting landscapes. Having someone on hand to snap photos of you and your partner ensures you both make it into the frame of your cherished memories. Both our guides helped us with photos. You may think that you know lots of photography but the canyons are something unique to photograph and the light can be challenging. Our guides, Charles and Tyler, indicated the best spots to take photos and what settings to use. It was very helpful! You can then use our captions on Antelope Canyon to share your memories on social media.

Viewing the Light Beams in Upper Antelope Canyon

You’ll get to witness the captivating light beams in Upper Antelope Canyon, a sight not to be missed!

Flexibility to Visit Any of the Three Canyons

Lastly, having a guide means you have the option to see any of the three canyons, expanding your choices.

Pros of visiting Antelope Canyon without a tour

Pace Control

You and your partner can venture through the canyon at your own pace, soaking in the beauty of the site without being rushed.

Less Crowded

The area is also considerably less crowded, offering a more serene and intimate experience.

Cost-Effective

Additionally, the cost is cheaper if you don’t use a guide and can even be free if you bring your own kayak.

In the Heart of the Canyon

You’ll find yourself in the heart of the canyon, intimately connected with nature.

Additional Sights

You’ll get a chance to see Lake Powell, providing a richer, full-day experience.

Cons of visiting Antelope Canyon without a tour

Limited to Lower Antelope Canyon

If you choose to explore without a tour, you can only visit Lower Antelope Canyon.

Physically Demanding

The journey is also physically more demanding as you’ll have to kayak there and back.

Potential Lack of Historical and Cultural Understanding

Without a guide’s explanations, you might miss out on understanding the full historical and cultural significance of the place.

Do’s & Don’ts of visiting Antelope Canyon

Here are the do’s and don’ts for visiting Antelope Canyon:

Do’s:

  1. Respect the canyon’s significance: Remember that Antelope Canyon is a sacred place for the Navajo people. Treat it with reverence.
  2. Pay the permit fee: This is usually included in your tour cost and goes towards maintaining the canyon’s beauty and preservation.
  3. Stay hydrated: Bring a small water bottle, as the desert region can get quite hot.
  4. Use sun protection: Wear sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun.
  5. Leave no trace: Take your trash with you and dispose of it properly to keep the canyon clean and pristine.

Don’ts:

  1. Bring large bags: Backpacks, large bags, purses, or fanny packs are not allowed.
  2. Use certain equipment: Tripods, selfie sticks, or large cameras are not permitted in the canyon.
  3. Take videos: To maintain a mindful experience, videos are not allowed.
  4. Eat or drink in the canyon: Except for a small water bottle, no food or drinks are permitted in the canyon.

Day trips to Antelope Canyon

Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon tour, a worthy day tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 15 hours | ✅ Book it!

Should you and your partner find yourselves in Las Vegas and fancy an adventure, we highly recommend the Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon tour. Rated at an impressive 4.8/5, this tour promises an intimate and personalized experience, limiting the group size to a maximum of just 13 participants.

One of the unique features of this tour is the choice it offers between exploring the Lower Antelope Canyon or Canyon X. Guided by an experienced tour guide, the adventure lasts around 15 hours in total. It kicks off with an early morning pickup on the Las Vegas strip, with the earliest pickup scheduled for 5 am.

The tour itinerary includes a visit to Page, followed by the Antelope Canyon guided tour which lasts approximately 1.5 hours. Post the canyon exploration, the tour heads over to the iconic Horseshoe Bend and the Glen Canyon Dam before making the journey back to Vegas. The tour price includes entry to all these fantastic locations.

As for food, it’s essential to note that while the tour is comprehensive, dinner and lunch are not included, allowing you and your partner to explore local cuisines at your own pace. For your comfort, the entire journey is made in an air-conditioned minivan or van, and live commentary from the guide enriches your understanding of these unique landscapes.

Transportation was prompt. Driver was nice and friendly. Horseshoe Bend is amazing, but prepare for lots of people, especially influencers who won’t get out of the way. Antelope Canyon X is spectacular! Brandon, my guide, knew just where I should stand to catch the beautiful light. No bad pictures (and I wasn’t even trying). Great trip! – Stephanie , USA (Read more reviews here)

Top Features: small group, includes both Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, air-conditioned van, live tour guide, pickup included

🗓 Check availability here

From Sedona or Flagstaff: Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon X Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 12 hours | ✅ Book it!


If you and your partner happen to be in Sedona or Flagstaff, we highly recommend the “Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon X Tour”. Garnering a nearly perfect rating of 4.9/5, this tour offers an intimate exploration of some of the region’s most stunning natural wonders.

The tour runs for approximately 12 hours and includes pickup services from either Sedona or Flagstaff, depending on the option you choose. With a small group size of a maximum of 10 people, you’ll receive a personalized experience without the usual hustle and bustle of large tour groups.

Your knowledgeable guide will lead you to the mesmerizing Colorado River and the iconic Horseshoe Bend. You’ll then visit the Glen Canyon Dam and marvel at the expanse of Lake Powell. One of the highlights of this tour is a 1.5-hour visit to the Antelope Canyon X, a part of the Antelope Canyon that offers stunning light beams and sandstone structures.

Additionally, you’ll also get a chance to visit the Cameron Trading Post, a significant hub of native American culture, art, and food. One of the perks of this tour is that it includes lunch and bottled water, ensuring you and your partner stay nourished and hydrated during your adventure-filled day.

Scott Day, our guide picked us up right on time. We were the first to be picked up of our group of 10. Van was clean and comfortable. Great group of 10 people! Scott pointed out sights along the way to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. He knew a lot about the Arizona countryside and the geology and plants of the region. Gaining this new knowledge from an expert guide/ outdoorsman made the entire excursion more enjoyable. There were adequate restroom breaks and even a stop for shopping for Navajo crafts and jewelry, as well as a stop for photos at Vermillion Cliffs. The trip was well orchestrated with lunch preordered off of a menu with several choices, scheduled between Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. The ride back to Sedona was exceedingly windy but we made it safely with Scott’s expert driving. We arrived back at the designated time. Scott was amazing and paid clise attention to everyone’s comfort and experience. Could not have asked for s better group or a better guide. – Carolyn, USA (Read more reviews here)

Top Features: small group, several spots like Glen Dam, Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell on top of Antelope Canyon X, lunch and pickup included

🗓 Check availability here

Expedition from Las Vegas by plane

⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11 hours | ✅ Book it!

If you and your partner are looking for an exhilarating adventure from Las Vegas, we recommend the Expedition by Plane tour. With a decent rating of 3.9/5, this tour provides a thrilling opportunity to witness the grandeur of some of the West’s most famous landmarks from a bird’s eye perspective.

This comprehensive tour spans approximately 11 hours, including pick-up services from Las Vegas. Keeping the group size small with a maximum of 8 participants, the tour ensures a personalized and intimate experience, allowing you to fully absorb the breathtaking sights.

Prepare to be awestruck as you take in the aerial views of the Hoover Dam, Glen Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and the panoramic vistas of Horseshoe Bend. This unique perspective will give you and your partner memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Beyond the flight, the tour also includes a guided exploration of the Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll gain deep insights into these natural wonders, making your adventure all the more enriching.


Had an amazing time, Moses was an awesome tour guide! Very helpful with picture angles and a fun ride over to the canyons! – Traveler from the USA (Read more reviews and tour info here)

Top Features: unique aerial experience, visit of Antelope canyon, small group of 8, pickup experience

🗓 Check availability here

Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseback Ride

⭐️ RATING: New Activity | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | ✅ Book it!

For those couples who cherish unforgettable experiences, we recommend embarking on a unique journey with tis tour. This six-hour-long expedition provides the perfect blend of nature and adventure, starting at 9 am for a romantic morning adventure.

Start your day exploring the enchanting landscapes of Lower Antelope Canyon, where the fascinating rock formations have been carved by water and wind over centuries. Enjoy the tranquility of the site, allowing yourselves to be fully immersed in the natural beauty of the canyon.

Your adventure continues as you and your partner mount your horses and set off on a guided journey along the Tower Butte trail. Whether you’re experienced riders or first-timers, this one-hour horseback ride offers you the chance to experience the raw beauty of the American West from a unique vantage point.

The package conveniently includes all admission and permit fees, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. So saddle up and create memories that will last a lifetime with this one-of-a-kind Lower Antelope Canyon and Tower Butte horseback riding package.

Top Features: all the gear, 1 hour horseback ride, visit of Antelope Canyon Lower, Tower Butte trail

🗓 Check availability here

Is Antelope Canyon free?

If you and your partner are planning a visit to the mesmerizing Antelope Canyon, it’s essential to know that accessing the site is not free. Regardless of whether you choose a guided tour or opt for a more independent exploration, costs such as a tour fee, a permit, or kayak rental will apply. The only exception would be if you bring your own kayak.

Can you go to Antelope Canyon without a tour? Yes but I had to take a photo of the Lower Antelope Canyon's staircase after I overcame my fear of height!
Can you go to Antelope Canyon without a tour? Yes but I had to take a photo of the Lower Antelope Canyon’s staircase after I overcame my fear of height!

Best time to visit Antelope Canyon

As for the best time to visit Antelope Canyon, we recommend carefully considering the desert climate of the region. Temperatures can climb over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, particularly between July and September. During these months, please be aware of the risk of sudden and severe flash floods, a characteristic of the monsoon season, which can fill the canyons within minutes.

The summer months, particularly July and August, are the hottest with average temperatures consistently above 90°F. If you prefer a cooler climate, consider visiting in the winter months. Although there can be snow and cold weather, the mid-day tours offer a respite with temperatures peaking in the 40’s.

For those of you interested in photography, the ideal lighting conditions occur between the months of April and September. I visited in August and, although it was hot, the heat was not unbearable, and the experience was simply unforgettable. Summer is also a great time to visit the nearby National Parks like Zion National Park from Antelope Canyon.

Final thoughts: Can you go to Antelope Canyon without a tour?


In conclusion, it’s possible for you and your partner to explore Antelope Canyon independently, but only for the Lower Antelope Canyon section. However, we recommend that you respect local customs, safety procedures. To gain the most enriching experience, we recommend opting for a guided tour, especially for first-time visitors or if you have time constraints. This ensures access to all three sections, insightful stories, and the best photo opportunities.

Any questions on the question ‘Can you go to Antelope Canyon without a tourDrop them in the comments or on insta  @twolostexplorers and we will get back to you asap.

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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.

We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.

With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.

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