10 Mistakes Visitors Make When Visiting Antelope Canyon
10 Mistakes Visitors Make When Visiting Antelope Canyon
Visiting Antelope Canyon, located in the heart of the American Southwest, is a dream for many travelers. This breathtaking natural wonder, known for its swirling sandstone formations and light beams, offers a unique adventure. However, to make the most of this unforgettable experience, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can hinder your visit. From booking issues to photographic tips, this guide will walk you through 10 key mistakes to avoid, ensuring your trip to Antelope Canyon is as magical as the landscape itself.
1. Not Booking Early Enough
Visitors often underestimate how quickly tours to Antelope Canyon can sell out, especially during the summer months. It’s crucial to book your tour well in advance to secure a spot. The canyon’s breathtaking beauty attracts tourists worldwide, leading to high demand and limited availability. Delaying your booking could result in missing out on this incredible experience altogether.
2. Not Doing Both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons in the Same Day
Many travelers don’t realize that it’s possible to explore both the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons in a single day with proper planning. Each canyon offers a distinct experience, with unique rock formations and light plays. Missing out on one of these canyons means you won’t fully experience the diverse beauty Antelope Canyon has to offer.
3. Not Kayaking to Antelope Canyon
A lesser-known way to experience Antelope Canyon is by kayaking to its entrance. This approach offers a less crowded and more serene experience compared to the standard walking tours. Many visitors overlook this option, missing out on the chance to see the canyon from a unique perspective and enjoy a quieter, more intimate encounter with nature.
4. Visiting Lower Canyon with a Fear of Heights
The Lower Antelope Canyon features steep and lengthy stairs, making it a challenging visit for those with a fear of heights. The descent and ascent can be quite intimidating, potentially leading to an uncomfortable experience. It’s important for visitors to consider their comfort with heights before choosing to explore the Lower Canyon.
5. Not Enhancing Photo Saturation
One common mistake visitors make is not adjusting the saturation of their photos after capturing the stunning landscapes of Antelope Canyon. Increasing the saturation can make the canyon’s iconic orange hues pop more, enhancing the overall beauty of your photographs. This simple edit can transform your memories into more vivid and striking images.
6. Planning to Visit Without a Guide
Except for the kayaking route, visitors must have a guide to explore Antelope Canyon. Some tourists mistakenly believe they can venture into the canyons alone, only to find that guided tours are mandatory. The guides not only ensure visitors’ safety but also share valuable insights and stories about the canyon’s history and geology.
7. Not Planning for the $8 Fee
Antelope Canyon is located on Navajo Parks land, which requires an $8 fee for every visitor aged 8 years and older. Some visitors arrive unprepared for this additional cost. It’s essential to factor in this fee when planning your visit to avoid any surprises and ensure a smooth experience.
8. Not Accounting for the Time Difference Between the Canyons
The time difference between the canyons and nearby areas can confuse visitors, potentially leading to missed tours or rushed visits. Being aware of the local time in relation to your schedule is crucial to ensuring you arrive on time for your tours and can fully enjoy the experience without any unnecessary stress.
9. Skipping Upper Antelope Canyon on Cloudy Days
Some visitors decide to skip Upper Antelope Canyon if the weather is cloudy, fearing they won’t see the famous light beams. However, even without the light beams, the canyon’s natural beauty and unique rock formations make the tour worthwhile. The mystical atmosphere of a cloudy day can offer a different, yet equally stunning, experience.
10. Not Keeping Phone or Camera Covered
The sandy environment of Antelope Canyon can pose a risk to your electronic devices. Not keeping your phone or camera covered can lead to sand getting into the devices, potentially causing damage. Visitors should take precautions to protect their equipment to ensure they can capture the beauty of the canyon without any interruptions.
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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.