Explore Monument Valley’s back-country on a private 2.5-hour tour with exclusive access to iconic viewpoints and authentic Navajo cultural experiences.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, comfortable walking short distances on uneven terrain and able to spend time outdoors.
Wildlife
History
Monument Valley lies within the Navajo Nation and has been home to the Navajo people for centuries, who maintain deep cultural connections to the land.
Conservation
Tourism operates with respect to Navajo land stewardship to preserve natural beauty and cultural heritage while minimizing environmental impact.
Blackwater Tours
Explore Monument Valley’s back-country on a private 2.5-hour tour with exclusive access to iconic viewpoints and authentic Navajo cultural experiences.
Blackwater Tours operates in Oljato‑Monument Valley, Utah, offering guided experiences that showcase the dramatic sandstone monuments and Navajo cultural traditions of the region. The company’s lineup includes Monument Valley Sunrise, Monument Valley Sunset, Monument Valley Short Tour, and the longer Monument Valley Back‑Country+ excursion. Tours visit well-known viewpoints such as Mitten View Point and John Ford’s Point and also include stops at The Artist’s Point, The North Window, and notable natural arches.
Guides emphasize geological interpretation, Indigenous history, and living Navajo culture. The Back‑Country+ tour is a 2.5‑hour exploration of remote backcountry features, including rock art and natural arches, while the Short Tour runs about 1.5 hours for guests with limited time. Sunrise and sunset departures focus on photographic light, expansive sand dunes, and shifting color on the buttes and mesas. Demonstrations of traditional Navajo hogan construction and local crafts are included on select outings, offering cultural context alongside landscape viewing.
Blackwater Tours serves visitors seeking photographic vistas, cinematic landscapes, and cultural learning in Monument Valley. As a locally based operator in Oljato‑Monument Valley, Utah, the company works within Navajo Nation lands and highlights Navajo-led interpretation. Listings and feature profiles on travel platforms, including The Adventure Collective, provide third‑party visibility. Practical details such as departure points, exact durations, pricing, and accessibility should be confirmed directly with the operator before booking. Blackwater Tours maintains safety protocols, uses experienced local drivers and four-wheel vehicles suitable for sandy terrain, and provides clear pre-trip information to help guests prepare adequately for varied weather conditions.
Location
Oljato‑Monument Valley, UT
Based in Monument Valley, Utah
Tours Offered
4 Tours
Sunrise, Sunset, Short, Back‑Country+
Tour Durations
1.5–2.5 hours
Short and extended options available
Navajo Guides
Navajo-led
Cultural interpretation and demonstrations
Reserve a sunrise, sunset, short, or back-country tour from Oljato‑Monument Valley, Utah — check availability, departure details, and tour length before booking.
Bring plenty of water
The desert climate can be very dry and hot, so staying hydrated is crucial throughout the tour.
Wear sun protection
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses help protect you from intense sun exposure during the daytime.
Dress in comfortable layered clothing
Temperatures can vary, especially in early morning or late afternoon; layers help adjust to changing conditions.
Respect Navajo cultural sites
Refrain from touching or disturbing ancient rock art and follow your guide’s instructions to honor this sacred land.
Water bottle
Carry enough water to stay hydrated throughout the desert tour.
Wide-brimmed hat
Protect yourself from sun exposure during the hotter parts of the day.
summer
Sturdy walking shoes
Comfortable footwear provides support on uneven and rocky terrain.
Light layers
Adjustable clothing helps manage temperature changes during cooler mornings or evenings.
spring