A long, early-day outing from Las Vegas takes you to two of the Colorado Plateau’s most photographed sites: the flowing sandstone corridors of Upper Antelope Canyon and the dramatic river loop of Horseshoe Bend. Expect tight canyons, wide panoramas, and a full day of travel and exploration.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You leave Las Vegas before dawn, the highway slicing through sagebrush as the light hardens into the desert. By midmorning you step off the coach and the canyon narrows around you — light threads down vertical shafts, dust motes caught in a slow, deliberate choreography. The walls seem to move when you walk, carved into sinuous curves by ancient floods that still remind you of their power.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
14–15 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels but requires stamina for a long travel day, standing and short walks; able to walk on uneven sand and rock.
Wildlife
History
The slot was carved from Navajo Sandstone by episodic flash floods; the area sits within Navajo Nation, which manages tours and access.
Conservation
Tours limit group sizes and enforce rules to protect fragile sandstone and cultural sites; follow all guide instructions and pack out trash.
Reserve your spot on the Upper Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour from Las Vegas today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early and rest up
This is a 14–15 hour day from Las Vegas — get a good night’s sleep and be ready for an early pickup.
Hydrate and pack snacks
Bring 1–2 liters of water and high-energy snacks; there’s little shade at Horseshoe Bend and no services at the sites.
Footwear for sand and rock
Closed-toe shoes with good tread handle both the sandy canyon floor and the short rocky approaches at overlooks.
Respect Navajo rules and guides
Follow the guide’s directions inside Antelope Canyon; some areas are culturally sensitive and access is regulated.
1–2 L water bottle or hydration pack
Keeps you hydrated through desert heat and during the daylong trip.
Closed-toe hiking shoes
Provides traction on sand, gravel, and short rocky approaches.
Wide-brim hat and sunscreen
Protects against intense sun at the overlook and on the coach stops.
summer
Camera with wide-angle lens (or smartphone)
Captures the slot canyon’s details and Horseshoe Bend’s expansive views; know that tripods may be limited.