Antelope Canyon: Tips, Time Zones, and What No One Tells You

• Where Is Antelope Canyon?
  A quick guide to its location and nearby must-see spots.

• What to Bring
  The essentials that’ll make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

• How to Book Your Tour
  Plus, how I can help you plan your visit from start to finish!

• Time Zone Confusion (Yes, It’s Real)
  What you need to know about Arizona vs. Navajo Nation time—trust me, don’t skip this.

Welcome!

Hey, it’s Niqui! I’m the kind of traveler who shows up, squints at the map, and says, “We’ll figure it out.” Do I mean to do more research beforehand? Sure. Do I actually do it? Not so much. But somehow, it always makes for a better story.

If you’re here because you’re planning a trip to Antelope Canyon, or you’re just wondering what it’s like to wander through wavy sandstone wonderland, I hope this little travel diary helps you out. Whether you leave feeling inspired or just slightly more prepared than I was, I’m glad you found your way here.

Thanks for reading and let’s dive into the red rock magic! 🧡

Wait... What Time Is It?

VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION if you’re planning on visiting during Daylight Savings Time:

Arizona does not observe Daylight Savings Time. But the Navajo Nation does.

Yup. You read that right—and no, you’re not the only one confused. Arthur and I spent a solid 15 minutes scratching our heads trying to figure it out, and honestly, we still don’t really understand how it works. Eventually, we just gave up trying to make sense of it and decided to roll with it.

So here’s our advice: If you’ve booked a tour at Antelope Canyon, aim to get there 2 to 3 hours early. That might sound dramatic, but it’s better than missing your reservation—because the time switch will mess with your plans if you’re not ready for it.

We usually show up an hour early to tours, just to be safe. But this time, our phones told us we were an hour late. Meanwhile, the staff at the check-in counter said we were an hour early. Our brains nearly exploded. Bottom line: be extra cautious with timing if you're visiting during the Daylight Savings transition!

So Where Exactly Is Antelope Canyon?

Antelope Canyon is tucked away in northern Arizona, about 10 minutes east of the town of Page. It’s located on Navajo land and split into two main sections: Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. Both are stunning, but Upper is easier to walk through and better for photos with that famous light beam magic.

If you're making the trip, consider stopping by Horseshoe Bend (just 15 minutes away) or Monument Valley (about two hours east). It's a great area to explore if you're into jaw-dropping landscapes and dramatic desert vibes.

What Should You Bring?

Keep it simple. You’ll be walking through sandy paths and narrow canyon spaces, so bring only what you can comfortably carry. I’d recommend:

• Water (hydration is non-negotiable)

• Sunscreen (yes, even in the canyon)

• A hat or something to shade your face

• Your camera or cell phone (you'll definitely want photos!)

Backpacks aren’t usually allowed on the tour, so leave the big stuff in your car or hotel. And wear comfy shoes—this is not the place for fashion sandals.

Want To Go?

You can easily book a tour online with licensed Navajo guides. Reservations are required, and these tours fill up fast, so don’t wait too long. Also, be prepared to join a group. This isn’t a private hike; it’s a guided experience, and trust me, it’s worth every second.

Interested in seeing it for yourself? I’d love to help you plan the trip! I’ll book everything you need and make sure you’re all set, no stress.