Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon: Which Tour Is Truly Worth Your Time?
Lillian Ashbaugh 2025-12-06
Here’s a challenge that every traveler encounters:
Should I visit Upper Antelope Canyon or Lower Antelope Canyon?
One of the most captivating natural wonders in the American Southwest is Antelope Canyon, which is only a short distance from the tiny town of Page in northern Arizona. The thin sandstone walls of the canyon, sculpted by thousands of years of rushing water, shimmer in orange, red, and gold hues. You might even be able to see the renowned sunshine beams piercing through the canyon ceiling if you time it correctly.
Both are amazing, but it's not always evident how they vary. Having visited Page several times over the years and seen both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon in various seasons, I've compiled all the information you need to select the ideal tour.
Let’s break it down.
Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon: Quick Overview
Both canyons are magnificent and distinctive. It is definitely worthwhile to visit both in one day if you have the time (and the money). Here's what makes them unique, though, if you have to pick just one.
Lower Antelope Canyon
Lower Antelope Canyon is narrower, tighter, and more adventurous. Expect:
What to Expect
Slim, twisting passageways
Beautiful, sculpted sandstone walls
Multiple staircases and ladders
A one-way walking path that keeps the group flowing
Amazing photo spots, if you’re quick!
Lower Antelope Canyon is not as "open" as Upper Antelope. The spacious, cathedral-like chambers are not present here. Instead, it's more dramatic and personal, making it ideal for tourists who enjoy a little adventure.
Who Will Love It
Active travelers
Adventure-seekers
People who want dramatic canyon textures
Anyone who doesn’t mind ladders or small spaces
Upper Antelope Canyon
The famous version of Upper Antelope Canyon is the one you see on postcards and screensavers.
What to Expect
Wide, tall canyon corridors
More space to walk and move
Soft, glowing red sandstone formations
The famous light beams, only visible mid-day
A flatter, easier path (great for all ages)
This is the only location where the fabled light rays consistently appear if you're wanting to witness them.
Best Time to Visit
11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on a beautiful, clear day.
Sunlight comes at the ideal angle for those breathtaking pictures at this time.
Who Will Love It
Families
First-time visitors
Photographers
Anyone who wants the classic Antelope Canyon experience
Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon: What’s the Real Difference?
The primary distinction between them, aside from physical differences, is what you can provide.
Because of the limited passageways, several tour firms have stringent no-bag regulations. Others only permit small objects, such as miniature cameras or water bottles.
Best advice:
Plan to carry only a camera and some water (especially in summer).
So… Which Antelope Canyon Tour Is Better?
To be honest? Neither is superior. They are just not the same.
If you want the classic postcard views ➝ Upper Antelope Canyon
If you want a more adventurous, sculpted slot canyon ➝ Lower Antelope Canyon
If you want the full experience ➝ Do the combination tour
Best choice overall:
Upper + Lower Antelope Canyon Half-Day Combination Tour
This guarantees you won't leave wondering what you missed and lets you enjoy both without hurrying.
Booking Your Antelope Canyon Tour
The primary distinction is schedule, as all tours follow the same canyon pathways.
Making a reservation using Viator also provides you with:
Reserve Now & Pay Later (when booking 3+ days ahead)
Easy cancellations
Multiple time options
Alternative times if your first choice is full
And keep in mind that Antelope Canyon is quite well-liked. Just choose a different time if your slot is refused.
Available Tours
Lower Antelope Canyon Tour
Upper Antelope Canyon Tour
Upper + Lower Combination Tour (best value!)
Why Photography Tours Were Cancelled
Prior to 2020, photographers could use tripods, long exposures, and more time inside the canyon with special excursions.
Both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon no longer offer these.
Why?
Photographers were slowing down regular tours
Visitors felt rushed or blocked
The experience became chaotic during peak seasons
Photography tours are still available in Canyon X, making it a fantastic alternative.
How to Get Amazing Photos in Antelope Canyon (Without a Photo Tour)
Simple answer: Be aggressively fast.
You’ll be moving with a group, so you must:
Shoot while walking
Stay alert for good angles
Move aside quickly to avoid blocking others
Let your group pass to get “clean shots”
Adjust your settings before entering the canyon
My best photos came from waiting at the end of the group and letting people go ahead.
How to See the Light Rays
To maximize your chances:
1. Book Upper Antelope Canyon
2. Choose 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
3. Go on a sunny day
4. Visit during late morning or early afternoon
Upper Canyon is still the only location where the beams visibly form, but Lower Canyon still looks fantastic in early morning light.
Best Camera Lens for Antelope Canyon
Do not change lenses inside the canyon.
The fine sand can permanently destroy your camera sensor.
Recommended lens:
16–35mm wide angle
A wide lens helps capture:
Narrow walls
Ceiling openings
Twisting sandstone curves
Anything tighter will limit your compositions.
Alternative Tours Beyond Upper & Lower Antelope Canyon
Try these choices if you're looking for something more photogenic or less crowded:
Canyon X
Less crowded
Stunning formations
Photography tours still available
Great light during most of the day
Combination Tours with Transportation
If you’re traveling without a car, you can book:
Page to Antelope Canyon tours
Sedona to Antelope Canyon
Flagstaff to Antelope Canyon
Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon
Final Thoughts
With good cause, Antelope Canyon is the slot canyon that receives the most photos worldwide. Both Upper and Lower provide breathtaking vistas, striking sandstone formations, and life-changing encounters.
Go to both if you can.
Select the option that best suits your style if you can only have one:
Upper = iconic light beams + easier walk
Lower = narrow, adventurous, dramatic textures
You will undoubtedly have an unforgettable experience regardless of the tour you select.
