Over the course of a week, we tried all the Antelope Canyon tours, and our favorite was the Antelope Canyon X! The full review of our visit can be found here.
The Antelope Canyon slot canyon is arguably the most beautiful and famous slot canyon in the United States, with its colorful walls, narrow passageways, and dramatic light beams.
Antelope Canyon X tours explore a section of the canyon that has only been open to the public for a few years, so it is far less crowded and touristy than the main canyon.
Unfortunately, Antelope X is also located on the Navajo Nation, so you can only visit it with a tour and a Navajo guide.
This Antelope Canyon X review will share my experiences and photos from our tour and explain when to visit and everything else you need to know!
Why Choose Antelope Canyon X?
Antelope Canyon X offers a more intimate and less crowded experience than the popular Upper and Lower Canyons, while still boasting the iconic pink and orange sandstone formations. The canyon is managed by the Navajo Nation, and as with the other sections, the only way to visit is through a guided tour with a Navajo guide.
We opted for the Antelope Canyon X tour and were impressed with how smooth the entire process was. We booked the tour through GetYourGuide, and the price covered the entry fee and guide. Communication was clear, and there’s even a refund policy in case of cancellations.
Tour Highlights: What to Expect
The tour began with a check-in at the company’s parking lot, followed by a short drive in an air-conditioned van through the desert. The 15-minute ride was a bit bumpy but nothing too uncomfortable. Once we arrived at the canyon, we were greeted with stunning views, and after descending a set of wooden stairs, we entered the slot canyon itself.
What struck us immediately was the peaceful atmosphere and the absence of large crowds. Unlike the packed tours of Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, Canyon X had a quiet, almost private feel. Our group had no more than 10 people, and we only encountered a few other small groups during the tour.
The canyon itself is divided into two slot sections, separated by a short sandy wash. Each section features breathtaking sandstone walls, and the twisting passageways create a visual treat with vibrant colors and unique rock formations. We spent over an hour in the canyon, taking pictures and talking with our guide about its history.
Why We Loved Antelope Canyon
1. Less Crowded: One of the main reasons we preferred Antelope Canyon X was its serenity. While the main Antelope Canyons are packed with tourists, Canyon X is still relatively unknown, offering a peaceful and more relaxed experience.
2. Affordable and Longer Tour: The tour prices start around $60 per person, making it a more budget-friendly option than the Upper Canyon tours, which can be as high as $150. We also had more time to explore the canyon, take photos, and appreciate its beauty without feeling rushed.
3. Stunning Scenery: The rock formations in Antelope Canyon X rival those in the Upper and Lower Canyons. The twisting passageways and vibrant colors of the sandstone are just as impressive, and it felt like we had more time to truly take in the views.
Best Time to Visit Antelope Canyon X
The ideal time to visit Antelope Canyon X is between March and October, when the lighting conditions are perfect for capturing the canyon’s beauty. We visited in May around 2 PM, and the lighting was superb. Unlike the Upper and Lower Canyons, where certain times of day offer better light beams, Antelope Canyon X can be enjoyed at any time of the day due to its mix of deep and shallow sections.
Antelope Canyon X vs. Upper/Lower Canyons
We explored all sections of Antelope Canyon, and here’s how Canyon X stacks up:
- Crowds: Antelope Canyon X is significantly less crowded, giving you more time and space to take photos and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
- Cost: Canyon X is more affordable, and you get a longer tour for a lower price, offering great value for money.
- Photography: While Upper Antelope Canyon is famous for its light beams, Canyon X is still highly photogenic, with plenty of opportunities for stunning shots in both bright and dark sections.
Overall, Canyon X wins in terms of value and experience, especially if you’re looking for a quieter, more laid-back tour.
What to Bring and What to Avoid
What to Bring:
- Driver’s License/ID: You’ll need it for check-in.
- Water Bottle: The desert heat can be intense, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
- Hat and Sunscreen: The sun can be strong, especially during the hike to the canyon entrance.
- Camera/Phone: Capture the beauty of the canyon, but remember to be respectful of the space.
What NOT to Bring:
- Bags/Backpacks: No bags of any kind are allowed in the canyon, so leave them in your car.
- Pets: Pets aren’t permitted on the tour.
- Drones/Selfie Sticks: These are prohibited, so don’t plan on bringing them.
Other Useful Tips
- Time Zones: Be mindful of the time zone confusion in this part of Arizona. The Navajo Nation observes Daylight Saving Time, while the rest of Arizona does not, so be sure to set your clock to Page, Arizona local time.
- Arrival Time: It’s recommended to arrive 30 minutes early for check-in. The tour company is strict about punctuality, so don’t be late.
- Bathrooms: Portable toilets are available at the waiting area, but none are accessible during the tour, so plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Antelope Canyon X? Antelope Canyon X is a lesser-known slot canyon located on Navajo tribal land near Page, Arizona, featuring stunning sandstone formations.
2. Why is it called Canyon X? The name comes from an X-shaped hole in the canyon ceiling near the entrance.
3. How far is Canyon X from the main Antelope Canyon? Canyon X is located about 5 miles from Upper Antelope Canyon and 9 miles from Lower Antelope Canyon.
4. Can you visit Canyon X without a tour? No, a guided tour is required, as it is located on Navajo Nation land.
5. Is the tour suitable for kids? Yes, children can enjoy the tour as long as they follow the rules and don’t damage the canyon walls.
Final Thoughts
Antelope Canyon X is an incredible destination that offers a peaceful, beautiful, and budget-friendly alternative to the more crowded Upper and Lower Canyons. With its stunning rock formations, affordable pricing, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect choice for those looking to explore one of Arizona’s most scenic spots. Enjoy the experience before it becomes too popular!
