Everything you need to know about Antelope Canyon, the world’s most famous slot canyon

Upper Antelope Canyon is famous for its light beams that shine down through the narrow openings, especially around midday. This canyon is easy to navigate, with its flat floor making it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. The tall sandstone walls create a dramatic play of shadows and colors, making it the most photographed section of Antelope Canyon. It’s the most popular out of the three canyons, so if you want to take this tour, you should book at least a few weeks in advance to get the slot of your choice.

Lower Antelope Canyon gives you a more adventurous experience with its winding paths, steeper descents, and narrower slots. Visitors need to navigate a series of stairs and ladders to be able to explore the canyon, but the effort is easily worth it. The walls of Lower Antelope Canyon are more intricately shaped and textured as compared to the upper section. It also tends to be less crowded because it requires more dexterity and a higher fitness level so it’s less accessible. Its dynamic angles make it a favorite among photographers looking for less conventional shots.

Antelope Canyon X, a lesser-known part of the canyons, offers a quieter and more relaxed experience. It’s named after the X-shaped patterns formed by intersecting rock layers, which are just as striking. Canyon X has wider paths and fewer stairs to navigate when compared to Lower Canyon. Because it sees fewer visitors, it provides a more peaceful way to enjoy the canyon’s beauty, making it perfect for those who want to take in the views without the hustle of larger crowds.

Ligai Si Anii Canyon offers a peaceful and uncrowded alternative to the more popular sections of Antelope Canyon. This lesser-known slot canyon is known for its smooth sandstone walls, vibrant red hues, and winding formations that showcase the natural artistry of the slot canyons. Exploring Ligai Si Anii feels more intimate and personal, as smaller tour groups allow for quiet reflection and better photo opportunities. The canyon’s passages are accessible yet still offer a sense of adventure, making it ideal for travelers seeking a calm, immersive experience in Navajoland’s remarkable landscapes.

Mystical Antelope Canyon lives up to its name with a truly enchanting atmosphere. The canyon features beautifully sculpted sandstone walls that twist and turn into mesmerizing shapes, illuminated by shifting beams of light throughout the day. Unlike the busier sections, Mystical Antelope Canyon offers a more serene exploration experience, where visitors can slow down and take in the silence and beauty around them. The colors here, ranging from deep oranges to soft purples, create a dreamlike setting that captivates both first-time visitors and seasoned photographers alike.

Secret Canyon, part of the greater Antelope Canyon region, offers one of the most private and exclusive slot canyon experiences in northern Arizona. This hidden gem is accessible only through small-group guided tours, ensuring minimal crowds and a more personal connection with the natural environment. The canyon’s walls rise dramatically on either side, giving it the label of being one of the “longest” slot canyons in the area. They carve themselves into fluid patterns that change color with the light. Its narrow chambers and intricate textures make it perfect for photography and exploration without the rush of larger tour groups.