Upper Antelope Canyon vs Lower Antelope Canyon: Which Should You Visit?

by Roam & Thrive

Upper Antelope Canyon

Upper Antelope Canyon is the more popular and frequently visited of the two canyon sections. It is known for its smooth, wavy sandstone walls that rise gracefully overhead. Upper Antelope Canyon is also known for its incredible light beams that penetrate the narrow openings at the top of the canyon creating stunning visual effects, particularly during the middle of the day.

Lower Antelope Canyon

Lower Antelope Canyon is located a little further south than the Upper part of the Canyon. Lower Antelope Canyon is deeper and narrower than its upper counterpart. It is characterised by twisting passageways, ladders, and a staircase that visitors can navigate to explore its enchanting depths.

Comparing  Upper vs Lower Antelope Cayon: Which is Better?

Upper Antelope Canyon

Upper Antelope Canyon is the more popular section of Antelope Canyon and this is generally what people have in their minds when referring to Antelope Canyon. If you’ve seen pictures of Antelope Canyon online with its mesmerising light beams  it’s Upper Antelope Canyon you were looking at. When comparing, one of the biggest differences is the shape of the canyon itself. Upper Antelope Canyon has an A-shape, which means it’s much wider at the bottom than it is at the top.

Pros of Visiting Upper Antelope Canyon

It’s Prettier - That's subjective but there’s something about the shape of the walls that makes them more dramatic and perhaps more angular. It’s More Photogenic- Upper Antelope Canyon is much more popular for photographers due to the dramatic canyon walls and the coveted light beams. It’s Less Claustrophobic

Cons of Visiting Upper Antelope Canyon

It’s Busier - Upper Antelope Canyon is the busiest section of Antelope Canyon so it’s here where you’ll see the most crowds. Cost - Visiting Upper Antelope Canyon isn’t cheap. In fact, the price is quite a bit more for Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon Tours. Other cons include More Difficult Photography Conditions and less tour availability. 

Lower Antelope Canyon

While Upper Antelope Canyon may steal the spotlight, its counterpart, Lower Antelope Canyon, offers a distinct and equally mesmerizing experience. Unlike the A-shape of Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon is shaped like a V. It’s much wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, the opposite of Upper Antelope Canyon. Moreover, Lower Antelope Canyon receives more light even into the narrow canyon bottom. It makes it easier to photograph compared with Upper Antelope Canyon.

Pros of Lower Antelope Canyon

Cost - Lower Antelope Canyon is cheaper than Upper Antelope Canyon. For the more budget conscious this is something to consider. It’s More Adventurous Due to all the ladders, and the narrow canyon walls that you’ll zigzag through and step over, visiting Lower Antelope Canyon feels a little like a fun, natural obstacle course. FIND OUT MORE HERE

Cons of Lower Antelope Canyon

Few Chances of Seeing Light Beams - For those who have their sights set on seeing and photographing light beams in Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon would not be the best option. Not Suitable for All - Due to the more complex geography, Lower Antelope Canyon isn’t as easy to navigate. There are a series of metal ladders or staircases you’ll need to descend to get down into the Canyon and you’ll need to go up a few more.

Which is Better Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon?

So, which Antelope Canyon is better, Upper or Lower? I might not be able to answer this question for you, as your decision will depend on your own preferences, but I found Lower Antelope Canyon to be better. FIND OUT MORE HERE

Happy Travels!

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