The Difference Between Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon located in Arizona, United States. It is a popular tourist destination for its stunning natural beauty and unique rock formations. There are two sections of Antelope Canyon – the Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon. While they both share similarities, they have distinct differences that set them apart.
Location and Accessibility
The Lower Antelope Canyon is located near Page, Arizona, and is about a 15-minute drive from the Antelope Canyon Navajo Tribal Park. It is accessed using a staircase into the canyon and then walking through narrow passages and stairs to explore the canyon.
On the other hand, the Upper Antelope Canyon is also located near Page, Arizona, and is about a 20-minute drive from the Antelope Canyon Navajo Tribal Park. It is accessible with a 100-yard walk on a flat sandy terrain and requires no climbing or hiking.
Lighting
The Lower Antelope Canyon has a unique lighting condition that is different from the Upper Antelope Canyon. The Lower Canyon gets more direct sunlight, creating beautiful light beams that pierce through the narrow slots during specific times of the day. The light beams are stunning, and visitors can capture unique photographs.
In contrast, the Upper Antelope Canyon is famous for its light beams, commonly known as the “light shaft.” The light beams penetrate the narrow top openings of the canyon during specific times of the day, creating a stunning view of the rock formations. The light shaft is the primary feature that attracts tourists to the Upper Antelope Canyon.
Narrowness and Adventurousness
The Lower Antelope Canyon is relatively narrow and requires some agility to explore. Visitors must be physically fit and have no fear of heights to navigate through the narrow passages and stairs. The Lower Canyon also features exciting rock formations such as ladders, tunnels, and crevices.
On the other hand, the Upper Antelope Canyon is wider and flatter, providing more walking space for visitors. It is more accessible and less adventurous, making it ideal for tourists who do not want to engage in strenuous activities. Visitors do not need special climbing skills or equipment to navigate through the Upper Canyon.
Budget
There is a significant difference in the budget required to access the Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon.
Access to the Lower Antelope Canyon is less expensive than the Upper Antelope Canyon. The entrance fee for the Lower Antelope Canyon is USD 40.00 per person, whereas the Upper Antelope Canyon entrance fee is USD 80.00 per person. It is essential to note that both fees include the guided tour.
Photography
Photography is a significant part of Antelope Canyon tours, and both the Lower and Upper Canyon offer unique opportunities for photographers.
Photography in the Lower Antelope Canyon is more challenging due to the direct sunlight that tends to create high contrast on the rock formations. It requires specific camera settings and techniques to capture the beauty of the Canyon.
In contrast, the Upper Antelope Canyon offers more support for photography. The light beams create stunning shadows and shapes that visitors can capture. Additionally, the Canyon is wider, providing ample space for photographers to set up their tripods and take stunning shots.
Conclusion
The Lower and Upper Antelope Canyons are unique, and the choice of which to visit depends on individual preferences. Visitors looking for adventurous activities, unique lighting, and narrow passages may opt for the Lower Antelope Canyon. In contrast, visitors looking for spectacular light beams, wide spaces, and budget-friendly options may prefer the Upper Antelope Canyon.
Both canyons provide an unforgettable experience and offer visitors an opportunity to appreciate the stunning natural beauty of Antelope Canyon.
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Difference Between Lower And Upper Antelope Canyon
