Monument Valley, Arizona (2024)

Monument Valley, AZ

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Monument Valley might be the most iconic images of the American Southwest. If you're planning on visiting and want a logistical run down of how to make it happen, here it is. Monument Valley is located on the Arizona and Utah borders in the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. There is only one main road through Monument Valley, US 163, which offers the most famous images of Monument Valley. Once you get the park itself, there is an admission fee:

  • Per Vehicle Pass: $20 per non-commercial vehicle up to 4 people ($6 each additional passenger)
  • Per Individual Pass: $10 per walk-in, bicycle, or motorcycle
  • Commercial Pass: (based on capacity of vehicle)
  • 1-4 Passengers: $35 (additional $6 each)

Once you're in the park, you'll want to do the Valley Drive. It's basically the only road visitors can drive on without a tour guide. This road is rough but drivable without 4WD; but after a good rain fall, this road is nearly undrivable even for the most capable of vehicles. Valley Drive is 17 miles of dirt road which starts at the visitor center and heads southeast amongst the towering cliffs and mesas. It takes you past 11 numbered stops at the most scenic places, one of the most famous being Totem Pole, the 450 ft spire that is only a few meters wide. A typical journey around the loop takes at least 2 hours. Visitors are not allowed to hike away from the road closer towards any of the formations on the Valley Drive, but there are several guided tours that do take guests on hikes. Typical rates for guided tours begin around $75 for a 2 hour trip and can includes exploring ancient cave and cliff dwellings, natural arches, and even petroglyphs. This is the basic Monument Valley experience. Some visitors get their fill of this magnificent area just by driving the Valley Drive and taking picutres, other guests crave a true Southwest or Native American cultural experience. If you are the latter, it is recommended that you purchase your guided tour and lodging from one of the small Navajo ran businesses. For each visitor who has gone this route, there tends to be a unique and special story that comes out of it.

Going on a guided tour of Monument Valley is highly recommended. Because Monument Valley is on Navajo land, much of the terrain is off limits to visitors without a guide. Part of the reason for this is to preserve the ancient rock formations and the cultural hertiage of this land, but the other reason is because Monument Valley tours and lodging is a source of inccome for the Navajo who live here. It is a priviledge to experience such a spectacular place, and paying for a tour is a great way to preserve and respect this land and its people. Almost everyone who has been on a guided tour has found it very worth while. The ability to walk among the rock formations, through arches, by cliff dwellings and petroglyphs is special, second only to the stories your Navajo guides will share with you. Many of these tours are customizable or even pre-taylored to some of the most popular activities such as photography, horse trail riding or geology tours. No matter which tour you choose, it will certainly be worthwhile.

There are only a couple of options for lodging in Monument Valley. There are two hotels, some cabins, and several camping/RV options. The nearest town is Kayenta, which has a couple more hotels that are more familiar brands. But booking your stay with a Navajo tour company that offers camping on their land is also an incredible experience for those who do not require any amenities. Backcountry permits are also available for those who wish to camp at designated campsites within the park. Find and book Monument Valley hotels, camping and backcountry permits.

Best Monument Valley Tours & Things to Do

Arizona Private Tours

Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and … More

Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and up to 6 guests on a completely customizable tour of Northern Arizona. For majestic private Grand Canyon tours to Verde Valley Wine tours & ghost towns in the Sedona area, we cover it all. Let us create the custom tour of your dreams and know that we want to make this a day that you will remember for the rest of your life.

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Monument Valley, Arizona (3)

1.5 Hour Tour of Monument Valley's Valley Loop Drive

Monument Valley draws nearly half a million visitors every year to its famous rock formations along the Utah and Arizona border. Hear the geologic history and ancient mythology behind these formations on a guided 1.5-hour tour of Valley Loop Drive, stopping at the Valley’s most famous land … More

Monument Valley draws nearly half a million visitors every year to its famous rock formations along the Utah and Arizona border. Hear the geologic history and ancient mythology behind these formations on a guided 1.5-hour tour of Valley Loop Drive, stopping at the Valley’s most famous landmarks and overlooks. Hear the stories behind Monument Valley’s most famous attractions Save your car from the infamously pitted roads and keep your eyes free to roam. Perfect for families of all ages or those with limited mobility. Opportunities for photos of the landmarks along the way.

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Monument Valley Sunrise or Sunset Tour

See the sites of Lower Monument Valley that even tour guides can’t get enough of on this 3-hour sunrise or sunset excursion. Guides custom create itineraries that feature their favorite points in the valley in addition to must-see formations, transporting you in an all-terrain vehicle to s … More

See the sites of Lower Monument Valley that even tour guides can’t get enough of on this 3-hour sunrise or sunset excursion. Guides custom create itineraries that feature their favorite points in the valley in addition to must-see formations, transporting you in an all-terrain vehicle to sites far off the beaten path. Tour custom created by guides to showcase their favorite parts of Lower Monument Valley. Hear stories and legends from guides with extensive knowledge about the area.

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9

Grand Canyon, Monument Valley and Zion National Park 3-Day Tour

See popular highlights of the Southwest on a 3-day national parks tour from Las Vegas. Discover the amazing landscapes of Zion National Park and visit Grand Canyon National Park, where you can hike, walk along the South Rim or go on an optional helicopter ride. You'll also experience a Nav … More

See popular highlights of the Southwest on a 3-day national parks tour from Las Vegas. Discover the amazing landscapes of Zion National Park and visit Grand Canyon National Park, where you can hike, walk along the South Rim or go on an optional helicopter ride. You'll also experience a Navajo-guided Jeep tour of Monument Valley. Take an optional tour of Antelope Canyon and see Horseshoe Bend. Hear insightful commentary from your knowledgeable guide with transportation by air-conditioned minibus, select meals and entrance fees included. This small-group tour is limited to 14 people for a more intimate experience. New Private Tour Option- Purchase 5 seats and have a fully private tour with selected ticket type Hotel option.

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Tours from Las Vegas

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Monument Valley Air and Ground Tour from Phoenix

See more of Arizona's stunning natural beauty on a comprehensive full-day tour by air and land that culminates in Monument Valley. Enjoy a scenic flight from Phoenix over Tonto National Forest, Sedona, San Francisco Peaks, the Grand Canyon and Lake Powell, before landing near Monument Vall … More

See more of Arizona's stunning natural beauty on a comprehensive full-day tour by air and land that culminates in Monument Valley. Enjoy a scenic flight from Phoenix over Tonto National Forest, Sedona, San Francisco Peaks, the Grand Canyon and Lake Powell, before landing near Monument Valley. Then take a four-wheel drive tour with a Navajo guide to explore Monument Valley and the Navajo Tribal Park. After the 1.5-hour ground tour, try Navajo tacos for lunch before taking in more views on your return flight to Phoenix.

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3-Day National Parks Tour: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley and Grand Canyon

A 3-day, 2-night excursion set among the incredible national parks and desert landscapes that populate the region. Check out Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks before heading to the Grand Canyon, with an optional helicopter flight. Then visit Monument Valley for a Jeep tour led by a Nava … More

A 3-day, 2-night excursion set among the incredible national parks and desert landscapes that populate the region. Check out Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks before heading to the Grand Canyon, with an optional helicopter flight. Then visit Monument Valley for a Jeep tour led by a Navajo guide. This outdoor adventure includes transport, choice of camping or lodging accommodations, entrance fees.

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Tours from Las Vegas

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9.9

Cultural Tour of Lower Monument Valley Tribal Park

Learn about Navajo culture and see the natural wonders of Monument Valley on this 3.5-hour tour of lower Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. You'll visit a hogan, a traditional Navajo dwelling, to watch a demonstration, and hear stories from a guide about this region. Select a morning or a … More

Learn about Navajo culture and see the natural wonders of Monument Valley on this 3.5-hour tour of lower Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. You'll visit a hogan, a traditional Navajo dwelling, to watch a demonstration, and hear stories from a guide about this region. Select a morning or afternoon departure time when booking. See arches, buttes, and other rock formations used in films and other media. Hear stories abouMt Navajo culture from your guide. Visit a traditional hogan for a Navajo demonstration. Choice of departure times when booking.

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2.5 Hour Guided Tour of Monument Valley

Explore Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park on this 2.5-hour tour that introduces you to Monument Valley's major scenic attractions. During the 28-mile (45-km) journey, you'll also see backcountry monuments, which include arches and ancient petroglyphs from the Anasazi people. Select a morn … More

Explore Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park on this 2.5-hour tour that introduces you to Monument Valley's major scenic attractions. During the 28-mile (45-km) journey, you'll also see backcountry monuments, which include arches and ancient petroglyphs from the Anasazi people. Select a morning or afternoon departure time when booking. 2.5-hour Monument Valley tour Explore the natural features of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park See arches and other rock formations used in films and other media. Hear stories about the area from your guide. Choice of departure times when booking.

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Experience Sedona, Monument Valley & Antelope Canyon on this 3-day package through some of the most unique and stunning landscapes of the American West.

  • Discover the sandstone formations of Sedona
  • Take an amazing Jeep Tour in Monument Valley
  • Experience the stun … More
  • Experience Sedona, Monument Valley & Antelope Canyon on this 3-day package through some of the most unique and stunning landscapes of the American West.

  • Discover the sandstone formations of Sedona
  • Take an amazing Jeep Tour in Monument Valley
  • Experience the stunning upper Antelope Canyon
  • WHAT GUESTS LIKE ABOUT THIS PLACE »

    Tours from Las Vegas

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    In the Spotlight

    Arizona Private Tours » Customize Your Trip!

    Tower Butte Landing with Horseshoe Bend »

    Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour »

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    MORE WAYS TO EXPERIENCE MONUMENT VALLEY

    Monument Valley, Arizona (2024)

    FAQs

    What is so special about Monument Valley? ›

    Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, known by the Navajo as Tse'Bii'Ndzisgaii, is said to be one of the most photographed places on earth. The valley is host to towering sandstone rock formations that have been sculpted over time and soar 400 to 1,000 feet above the valley floor.

    What city is Monument Valley close to? ›

    The nearest town to Monument Valley is Mexican Hat, a short drive to the northeast on U.S. 163. For more lodging and dining options, continue along this same highway for another 20 minutes to reach Bluff.

    Is Monument Valley more in Utah or Arizona? ›

    For those who think that Monument Valley Tribal Park is in Arizona, it is true that the majority of the park is in AZ, but a portion of it is in Utah as well.

    Is Monument Valley National Park worth visiting? ›

    Monument Valley is the iconic valley of sandstone sculpted rock formations. Photographs of its formations are recognizable worldwide and it has been featured in many films over the years. It is much larger and more advertised than the nearby "Valley of the Gods." It is one of those famous places to visit.

    Was Forrest Gump filmed in Monument Valley? ›

    Want to Visit? Route 163 offers a beautiful and unique scenic adventure across Monument Valley, bringing visitors back to the world of the Wild West and cowboys. Because of this, it's not surprising that Hollywood films are quite fond of the area. Around marker 13 is the location where Forrest Gump stopped running.

    Can you just drive through Monument Valley? ›

    Chances are, you've seen Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, John Wayne movies, or the famous 'Run Forrest run' scene in Forrest Gump. You can drive through the valley on the 17-mile Valley Drive, a year-round accessible tarmacked highway.

    How much does it cost to enter Monument Valley? ›

    Do I Need a Reservation to Visit Monument Valley? No reservations are necessary to enter the park, but there is an $8 per person, per day entry fee.

    How long does it take to drive through Monument Valley? ›

    The drive through Monument Valley covers a 17-mile (27 km) loop road. Most people spend about 3 hours driving through Monument Valley, but some people spend as little as 2 hours or even longer than 4 hours.

    Can you do Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley in one day? ›

    The drive from Monument Valley and Antelope Canyon takes about 2 hours and covers roughly 115 miles (185 km). These locations are not right next to each other, but they're not too far apart either. If you're staying in a town near one or the other, such as Page or Kayenta. doing both in a day is much more doable.

    Does Route 66 go through Monument Valley? ›

    Spanning nearly 92,000 acres (over 143 square miles) and a three hour drive northeast of Flagstaff, on Route 66, Monument Valley is one of the most visually breathtaking expanses in the world.

    What is the best season to visit Monument Valley? ›

    Fall and spring are the best times to visit Monument Valley. This is when temperatures are most pleasant. If you are looking for warm days and comfortable nights, we recommend September as the best month to visit Monument Valley. Monument Valley is cold in the winter and hot in the summer.

    Why is the sand red in Monument Valley? ›

    The Geological Story Behind the Red Sand

    The red color of the sand in Monument Valley can be attributed to the presence of iron oxide, also known as rust, in the sandstone. Millions of years ago, the area that is now Monument Valley was a low-lying basin where iron-rich sediments accumulated over time.

    Is it worth staying overnight at Monument Valley? ›

    Staying overnight in Monument Valley is more than worth it for those seeking to fully experience the beauty, culture, and tranquility of this iconic landscape.

    How many days should I spend in Monument Valley? ›

    Monument Valley is an iconic Navajo Tribal Park located on the Utah-Arizona border. It is a stop that many people miss on their Utah road trip adventures, but I highly recommend spending one full day there (you don't need any longer) to experience its beauty.

    Can you drive through Monument Valley without a tour? ›

    Yes, you can tour Monument Valley on your own.

    This entails driving the 17-mile loop and planning your own itinerary. Alternatively, you can book a tour that will take you around the area. The unique, red rock formations of Monument Valley make it easy to see why it's so popular with tourists.

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