*This tour was done in partnership with MaxTour; all opinions are my own. Northern Arizona offers a wealth of attractions; however, covering them all in one trip can be a challenging endeavor. For first-time visitors, opting for a small-group tour is advisable. While self-driving through this itinerary is feasible, the logistics can be overwhelming. A well-structured plan that allows for early departures and late arrivals is crucial for maximizing your experience. This two-day itinerary provides insights into how to fully experience the region’s highlights, whether with a guiding company like MaxTour or independently.

MaxTour Overview

MaxTour, located in Las Vegas, supports travelers in exploring Northern Arizona with convenience and insight. Their knowledgeable guides, who ensure a comfortable experience with snacks and beverages, make this option especially attractive for first-time visitors or international travelers seeking familiarity with the region.

The route is visually captivating, and traveling with a guide allows participants to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without the distraction of driving. MaxTour typically sends out pickup times the day prior from your Las Vegas hotel. The groups are capped at 14 guests to ensure a more personalized adventure. Their 2-day Grand Canyon Antelope Canyon tour is reasonably priced, including accommodations for one night in Page, Arizona. Antelope Canyon access incurs an additional cost of $75, a worthwhile investment for this breathtaking destination.

Key Attractions on a 2-Day Tour

Day One

Hoover Dam

The journey begins with a brief tour of the iconic Hoover Dam, a remarkable feat of engineering. This structure not only symbolizes human ingenuity but also provides significant resources, including hydroelectric power and recreation opportunities at Lake Mead. However, it’s essential to reflect on the environmental impact this dam imposes on the local river ecosystem due to human usage.

Viewing the water levels, which have significantly decreased due to population growth, serves as a stark reminder of ongoing challenges related to natural resource management.

Grand Canyon National Park

This destination is often regarded as a bucket list entry and ranks among the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. It embodies the quintessential experience for anyone looking to visit the U.S. National Parks. Although a visit to the visitor center is available, our guide recommended against it due to crowds; instead, focus on viewing three key overlooks: Yavapai, Lipan, and Grandview—each providing unique historical insights and stunning views of the canyon.

Yavapai overlook is a favored spot, offering breathtaking views of the canyon and paved paths for scenic walks. Experiencing this vista was deeply moving, reminiscent of my awe at Bryce Canyon National Park. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot elk, deer, and peregrine falcons while absorbing the landscape’s beauty.

Historic Route 66

Incorporating a segment of Route 66 into your trip serves as a nod to America’s first highway. Various small towns dot the landscape, with many relying on tourism to sustain their communities. A brief stop for photographs and local souvenirs is worthwhile.

Overnight in Page

After the tour, including lunch and restroom breaks in Williams, the journey concludes in Page, where several hotel options await. Page hosts Lake Powell, the second-largest man-made lake in the U.S. Dining options abound, with recommendations including Big John’s Texas BBQ, K-Pop Kitchen, El Tapatio (highly recommended), and Mongolian BBQ Grill, which also has good offerings.

Day Two

Upper Antelope Canyon

As the most renowned of Antelope Canyon, this location captivates visitors with its stunning visual appeal. A skilled guide, Justin, provided excellent insights into capturing the canyon’s beauty through photography while informing us about significant rock formations linked to Navajo culture.

World-Famous Horseshoe Bend

My first encounter with Horseshoe Bend occurred during the Antelope Canyon Ultra, where its breathtaking scenery left a lasting impression. The present site requires a short walk along a well-trodden trail, offering shaded stops—an appreciated feature during the sweltering summer heat.

The stunning views can be appreciated from above, with opportunities for future adventures including kayak tours that offer a unique perspective of the site.

Final Stop

Shores of Lake Powell

Concluding your tour with an overlook at Lake Powell offers a breathtaking view of both the lake and the town of Page. Though this can be a brief stop, the beauty of the area makes it a worthwhile conclusion to your journey.

Concluding Thoughts

Traveling with a small tour company enhances the experience of visiting these remarkable sites, providing ample time for exploration. Although each day begins early, the chance to witness such extraordinary landscapes makes it all worthwhile. After sampling these wonders, you may consider planning a Rim to Rim hike or a visit to Tucson to explore Saguaro National Park, continuing your journey through the treasures of the U.S. National Parks.