Explore the restricted backcountry and iconic landmarks of Monument Valley in an open-air 4x4 vehicle. Led by local Navajo guides, these jeep tours offer exclusive access to scenic points, cultural history, and unforgettable sunrise or sunset views.
Free Cancellation Explore 28 miles of Monument Valley’s scenic loops and restricted backcountry arches on a 2.5-hour guided history tour.
Free Cancellation Explore Lower Monument Valley's iconic red rock formations on a 3-hour guided tour at sunrise or sunset.
Free Cancellation Explore Lower Monument Valley’s backcountry on this 3.5-hour tour featuring Navajo storytelling and a Hogan visit.
Free Cancellation Explore restricted backcountry and Navajo culture on a 2.5-hour guided tour through Monument Valley.
Free Cancellation Explore Monument Valley’s 17-mile loop and restricted backcountry with local guides and a traditional Hogan visit.
Free Cancellation Experience the highlights of Monument Valley’s 17-mile loop on a narrated tour designed for travelers short on time.
New Explore Monument Valley’s restricted backcountry in an open-air vehicle with a local Navajo guide.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Monument Valley — from practical tips to personal highlights.
Taking a guided jeep tour is arguably the best way to experience the sheer scale and deep cultural significance of Monument Valley. While anyone can drive the public 17-mile loop, jumping into an open-air 4x4 with a local Navajo guide unlocks access to restricted backcountry areas, hidden arches, and ancient traditions you simply can't see on your own.
Marvel at world-famous sandstone masterpieces like the East and West Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte, which tower up to 1,000 feet above the desert floor.
Leave the crowded public roads behind and venture into off-limits areas. You'll explore quieter, pristine landscapes only accessible with a licensed Navajo guide.
Learn about the valley's heritage directly from those who know it best. Many extended tours include visits to a traditional Hogan and live musical performances.
Stand at the legendary viewpoint named after the famous Hollywood director. It's the ultimate spot to capture your own classic Western movie photograph.
Discover massive geological wonders hidden deep in the backcountry, such as the Ear of the Wind arch and the towering Totem Pole spires.
Book an early morning or evening tour to watch the sandstone formations glow with vibrant golden and red hues under the shifting desert light.
Booking a jeep tour in Monument Valley requires a bit of logistical planning, especially regarding tribal fees and time zones. Here is what you need to know before securing your spot.
Most tour prices do not include the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park entry fee. You will need to pay $15 per person plus a $20 vehicle fee at the toll booth upon arrival. National Park passes are not accepted here.
The Navajo Nation observes Daylight Saving Time, putting it on Mountain Standard Time (MST). From mid-March to October, Monument Valley is one hour ahead of the rest of Arizona. Plan your arrival accordingly so you don't miss your tour.
Tours range from a quick 1.5-hour express loop to an immersive 3.5-hour cultural deep dive. If you want to see the restricted backcountry and experience a traditional Hogan visit, opt for a tour that is 2.5 hours or longer.
Almost all jeep tours depart from the loading area just outside The View Hotel, about 50 yards west of the entrance. Do not wait inside the hotel lobby; guides meet guests at the outdoor loading zone.
Most tours use open-air safari vehicles to give you unobstructed views of the towering buttes. During the winter months or severe weather, operators may switch to enclosed SUVs or vans for your comfort.
While jeep tours require minimal walking and are suitable for most fitness levels, the dirt roads are extremely bumpy. These tours are not recommended for pregnant travelers or individuals with spinal injuries.
Weather changes rapidly. Summer temperatures exceed 100°F, while winter and early morning tours can drop below freezing. Dress in layers, wear closed-toe shoes, and bring a hat and sunglasses to protect against the blowing sand.
The vast majority of tour operators offer a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time.
| Express Jeep Tour | Backcountry 4x4 Tour | Sunrise or Sunset Tour | Cultural Deep Dive | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1.5 Hours | 2.5 Hours | 3 Hours | 3.5 Hours |
| Best for | Families & tight schedules | Photography & off-the-beaten-path explorers | Golden hour lighting & scenic views | History & culture enthusiasts |
| Includes | 17-mile loop highlights, historical overview | Restricted backcountry access, hidden arches | Backcountry routes, prime photography timing | Hogan visit, musical performance, backcountry |
| Price from | $65 | $75 | $85 | $90 |
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park operates on seasonal hours. During the Summer, the scenic drive is open Monday through Sunday from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm, with the last entry allowed at 4:30 pm daily.
During the Winter, hours are reduced to 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, with the last entry at 2:30 pm. Keep in mind that the Navajo Nation observes Daylight Saving Time, so local time may differ from the rest of Arizona.
The park is completely closed to visitors on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
Monument Valley is located on the Utah-Arizona border and is only accessible by car. There is no public transportation to the park.
The absolute best times to visit are the shoulder seasons of late Fall and early Spring (especially March and October). Daytime temperatures are comfortable, and crowds are minimal.
If you are a photographer, aim for late March or mid-September to witness the spectacular Mitten Shadow event, where the shadow of West Mitten Butte perfectly aligns with East Mitten Butte at sunset.
Avoid the peak summer months (May to September) if possible. Temperatures regularly exceed 100°F (38°C), and the July-September monsoon season brings severe afternoon thunderstorms that can cause flash flooding and road closures.
The Monument Valley Visitor Center terrace is fully wheelchair accessible and offers some of the most spectacular, unobstructed views of the Mittens and Merrick Butte.
However, the 17-mile scenic loop drive is a rough, unpaved dirt road with deep sand dunes and potholes, making it completely inaccessible for independent wheelchair travel. The 3.2-mile Wildcat Trail is also not recommended for those with mobility issues due to uneven terrain and lack of shade.
If you are booking a jeep tour, note that operators strongly advise against participation for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health due to the extremely bumpy nature of the backcountry roads.
Inside the tribal park boundaries, The View Hotel is the primary hub for visitors. It features a restaurant, a trading post, wilderness tent sites, an RV park, and hotel rooms with private balconies facing the buttes.
The Visitor Center offers restrooms, a gift shop, and information desks where you can purchase backcountry permits. Along the 17-mile scenic loop and near the Visitor Center, you will find roadside stands where local Navajo artisans sell authentic handmade crafts, wool rugs, and silver jewelry.
Monument Valley is a sacred Navajo Tribal Park, and strict rules apply to all visitors:
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This 2.5-hour guided tour covers 28 miles (45 km) of terrain, combining the valley's famous scenic points with the restricted Backcountry. Because the Backcountry is closed to the general public, this route offers a quieter look at the landscape's hidden monuments and natural formations. The drive focuses on the area’s unique geology and ancient history. You will visit several natural sandstone arches and view petroglyphs left behind by the Anasazi civilization. Your guide provides historical context for these sites, explaining the cultural significance of the rock art and the landmarks encountered along the way.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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This three-hour guided tour takes you through the backroads of Lower Monument Valley during the desert's most scenic hours. You can choose a sunrise departure to watch the first light hit the spires or a sunset trip to see the landscape change under the evening sky. Your guide handles the navigation, sharing the history of the land as you move between the valley's most famous sites. The itinerary includes stops at John Ford's Point, the Totem Pole, and the Big Hogan. You will also see the Sun’s Eye and several other natural arches and formations that define this region. The pace is relaxed, with dedicated time at each location to step out of the vehicle, explore the surroundings on foot, and take photos.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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This three-and-a-half-hour tour travels through the backcountry of the Lower Monument Valley Tribal Park. Led by local guides, the excursion focuses on the history and traditions of the area while navigating the valley's distinct landscape. The experience includes a stop at a traditional Hogan for a demonstration of Navajo life and customs. Along the way, your guide will share oral histories and perform traditional music to provide a clearer understanding of the local culture and its connection to the land.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Join a local Navajo guide for a 2.5-hour exploration of Monument Valley in an open-air vehicle. This tour accesses restricted backcountry routes, allowing you to visit landmarks such as John Ford’s Point, the Big Hogan, and Ear of the Wind while learning about the history of the landscape. The experience includes a stop at a traditional Navajo Hogan for a cultural demonstration. You will see how wool is prepared and watch a live display of traditional rug weaving, providing a direct look at the skills and heritage passed down through generations.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Join local guides for a tour through the heart of Monument Valley, covering the standard 17-mile loop and restricted backcountry areas. These off-trail sections are only accessible with a guide, offering a closer look at the valley's distinct sandstone formations and history. During the trip, you will visit a traditional Hogan for a cultural demonstration. Our guides share personal stories about growing up in the valley, providing a direct perspective on the traditions and heritage of the area.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Designed for families and couples on a tight schedule, this guided tour covers the essential landmarks of Monument Valley’s 17-mile loop. We focus on reaching the most iconic viewpoints while providing a clear historical overview of the landscape and its cultural significance. Our guides share the stories behind the valley’s famous formations as you navigate the loop. It is an efficient way to see the park’s highlights and capture great photos without needing to spend the entire day on the road.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Ride through Monument Valley in an open-air safari vehicle led by a local Navajo guide. This tour covers iconic landmarks like the East and West Mitten Buttes and the Totem Pole, while also granting access to restricted areas of the valley that are off-limits to general visitors. As you travel, your guide will explain the history and traditions of the Navajo people. The small-group setting allows for a more personal experience as you navigate the desert landscape and learn about the cultural significance of the rock formations.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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