Monument Valley & Slot Canyons


Monument Valley Photography
Tour Details
Dates Mar 14–20, 2009
Leader Cliff Zenor
Fee $3,395 from Page, Arizona
Deposit $300
Limit 8
Terms and Conditions

The images are familiar. For photographers, some of the most recognizable photographs of the American Southwest are created in Monument Valley and the slot canyons of southern Utah and northern Arizona. Time spent “shooting” in this unearthly landscape of vibrant colors, towering monoliths and mesmerizing patterns is always repaid with a trove of exceptional imagery.

Monument Valley Photography Tour - Sandstone Formations
Antelope Canyon is like nowhere else in North America: wind- and water-eroded sandstone walls ascend 100 feet high through what must be the most artistically attractive rock crack in the West. Exquisite erosion patterns captured in the reflected glow of overhead light as it bounces from wall to canyon wall inspire some of the most sensual abstract photography imaginable.

We have scheduled two opportunities to capture the play of sunlight across the sculpted Navajo Sandstone walls of these unique winding passageways that pierce deep into the colorful heart of the Colorado Plateau. Two 3-hour excursions into Lower Antelope Canyon—considered by many to be the most photographically productive section—give us time to record the ever-changing hues, textures and curves of this magical setting.

Monument Valley Photography Tour - Tumbleweed in Slot Canyon
The spectacular rock formations of Monument Valley have long held our collective imaginations. From its use in John Ford’s Stagecoach, to uncountable advertisements featuring a dynamic landscape punctuated with the soaring profiles of the renowned Mitten Buttes and a throng of other formations, Monument Valley is recognized as a symphony in stone. Fiery reds and oranges of the buttes, mesas, and eroded freestanding pinnacles and spires pierce the infinite blue skies.

We traverse this remarkable "valley" and photograph the first light of day as it brushes the dramatic sandstone monuments and capture the last glowing rays of the sun. In between, changing light and clouds create endless patterns across these secluded tribal lands. As we explore further with our local Navajo guides, we will also have an opportunity to photograph petroglyphs, Anasazi cliff dwellings and natural arches. Some moderate hiking is necessary to fully participate in this tour.

Join us on this journey in late March—when the light is at its best and the visitors are few—to some of the most photogenic locations in the American Southwest.



Day 1 (Mar 14)
Fly to Page, Arizona, and meet at our hotel for dinner. (D)

Monument Valley Photography Tour - Landscape
Days 2–3
We photograph at sunrise and sunset each day—the Vermillion Cliffs, Horseshoe Bend overlook, Paria Movie Set and a remarkable Toadstool Trail—depending on light conditions. Midday will be reserved for photography sessions in Lower Antelope Canyon. (BLD)

Day 4
After sunrise photography in the area, we drive to Monument Valley and check into our conveniently-located lodging. A sunset tour with our local Navajo guides will introduce us to this iconic landscape. (BLD)

Monument Valley Photography Tour - Sunset
Day 5
Sunrise and sunset photography in Monument Valley, including a visit to Mystery Valley. (BLD)

Day 6
We have another opportunity for sunrise images of these sweeping vistas before driving back to Page. (BLD)

Day 7 (Mar 20)
Depart for home at any time today.


Joseph Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc. P.O. Box 655, Vashon Island, Washington USA 98070
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