Exploring the majestic Monument Valley on a Backcountry Jeep Tour led by a knowledgeable Navajo guide promises an immersive adventure. This 2.5-hour excursion offers exclusive access to restricted areas, allowing visitors to witness iconic landmarks like the West and East Mitten Buttes and the Totem Pole up close. Beyond the breathtaking geological formations, the tour immerses guests in Navajo culture through visits to a traditional Hogan, rug weaving demonstrations, and ceremonial music performances. With prices ranging from $69.64 to $75.70 per person, this tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the region’s rich history and natural beauty. As for what awaits those who embark on this journey…
This experience made our list of the 7 Best Tours In Oljato Monument Valley.
Key Points
- This 2.5-hour backcountry Jeep tour in Monument Valley provides exclusive access to restricted areas, led by a knowledgeable Navajo guide.
- The tour includes culture activities like visiting a Navajo Hogan, witnessing rug weaving, and enjoying a traditional music performance.
- Guests can explore iconic geological formations such as the West and East Mitten Buttes, Totem Pole, and Moccasin Arch.
- The tour has a maximum capacity of 12 passengers in open-air vehicles or 7 in enclosed SUVs, depending on weather conditions.
- Positive customer reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, unique cultural experiences, and stunning scenic views throughout the tour.
Tour Overview
The Monument Valley Backcountry Jeep Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the iconic landscapes of Monument Valley with the guidance of a local Navajo expert.
The 2.5-hour tour provides access to the restricted backcountry of the valley, showcasing landmarks like the West and East Mitten Buttes, Totem Pole, and Moccasin Arch. Priced from $69.64 to $75.70 per person, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The open-air safari vehicle can accommodate up to 12 passengers in warm weather, or an enclosed SUV for up to 7 during extreme conditions.
The tour also includes culture activities, such as a visit to a Navajo Hogan, a rug weaving demonstration, and a ceremonial music performance.
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Highlights of the Experience
Visitors on the Monument Valley Backcountry Jeep Tour can expect an immersive cultural experience led by a knowledgeable Navajo guide.
Guests will explore the restricted backcountry of this iconic landscape, visiting sites like the West and East Mitten Buttes, Totem Pole, and Moccasin Arch. Along the way, they’ll learn about Navajo history, traditions, and spirituality.
The tour also includes a visit to a traditional Navajo Hogan, a rug weaving demonstration, and a ceremonial music performance, offering a deeper understanding of the indigenous culture.
Riding in an open-air safari vehicle, travelers will be surrounded by the stunning geological formations that have made Monument Valley a legendary destination.
Guide and Cultural Immersion
Led by a knowledgeable Navajo guide, the Monument Valley Backcountry Jeep Tour offers an immersive cultural experience for visitors.
The guide, a local from the Navajo Nation, shares insights into the history, traditions, and daily life of the indigenous people.
Travelers can visit a traditional Navajo Hogan, witness a rug weaving demonstration, and enjoy a ceremonial music performance.
These interactive activities provide a deeper understanding of the Navajo way of life and their profound connection to the land.
Throughout the tour, the guide’s expertise and storytelling bring the landscape and culture to life, creating an enriching and authentic experience for all who embark on this journey through the iconic Monument Valley.
Restricted Backcountry Access
Beyond the captivating cultural experience, the Monument Valley Backcountry Jeep Tour grants access to the restricted areas of this iconic landscape.
Led by a knowledgeable Navajo guide, the tour takes visitors deep into the heart of Monument Valley, allowing them to explore sites that are typically off-limits to the general public.
From the West and East Mitten Buttes to the Totem Pole, 3 Sisters, and Moccasin Arch, guests will witness the breathtaking geological formations that have made this region famous.
This exclusive access provides a rare opportunity to take in the untamed beauty of Monument Valley, offering a truly unique and unforgettable adventure.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyIconic Landmarks Visited
The Monument Valley Backcountry Jeep Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the heart of this iconic landscape.
During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to witness some of the most renowned landmarks in the region, including:
- The West and East Mitten Buttes, towering sandstone formations that have become synonymous with the region’s distinct aesthetic.
- The Totem Pole, a striking spire that stands tall against the backdrop of the valley’s iconic mesas.
- The 3 Sisters, a group of three rock formations that have been shaped by centuries of erosion.
Throughout the tour, the Navajo guide will provide valuable insights into the cultural significance of these landmarks, offering a unique perspective on the rich history and traditions of the Navajo people.
Tour Logistics and Capacity
The tour’s meeting point is located outside The View Hotel at the Navajo loading area.
The tour operates with a maximum capacity of 12 passengers in warm weather, while an enclosed SUV is used for up to 7 passengers in extreme conditions.
The tour isn’t suitable for infants under 1 year or pregnant women over 5 months.
Guests should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a headscarf.
The tour runs on Utah time, which is 1 hour ahead of Arizona from March to November.
Weather conditions may lead to adjustments to the tour, and the rug weaving demonstration may be canceled unexpectedly.
Weather Considerations
Given the weather-dependent nature of the Monument Valley Jeep Tour, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.
The tour may be adjusted based on prevailing weather conditions to ensure the safety and comfort of participants. This could include:
- Switching to an enclosed SUV in extreme weather to provide better protection.
- Cancelling the rug weaving demonstration if the weather is unpredictable.
- Adapting the tour route or duration to accommodate changes in temperature, precipitation, or wind.
Guests should be prepared for a range of weather conditions and pack accordingly to fully enjoy their backcountry adventure.
Customer Feedback
Based on the 782 reviews, customers have shared overwhelmingly positive experiences with the Monument Valley Jeep Tour.
With an impressive 4.8/5 overall rating, the tour has been praised for its knowledgeable and engaging Navajo guides, comfortable transportation, and excellent service.
Reviewers highlight the unique culture, including the Navajo hogan visit, rug weaving demonstration, and ceremonial music performance.
Many travelers, including couples, friends, solo adventurers, and families, appreciated the opportunity to explore the restricted backcountry and see iconic landmarks.
While some suggestions were made to enhance the experience, the tour’s organization and logistics received a perfect 5/5 rating, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Monument Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour operator encourages guests to pack snacks and beverages to enjoy during the excursion, though no glass containers are allowed.
Is There an Option for a Private or Smaller Group Tour?
Yes, there’s an option for a private or smaller group tour. Guests can book a tour for just their party, with a maximum of 7 passengers in an enclosed SUV, depending on weather conditions.
The Navajo guide shares in-depth cultural insights, historical narratives, and personal anecdotes about their ancestral homeland. They provide vivid explanations of the region’s geology, wildlife, and the significance of landmarks, immersing visitors in Navajo traditions and perspectives.
How Physically Demanding Is the Tour?
The tour is moderately physically demanding, as it involves riding in an open-air safari vehicle over uneven terrain. Passengers should be able to climb in and out of the vehicle and withstand some bumps during the journey.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have dedicated restroom facilities during the 2.5-hour duration. However, the guide can make stops at appropriate locations if needed. Guests should plan accordingly and use restrooms before the tour starts.
Recap
The Monument Valley Backcountry Jeep Tour offers an immersive cultural and natural experience that’s not to be missed. Guided by knowledgeable Navajo experts, visitors can explore exclusive areas, witness iconic landmarks, and engage with the region’s rich heritage. With stunning vistas, intimate cultural interactions, and access to restricted sites, this tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to discover the breathtaking beauty and enduring traditions of Monument Valley.
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