Mystery Valley & Monument Valley All Day Tour

Introducing the Mystery Valley & Monument Valley All Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of iconic vistas and ancient ruins, this Mystery Valley & Monument Valley All Day Tour offers an immersive experience that captures the essence of this legendary landscape. Perfect for those wanting to pack a full day of sightseeing into one trip, it’s a carefully curated adventure designed to showcase both the famous monuments and some hidden gems.

What we particularly love about this tour is its combination of popular viewpoints, like The East and West Mittens, and the off-the-beaten-path Exploration in Mystery Valley. The tour’s pace is well-balanced—allowing plenty of time to soak in the scenery and learn about the area’s geology and cultural significance. A second highlight is the knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape to life with stories and details you won’t find in a guidebook.

One possible consideration is the dusty conditions mentioned by some travelers, especially at the more crowded Monument Valley viewpoints. This is partly unavoidable given the terrain and popularity, but it’s worth packing a bandana or scarf if you’re sensitive to dust. This tour suits travelers who love natural beauty, appreciate cultural insights, and are comfortable spending a full day outdoors.

If you’re after an authentic experience that covers the essentials but also offers some surprises, this trip is an excellent choice—especially for those eager to explore both the well-known and lesser-known corners of this remarkable region.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering the famous 17-mile loop and backcountry stops
• Includes Mystery Valley, a less-visited area with ancient ruins and rock art
• Guided by knowledgeable Navajo guides, adding cultural context
• A full 8-hour experience, ideal for those who want an in-depth day trip
• Comfortable transportation and seats for the rough terrain
• Priced at $180 per person, offering good value considering the length and scope of the outing

The Details of the Tour

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am at Goulding’s Trading Post Rd in Oljato-Monument Valley. It includes approximately eight hours of sightseeing, making it suitable for travelers who enjoy a full day of outdoor exploration. The tour wraps up back at the same meeting point, so you won’t have to worry about additional transfers.

What’s Included

Your ticket price of $180 per person covers all entrance fees, including access to Mystery Valley and the main Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. The tour provides transportation in a comfortable vehicle—important considering the rough terrain and long hours—and seats are designed to keep you comfortable.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Morning: Mystery Valley

The day kicks off with a visit to Mystery Valley, a lesser-known but equally captivating part of the Monument Valley area. You’ll explore rock formations, Anasazi ruins, and rock art that aren’t visible from the main highway. This part of the tour is particularly valued by travelers wanting a deeper look at the area’s cultural and geological richness.

As one reviewer noted, “the Mystery Valley was awe-inspiring,” underlining how this part of the trip offers surprises beyond the classic postcard images. The guide’s insights help you understand the significance of the rock art and ancient ruins, giving the landscape a story that’s just as fascinating as its visual appeal.

Midday: Scenic Lunch and Backcountry Stops

After exploring Mystery Valley, the guide prepares a barbecued lunch, a laid-back and tasty way to fuel the next phase of your day. This outdoor meal enhances the experience, especially when enjoyed amidst the stunning scenery.

Post-lunch, the tour continues into Backcountry Monument Valley. Stops include The Sun’s Eye and Ear of the Wind, which are more remote and less crowded than other viewpoints. These spots are perfect for anyone craving a more authentic, less touristy experience. The guide’s explanations make these sites come alive, turning a simple view into a story of geology and Navajo tradition.

Famous Viewpoints

The afternoon is dedicated to the legendary monuments of Monument Valley. Stops include:

• The East and West Mittens: Iconic formations shaping the valley’s silhouette
• John Ford’s Point & Three Sisters: Famous from classic Western movies, offering panoramic vistas
• Totem Pole Viewpoint: A striking, slender rock formation
• Artists Point: Known for stunning sunset or sunrise photos, but equally compelling during the day
• North Window Viewpoints: Perfect for a quick photo or just soaking in the view

Travelers have praised the spectacular views and the guide’s ability to share interesting insights. One reviewer described the tour as “fabulous views and fascinating sights,” emphasizing how these well-known landmarks live up to their reputation.

The Backcountry Experience

What sets this tour apart is the visit to The Hogan, a traditional Navajo dwelling, and the exploration of Hidden Valley. These areas aren’t accessible on most standard tours, and offer an authentic glimpse into Navajo life and the region’s geological complexity. The backcountry stops provide a quieter, more intimate look at the landscape’s formations and history.

Guide and Group Size

With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour maintains a personal and engaging atmosphere. Travelers consistently mention friendly, knowledgeable guides—notably one named Henry, who received praise for his friendliness and expertise. The guides help interpret the landscape, making the sights more meaningful.

The Experience Verdict

We loved the way the tour balances famous viewpoints with hidden gems, providing a fuller picture of what makes Monument Valley special. The informative commentary and beautiful scenery make it worthwhile, especially for first-timers or those wanting a well-organized day without rushing.

Some travelers noted dust can be an issue, especially on popular viewpoints crowded with other visitors. However, that’s often part of the experience in a dust-laden desert, and packing a scarf or bandana can help.

Pricing-wise, the $180 fee is reasonable given the length of the tour, the included entrance fees, and the depth of exploration. It’s a solid value for a full day immersed in some of the Southwest’s most iconic landscapes.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour works best for adventurous travelers comfortable with a full day outdoors and some physical activity. It’s ideal for those interested in geology, Native American culture, and stunning vistas. Families with older children, photography enthusiasts, and history buffs will find plenty to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed, shorter visit, or prefer a guided experience with a more leisurely pace, you may want to consider other options. But for those eager to see both the highlights and lesser-known sites, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Mystery Valley & Monument Valley All Day Tour offers a comprehensive and authentic experience of this extraordinary landscape. Its combination of famous viewpoints, off-the-beaten-path stops, and cultural insights makes it a memorable outing. The guides’ knowledge, the well-structured itinerary, and the inclusion of Mystery Valley’s ancient ruins make it well worth the price.

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave a full, immersive day—ready to explore, learn, and take plenty of photos. It’s a reliable choice for those wanting an engaging, well-organized trip that showcases the best of Monument Valley, with some surprises along the way.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket covers all entrance fees, transportation, and the guide’s commentary. Lunch is also included, served as a barbecue during the day.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the original meeting point.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Goulding’s Trading Post Rd in Oljato-Monument Valley and ends back at the same location.

Is this tour suitable for people with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate fitness level, as there are some walks and exploration over rough terrain.

What are some of the major stops?
Stops include Mystery Valley, The East and West Mittens, John Ford’s Point, Three Sisters, Totem Pole, Artists Point, North Window, The Sun’s Eye, Ear of the Wind, and Hidden Valley.

Are the viewpoints crowded?
Some reviews mention dust and crowds at certain popular viewpoints like Monument Valley. Bringing a scarf can help with dust.

What guides are like?
Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often going beyond surface-level facts to enrich your understanding of the landscape.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you peace of mind to plan ahead.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical effort and full-day schedule suggest it’s best for older children or teenagers who can comfortably handle the terrain.

Ready for a day that combines breathtaking views, cultural insights, and a bit of adventure? This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the heart of Navajo country and one of America’s most iconic landscapes.