Start Planning! 

You’re about to go on an epic adventure to Monument Valley Tour! Here’s what you need to know before you go. 

• The tour has two starting points:
  • Southbound- 7 minutes north of Monument Valley on Hwy 163 Just south of Monument Valley Viewpoint heading from the town of Mexican Hat.
  • Northbound- 7 minutes south of Monument Valley on Hwy 163. Just south of the Navajo Indian Market, heading from the town of Kayenta.
• Entrance to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is $8 per person. 
• Monument Valley has seasonal hours of operation. The site’s facilities also have varying hours of operation. Visit Monument Valley’s website for more information or check out “hours of operation” below. 
• Reservations are not required, however, we recommend booking your tickets early in the busy season (summer). 
• Monument Valley can be extremely hot, reaching temperatures over 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to bring way more water than you think you’ll need. 
• This Monument Valley tour includes all of the areas of the park that can be explored without a Navajo Guide. To see Mystery Valley, the back portion of the park, you will have to book a tour with a Navajo tour company. Tour guides can be found in front of the Visitor Center.

Budgeting and Hours of Operation 

Rachel Ennis

Budget

How much you spend truly depends on what you do along the tour route, but here’s a breakdown of some costs.

• Entry to Monument Valley is $8 per person. 

Hours of Operation 

Monument Valley has seasonal hours of operation. The site’s facilities also have varying hours of operation (see below). Visit Monument Valley’s website before you go. 

• Navajo Welcome Center: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Lee Cly Trail: 
  • Standard Park Hours: Summer Hours- 7 a.m.-7 p.m., last entry 4:30 p.m.
  • Winter Hours a.m.-5 p.m., last entry 2:30 p.m.

Get Packing!

Rachel Ennis

​​Here’s our packing list for this tour. It may seem a little long, but remember, what you bring depends on the activities you choose to do for the day. 

• Car charger
• Phone mount for car
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses/Hat
• Lots and lots of water–it’s very hot in summer!
• Cash money–for Navajo vendors
• 4-wheel-drive vehicle–If driving on your own, a 4WD vehicle is highly, highly recommended.

Best Time to Visit 

Rachel Ennis

The Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park closes early and opens late in winter, but it may be worth it to beat the crowds. Otherwise, summertime can get busy, but the park is open for much longer. Spring is often the best time to visit, with beautiful wildflowers and less crowds.

Safety Information 

Temperature Warning

Reminder - Monument Valley is extremely hot, especially in the summer months. Pack extra water! 

Driving Warning

When driving, be aware that rain and mud can make the Monument Valley drive impassible. If you get stuck, you are responsible for paying any tow fees or damages.

Leave No Trace 

Rachel Ennis

While exploring, we encourage you to abide by the leave-no-trace principles. Embrace the outdoors responsibly with our commitment to preserving natural wonders.

Respect wildlife habitats, minimize your footprint, and carry out memories, not waste. By following Leave No Trace principles, you contribute to the longevity and beauty of our planet's most stunning landscapes.

Ready to take the tour? Check out Shaka Guide's Monument Valley Tour!

We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.

For more detailed information to help you plan, check out our Monument Valley Itinerary.

Like this article? Share it on Pinterest!