Weather
The great thing about a September visit is that the temperatures are getting a little more pleasant in Arizona compared to the scorching summer months. Just keep in mind that it can still be hot, especially in early September.
So, this month brings slightly cooler temperatures to Antelope Canyon. Mornings often start around 60–65°F (16–18°C). Afternoons can still reach 80–85°F (27–29°C) or higher.
Inside the canyon, it’s usually about 10°F (5–6°C) cooler, which feels nice when it’s hot ‘outside’.
Customer Testimonial (Weather):
“We were so happy with our tour in September when it started to cool down in Arizona… but it can still be very warm. It was pleasant with outside temps just below 80°F. Our guide provided an amazing experience! He shared interesting facts, pointed out all the special features, and we took better pictures than we could have imagined. “
Severe Weather in September: Although the monsoon season is winding down, sudden thunderstorms are still possible in early September. These can cause heavy rain and, in rare cases, flash floods.
Good to know: “Bad weather is sort of unlikely in September, but it can still happen. Watch the weather and plan accordingly. Your operator will cancel a tour if flash floods are in the forecast.”
You will be informed via email or text ahead of time. The tour operators are very reliable and will inform you as soon as they can.
Always check the forecast before you go and follow your guide’s instructions.
Tours | Time Slots
Tours for both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon run throughout September. Fewer people travel once summer vacation ends after Labor Day Weekend (first Monday in September). So, it can be a bit less crowded than in July or August.
However, midday tours still fill up quickly because visitors hope to see the light beams. Book your tour in advance to get the time slot you prefer. A Navajo guide is required to enter either canyon.
Important: Please don’t just drive to Antelope Canyon/Page without booking a tour first! You will waste your precious holiday time!
Customer Testimonial:
“We were there in September with pleasant temps. Everything about the experience in Upper Antelope Canyon was great. Our guide was fantastic: He was very knowledgeable about the history and culture behind the canyon. He led us through the canyon, and at each chamber in the canyon, he mentioned some fascinating facts that made the experience even better. One of the best parts was that he was very patient with taking our pictures. He also proactively asked if anyone wanted their photos taken.”
Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
- Upper Antelope Canyon: It’s a slot canyon but it has mostly flat terrain and breathtaking light beams. That’s why Upper Antelope Canyon is the top choice for our customers. In September, the beams are still there.
- Lower Antelope Canyon: This part of the canyon is without the iconic light beams. It’s more challenging as well. The reason for that is the stairs/ladders and the narrow passages. Some light beams can happen here, but not as intense and often as in Upper Antelope. Still, you can enjoy beautiful colors and sometimes a slightly less busy experience.
The Light Beams in September
The light beams are visible until early or mid-October. Make sure to read our facts about the light beams. However, the sunbeams might not be as impressive as in the peak summer months, of course. But don’t worry, we usually still see the breathtaking beams in September.
Early September generally offers a better chance than later in the month. Just make sure to visit on a bright day. There are no light beams when it’s overcast!
Customer Testimonial (light beams):
“We went in September and booked our tour too late. That means I wasn’t able to get one of the preferred noon time slots with the sunbeams. So, I tried to get as close as I could with a 1 pm slot for our tour. The canyon was still breathtakingly gorgeous and lit up at that time, and I wish we could have stayed longer! It was such a captivating experience!”
There are many groups going through during each time slot, but the guides do a good job of keeping you segregated enough so that there are opportunities to take good photos.
Time of Day to See the Beams
Light beams are most visible between 11 AM and 1:30 PM. Try to book a tour around 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM, or 12:00 PM to be in the canyon when the beams appear. Sunny conditions are key for catching those magical shafts of light.
“It was such a great experience in September. The drive to the Canyon is around 15 minutes. We had booked a few months in advance as the prime tour at 11:00 AM does get sold out relatively quickly. It’s totally worth booking for this time of the day due to the light beam effects of the sun in the canyon.”
Crowds
While not as busy as the peak summer months, September is still one of the busier months, and it attracts many visitors. Midday tours, in particular, see larger groups of people hoping to view the beams.
Weekends are also still more busy, and the tours are sold out earlier compared to mid-week. Also, Labor Day Weekend in early September is still super busy. After that, it slows down slightly.
If you prefer fewer crowds, consider an early morning or late afternoon tour. You might miss the beams, but you’ll enjoy a quieter canyon experience.
What to Wear
September can be warm, so dress in light, breathable clothes. Carry a light jacket or sweater if you’re out early in the morning. Otherwise, shorts and T-shirts are usually fine. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen will protect you from the desert sun. Sturdy shoes or well-fitting sandals with good traction are best for sandy and uneven canyon floors.