cbtsam Loc: Monkton, MD

We're planning on visiting Monument Valley in September. It appears there's a bit of variability in the cost for photo tours, so I thought I'd see if you hogs have any advice. While you're at it, advice on gear would help too, as I've read recommendations that emphasize wide angle, and others that emphasize telephoto.
Thanks in advance.

ejrmaine Loc: South Carolina

We were there in May, to avoid the photo tours we rented a Jeep and took our time through the valley. We had to rent the jeep as we were in an RV and RV's are not allowed in the Valley. If you have an SUV, skip the tours, they are crowded and not comfortable.

Regarding what gear to use. I used my 18-55 mm and a 12 mm lens, Tripod, shutter release and a polarizer and I was able to capture all the scenes I wanted. Suggest that before you head into the park, have lunch at the on-site restaurant you can get a great view of the Mittens.

billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont

tripadvisor.com

banjonut Loc: Southern Michigan

Been there 3 times. Took our own Jeep once and took the guided tour once. The cost of the guided tours is not all that bad and you can do a little "negotiating". The guided tours do get you to a few places that you cannot go on your own, but you are on their schedule, not yours. I found that our time in our own vehicle was more enjoyable and we got to get many views that are not covered on the guided tour.

Irish Piper

I was there last year, and it is a beautiful place. Don't take a tour as it has only limited stops (I don't know how many). The dirt road through the Valley is quite passable for cars, but watch for sharp rocks (very few of those). The road is wide enough so that you can pull off almost anywhere. I spent a whole morning in the Valley. Enjoy it!

jaymatt Loc: Alexandria, Indiana

I went last fall--we drove through on our own. I took all my photos with my 18-55, and that's all I needed. I have heard that some of the tours take you places that aren't accessible to those driving themselves, but I really don't know. We were in a Honda van and had no trouble negotiating any of the paths. If it's wet, that might be another story. Happy viewing out there!

photoed

If you have the time and money arrange a guided trip (that is the only way you can do it) to Hunts Mesa on the south side of Monument Valley. You will have pictures that few people have looking nprth into Monument Valley. Camping overnight for sunset and sunrise photos would be even better.

windshoppe Loc: Arizona

We've been there 3 times. Took a tour the first time, did a self-guided tour the 2nd time, and both self-guided and Navajo tour the last time (last year). I would highly recommend Dineh Bekegah tours and their guide, Harry. He's a very knowledgeable photographer and really knows the spots. This shot is an example of one that I would have never gotten if not for Harry. He even let me borrow his tripod.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/142378849@N08/33901382730/in/dateposted-public/
For an iconic view of the valley drive toward Mexican Hat to highway marker 13. It's well worth staying at the View Hotel for the view and perks. Tour also picks you up in the hotel lobby. Have a great trip. It's one of my favorite places on the planet.

Fotoartist Loc: Detroit, Michigan

One of the best shots is from the parking lot as in this Ansel Adams'.

kmctague

We stayed at the View ( a hotel overlooking the classic location). All rooms face the valley and have a balcony. Since the balcony faces east you have a sunrise picture opportunity from your room.

cbtsam Loc: Monkton, MD

That recommendation of a specific guide is just the sort of thing I'm looking for; thanks very much.

Fotoartist Loc: Detroit, Michigan

That's a great shot but why didn't you give it a little Shadows and Highlights boost and bring out detail?

Mundj Loc: Richmond TX

We had the opportunity to see Monument Valley in May of 2016. It is a great place. We arranged a private tour with Dineh Bekeyah Tours, we fond them on TripAdvisor.com. I chose a private tour because we are both in our mid 70's and did not want to be rushed and squashed into a vehicle with a group. I can not say enough nice things about our tour. We arranged for a morning tour of Monument Valley and an afternoon tour of Mystery Valley. Our driver and guide was Harry Nez, a local Navajo. Harry was very personable and full of information about the Valley and the Navajo people.

Both tours were at a very relaxed pace with us being able to take advantage of as much time as we wanted at each stop. Harry is quite an accomplished photographer and brought his Nikon equipment with him and offered suggestions at the some of the sites. Being a fledgling photographer and some what self conscious, I wasted a marvelous opportunity by not asking more questions. The normal route for Monument Valley is in a counter-clockwise direction. Harry took us clockwise because he said the lighting is better. He provided a running commentary of the valley, pointing out the various formations with their contemporary names, such as John Wayne's boot and others. Only Navajos are allowed to drive off the main route so with Harry we got to see somethings others might have missed. Got some close ups of dessert flowers, a horse skeleton and a close up of the small spring that flows through the valley. Mystery Valley is closed to non-Navajo drivers so that was very nice without a lot of people. Harry took us in a four wheel drive Suburban and we drove up to the top of one of the formations in Mystery Valley.

I would suggest staying at The View hotel, it is clean and well appointed. It is owned and run by the Navajos, but you should make reservations well in advance.

I wish my photographs were as great as my memories. I still have a long way to go.

Have a great trip.

Jan Mundorff

cambriaman Loc: Central CA Coast

Thanks, Jan, for a great description of your adventure. We have been to MV a couple of times but you have encouraged me to do more.

bobgreen Loc: Maryland

The timing of your post is perfect! My wife and I will be in Monument Valley and many other locations in October this year. I'll be driving my Jeep and am so looking forward to it! Lots of great advice that I'll certainly use. I tend to be independent so we most likely won't use any tours.Sounds like the View is the place to stay though. I do plan to have all my lenses at my disposal. I like to be prepared especially since I have the room in my own vehicle.