The Best Rim Canyons in the World

Reaching the rim viewpoints

Most rim canyons are seen from viewpoints reached by road. At Grand Canyon, free shuttle buses link the viewpoints. Vikos Gorge is seen from Oxya and Beloi, or from the marked trail that runs from Monodendri to Vikos. Canyon de Chelly has rim overlooks on its north and south sides, and the floor is reached only by a Navajo-guided jeep tour or on foot. Horseshoe Bend requires a gravel walk of 1 to 1.5 miles from the parking lot. At Urique Canyon, the viewpoints are reached by dirt road, a suspension bridge, or a hike from Cerocahui.

Fees and advance booking

Grand Canyon charges non-US visitors a higher entry fee, and buying the entry pass online avoids entrance lines. Fortaleza Canyon charges R$107 per person, valid for seven days, plus R$20 per visit for parking. Chicamocha Canyon charges about 68,000 COP per person and about 18,000 COP per day for parking, and its cable car ride takes 20 to 35 minutes. At Verdon Gorge, pedal boats cost about €50 for two hours, and booking early is advised since rental shops open at 9:00. Sulak Canyon has free entry, though boat rides cost about 3,000 rubles.

Footing, weather and crowds

Vikos Gorge has a rocky, uneven path where sturdy footwear is advised, and its full crossing takes five to seven hours. Wadi Nakhr needs sturdy footwear with no sandals, and its return leg is uphill for about 3 to 4 hours. Waimea Canyon trails turn slippery and muddy after rain, and fog is common there, so an early start helps. Itaimbezinho Canyon has fog early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Verdon Gorge and Ardèche Gorges are very crowded in peak season, and Zion Canyon parking fills early.