Heading for the western United States and the must-see Monument Valley. This park is a little far from everything, at the junction between Arizona and Utah and its desert landscapes with red and gold colors are grandiose and magical. Contrary to popular belief, Monument Valley is not a national park. It is located within the Navajo Indian Reserve and is therefore managed by the Navajo as a sacred place. The Navajos have preserved their traditions, language and crafts. You will also have the opportunity to buy jewellery, dream catchers... made by them.

The rock formations are spectacular

Red rock peaks can reach heights of up to 300 m with spectacular shapes that have been sculpted by erosion: canyons, arches or real bridges. The rocks sometimes remind us of animals: Elephant mound, Snoopy, the mesa of the Firebird....

A real western decor

Monument Valley is a mythical place in the history of American and world cinema: more than sixty films have been shot there. Get ready to be transported to the heart of a John Wayne western. Moreover, it is possible to make guided tours on horseback. These visits, organized by the Navajos, can be expensive but it is a unique experience! In addition to introducing you to their culture and way of life, the Navajo take you to places that are normally inaccessible to visitors. Otherwise, there is the 27 km panoramic road (about 2 hours) that takes you as closeas possible to the hills, needles and mesas; this is done by car or 4x4 guided tour and it is possible to do part of the tour on foot. The loop is about 5 km long.

Attend the splendid sunset

Indeed, it is strongly recommended to spend a night at Monument Valley to be able to watch the sunset and sunrise. It is a real privileged and intimate moment. There are fewer tourists at these times, too. The rock takes on a soft ochre colour and the spectacle is magical. There is only one hotel in Monument Valley: The View. It offers an exceptional view of the famous hills. It is therefore necessary to book well in advance. But there are also campsites for which it is also necessary to book and arrive early to have a good location. But don't worry, the parking lot is still the place where the show is the most magnificent!

A very nice experience to discover with Stéphan Szeremeta with Frédéric Bastien in podcast on Bel RTL.