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The Ultimate Guide to Havasu Falls



Havasu Falls is a waterfall located in the Grand Canyon, Arizona.


The waterfall is within Havasupai tribal lands and is one of the most famous waterfalls in the United States.


Havasu Falls is one of five famous Havasupai Waterfalls including Navajo Falls, Fifty Foot Falls, Havasu Falls, Mooney Falls, and Beaver Falls. 


What Makes Havasu Falls So Special?

Havasu Falls is famous for its beautiful blue water and breathtaking red cliffs that make for a great photo and an even better view.


Havasu Falls is an extremely popular spot to visit, however, you can’t just hop in your car and head to the trailhead.


Havasu Falls is on Havasupai tribal lands, Havasupai Tribe only allows a certain number of people to visit their waterfalls each year, making it a special experience for anyone who is able to obtain a permit.





Many popular hiking spots around the world are often crowded, taking away from the experience most people seek when traveling.


With Havasu Falls, you will be able to experience the beauty of nature with minimal people, making it more of a personal experience.


Havasu Falls is 100 feet tall and rushes into a beautiful clear pool.


One of the best parts of visiting Havasu Falls is the fact that it is only a short five minute walk from the Havasupai Campground. The Havasupai tribe requires that visitors also stay the night either in a camp site or at the nearby lodge. 


How to Get to Havasu Falls

The hike to Havasu Falls is a challenging one and should be taken seriously.


Since there are no roads to Havasu falls, your only choice is a ten mile hike each direction.


This hike is not easy to make sure you are up to the challenge before departing.


The beginning of the hike is on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, the reservation is roughly 4-5 hours from las Vegas. Visitors also have the option of using a helicopter service to reach the falls.


Traveling to the falls via helicopter costs 85 dollars a person. Riding the helicopter is great for families with young children or for those who are staying in Supai, the nearby village on the reservation. 


Gear Needed for Havasu Falls


The cost of a permit is $100-$125 dollars per person/night. Permit registration opens February 1st, I recommend not waiting to purchase a permit as there are limited spots.

A new presale reservation system was also introduced in 2024 giving travelers the chance to secure a permit before the regular release on February 1st. 


Due to the difficulty of the hike, bringing proper hiking shoes is important. You will be hiking with all of your camping gear, meaning you will also need a good backpack with plenty of space. When hiking with camping gear it can be helpful to prioritize lightweight tents, ground pads, sleeping bags and more.


It is also important to bring plenty of food and water to not only get you through the hike both ways, but also last you a night of camping.





Make sure to bring a swim suit and water shoes if you are planning on swimming in any of the various swimming holes that Havasu Falls has to offer.


If you don’t want to wait for the sun to dry you off, bringing a towel will prove to be useful.


Don’t forget to pack emergency equipment like first aid kits, it is important to be prepared for any situation.


After everything is said and done, you can expect to be carrying around 25-35 pounds of food, water, and gear with you on the hike. 


The Bottom Line: Havasu Falls 

With proper preparation, your trip to Havasu Falls could be a great experience. The long hike to the falls will be more than worth it once you reach the beautiful and refreshing Havasu Falls.


If you are lucky enough to obtain a permit to visit, don’t let it go to waste.


If you aren’t able to get a permit this year, think about trying again next year. It will be more than worth the wait. 



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