Monument Valley

This was one of the most amazing experiences I've had in all my travels. It's a must if you're traveling through the American West and has been the backdrop for numerous Westerns. I would recommend opting for a powerful SUV or 4-wheel drive rather than your own car since the roads can be pretty rough. You can also book a tour with a local Navajo guide once you arrive. I'd suggest getting the guide since they can take you to places that are blocked to normal visitors. One nearby hotel "The View" was spectacular and had amazing views of the valley, but you need to make your reservations about a year ahead of time, especially if you're going in the peak season. The rest of the hotels aren't anything special.

Monument Valley is an incredible place that'll leave you speechless from the moment you arrive. Hundreds of films have been shot here and it's more than worth the visit just to explore the place and snap some photos of the amazing rock formations.

Lindon, the Navajo who showed us around, told me that the best time to photograph the Monument Valley was the sunset, so I headed over there in the heat of the desert to photograph the landscape. I arrived late and I retired when the sun was low and the shadows long. I was ecstatic among such wild beauty.