In July, gaming site Slingo released its list of the most magical places worldwide. To determine which places have a mystical aura, the team analyzed online blog lists, each containing “magical” and “fairytale” destination recommendations. They took every place mentioned and assigned it a category: fairytale, otherworldly, or mythical.
They ranked the destinations on their number of Google searches between April 2023 and March 2024, the number of Instagram and TikTok posts that mention the destination, and the percentage of reviews on TripAdvisor that contain the word “magical.” Each was then given a normalized score of 10 after each factor was averaged.
After examining the data, it named Pamukkale, Turkey, the most “otherworldly” and “magical” place on Earth and Antelope Canyon (on Navajo land east of Lechee, a little over four hours north of Phoenix) the most magical place in the United States.
The desert destination made the list thanks to its 5.5 million monthly searches and more than 700,000 mentions on Instagram. Just Google the name – the photos alone make it easy to see why this spot gets so much attention.
The sandstone slot canyons in the Navajo Nation create a maze-like structure that hikers can traverse, exploring the pink, red, and earth-toned space along the way.
The only stipulation is that a permit and a tour guide are required to visit, and reservations are booked well in advance. One upper Antelope Canyon Sightseeing Tour (antelopecanyon.com) starts in Page and takes visitors on an hour and 45-minute tour of the iconic sandstone walls shaped by years of water and wind.
The walk through the canyon is .25 miles and involves soft sand, stairs, and ramps, so if you’re planning a trip, make sure to wear closed-toe hiking shoes or boots and dress for the weather – temperatures can be over 100 in the summer and freezing in the winter. Whenever you decide to make the trek, water is key.
Once the forgotten little sister, Lower Antelope Canyon has become as famous as the Upper Canyon for its unique reasons.
One of the touring companies starts their tour at Dixies Lower Antelope Canyon Store. According to its guides, Lower Antelope’s slot canyon is longer (about 600 yards) and is situated below ground.
It’s more physically demanding, with guests descending and ascending ladders, uneven sand floors, and stepping over small boulders. From start to finish, it’s about one mile of walking. Guides will point out all angles for unique rock formations such as the Lion, Eagle, Wave, and Lady in the Wind – perfect for social media posts!
Lower Antelope Canyon is shaped like a “V” with a narrow pathway that opens up to the sky. Upper Antelope Canyon is shaped like an “A” with a broader pathway that narrows as you approach the top of the canyon. No matter which you choose to visit, it’s bound to be a spellbinding experience. Learn more at visitarizona.com or travelandleisure.com.
