Discover the Grand Canyon
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The mighty Colorado River is like a true natural artist who patiently, century after century created an artistic masterpiece called the Grand Canyon. You simply cannot get bored with this artwork colored with red pastel tones, and from the many viewpoints, you can enjoy the fantastic views of this deep gorge. It is deservedly considered one of the seven world wonders.
The Grand Canyon is an enormous national park in the northwest of the state of Arizona. The National Park has a length comparable to the distance from Amsterdam to Paris, and at the widest point, the gap is almost 29 kilometers (18 miles). The source of the Colorado river is at an altitude of 3,000 meters (984 ft). Due to the power of this rapidly flowing river, a long, deep, and large gorge developed very gradually and was called the Grand Canyon.
Besides more than 1,500 plant species and 40 species of reptiles, it is the territory of more than 300 bird species such as the hawk and the condor. Also, more than 70 mammals such as the common mule deer, the gaff, the coyote, lynx, and the extremely rare puma live here.
You have the opportunity to descend into the Canyon, but this requires good preparation due to the depth and heat. In addition, it is also possible to walk on the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass platform that hangs 1,200 meters (3937 ft) above the ground. The Grand Canyon in Arizona is at its most elegant at sunrise and sunset. Then a beautiful play of colors unfolds before your eyes.
From the south side of the gorge, the view is the most beautiful. As a result, the South Rim attracts the biggest number of visitors. This side also forms a good starting point for a trip through the park through the nearby Grand Canyon Village. Several lodges, restaurants, and the visitor center are located in this village. The north side is higher, less colorful, and denser than the south side. Moreover, this side of the Grand Canyon can only be visited from mid-May to mid-October. However, we do recommend visiting the North Rim. It is much quieter to enjoy the layered landscape with its red-orange rocks. According to some real America fans, this is the best area that the Canyon has to offer.
Where to stay
If you are looking for a great place to stay near the Canyon we recommend to spend a few night at the Shash Dine Eco-Retreat.
Spending a night in a Navajo Hogan at the Shash Dine Eco-Retreat is an unforgettable cultural experience. What a view! Everywhere you look it is absolutely beautiful. 
The best thing about this location was that it is back to basic. No running water, no internet and no electricity. Showering is only possible with a bucket of water! So completely away from everything and all this gives you a real nomad feeling. 
There are only 2 tents and 2 wagons, making it an intimate setting. Be prepared for an unforgettable starry sky at night.
Best time to visit
We advise going in autumn. This period is the perfect balance between good weather and less mass tourism. Note that the temperature here in September can already be below freezing, so dress warmly. Click here for the average weather in the Grand Canyon.
Written by our reporter and co-founder Jan:
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