The annular eclipse is a celestial event that occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth while at its farthest point from Earth, making the apparent size of the Moon smaller than that of the Sun. Since the star is not completely covered, a remarkable visual effect often referred to as “ring of fire” appears. To celebrate this phenomenon, a group of 16 friends embarked on a 7-day, 6-night journey through the Southwest, including a viewing of the annular eclipse in the heart of Monument Valley surrounded sandstone walls and spectacular rock formations.
Ring of fire captured at Monument Valley Luxury Camp
The journey began with a charter flight from Salt Lake City over Arches National Park and into Canyonlands Field in Moab, Utah – the epicenter for adventure. After a visit to Arches on foot to view Delicate Arch, the Windows, and Double Arch, the evening was spent at Sorrel River Ranch for a private dinner and paleontology presentation. The following morning guests had the option to hike to Fisher Towers, mountain bike at Bar M, horseback ride through the canyons, or dig deeper into the paleontology of Moab. In the afternoon everyone enjoyed a scenic float down the Colorado River in kayaks and rafts, paddling past majestic buttes and sheer cliff walls. The float was capped off by an incredible lunch on a private beach with views of the surrounding mesas. The final day in Moab was spent cruising on jet boats and spinning on the serene water down to a petrified forest before exploring Meander Canyon below Dead Horse Point and into Canyonlands National Park.
View from the last raft on a privately guided float down the Colorado River
View from the last raft on a privately guided float down the Colorado River
That afternoon the guests bid Moab farewell, taking a charter flight over Canyonlands and Monument Valley before being transferred in 4×4 vehicles to their private camp located in the heart of the Valley, starring at the famous Totem Pole rock spire. Camping in comfort with American Safari Camp, the guests enjoyed food prepared on-site by a private chef, custom tent signs, king beds, ensuite bathrooms, hot showers, and even movie night with their film of choice being projected onto the surrounding canyon walls. The following morning’s entertainment was courtesy of Mother Nature, and the EXP team set up an amazing viewing area for the guests to relax and enjoy the natural wonder of the annular eclipse with the guidance of local astronomers. Navajo hoop dancers performed as the Moon slowly lined up with the Sun. Over the next hour, the guests watched in anticipation as light started to dim in the surrounding valley and shadows lengthened on the red-tinted ground. At 10:30 AM the guests experienced four magnificent minutes of the ring of fire – one of the most breathtaking displays they had ever seen.
Custom Name Signs Welcome Guests To Their Luxury Tent
The sun sets at Monument Valley Luxury Camp
Anticipation builds for the annular solar eclipse while guests gather at the viewing site
Anticipation builds for the annular solar eclipse while guests gather at the viewing site
The following morning, after a hot breakfast at camp, the guests departed Monument Valley by air, flying to Page, Arizona with a stunning aerial view of Lake Powell and Rainbow Bridge en route. Upon landing, they donned helmets and goggles to board UTVs bound for Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Convoying through the sand dunes and navigating the rugged terrain, they all arrived at an incredible overlook with views of Lake Powell, Paria Canyon, and even the Grand Canyon in the distance. The day ended at Amangiri Resort, situated in the heart of the rugged and serene Utah desert, surrounded by breathtaking views of mesas and plateaus. The resort’s architecture seamlessly blended with the natural surroundings, featuring clean lines, minimalist design, and earthy tones that harmonized with the desert’s hues.
Refreshments served with a view in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
Refreshments served with a view in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
Speed boats deliver guests to a private beach setup on Lake Powell’s shore
Speed boats deliver guests to a private beach setup on Lake Powell’s shore
The journey culminated with a spectacular day on Lake Powell in open bow speed boats and a houseboat fully equipped with jet skis, paddle boards, kayaks, and of course a private chef to prepare and serve lunch. A few of the guests hiked through a remote slot canyon accessible only by kayak, while others spent the afternoon jet skiing the calm waters of the bay and basking in the idyllic fall sunshine. As the trip came to an end, the guests enjoyed a private dinner in Amangiri’s Desert Lounge accompanied by their EXP Guides, Dallan and Maxie, who joined them to reflect on the amazing memories created on this journey through the Southwest.
