If you are looking for Native American architecture, you won't find more beautiful and better-preserved examples of pueblo ruins which look even more impressive among Arizona’s scenic desert vistas. The Wupatki National Monument is located in north-central Arizona, near Flagstaff. It's best to visit it along with the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, located nearby. You can visit the site year-round; however, a cooler season is a better time since the summer temperatures can reach 100ºF (38ºC) with frequent thunderstorms. Besides, October through April you can join one of the guided hikes at the Wupatki National Monument. Weekdays are best since the place can be crowded during weekends.
Wupatki is one of many settlements built by the Ancient Pueblo People—the Cohonina, Kayenta Anasazi, and Sinagua. The area became inhabited around 500 AD. In the Hopi language, Wupatki means "Tall House," and it was home to about 100 people. After the Sunset Crater eruption in the 11th century, the area was covered with volcanic ash, which improved agricultural productivity. By 1225, inhabitants permanently abandoned the site.
The red rocks look especially beautiful at sunset. The local Moenkopi sandstone gives the pueblos their distinct red colour.
Practical info
What is the best time to visit the Wupatki National Monument?
Visiting the Wupatki National Monument between October and April is ideal. Summer temperatures can reach 100ºF (38ºC) with frequent thunderstorms, which is why it is better to visit during the cooler seasons. Guided hikes are a great way to explore the area during these months. Show more
What are the neighboring attractions around Wupatki National Monument?
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is close to Wupatki National Monument, and visitors can visit it for free. Natural landmarks, scenic overlooks, and multiple hiking trails can be found if traveling from Sedona or Flagstaff. Visitors can also explore the Grand Canyon, a 2-hour drive away from the monument. Show more
Who was responsible for building the Wupatki Pueblos?
The Ancient Pueblo People built the Wupatki Pueblos. The pueblos were built by different groups, including the Cohonina, Kayenta Anasazi, and Sinagua. These groups inhabited the area after 500 AD and abandoned it by 1225 AD. The Cohonina built most of the central pueblos, while the Kayenta Anasazi built others like Wukoki. The Sinagua built the Box Canyon dwellings and some pueblos dotting the Lower Little Colorado area. Show more
How did the volcanic eruption of Sunset Crater help the Ancient Pueblo People?
The Ancient Pueblo People benefitted from the volcanic eruption of Sunset Crater Volcano in the 11th century. The eruption covered the area with volcanic ash that improved agricultural productivity, allowing them to produce crops like maize, squash, and beans freely. They built energy-efficient homes using volcanic rock to take refuge from the eruption, like Lomaki and Wupatki. The eruption played a significant role in the development of their civilization. Show more
Why do the Pueblos in Wupatki National Monument have a distinct red color?
The Wupatki Pueblos get their distinct red color from the local Moenkopi sandstone formation. The sandstone is rich in iron oxide, giving the pueblos and the desert surrounding them a reddish-orange hue. The rock's color is magnified during sunrise and sunset, making it a popular time for photographers to capture the beauty of the area. Show more
