Amangiri is a luxury desert resort located in the heart of the Utah desert in the United States. It is part of the Aman Resorts chain, known for its high-end properties in unique and remote locations around the world. Amangiri’s location in the heart of the Utah desert is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Surrounded by red rock canyons, expansive mesas, and the kind of wide-open skies that make you feel truly alive, this resort is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers. The isolation and tranquility of this place are unmatched.
Amangiri is situated in Canyon Point, Utah, and it opened its doors in 2009. The name “Amangiri” originated from the Sanskrit words “aman,” meaning peace, and “giri,” meaning mountain.
While Amangiri is one of the most exclusive resorts in the United States (with a price tag to match), it doesn’t have a stuffiness or pretentious vibe to it. Even with its luxury branding, it feels more cozy than anything else, offering a no dress code policy and comfort foods.
If you are seeking a getaway that offers stunning landscapes, minimalist and contemporary architecture, incredible food (which is included), spa time, and even an adventure, Amangiri is the right place to fill that type of trip.
Amangiri is not just a resort; it’s an experience that touches the soul. The combination of stunning natural beauty, world-class amenities, and exceptional service make it a destination like no other.
It’s a place where you can disconnect from the world, reconnect with yourself, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
Amangiri truly deserves its reputation as a top-tier luxury desert retreat. I can’t wait to return to this desert oasis of tranquility and luxury.
Amangiri: Stay, Dine, Do:
Getting to Amangiri:
The nearest major airport to Amangiri is Page Municipal Airport (PGA), which is about a 30-minute drive from the resort.
*I flew into Phoenix and then flew into Page. I booked my entire ticket through American Airlines as they are a partner airline with Contour Airlines (who fly to Page). One thing I want to note is to watch your connection time because I had to switch terminals, re-check in, go through security, etc. Even if you do not fly American Airlines, make sure you have a two hour window to do all of this. Even with no lines coming back from Page to Phoenix, it still took over an hour from getting off the plane to my final gate.
The resort has an airport pick-up included in your room rate and they use a series of BMW’s to get guests around in, privately. The SUV was stocked with waters and snacks in both directions.
Alternatively, you can fly into Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS), Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) or Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) and arrange for a private transfer to Amangiri.
Lastly, you could drive in from wherever you are. There is plenty of parking on property.
When to visit Amangiri:
Arguably, there is no bad time to visit Amangiri, but make note of your needs for this trip.
Because of its desert location, the summer months can get extremely hot, often reaching over 90-100+ degrees. While it is dry heat, it can still be very aggressive if you spend a lot of time outside hiking, on Lake Powell, exploring the surrounding areas, at the pools, etc.
A good time to visit with enjoyable whether is typically March-June (even though it can really start getting very hot late May/early June) and September-November.
*I went to Amangiri over Labor Day weekend in September and it was still hot, but enjoyable. 80’s-90’s each day.
November-early March you will see the rates dip just a little bit.
In my personal opinion, 100+ degrees in the sun is not that enjoyable, anywhere. If you love to hike and enjoy the outdoors, I would visit when it is not so hot outside because there is nowhere to hide from the sun in the desert.
Staying at Amangiri:
I recently had the privilege of experiencing Amangiri, and I must say that this desert sanctuary exceeded every expectation I had. From the moment I arrived until the moment I reluctantly checked out, it was an unforgettable journey into a world of luxury, serenity, and natural beauty.
Amangiri is a sought-after destination for those seeking a luxurious and tranquil retreat in a unique natural setting. It has received numerous awards and accolades for its exceptional service and design. Keep in mind that amenities and features may change over time, so it’s a good idea to check the resort’s website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information and availability.
Key features and highlights of Amangiri:
- Location: Amangiri is set against the stunning backdrop of the American Southwest, surrounded by dramatic desert landscapes, red rock canyons, and towering mesas. It offers a tranquil and secluded environment for guests seeking a getaway in the wilderness.
- Architecture: The resort’s architecture is known for its minimalist and contemporary design that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The structures are built using natural materials, such as concrete, wood, and stone, and feature clean lines and earthy colors.
- Accommodations: Amangiri offers a range of luxurious accommodations, including suites and a private home. Each room is designed with comfort and relaxation in mind, and many feature private plunge pools and outdoor terraces with panoramic views of the desert.
- Spa and Wellness: The resort boasts a world-class spa that offers a variety of holistic treatments and therapies inspired by Navajo healing traditions. The spa also features a water pavilion with a sauna, steam room, and cold plunge pool..
- Activities: Guests can explore the surrounding desert landscape through a range of activities, including guided hikes, hot air balloon rides, horseback riding, boating on Lake Powell, and visits to nearby national parks and monuments.
- Pool: Amangiri is famous for its stunning 165-foot (50-meter) swimming pool that is built around a massive sandstone rock formation. It is often referred to as one of the most beautiful pools in the world.
- Stargazing: Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, Amangiri offers excellent stargazing opportunities. The resort provides telescopes and stargazing sessions for guests interested in astronomy.
- Sustainability: The resort is committed to sustainable practices, including water conservation and the use of solar power.
The main hotel offers just 34 suites across a variety of room options including seven different types of rooms. In addition, there are 10 pavilions at Camp Sarika and the Mesa Home. This resort is known for its ultra private location and frequented by celebrities – so don’t be surprised if you run into someone.
During my stay I checked into the “Amangiri Suite.” I was told that it is the resorts version of the “Presidential Suite.” There is only one and it is room number one.
I intentionally booked this room because of the expansive outdoor space. The entire room comes in at about 3,472 square feet, with about 2,500 of that being the outside portion of the room, which includes a generous 59 foot lap pool, a second level private sky terrace with a bed for stargazing, a courtyard with a bistro table, several outdoor day beds, areas for sitting, a real wood fire pit, and an additional fire pit off the bedroom that does not use wood.
To say this room was anything less than a dream, would be doing it a disservice.
The inside of the room is similar to the other suites, offering a king size bed, dual vanity in the bathroom, dual rain shower, a stunning bath tub with a view of the desert, a desk, minimal art work, and a color palette that blends in with the desert surroundings.
The suites have an included mini bar that is restocked daily. You will find waters, juices, coffee, sweet and savory snacks, and a variety of other non-alcoholic drinks.
One thing to note is that room service is included. You can order whatever you want during operating hours (600am-1100pm while I was there). Even if you do not want a full meal, you can order a s’mores kit, charcuterie and cheese plate, whatever you like.
*Pro tip: even though my bedroom faced sunrise, every single night of my stay I was outside sitting by the fire pit when the sunset colors cast a glow across the sky. Each night brought unique colors to the desert and then a sky full of stars! You do not need to book a sunset facing room to get a sunset view.
Dining at Amangiri
While certain publications write that Amangiri is an all-inclusive resort, it is not. Food is included with your stay, and every single meal was incredible, but alcoholic drinks and activities/spa are not. If I had to give a percentage, I would say it is about 75% all-inclusive.
Having access to food all day, including room service, pool service, and more, is a big benefit when traveling. Especially when you consider the high quality food at each meal. When I booked my stay it noted that “breakfast, lunch and dinner” were included. Upon arrival, I learned I could eat all day, whatever I wanted.
If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, let the resort know ahead of your arrival. They work really well to make sure everyone is taken care of.
Amangiri is in short.. a culinary journey.
Starting with breakfast … you can do in-room dining or eat at the restaurant.
There are two dishes that I though were outstanding: the cast iron pancake and the avocado toast. Oh, and the bacon was incredible.
But let’s discuss this pancake. Each one is cooked in its own cast iron skillet, giving it more of a crispy outside exterior and fluffy inside, then topped with berries and confectionary sugar. A more perfect pancake could not exist, even if it tried. Once you have said pancake, you will go home and never make a pancake any other way. It’s elevated, yet simple, and the flavor profile really just adds something extra.
Trust me on this.
Lunch – I’m not going to lie, I ate the same thing on property for two days: pizza! That may seem cheesy (no pun intended), but their pizza is next level. Amangiri makes these pizzas with unique toppings and you can’t help but enjoy a simple classic with an upscale twist.
Dinner – since the resort has two restaurants, I did dinner one night at Camp Sarika and the other two nights at the main dining room.
Camp Sarika has a nightly tasting menu that is creative, delicious and unique to anything else you will eat while visiting Amangiri. Even though I only had one dinner here, I ate nothing else like it at any of my other meals, and I mean that in a great way. ALL the food on property was amazing.
With the tasting menu, two dishes come out at a time and it is designed to share with one other person, and then dessert comes out on one plate.
Here is what was on my menu: little gem caesar salad (this was a big hit because the dressing was made with trout instead of anchovies, big win), Alaskan king crab bruschetta, cast iron adobo chicken, mesquite wood-smoked short rib, gulf shrimp and cavatappi, brussels sprouts with Utah maple chili glaze, and key lime pie.
The menu sounds like a lot but since we shared, the portions were not massive. We were happy when we left!
The main restaurant has a full menu and they offer “Spirit of the Journey” each night, which the menu stayed the same during my stay. This is a tasting menu and you can select which dishes you would like to have from each section.
I went with: Native fry bread, honey glazed duck, woodfire elk tenderloin, and the dessert was Arizona corn cremeux.
My other dinner in the main dining room started with an amuse bouche of caviar, shared pork belly and spicy tuna tostada, and duck confit. I guess I did have duck twice in the main dining room – but once as an appetizer and once as an entrée.
I cannot stress enough – the food here was magnificent. That alone would bring me back.
Things to do at Amangiri:
Amangiri Resort offers a wide range of activities and experiences that allow guests to immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty of the Utah desert while enjoying luxurious amenities and relaxation. Here are some of the things to do at Amangiri:
Guided Hikes: Explore the captivating desert landscapes with guided hikes led by knowledgeable naturalists. Discover hidden canyons, ancient petroglyphs, and the unique geology of the region.
Lake Powell: Explore Lake Powell by boat on a private tour with visits between canyons, stunning vistas, swimming, paddle boarding, etc.
I booked a three hour private tour of Lake Powell through the resort. Amangiri arrange private transportation both ways, set up the boat tour and gave me a menu the day before to select meals, snacks and drinks for lunch. They packed everything and had it waiting in the car when I left for the tour.
Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or sunset for a breathtaking aerial view of the desert. Witness the dramatic colors of the landscape as you glide peacefully above it.
Horseback Riding: Experience the Old West by going horseback riding through the desert. Skilled wranglers will guide you on scenic trails and share stories about the area’s history and culture.
Stargazing: Thanks to the remote location and minimal light pollution, Amangiri offers excellent stargazing opportunities. Join a guided stargazing session or use the provided telescopes to admire the night sky.
Spa and Wellness: Indulge in the Aman Spa’s luxurious treatments, which draw inspiration from Navajo healing traditions. Enjoy massages, facials, and other therapies in a serene desert setting. The spa also features a water pavilion with a sauna, steam room, and plunge pool.
Swimming: Take a dip in the resort’s stunning swimming pool, which wraps around a massive sandstone rock formation. Relax on the pool deck and soak up the desert sun while enjoying the view.
Canyon Slot Adventures: Embark on an adventure through narrow slot canyons in the region. These guided tours allow you to explore the mesmerizing slot canyons and their unique geological formations.
Cultural Experiences: Learn about the rich cultural history of the region through cultural presentations and activities. Amangiri often hosts artists and artisans who share their crafts and traditions with guests.
National Park Visits: Explore nearby national parks and monuments, including Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The resort can arrange excursions to these iconic destinations.
Private Yoga and Meditation: Practice yoga and meditation in the tranquility of the desert. Private sessions can be arranged to help you find inner peace and relaxation.
Art and Photography: Capture the beauty of the desert through art or photography. The unique landscape and stunning light make it a paradise for artists and photographers.
Outdoor Dining: Enjoy al fresco dining experiences, including picnics in the desert or private dinners under the stars.
Relaxation: Of course, one of the primary things to do at Amangiri is simply relax. Whether you’re lounging on your private terrace, enjoying a spa treatment, or unwinding by the pool, the resort offers plenty of opportunities to rejuvenate your body and mind.
Amangiri’s diverse range of activities ensures that guests can tailor their experience to their preferences, whether they seek adventure, cultural immersion, or pure relaxation in this desert oasis of luxury.