Havasu Falls Will Remain Closed to Protect Reservation Against COVID-19

Arizona's famous Havasu Falls will be closed indefinitely following a Tribal Council vote.

On Dec. 17, the Havasupai Tribal Council passed a resolution to keep the falls closed to visitors indefinitely, as a protective measure against COVID-19. The Supai Village has so far reported zero cases of COVID-19 and will keep the tourist attraction closed to prevent potential infections.

"In order to further protect the health and welfare of the Havasupai people and tribal residents, the Council finds it necessary to continue the suspension of its tourism operation until further notice," Chairwoman Eva Kissoon said in a statement, USA Today reported.

Those who made reservations to visit the land from March 15, 2020 until Jan. 6, 2021 are eligible to reschedule their visits to the 2021 season, whenever that may be, according to the reservation website. Those with questions are encouraged to seek support online or via email, at support@HavasupaiLodge.com, as issues will not be addressed by phone at this time.

If reservation holders cannot cancel their reservations they can participate in the tribe's transfer system, which allows them to recoup their original purchase minus 10% if someone else buys it.

Although the waterfall is located at the end of a 10-mile hike to the Grand Canyon, visits are so popular that reservations practically sell out the first day they are made available each year. Havasupai Falls became even more popular after Beyoncé filmed the music video for her song "Spirit" at the base.

Earlier this year, the Havasupai Nation started a GoFundMe to support workers while the falls are closed. About 75% of the jobs on the reservation are linked to Havasu tourism. The relief fundraised $131,000 of its $150,000 goal.

Cailey Rizzo is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure, currently based in Brooklyn. You can find her on Twitter, Instagram, or at caileyrizzo.com.