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Taking a Grand Canyon helicopter tour is an encounter you will certainly not forget. After all, observing this natural marvel from an aerial perspective is significantly better than seeing it from ground level.
Indeed, I initially saw the Grand Canyon from one of the lookouts, and I was somewhat disappointed. The ridge was filled with people, so I had to battle the crowds, and it was an overcast day, so the views were not that great. However, when I took an aerial tour of the Grand Canyon, it was entirely different and I got to see the full magnitude of the canyon, its crevasses, and the surrounding landscapes.
If you opt for a lavish rooftop bar for after-dinner drinks, the SkyBar at Waldorf Astoria is a suitable choice. Alternatively, VooDoo Lounge at Rio Hotel offers a more casual setting with a nightlife vibe. You may also want to consider enrolling in an organized bar hop tour like this one, which provides expedited entry to three popular drinking establishments.
If you’re still uncertain of which premier Grand Canyon helicopter tour best aligns with your preferences, I’ll highlight some recommended options varying in cost, duration, and route. You may even depart from Grand Canyon Airport, so I’m confident you’ll discover an excursion fitting your trip.
Also, did you realize that you are able to take a Grand Canyon helicopter landing tour beneath the rim? This is an ideal alternative if you want to avoid the strenuous hike to the bottom or if you want to add a Colorado River cruise to your tour.
Table of Contents
10 best Grand Canyon helicopter tours
To assist you in choosing the best sightseeing experience via helicopter over the magnificent Grand Canyon, I have explored and contrasted the top ten tours offered. Factors like departure point, duration, cost, and highlights seen during the excursion were considered. To summarize, these are the ten most recommended helicopter trips for viewing the Grand Canyon from above:
- Golden Eagle Helicopter Tour – Best Grand Canyon helicopter tour from Las Vegas
- A grand celebration air tour of the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas
- Grand Voyager Scenic Tour – Grand Canyon air, helicopter, and waterway experience from Las Vegas
- North Rim Tour – Inexpensive Grand Canyon helicopter tour from the South Rim
- Imperial Tour with EcoStar – Best Grand Canyon helicopter excursion from the South Rim
- South Rim Grand Canyon scenic flight tour
- GC West Helicopter Landing w/ Park Entry – Grand Canyon landing heli-tour from the West Rim
- Helicopter & Boat Excursion over the Grand Canyon – Air and water tour of the West Rim
- Grand Celebration Sunset Tour from Las Vegas – Private scenic tour of the Grand Canyon by helicopter.
- Exclusive Helicopter Tour of Grand Canyon from South Rim with EcoStar – Private sightseeing flight
I will also share all necessary details about taking a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon so you can make the most of your experience. Please note that our top recommended tours are offered by Papillon Helicopters, and I`ll explain later why we advise booking with this company for your .
1. Golden Eagle Helicopter Tour, the best Grand Canyon helicopter tour from Las Vegas
If your schedule is limited but you still wish to take an aerial tour over the Grand Canyon, the Golden Eagle Helicopter Excursion is your best option. This is one of the recommended Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas and includes hotel pick up and drop off. The helicopter departs from a private helipad and soars over the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, then approaches the Grand Canyon, where you’ll have spectacular views. We’ve participated in this GrandCanyon helicopter tour and enjoyed the aerial perspective of the West Rim, Eagle and Guano Points, and the Colorado River.
- Noteworthy spots: Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and Grand Canyon West
- Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours
- Departure point: Las Vegas
- Price: $379+
2. Grand Celebration Tour, the best Grand Canyon helicopter tour with landing
The Grand Celebration Tour is another adventurous experience we partook in, and it stands apart since it`s among the most famed GrandCanyon helicopter landing trips. Initially, you`ll obtain spectacular perspectives of the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and Grand Canyon West before making a 4,000-foot descent to a private plateau. Admire the gorgeous views of the Colorado River while enjoying a light picnic with champagne. Undoubtedly, it`s among the finest Las Vegas helicopter tours, so I suggest it if you`ll be in Sin City.
- Highlights: Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and Grand Canyon West with landing
- Duration: 4 to 4.5 hours
- Departure point: Las Vegas
- Price: $479+
3. Grand Voyager Tour, a Grand Canyon tour by helicopter, airplane, and boat
This airplane tour of the Grand Canyon departs from Las Vegas and flies to its West Rim. Along the journey, sights include the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the Mojave Desert, three of the top places worth visiting near Las Vegas.
During the West Edge excursion, tourists will board a aerial transportation vehicle and descend to the bottom of the fissure, where they can gain a alternate viewpoint of the rim. Next, guests will board a watercraft and participate in a soothing voyage along the Colorado River prior to riding back up to the top of the rim for a mealtime. The Grand Voyage Tour provides some free leisure to discover Eagle and Guano Points, making it the most complete Grand Canyon helicopter tour from Las Vegas. We are excited to undertake this trip this year!
- Highlights: Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West, helicopter arrival, Colorado River cruise
- Duration: 7 hours
- Departure point: Las Vegas
- Price: $539+
4. North Canyon Tour, a cheap Grand Canyon helicopter tour from the South Rim
If you’re searching for a Grand Canyon helicopter excursion from the South Rim, take into account the North Canyon Tour. It will take you over intriguing rock structures like the Tower of Ra, Vishnu Schist, and the Dragon Corridor, the deepest and widest portion of the South Rim. The flight departs from the air terminal near Grand Canyon Village and involves views of the North Rim, South Rim, and the Kaibab National Forest.
This is one of the few Grand Canyon helicopter tours of the North Rim, so I suggest it. You’ll gain the best perspectives with this excursion since it’s one of the only tours that fly inside the limits of Grand Canyon National Park. You can learn more in our guide to visiting the Grand Canyon.
- Highlights: Grand Canyon South Rim and North Rim (National Park)
- Duration: 25 to 30 minutes
- Departure point: South Rim
- Price: $229+
5. Imperial with EcoStar, the best Grand Canyon helicopter tour from the South Rim
On the Imperial with EcoStar, you’ll fly throughout the Grand Canyon in an eco-friendly EcoStar helicopter with panoramic home windows, so it’s perfect for photographers. It’s one of many best helicopter visits over theGrand Canyon South Rim since it includes breathtaking views of the rim’s deepest and widest cracks. You’ll also see the North Rim, East Rim, and Colorado River, so it’s well worth it.
- Highlights: Grand Canyon South Rim, North Rim, and East Rim (National Park)
- Duration: 40 to 50 minutes
- Departure point: South Rim
- Price: $339+
6. South Rim Airplane Tour, one of our favorite Grand Canyon flights by airplane
If you’re looking for an inexpensive Grand Canyon helicopter tour, I strongly advise the first one we took, the South Rim Airplane Tour. It offers unique photographic opportunities over the South Rim and Colorado River. The excursion departs from Grand Canyon Airport and also flies above the Kaibab National Forest, Zuni Corridor, and Imperial Point. During the flight, you can capture stunning images of the ancient rock formations, walls, and gorges, making this one of the best affordable Grand Canyon South Rim helicopter trips.
- Highlights include: The South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
- Duration: 40 to 45 minutes
- Departure point: South Rim
- Price: $169+
7. West Rim Helicopter Landing, the best Grand Canyon helicopter tour from the West Rim
This Grand Canyon West Rim aerial tour is a good choice if you wish to capture beautiful photographs from above and at the location. You’ll board a helicopter at the West Rim Airport before soaring over among the most visited parts of the canyon. Then, you’ll land on the Colorado River floor of the canyon. There, you will have time to explore the area and snap incredible pictures of the scenery before flying up to the edge of the West Rim.
The final leg of the West Rim Helicopter Landing tour includes a shuttle ride to the top Grand Canyon West viewpoints, like Eagle and Guano Points. Undoubtedly, it’s one of the best Grand Canyon helicopter landing tours, and you’ll even have time to explore the viewpoints or take a brief hike.
- Highlights include Grand Canyon West, helicopter landing, Eagle Point, and Guano Point.
- Duration: 15 minutes
- Departure point: West Rim
- Price: $294+
8. Over the Edge Helicopter & Boat Tour, a Grand Canyon helicopter tour and cruise
The Over the Edge Helicopter & Vessel Tour is another helicopter tour over Grand Canyon West, and a great choice if you want to take an aerial tour and a boat cruise. You’ll depart from Grand Canyon West and fly over the canyon gorge prior to landing on the canyon floor (the lone area of the Grand Canyon where this is achievable). Then, continue on foot, immersed in the splendid surroundings.
The concluding portion of the tour involves a scenic boat ride along the Colorado River while floating. Ultimately, you’ll end this grand canyon air sightseeing experience with a helicopter ride to the West Rim’s edge, where you can opt to continue visiting places nearby like Eagle and Guano Points.
- Highlights: Sights including Grand Canyon West, helicopter landings, Colorado River cruises
- Duration: Tour time varies
- Departure point: West Rim
- Price: $299+
9. Private Grand Celebration Sunset Tour, a private Grand Canyon heli-tour from Las Vegas
This private Grand Canyon aerial tour makes for a perfect romantic evening. The Private Grand Celebration Sunset Excursion starts with a Las Vegas hotel pickup by limousine, which will transport you to the heliport. There, you’ll take a solo EcoStar helicopter over the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the West Rim. Throughout this Grand Canyon flight, you’ll see Eagle Point, the Skywalk glass bridge, and the geological formations of the West Rim before landing on the canyon floor.
Spend some time exploring the scenic surroundings, then enjoy a champagne picnic near the bank of the Colorado River. Finally, end your Grand Canyon helicopter tour with a sunset flight over the glowing desert and the Vegas Strip. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best activities to engage in Las Vegas as a pair.
- Highlights: The main attractions included Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West, a helicopter landing, and a private Vegas Strip heli-tour at sunset including a picnic
- Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours
- Departure point: Las Vegas
- Price: $1,589.50+
- Hotel Lancelot – Arrecife
10. Private Imperial with EcoStar, a private Grand Canyon helicopter tour from the South Rim
This last choice involves a private helicopter tour over the deepest sections of the Grand Canyon, including the Colorado River, North Rim, and East Rim, allowing visitors to admire the incredible aerial scenery of the ancient rock formations, gorges, and nearby woodlands from above. The Private Imperial with EcoStar helicopter excursion over the Grand Canyon North Rim is considered one of the most beautiful sightseeing experiences available, so it should not be missed.
- Key highlights: Private helicopter over Grand Canyon North Rim, South Rim, and East Rim (National Park)
- Duration: 40 to 50 minutes
- Departure point: South Rim
- Price: $974.50+
Grand Canyon helicopter tour price comparison
Now that you comprehend what to expect, you may remain unsure about the cost of a Grand Canyon helicopter tour.
Here, you can opt for several different rental options, such as studios and apartments for two to four people. Each apartment has a well-supplied kitchen, so you can socialize, prepare your own meals, and save money on food. That said, I strongly advise tasting food at one of the eateries here, since as the capital of Tenerife, you can sample authentic Canarian dishes.
Experiencing this natural marvel from the air presents a one-of-a-kind chance, so warrants the cost. To assist with determining and planning your visit, below is a comparative chart with the Grand Canyon helicopter tour prices per person.
In addition to the Royal Palace, you should spend time experiencing the other superb attractions in Aranjuez, such as the Parterre Garden situated before the palace and Saint Pascual’s Royal Convent. I also propose the Royal Barge Museum in the Prince’s Garden, where you can view the vessels that once carried royalty over the river. You can even take a boat ride to gain more knowledge about the history and landscape of Aranjuez.
• Grand Canyon North Rim
• Grand Canyon South Rim
• Grand Canyon East Rim
• Private helicopter
|
EXCURSION |
COST |
COMMENCING |
LENGTH |
TRANSPORTATION |
HIGHLIGHTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
$379+ |
Las Vegas |
3.5-4 hrs |
🚁 |
– Hoover Dam |
|
|
$479+ |
Las Vegas |
4-4.5 hrs |
🚁 |
– Hoover Dam |
|
|
Over $500 |
Las Vegas |
Around 7 hours |
✈️🚁🛥️ |
– Hoover Dam |
|
|
$229+ |
South Rim |
25-30 mins |
🚁 |
• Grand Canyon South Rim |
|
|
$339+ |
South Rim |
40-50 mins |
🚁 |
– Grand Canyon South Rim |
|
|
A visit to the GC West Helicopter Landing area and park entry |
$294+ |
West Rim |
15 mins |
🚁 |
– Grand Canyon West Rim |
|
$299+ |
Western Rim |
Excursion time differs |
🚁🛥️ |
– Grand Canyon Western Rim |
|
|
An exclusive evening trip including a Vegas Strip tour and sunset viewing |
$1,589.50* |
Las Vegas |
3.5-4 hrs |
🚁 |
– Hoover Dam |
|
$974.50* |
South Rim |
40-50 mins |
🚁 |
– Grand Canyon North Rim. |
|
|
TOP GRAND CANYON HELICOPTER EXCURSIONS |
|||||
*Price for private helicopter for 2 people
Grand Canyon Helicopter tour deals
I’d also like to point out that in addition to its low-cost Grand Canyon helicopter excursions, Papillon has exclusive offers and promotions. Just go to the Special Offers section on the website, select your departure location, and you’ll find a list of great deals.
Other Grand Canyon helicopter tour companies
Flying above the Grand Canyon would surely be an awe-inspiring experience, so it’s understandable that multiple helicopter touring companies operate in the region:
- Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters: Papillon has been operating for over 50 years and is the biggest Grand Canyon helicopter tour company. We found them to offer a range of options from Las Vegas, the South Rim, and Grand Canyon West for every budget level. You can read our full Papillon Helicopters assessment for additional info.
- Maverick: Maverick is another well-recognized company that, similar to Papillon, utilizes EcoStar helicopters for excursions over the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas.
- Sundance: Sundance has operated since 1985 and provides Grand Canyon helicopter trips from Las Vegas.
Following numerous flights above the Grand Canyon, I can attest that we`ve consistently had the best experiences with Papillon. This company consistently delivers beautiful views, safe trips, and helpful staffing.
My experience taking a Grand Canyon helicopter ride
If I had to select a single word to illustrate my experience flying over the Grand Canyon, it would be “magical.”
The vistas unveiled from the ground-level outlook points did not live up to my anticipations, failing to appropriately convey the true scale and majesty of the canyon. Indeed, much relies on the hourly conditions and ambient lighting, but a Grand Canyon helicopter tour is wholeheartedly recommended to behold this attraction from an aerial perspective. Not only will the full wonder of the Grand Canyon be observable, but crowds can be avoided down below.
Before booking with Papillon, I read plenty of reviews about Grand Canyon helicopter excursions to make the optimum choice for my schedule, budget, and preferences. I also made sure to obtain the best travel protection for visits to the USA for any unforeseen circumstances.
We ultimately decided to take the South Rim Airplane Tour as it was one of the more affordable options available to us. Additionally, we wanted a tour that departed from the South Rim (to fly within the National Park boundaries), as well as utilizing an airplane to allow us to go higher and explore more remote locations. The tour proved to be an ideal choice for our needs, permitting us to fully appreciate the canyon`s vast scope.
Over the years, we finished taking that trip again, along with the Golden Eagle Helicopter Tour and the Grand Celebration Tour. If you wish to take a Grand Canyon helicopter tour from Las Vegas, I recommend the latter excursion since it includes a below-the-rim landing. Additionally, it`s a complete aerial tour of the GrandCanyon`s West Rim, and it`s one of my favorite tours from Las Vegas.
As someone who has flown over the Grand Canyon quite a bit, I have some tips to ensure you have the best trip possible:
- First, it’s better to book your flight for early in the morning or just before sunset so you can get the best views.
- Second, examine the weather outlook carefully since the tour operator may cancel your trip if conditions aren’t suitable.
- Finally, eat no more than two hours before the tour starts. My mum learned this the hard way when she got sick during our ride. If you’re prone to feeling dizzy, take some medication beforehand.
That said, the spectacle witnessed from a Grand Canyon helicopter is unmatched, and by following my advice, one should be fine. Though we have taken several Grand Canyon helicopter expeditions, we are always amazed by the incredible landforms, the ancient stone walls, the winding Colorado River, and the stunning gorges and plateaus.
Grand Canyon helicopter tour FAQs
If you’re still uncertain which Grand Canyon helicopter tour to opt for, or you have some concerns, here are the answers to some common queries. Of course, feel free to leave us a comment if you have any other questions. We’ll be happy to help!
Between a Grand Canyon helicopter excursion or airplane tour, which is preferable?
When choosing between a Grand Canyon helicopter tour or an airplane outing, one might consider that planes can fly further and higher heights. Therefore, a Grand Canyon airplane excursion would be preferable if the goal is to focus on the depth and expanse of the canyon, or if interested in landscape photography.
However, Grand Canyon helicopter trips are amazing, especially if wanting closer perspectives of the canyon walls and gorges. Also, if hoping to descend below the rim, remember that is only possible via helicopter.
Is taking a Grand Canyon helicopter tour better from the South Rim or West Rim?
The national park with the designation Grand Canyon contains the South, North, and East Rims, and is overseen by the U.S. National Park Service. However, the western edge is taken care of by the Hualapai Tribe, and thusly, it is a privately owned visitor attraction.
Generally, you’ll receive the best perspectives with a helicopter tour above the southern boundary of the Grand Canyon. Since landings below the rim are not allowed in this portion of the park, the natural environment is better safeguarded here.
On the other hand, the West Rim is fairly popular, and this is the only location where you can embark on a Grand Canyon helicopter landing tour to research the canyon floor. Moreover, if you’re interested in other activities like boat rides, they’re available at Grand Canyon West. Finally, the West Rim is also closer to Las Vegas (2.5 hours versus 4 hours to the South Rim), so take that into account.
What time period offers the best conditions for a Grand Canyon helicopter excursion?
One of the prime opportunities for a Grand Canyon helicopter tour would be early morning when the desert and the canyon`s geologic formations radiate a deep reddish hue. There would also be less turbulence during the morning hours, and conditions would be less hot and hazy.
As an alternate possibility, you can partake in a Grand Canyon helicopter tour at sunset. Some very pleasant perspectives can be witnessed, and temperatures are cooler compared to daytime heights.
What are the typical expenses associated with a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon?
The cost of a Grand Canyon helicopter sightseeing tour can be as low as $169 per individual. However, the price is dependent on factors like the duration of the flight, the aircraft, and any additional activities done during the excursion, so some experiences surpass $1,000.
Are there affordable Grand Canyon helicopter excursions?
Flying over the Grand Canyon is a memorable and worthwhile experience, so if you have a limited budget, I suggest an airborne tour option. This is a more affordable choice, but the sights remain equally stunning. You can see how we structured our financial plan to travel along the West Coast in 10 days to learn how we managed to include a Grand Canyon airplane tour without breaking the bank.
Should reservations be made ahead of time for a Grand Canyon helicopter trip?
Indeed! If you plan to travel over summer, making a reservation for your Grand Canyon aerial sightseeing trip at minimum one month in advance is recommended. When we went in August, we carefully scheduled our itinerary to ensure being at the Grand Canyon on the specific date an opportunity was available.
What materials should one carry on a Grand Canyon helicopter excursion?
It’s advisable to wear sleeves and pants extending to the ankles, in addition to shoes wholly enclosing the feet. Furthermore, protect yourself from the intense desert sun using sunscreen, eyewear shading the eyes, and a head covering. Of course, don’t neglect to carry your camera!
Is taking a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon worth the expense?
Indeed, travelling through the extensive formations of the Grand Canyon by helicopter presents spectacular perspectives. With panoramic windows allowing expansive views, one can observe the intricate details of the ravines, gorges and towering rock faces from above, avoiding the congestion of viewing platforms on the canyon floor. The aerial views offer superior vantages compared to observing the natural wonder from the ground.
I hope you feel more prepared to find the best Grand Canyon helicopter tour that fits your budget, preferences, and travel dates. If you have any other inquiries, please leave them below, and I’ll be pleased to answer them.
Have an enjoyable Grand Canyon air tour!
