Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour
The best way to see the Grand Canyon in a short amount of time, nothing beats the thrill of a Grand Canyon helicopter tour. These flights offer visitors breathtaking aerial views of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World—soaring above red rock canyons, the Colorado River, and famous landmarks like Hoover Dam and the Skywalk.
Each year, over half a million visitors experience Grand Canyon helicopter rides, with departures from the South Rim (Tusayan), West Rim (near Las Vegas), and even Sedona and Phoenix, Arizona. Whether you choose to fly over the Grand Canyon or land on the canyon floor 4,000 feet below the rim, you'll gain a unique perspective that ground-based tours simply can’t provide.
Popular Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Landmarks
Most helicopter tours of the Grand Canyon are packed with iconic views and unforgettable highlights. Depending on the tour package and departure point, here are some of the must-see landmarks:
- Grand Canyon South Rim: Fly over the vast Kaibab National Forest, the dramatic Dragon Corridor, and the heart of the canyon's widest and deepest section.
- Grand Canyon West Rim: Soar over Eagle Point and Guano Point, with optional landings at the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk—a glass bridge suspended 4,000 feet above the canyon floor.
- Colorado River: See the river snake through the canyon’s depths, with some tours even including a landing and river float trip.
- Hoover Dam & Lake Mead: Many helicopter tours from Las Vegas also include aerial views of these man-made marvels.
Hoover Dam Tours
Try an exhilarating helicopter tour over the iconic Hoover Dam. The ground drops away as you enter the majestic Grand Canyon and fly for over 10 miles through this geographic marvel.
Sky Walk Tours
Experience unparalleled panoramic views from a glass bridge extending 70 feet over the edge of the canyon, 4,000 feet above the Colorado River.
Which Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour is Best?
Papillon and Maverick are both renowned helicopter tour companies known for their extensive experience, excellent safety record, and a wide range of tour options. As the two largest operators of Grand Canyon tours, they both offer well-maintained aircraft, knowledgeable pilots, and unforgettable experiences. Some of its best tours include the Grand Celebration Tour, which features a landing at the bottom of the Grand Canyon and a champagne picnic, and the Golden Eagle Air Tour, showcasing breathtaking aerial views of the West Rim, Hoover Dam, and Lake Mead. For those visiting the South Rim, the North Canyon Tour offers a 25–30 minute flight over iconic landmarks like the Kaibab Forest and Dragon Corridor. Both Papillon and Maverick tours cater to different budgets and preferences, making them a top choice for exploring the Grand Canyon.
How Much Does a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Cost?
Helicopter tour prices for the Grand Canyon vary based on location, duration, and features. Here’s a breakdown:
Las Vegas Helicopter Tours:
- Aerial-only (30–45 min): $300–$450
- Landing tours with Skywalk/champagne picnic: $400–$700+
South Rim Helicopter Tours:
- Standard 25–30 min: $250–$350
- Extended 45–50 min: $350–$500
Luxury & Private Helicopter Tours:
- $700+
- Include extended flight times, custom routes, and exclusive experiences
Many companies offer combo packages that include helicopter, boat, and ground tours. Watch for seasonal and current discounts to find the best value.
How Long is a Helicopter Tour of the Grand Canyon?
Tour durations range from 25 minutes to 5+ hours, depending on where you depart and whether your flight includes landings or additional activities.
- Short Aerial Flights: 25–30 minutes (South Rim)
- Extended Aerial Tours: 45–50 minutes (South or West Rim)
- Landing Tours from Las Vegas: 4–5 hours total, including hotel transfers and time at the canyon floor or Skywalk
- Custom/Luxury Tours: 1–3 hours or more with flexible itineraries
Book a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour: What You Need to Know
- Best time to fly: Morning flights offer smoother air and better lighting for photography.
- Advance reservations: Book early during peak seasons (spring and fall).
- Accessibility: Many helicopters are wheelchair accessible; check with the operator.
- Age/weight limits: Vary by company; infants usually fly free on a parent’s lap.
GRAND CANYON HELICOPTER & AIR TOURS
Maverick Helicopter Tours from GCNP Airport
Canyon Spirit is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour that departs from the South Rim, taking you over the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, home to the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pines. Upon reaching the edge, the rim drops away as the magnificent Grand Canyon comes into full view.… More
Canyon Spirit is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour that departs from the South Rim, taking you over the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, home to the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pines. Upon reaching the edge, the rim drops away as the magnificent Grand Canyon comes into full view.
Leaves from Tusayan | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided
Papillon Helicopters
Leaves from Las Vegas | Leaves from Tusayan | Multi-Attraction Tours | Family-Friendly
Maverick Helicopter Tours from Las Vegas
Family-Friendly | Reserve Now Pay Later | Additional Tour Options Available | Leaves from Las Vegas | Optional Ground Tour | Professionally Guided
Grand Canyon Airlines
Leaves from Lake Powell/Page | Leaves from Las Vegas | Leaves from Lake Powell/Page | Leaves from Tusayan | Multi-Attraction Tours | Optional Ground Tour | Optional River Tour | Optional Ground Tour
Helicopter Tour of the North Canyon with Optional Hummer Excursion
The Grand Canyon is undoubtedly beautiful, but this helicopter tour of the iconic canyon elevates the views to a whole new level. Soar over Kaibab National Forest and into the Dragon Corridor—the deepest and widest part of the canyon. Upgrade your tour to include a Hummer tour of other … More
The Grand Canyon is undoubtedly beautiful, but this helicopter tour of the iconic canyon elevates the views to a whole new level. Soar over Kaibab National Forest and into the Dragon Corridor—the deepest and widest part of the canyon. Upgrade your tour to include a Hummer tour of other essential Grand Canyon sights after the ride; your car is waiting for you for a seamless transition.
- Grand Canyon North Rim helicopter tour
- Bring your camera for unbeatable views of the canyon
- A memorable travel experience great for first-time and return visitors alike
- Upgrade to include a Hummer tour after the helicopter ride
Optional Ground Tour | Family-Friendly
Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour from Las Vegas with VIP Skywalk & Pontoon Boat Ride
Book the ultimate Grand Canyon getaway with this combo tour that begins with a helicopter flight from Las Vegas. Get a birds-eye-view of Hoover Dam and the Grapevine Mesa Joshua Trees en route to the West Rim. Then descend to the canyon floor for a pontoon boat cruise on the Colorado Ri … More
Book the ultimate Grand Canyon getaway with this combo tour that begins with a helicopter flight from Las Vegas. Get a birds-eye-view of Hoover Dam and the Grapevine Mesa Joshua Trees en route to the West Rim. Then descend to the canyon floor for a pontoon boat cruise on the Colorado River. Finish with VIP access to the Skywalk, a glass-bottom deck that hovers above the sandstone walls. A souvenir photo and coach transfers are included. ** Please note: Effective for travel prior to April 1, 2024, the price displayed does not include a USD30 per person fuel fee. This fee is payable direct to the supplier on the day of your tour **
- Grand Canyon helicopter combo tour from Las Vegas
- View Hoover Dam and the sandstone canyon walls on a helicopter ride
- Land on the floor of the Grand Canyon Take a pontoon boat cruise along the Colorado River
- Marvel at the breadth of the canyon from the glass-bottom Skywalk at Eagle Point with skip-the-line admission
- Hotel transport and souvenir Skywalk photo included
Leaves from Las Vegas | Multi-Attraction Tours
North & East Rim Imperial with Ecostar Family Flight
Recommend for groups of 4+. Take the Imperial Air tour on an aircraft dedicated exclusively for yourself and your family/friends.
Experience the Grand Canyon aboard a helicopter tour reserved entirely for your party. These helicopters have been designed with ecological impact in mi … MoreRecommend for groups of 4+. Take the Imperial Air tour on an aircraft dedicated exclusively for yourself and your family/friends.
Experience the Grand Canyon aboard a helicopter tour reserved entirely for your party. These helicopters have been designed with ecological impact in mind and feature lower noise to minimize disturbance. Set off from the Grand Canyon air terminal for aerial sights of the incredible rock gorges, the Colorado River twisting below, and the forested areas of the North Rim. Enjoy the most environmentally-friendly and exclusive way to tour the Grand Canyon by air!Family-Friendly
Signature Tour - Grand Canyon South Rim with Ground Tour from Phoenix
Marvel at the Grand Canyon's vast expanse and some of the American Southwest's most awe-inspiring terrain during a scenic flight from Phoenix. Your pilot flies at the perfect altitude to clearly view the natural beauty of Arizona, including Tonto National Forest, San Francisco Peaks, Mo … More
Marvel at the Grand Canyon's vast expanse and some of the American Southwest's most awe-inspiring terrain during a scenic flight from Phoenix. Your pilot flies at the perfect altitude to clearly view the natural beauty of Arizona, including Tonto National Forest, San Francisco Peaks, Montezuma Well, and the Red Rocks of Sedona. Experience this majestic wilderness from the ground and air on a day-long tour that includes a stop in the National Park and the historic village.
Family-Friendly | Multi-Attraction Tours | Professionally Guided | Educational | Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale
Grand Canyon West, Lunch, Hoover Dam Photo Stop, Optional Skywalk
Visit the West Rim of the Grand Canyon on this full-day tour from Las Vegas. Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, passing by Arizona’s Joshua Tree Forest on the way. At the Grand Canyon West Rim, enjoy four hours of free time to explore highlights like Eagle Point and Guano Point. On t … More
Visit the West Rim of the Grand Canyon on this full-day tour from Las Vegas. Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, passing by Arizona’s Joshua Tree Forest on the way. At the Grand Canyon West Rim, enjoy four hours of free time to explore highlights like Eagle Point and Guano Point. On the way back, stop by the Hoover Dam bridge for photos.
- Full-day tour to the Grand Canyon West Rim from Las Vegas
- Includes lunch, granola bar and bottled water
- Skywalk and helicopter upgrades available
- Round-trip transfers from select Las Vegas hotels
Leaves from Flagstaff | Lunch Included | Multi-Attraction Tours
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