Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours
Grand Canyon helicopter tours provide a remarkable view of the canyon in a relatively short amount of time. Flights may pass over forested rims, side canyons, rock formations and sections of the Colorado River that are difficult or impossible to see from roadside overlooks.
The right flight depends largely on where you are staying. South Rim helicopter tours depart near Tusayan and focus on aerial sightseeing over Grand Canyon National Park. Tours from Las Vegas and Boulder City usually visit the western Grand Canyon and may include Hoover Dam views, a landing below the rim, Grand Canyon West admission or a Skywalk visit.
South Rim and West Rim helicopter tours are not interchangeable.
South Rim tours provide classic Grand Canyon National Park scenery but do not offer ordinary tourism landings below the rim. Selected West Rim tours operate on Hualapai lands outside the national park and may descend to designated landing areas near the Colorado River.
| Helicopter Tour Type | Typical Departure | Below-Rim Landing? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short South Rim flight | Tusayan, Arizona | No | Adding an aerial experience to a South Rim visit |
| Extended South Rim flight | Tusayan, Arizona | No | Seeing more of the central and eastern canyon |
| West Rim air-only flight | Las Vegas or Boulder City | No | Travelers with limited time in Las Vegas |
| West Rim landing tour | Las Vegas or Boulder City | Yes, on selected tours | A premium canyon experience |
| Grand Canyon West helicopter ride | Grand Canyon West | Available with selected packages | Visitors already touring the West Rim |
| Helicopter and Skywalk package | Las Vegas or Grand Canyon West | Varies by package | Combining several West Rim attractions |
Compare Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours
South Rim Helicopter Tours
South Rim helicopter tours depart from Grand Canyon National Park Airport in Tusayan, a few miles south of the park entrance. They are a convenient addition to a South Rim hotel stay, road trip or guided ground tour.
Routes vary with flight length, weather and air-traffic restrictions. Depending on the selected tour, views may include:
- Kaibab National Forest
- The South and North Rims
- Dragon Corridor
- Imperial Point and the eastern canyon
- The Colorado River and adjoining side canyons
- The Painted Desert in the distance
Shorter flights generally concentrate on the central canyon. Extended flights cover a broader route and usually provide more time over the canyon rather than merely adding ground transportation or check-in time.
Best for:
Visitors staying at the South Rim, Tusayan, Williams or Flagstaff who want aerial views of Grand Canyon National Park.
Important limitation:
Commercial sightseeing helicopters do not ordinarily land below the rim inside Grand Canyon National Park. Travelers specifically seeking a canyon landing should compare West Rim tours instead.
Before booking:
Compare actual flight time rather than total tour duration. A 45-minute tour description may refer to time in the aircraft, while a longer package may include check-in, transportation and other activities.
Explore More South Rim Tours »
West Rim Helicopter Tours from Las Vegas
Las Vegas is the principal departure point for West Rim helicopter tours. Flights may leave from a terminal near the Las Vegas Strip or from Boulder City Municipal Airport, depending on the operator and package.
Common sights on Las Vegas-area flights include:
- Hoover Dam
- Lake Mead
- The Mojave Desert
- Grand Canyon West
- The Colorado River
- The Las Vegas Strip on selected return routes
Some tours remain entirely airborne. Others land at Grand Canyon West or descend below the rim to a designated landing area on Hualapai lands. Premium packages may include time on the ground, refreshments, a Colorado River boat ride or transportation to West Rim attractions.
Best for:
Las Vegas visitors who want to experience the Grand Canyon without spending most of the day traveling by road.
Before booking:
Confirm the departure terminal. A flight leaving from Boulder City may include hotel transportation, but the drive to the airport adds time to the overall experience. Strip departures are generally more convenient but may carry a higher price.
Compare Grand Canyon West Rim Tours »
Helicopter Tours at Grand Canyon West
Visitors who drive or take a ground tour to Grand Canyon West can add a helicopter experience after arriving. These shorter flights focus on the western canyon and eliminate the need to purchase a round-trip helicopter flight from Las Vegas.
Selected packages descend from the rim and may include a narrated pontoon-boat ride on the Colorado River. These should not be confused with full-day or multi-day whitewater rafting expeditions.
This approach can work well for travelers who want to spend substantial time at Eagle Point, Guano Point and the Skywalk while still including a below-rim experience.
Best for:
Self-driving visitors and bus-tour passengers who want to add an air experience at Grand Canyon West.
Before booking:
Check whether Grand Canyon West admission is included or must be purchased separately. Also confirm check-in requirements and how the helicopter reservation fits with shuttle transportation between West Rim attractions.
Helicopter and Skywalk Tours
Several West Rim packages combine a helicopter experience with admission to the Grand Canyon Skywalk. The activities usually take place separately: the helicopter flies over or descends into the canyon, while the Skywalk is visited on the rim at Eagle Point.
Do not assume that every helicopter tour includes the Skywalk. Some flights only pass over Grand Canyon West, while some landing tours return directly to Las Vegas without providing time at Eagle Point.
Check for these inclusions:
- Grand Canyon West general admission
- Skywalk admission
- Ground shuttle transportation
- Time at Eagle Point and Guano Point
- Hotel pickup or airport transportation
- Meals or meal vouchers
Helicopter and Colorado River Tours
Some West Rim experiences pair a helicopter descent with a short smooth-water boat ride on the Colorado River. These packages provide an unusual perspective from below the rim but are primarily sightseeing tours.
Travelers seeking rapids, wilderness camping or a longer river journey should compare dedicated rafting trips instead. Those tours depart from locations such as Peach Springs or Lees Ferry and require very different planning.
Compare Grand Canyon Rafting Trips »
Helicopter and Ground Tour Packages
Combination packages let travelers see the canyon from both the air and the ground. Common pairings include:
- Helicopter flight and Grand Canyon West sightseeing
- Helicopter flight and Skywalk admission
- Helicopter flight and Colorado River boat ride
- South Rim helicopter flight and guided vehicle tour
- Helicopter flight and Hoover Dam stop
- Bus transportation with an optional helicopter upgrade
A combination tour can be convenient, but more activities do not always mean a better day. Review how much time is allocated to each component and how much of the advertised duration is spent checking in, transferring or waiting.
Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours from Sedona or Phoenix
Sedona and Phoenix are not major departure points for regularly scheduled Grand Canyon helicopter sightseeing flights. Tours advertised from these cities may involve ground transportation to another airport, a fixed-wing airplane segment, a private charter or a combination package.
Travelers staying in Sedona or Phoenix should verify exactly where the helicopter flight begins. In many cases, driving to Tusayan for a South Rim flight provides more options than purchasing a specialized package from farther south.
Helicopter Tours vs Airplane Tours
| Consideration | Helicopter Tour | Airplane Tour |
|---|---|---|
| Viewing experience | Large windows and close-feeling canyon views | Higher-altitude overview covering a broad area |
| Passenger capacity | Usually fewer passengers | Usually more passengers |
| Typical price | Generally higher | Generally lower for comparable air time |
| Ride sensation | More maneuvering and vibration | More like a conventional small-aircraft flight |
| Landing options | Below-rim West Rim landings may be available | Usually lands only at airports |
| Best use | Premium sightseeing and combination experiences | Covering substantial distance efficiently |
Helicopters generally provide a more intimate viewing experience and can maneuver within approved flight corridors in ways fixed-wing aircraft cannot. Airplanes may cover more territory, carry more passengers and provide a lower per-person price.
Neither aircraft type guarantees a window seat unless the operator specifically offers or sells one. Seating is commonly assigned according to passenger weight, balance and operational needs.
Which One Is Better?
Choose a helicopter when the flight itself is the main experience, you want a possible West Rim landing or you prefer a smaller aircraft.
Choose an airplane when price, broader aerial coverage or transportation between destinations matters more than a close-feeling flight.
Plan and Book a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour
How Much Does a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Cost?
Prices vary significantly according to departure point, flight length, season, demand, aircraft type and included activities. Instead of relying on a fixed price published months earlier, compare tours by general category:
- Short South Rim flights: Usually the lowest-priced helicopter option
- Extended South Rim flights: Higher priced because of additional air time
- Las Vegas air-only tours: Priced according to airport, flight route and transportation
- West Rim landing tours: Premium-priced because they include landing time and a longer itinerary
- Combination tours: Higher total prices when Skywalk, boat, ground or meal components are included
- Private flights: The most expensive option but may provide greater privacy and flexibility
Fuel surcharges, airport fees and transportation policies may change. Compare the final checkout price rather than the headline starting price alone.
How Long Is a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour?
South Rim sightseeing flights
Flight time commonly ranges from approximately 25 to 50 minutes, depending on the route.
Las Vegas air-only tours
Total experiences may take several hours even when the actual canyon flight is much shorter.
West Rim landing tours
Packages may require roughly half a day when hotel transfers, check-in, round-trip flight time and the landing are included.
Full combination tours
Skywalk, boat, bus or extended ground-tour packages may occupy most of a day.
Always distinguish among flight time, landing time and total tour duration. These figures are not interchangeable.
Morning, Afternoon or Sunset Flight?
Morning flights
Morning air can be calmer, particularly during warmer months. Morning departures also leave time to reschedule or continue sightseeing if weather causes a delay.
Afternoon flights
Afternoon tours can fit more easily around hotel check-in or morning activities, but summer heat and developing winds may affect the ride.
Sunset flights
Selected Las Vegas tours time the return journey around sunset and may include evening views of the Strip. Sunset flights are popular and often cost more than standard departure times.
No departure time guarantees smooth air, perfect lighting or uninterrupted visibility. Weather and operational conditions determine the final route.
Passenger Weight and Seating
Helicopter operators must carefully balance each aircraft. Passengers are typically weighed during check-in, and seating assignments are made according to weight distribution rather than arrival order.
Operators may charge an additional comfort-seat fee above a specified passenger weight. The threshold and fee vary by company and aircraft, so review the policy before purchasing.
A paid tour does not automatically guarantee a front or window seat. Some companies sell upgraded seating when operational conditions allow, but final assignments remain subject to safe aircraft balance.
Children and Infants
Children can generally join helicopter tours, although age, identification and seating policies vary. Very young children may be allowed to sit on a parent or guardian’s lap under specific conditions, while older children require their own paid seat.
Parents should consider noise, motion and the child’s ability to remain seated throughout the flight. Hearing protection or aviation headsets are typically provided.
Accessibility
Accessibility varies by airport, aircraft and tour. Some terminals and helicopters can accommodate travelers who use collapsible wheelchairs, but passengers may need assistance transferring into the aircraft.
Ask the operator about:
- Steps or transfer height required to board
- Wheelchair storage
- Passenger assistance policies
- Accessible transportation from hotels
- Mobility requirements at landing sites
- Accessible restrooms at the terminal
Discuss specific needs before booking rather than relying only on a general accessibility statement.
Weather Delays and Cancellations
Flights may be delayed, rerouted or canceled because of wind, thunderstorms, low clouds, smoke, visibility or other safety concerns. Weather in Las Vegas does not necessarily reflect conditions over the canyon.
Review the operator’s cancellation and rescheduling policy before booking. It is wise to schedule the flight early in your stay rather than on the final available day, especially when the helicopter tour is a major reason for the trip.
Motion Sickness
Travelers susceptible to motion sickness should eat a light meal, stay hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol before flying. Looking toward the horizon may help during the flight.
Consult a medical professional before using motion-sickness medication, particularly when combining it with other prescriptions or activities requiring alertness.
What Should You Wear?
Wear comfortable clothing suited to the season and closed-toe shoes if the tour includes a landing. Temperatures at the rim, inside the canyon and in Las Vegas can differ substantially.
Avoid loose hats and unsecured accessories. Dark clothing can reduce reflections in helicopter windows and make photography easier.
Photography Tips
- Wear dark, nonreflective clothing to reduce window glare
- Keep the camera lens close to the window without touching it
- Turn off the flash
- Use a fast shutter speed when possible
- Avoid changing lenses during the flight
- Secure cameras and phones according to crew instructions
- Listen for pilot announcements about upcoming landmarks
The clearest view may be on either side of the aircraft at different points in the route. Enjoy the flight rather than spending the entire experience negotiating with a camera screen.
Helicopter Tour Booking Advice
Choose the rim before choosing the operator. Compare actual flight time, departure airport, landing location, transportation, passenger-weight rules and cancellation terms. For West Rim packages, verify whether admission, Skywalk access and ground sightseeing are included. Reserve early for spring, summer, holiday and sunset departures.
Featured Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Provider
Papillon South Rim Helicopter Tours
Compare short and extended scenic flights departing from Grand Canyon National Park Airport near Tusayan. Available routes may include the Kaibab Plateau, Dragon Corridor, the North Rim and the eastern canyon.
Papillon Las Vegas and West Rim Tours
Compare air-only flights, West Rim landing experiences and combination tours that may include Hoover Dam views, Grand Canyon West, the Skywalk or a Colorado River boat ride.
Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours FAQ
Are Grand Canyon helicopter tours worth it?
A helicopter tour can be worthwhile for travelers who value aerial scenery, have limited sightseeing time or want a West Rim landing experience. It may offer less value for visitors on a tight budget or those who prefer hiking and extended time at overlooks.
Which Grand Canyon rim is best for a helicopter tour?
Choose the South Rim for aerial views of Grand Canyon National Park. Choose the West Rim for flights from Las Vegas, potential below-rim landings and packages combining the helicopter with the Skywalk or Colorado River.
Can a helicopter land at the bottom of the Grand Canyon?
Selected West Rim tours can descend to designated landing areas on Hualapai lands. Commercial sightseeing helicopters do not ordinarily land below the rim inside Grand Canyon National Park at the South Rim.
How much does a Grand Canyon helicopter tour cost?
Prices depend on flight length, departure airport, season, aircraft and included activities. Short South Rim flights are generally less expensive than Las Vegas landing tours and multi-activity West Rim packages.
How long is a Grand Canyon helicopter flight?
South Rim flights commonly provide approximately 25 to 50 minutes of air time. Las Vegas and landing packages may last several hours after transfers, check-in and ground time are included.
Do all passengers receive a window seat?
No. Seating depends on the aircraft configuration and weight-and-balance requirements. Some operators offer paid seat upgrades, but safe aircraft balance determines final placement.
Will I fly over Hoover Dam?
Many tours departing from Las Vegas or Boulder City include an aerial view of Hoover Dam and Lake Mead. South Rim flights from Tusayan do not normally fly over Hoover Dam.
Does a helicopter tour include the Skywalk?
Only when the booking explicitly includes Grand Canyon West admission and Skywalk access. Many helicopter tours remain airborne or return after a canyon landing without visiting Eagle Point.
Are helicopter tours safe?
Commercial air-tour operators must follow applicable federal aviation regulations, approved flight routes, aircraft-maintenance requirements and weather restrictions. Passengers should follow all crew instructions and choose an established operator.
What happens when weather cancels a flight?
The operator may offer a later departure, reschedule the tour or provide a refund according to its cancellation policy. Schedule the flight early in your vacation when possible so another day remains available.
Can children take Grand Canyon helicopter tours?
Children are generally permitted, but ticket, lap-child, identification and minimum-age policies differ by operator. Review the specific rules before booking.
Can wheelchair users take a helicopter tour?
Some tours can accommodate passengers using collapsible wheelchairs, although transferring into the aircraft may be necessary. Contact the operator before booking to discuss the terminal, aircraft and landing-site requirements.
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GRAND CANYON HELICOPTER & AIR TOURS
Sedona Red Rock Tours
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Grand Canyon Airlines
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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
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
Papillon Helicopters
Leaves from Las Vegas | Leaves from Tusayan | Multi-Attraction Tours | 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
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
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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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
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