Summer is coming to an end, but that doesn't mean that it's time to stop having fun. One of the best ways to close the season off is by taking an air tour at the Grand Canyon National Park. If you're thinking about heading out there, then there some things you'll need to know first so that you can get the best deal, and have the most enjoyable trip.
It's Going to be Hot!
Sure, summer is coming to an end, but that doesn't mean it's not going to be hot out at the Canyon and the surrounding areas. The Grand Canyon can get extremely hot in the middle of the day, so for this reason, it is best to take tours in the morning, or in the afternoon. Sunrise and sunset tours are good options if you want the most picturesque experience.
Helicopters are climate controlled, so you don't need to be worried while you are flying, but if you're taking a landing tour then make sure that you dress appropriately. Cover up with some light clothing, and bring a hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen before you head out on your tour.
Superior Comfort in the EcoStar 130
When you fly out from Las Vegas, you'll travel in a modern EcoStar 130 helicopter. These Grand Canyon helicopters are designed for comfort and the best viewing experience. The cabin is larger than most commercial touring helicopters, and they have large stadium style seats, which allow for the perfect view for every passenger. As soon as you see the helicopter you will be impressed by the large windscreen, which wraps 180 degrees around the front of the helicopter.
When you choose deluxe tours from Las Vegas, you will also receive a complimentary limousine shuttle. Deluxe helicopters depart directly from the Las Vegas Strip, whereas basic tours will require a standard shuttle service to nearby Boulder City.
Las Vegas tours go out to the West Rim, and are the only Grand Canyon helicopters that can land inside the National Park. You can choose to go to the bottom of the Canyon, or the top rim. Both experiences are breathtaking, and you can even combine the two if you have plenty of time to explore.
South Rim Tours
If Arizona is more convenient for you, or even if you just want to see a different part of the Canyon, then you could try taking an air tour from Tusayan. These tours visit the South and North Rims of the Canyon. There are two flights available. The first is a half-hour tour that goes to the remote North Rim, and then back to Tusayan. The second option follows a similar route, but adds on an eastern boundary extension. The longer tour is almost an hour in duration, and allows you to see around three quarters of the park.
You can't land inside the park, but you could take a Jeep tour from Tusayan. This will give you an exhilarating ground level experience, allowing you to see some famous landmarks from a whole new perspective. Combining an air tour with this jeep tour could be exactly what you need to make the South Rim the best option for you.
Even if you're staying in Vegas, you can take a plane flight out to the South Rim, which takes around 60 minutes in total.
Book Early and Close Summer in Style
No matter the season, Grand Canyon helicopters are in high demand at any time of the year. Book early and book with your credit card online. Paying online means that you will get the best available price, and your seats will be confirmed upon payment. This is especially important if you're opting for one of the popular sunrise or sunset tours. Aim to book at least two weeks before you intend to fly, to ensure that seats are available for the day and time that you want them.
The Grand Canyon is a fantastic place to see. Seeing it from the air is even better. Take the air tour of a lifetime with Grand Canyon helicopters.
Martin Wynn
