Summer is already here, and that means its vacation season! Planning the perfect summer trip doesn't have to be difficult, especially when there are fantastic options like the various Grand Canyon air tours.
Summer is the busiest season for tourism at the Grand Canyon, so you'll need to get in quick to secure your seats.
Grand Canyon Helicopters from Las Vegas
One of the great things about tours during summer, is that you can often take advantage of discounted rates. There's an air flyover tour from Vegas that is currently marked down. If you book the first flight of the day, you'll be able to take advantage of this special rate.
One thing to consider about this 'early bird' tour, is that you'll be flying directly into the sunset. This can slightly affect the visibility, but if you're travelling on a budget then it is your best option. The tour flies over the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead on the way to the Canyon, so it's not just the National Park that you'll see from the air.
If you can stretch your budget a little further, I suggest taking one of the landing tours. They cover everything that the flyovers do, except you'll have the option of landing at the bottom of the Canyon, at the top, or both. At the bottom you can enjoy a Champagne picnic, and even take a ride on a Colorado River boat. If you go to the top, there's the impressive Skywalk. This allows you to step out over the Canyon below, suspended on a glass and steel platform.
Landing tours are exclusive to Las Vegas, so keep this in mind if you're also considering the South Rim Grand Canyon helicopters.
Flights from Arizona
Tusayan in Arizona is the departure point for South Rim tours. There are two available. First is the standard 30 minute tour, and then there's an extended 50 minute tour if you have some extra time and budget.
Both tours go to the North Rim and back to the South Rim, but only the longer tour goes out to the eastern boundary of the Grand Canyon National Park. The longer tour is so extensive that you will see around 75% of the whole National Park. If you're flying from Arizona, the South Rim tour is my recommendation.
Although you can't land within the Canyon, you can complement your air tour with a 4×4 jeep ride. This will take you out on an exciting adventure, showing you the Canyon and the surrounding areas from a different perspective.
Basic vs Deluxe Tours – What are the Differences?
People often ask me if the Deluxe tours are really worth it. In short, yes they are!
Basic tours use Bell Ranger and AStar helicopters. These are slightly older multipurpose helicopters that have been modified for sightseeing. They provide good viewing opportunities, but these days they are easily eclipsed by more modern options.
The Deluxe tours use Ecostar 130 Helicopters. The key advantages are:
- The Ecostar is quieter, making for a more comfortable flight.
- Viewing is better, especially considering the chopper has a huge 180degree windshield.
- Seating is much better, and the cabin is laid out in a way that ensures optimal viewing from any seat.
One last thing about the Deluxe tours, if you're going to the West Rim then they will leave directly from the Las Vegas Strip. Basic tours will mean that you'll take a short shuttle ride to nearby Boulder City. When it comes to convenience and comfort, Deluxe tours are the way to go.
Hope to See You at the Grand Canyon!
Summer is one of the best times to see the Grand Canyon. The skies are clear and visibility is excellent, so if you're looking for a true adventure this summer, choose Grand Canyon Helicopters.
Book early because seats are limited, and book online. Booking online will get you the best deals, without additional travel agency fees. Air tours at the Grand Canyon provide plenty of options. Choose one that suits your budget and you'll be sure to have a fantastic time, from the best vantage point that there is.
Martin Wynn
