Have you made plans for the 4th of July? If you're still thinking about how to celebrate Independence Day, why not make it the best one yet? With Grand Canyon flights you could have a 4th of July like no other, from thousands of feet above the most beautiful natural monument in the world.
There are helicopter and airplane tours available on Independence Day weekend, and you can even choose to fly from Las Vegas in Nevada, or Tusayan in Arizona. South Rim or West Rim? Let's take a look at what's on offer.
Helicopter Tours at the Grand Canyon
If you're flying from Las Vegas, you'll be able to head out to the hugely popular West Rim. If you're interested in the South Rim, you'll have to choose a tour in Arizona.
Vegas tours have the added bonus of being able to land at the Canyon. One tour that I really love is the landing air tour that will take you to the bottom of the Canyon, right next to the Colorado River. Here you could enjoy a Champagne Picnic, or even add on a riverboat ride. If you want the full package, why not add a Skywalk ticket? This will allow you to land at the top of the Canyon and step out on a high tech transparent platform that is suspended 4000ft over the river below.
South Rim helicopters aren't allowed to land at the Canyon, but they do provide impressive sights from the air. You can choose from a 30 minute or 50 minute Grand Canyon flight. I recommend the 50 minute option. It will take you on a route from the South Rim, up to the mysterious North Rim, and will top off the tour with a journey out to the eastern boundary of the park. On this air tour you will see up to three quarters of the National Park. How many people can say they've done that?
Choosing between Deluxe and Basic Tours
The routes themselves don't change between basic and deluxe tours, but the hardware sure does. Basic tours use Bell Ranger or AStar helicopters, while Deluxe tours are provided in a more modern EcoStar EC130. Sights from the basic helicopters are definitely impressive, but the EC130 provides the best experience. These helicopters are quieter, they're more comfortable with stadium type seating, and they even feature a huge 180 degree windshield which allows for the best viewing angles.
If you can afford the extra for a Deluxe ticket, then don't hesitate to book one. You'll also be provided with a limousine shuttle service if you're flying from Las Vegas.
Airplane Tours
Airplane tours are much cheaper than helicopters. These Grand Canyon flights cover the same routes as the helicopters, although they fly at higher altitudes. For groups and those on a budget, an Airplane tour could be the way to go. If you're flying from Vegas you can still land at the West Rim, and this way you'll still get to visit the Skywalk and nearby scenic walking tracks.
South Rim airplane tours offer the extended 50 minute route. These planes carry 19 passengers, so again, if you're in a group, airplane tours may be your best option.
Book Your 4th of July Grand Canyon Flights Today
Don't miss out on the chance to make this the best Independence Day weekend yet. Flights at the Grand Canyon regularly sell out, so make sure you book your air tours soon. Book online for the best deals, and to ensure your seats are locked in for the day you intend to fly.
Helicopter tours, landing or air only, West Rim or South Rim, or even an airplane tour. There are so many options to make this 4th of July special. Grand Canyon flights create memories that you'll keep for a lifetime. Which one will you choose?
Martin Wynn
