If you take a look at the helicopter tours available from Las Vegas, you will find that there are a number that can land at the bottom of the Canyon. The problem is that it can be hard to find the best one that makes the most of your time and budget. To break through the confusion, I've put together three of the best tours that will get you below the rim and also to the top of the Grand Canyon West Rim.
Vegas Tours
Only the West Rim has landing tours, so Las Vegas will be your gateway to the Canyon if you want to get out of the helicopter and explore. South Rim tours are air only, so if you do want some adventure on the ground, then Vegas is the best place to stay.
My #1 tour at the West Rim is the basic landing tour. It is commonly known as the Champagne Tour, because once you land below the rim you will enjoy a light picnic with a glass of Champagne to toast the occasion. You'll land right next to the Colorado River, more than 3500 feet below the top of the Canyon.
If you want something a little extra, then go for the deluxe version of this tour. It's my #2 option, and provides some additional luxuries for your trip. For starters, there's a limousine shuttle service from your hotel to the helipad, and your chopper will leave directly from the Las Vegas Strip. Deluxe also means that you'll fly in an updated helicopter which has more room inside, it's quieter, and there's a huge viewing window that covers a full 180-degree perspective.
For #3, you could opt for the complete package, which combines all of the available highlights at the West Rim. It goes to the top of the Canyon where you can see experience the Skywalk, and it also goes to the bottom and includes a scenic boat ride on the Colorado River. The Skywalk tickets are VIP, so that means you can skip the main line, which is a massive time saver. You will also get to check out the lookout points around the West Rim, making it the best all round package if you want to see everything that the Canyon has to offer.
The Grand Canyon Skywalk
The Skywalk is an awesome feature of the West Rim, and there's nothing like it anywhere else at the Canyon. It is a glass and steel platform with a transparent bottom, and it will let you stand almost 4000ft above the bottom of the canyon, around 70ft beyond the rim. It makes you feel as if you are walking on air, and it's something that every visitor to the Canyon should experience. The views are incredible and the thrill you get from standing on the platform is indescribable.
Tips for Your Tour
Summer means that it's going to be hot at the Canyon, and the weather in Vegas will give you a good indication of what it's going to be like when you reach your destination. Dress comfortably with some light clothing, and don't forget to use sunscreen and reapply it regularly. You should also bring sunglasses and a hat for even more sun protection..
Another thing you need to be aware of is that the Grand Canyon tours are extremely popular. You need to book in advance, and I recommend doing it two weeks before the day that you plan to fly. To make things easier, just book your tickets as soon as you've confirmed your accommodation. Booking online is convenient, and it also ensures that you get the best prices. Tickets can be discounted by up to 35% when you book online, and because you'll be paying with your credit card, your seats will be locked in.
Conclusion
Now that you have a better idea about the best trips to the Canyon, it's time to choose one of the top three. Try to book the best tour for the budget that you have to work with. The first option is great if you want to experience the Canyon without spending too much, but if you can stretch for the deluxe or mega tour, then you'll be able to make your trip extra special. No matter which one you choose, you'll be set for an awesome sightseeing adventure that is completely unique to the Grand Canyon.
Martin Wynn
