A trip to the Grand Canyon will be a once in a lifetime experience. That's why something like a 4 in 1 helicopter tour will be the perfect choice. This trip will give you breathtaking views of the canyon, experience the base and so much more. Make sure you treat yourself to one of the best air tours that is available. After all, this will be your chance to experience the National Park like few others will.
From Las Vegas
It is important to note that these tours are only available through Las Vegas. Only Grand Canyon helicopters coming from Vegas are authorized to go below the rim and land at the bottom. South Rim helicopters are prohibited from doing this by the National Park Service. That is because of the noise restrictions and other concerns.
Your tour will begin over Lake Mead, then Hoover Dam before you reach the airspace over the Grand Canyon. You'll begin your descent once you reach the Grand Cliff's Wash and it will take roughly 12 – 15 minutes for you to reach the base of the Canyon. Here, you'll be along the famous Colorado river.
Unlike the tour that includes the Champagne Picnic (which is a very romantic experience) you'll have a chance to explore the lower level. You are given 30 minutes to do this. Along with that, is a pontoon boat ride on the powerful Colorado River. This is an incredible experience that allows you to float along the body of water that created the Canyon.
Skywalk
Your ascent will be just as incredible as the descent. During it, you'll hover up and through the rock walls of the Canyon. When you reach the Rim, you'll go to the Grand Canyon West heliport. Here, you'll take a shuttle ride that will take you to the Skywalk. This glass bridge will take you an incredible 70 feet past the edge of the canyon. Beneath you, you'll stand 4,000 feet above the bottom.
There are some interesting facts to keep in mind about the Skywalk. This $30 million project is one of the best experiences you'll have in Arizona. Each panel of the glass deck that creates the Skywalk cost about $250,000 to make. That is why you aren't allowed to bring any electronics like video cameras, smartphones or other devices on it. If you want to take pictures, there is a package designed for professional photographers who want to capture photographs.
Another great thing about these air tours are the types of Grand Canyon helicopters used. The 4 in 1 package includes the EcoStar130. This is the best sightseeing helicopter that is available. Not only is it 25% larger than others, but it also offers a 180 degree windshield. Seating in the helicopter is stadium style. So it is like having the best place to sit possible. Since it is aerodynamically designed, you'll also have the chance to experience the smoothest ride possible.
Departures
This tour is extremely limited. As it stands, it only departs in the morning. Because of that, you need to reserve your place as soon as possible. Ideally, as soon as you have booked your hotel. It is important that you also don't wait until the final 72 hours to book your flight. At this time it will be more expensive and typically sold out. Especially if you are going in groups of two or more.
I hope you have a chance to experience the Grand Canyon this year. When you do, I strongly recommend taking a helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas. Bring a camera, because the views are going to be ones that you'll want to look back on for a lifetime.
Martin Wynn
