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- Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours
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- West Rim Skywalk
- Grand Canyon Tours from Las Vegas
Grand Canyon Tours
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Grand Canyon West Rim
Grand Canyon National Park
Tours from Las Vegas
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Helicopter Tours
70/90-min Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tour with Floo...
from
$519
Helicopter Tours
Las Vegas Strip Highlights Helicopter Tour with Narration
from
$124
Helicopter Tours
15-min Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tour with Floor Landing & Boat...
from
$309
Helicopter Tours
70/90-min Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West Airplane/Helicopter Tour
from
$249
Airplane Tours
70- min Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West Airplane Tour with Helicopter C...
from
$599
Day Trips
Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West & Hoover Dam Bus Tour with Optional Sky...
from $139
$84
Save 40%
Guided Tours
Las Vegas to Grand Canyon South Rim Bus Tour
from
$74
Airplane Tours
Grand Canyon West Rim Airplane Tour
from
$249
Guided Tours
120-min Grand Canyon National Park Hummer Tour
from
$127
Helicopter Tours
70-min Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West Airplane/ Helicopter Tour with R...
from
$369
What to know before booking your tour
Standard vs. premium helicopter tours
- Standard helicopter tours: If you are primarily interested in enjoying the Grand Canyon’s views from an aerial perspective, the Standard Helicopter Tours are perfect for you.
- Premium helicopter tours: Those seeking a comprehensive experience that includes both aerial views and on-ground exploration should go for premium helicopter tours that often come with additional perks like floor landing and a picnic with champagne on the canyon floor.
Are the add-ons worth it?
Add-ons can significantly enhance your Grand Canyon visit giving you unique ways to experience the canyon.
- Skywalk experience: Walking on the glass-floored Skywalk, which extends 70 feet over the canyon, provides a thrilling perspective of the canyon from over 4,000 ft above.
- Boat ride on the Colorado River: Combining a helicopter descent to the canyon floor with a pontoon boat ride makes for a serene and scenic experience.
Best tour options if you’re in Las Vegas
- Aerial tours: Departing directly from Las Vegas and often including round-trip transfers, aerial tours on helicopters and airplanes are a great way to explore the canyon in a shorter amount of time.
- Bus tours: For a more budget-friendly option, go for bus tours which offer a full-day experience with stops at key viewpoints on the way like Hoover Dam and additional attractions like the Skywalk.
Choosing a short tour vs. a long one
- Short tours (Approximately 70 Minutes): If time is limited, a helicopter tour offers a quick and memorable experience focusing on providing aerial views of the West Rim and surrounding landmarks.
- Long tours (Full-Day Excursions): If you want to do it all, choose a day tour that includes additional experiences such as aerial tours, canyon floor landings, boat rides, and visits to multiple viewpoints, offering a more immersive exploration.
Adverse weather conditions
- Expect high temperatures during the summer from June to August especially at the West Rim.
- The summer and monsoon coincide at the Grand Canyon so keep in mind that afternoon thunderstorms are common between July and September, which can affect tour schedules, especially flights.
- The North Rim is only open from mid-May to mid-October due to heavy snow in the winter.
- The South Rim can experience snow between December and February, leading to potential road closures.
Important safety guidelines
- Accessibility: For guests with mobility issues, the South Rim is the safer option. At the West Rim, the Skywalk is a popular attraction that is accessible by wheelchair.
- Stay on designated paths: The Grand Canyon has steep and potentially dangerous drop-offs. Always stick to exploring marked trails and follow guide instructions.
- Respect wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from animals and do not feed them.
- Know your physical limits: Some tours involve physical activities like hiking. Assess your fitness level and choose tours that match your capabilities.
Your Grand Canyon tour options explained
West Rim
The West Rim, managed by the Hualapai Tribe, is known for its Skywalk—a glass bridge extending 70 feet over the canyon’s edge, 4,000 feet above the Colorado River. If you’re short on time, this rim is the closest to Las Vegas, just a 2-hour drive. It offers helicopter tours, Pantaloon boat rides, and views from Guano and Eagle Points.
Duration: 30 minutes to 10 hours
Transfers: Included in some tours
Meals: Included in some tours
Main visitor center: Grand Canyon West Visitor Center | Find on Maps
Recommended tours:
- Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Floor Landing & Boat Tour
- Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tour with Floor Landing
- Grand Canyon West Rim Airplane Tour
Grand Canyon National Park
The South Rim gives you access to famous viewpoints, like Mather Point, Yaki Point, and Desert View Watchtower. Helicopter tours, Hummer Tours, and Bus tours provide varied ways to explore along with extensive trails and shuttle services. Don’t miss out on the Yavapai Geology Museum and Historic Village while you’re there.
Duration: 25 minutes to 3 hours
Transfers: Not included
Meals: Not included
Main visitor center: Grand Canyon Visitor Center (South Rim) | Find on Maps
Recommended tours:
- 45-min Grand Canyon National Park Helicopter Tour with Optional Hummer Tour
- 25-min Grand Canyon National Park Helicopter Tour with Optional Hummer Tour
- 45-min Grand Canyon National Park Airplane Tour
- 25/45-min Grand Canyon National Park Helicopter & Hummer Tour
- Grand Canyon Helicopter & Hummer Tour
Tours from Las Vegas
If you’re starting from Las Vegas, choose a bus tour to the South Rim or the West Rim, with added stops like the Hoover Dam along the way. For a faster, more scenic experience, opt for a helicopter or airplane tour to the West or North Rim, with some options even including a floor landing or pontoon boat ride on the Colorado River.
Duration: 1 hours 10 minutes to 13 hours
Transfers: Yes
Meals: Included in some tours
Recommended tours:
- From Las Vegas: Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tour with Floor Landing
- From Las Vegas: 70-min Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter or Airplane Tour
- From Las Vegas: North Grand Canyon Airplane & Ground Tour
- From Las Vegas: Grand Canyon West Airplane & Helicopter Tour with Pontoon Boat Ride
- From Las Vegas: Grand Canyon West Hoover Dam Bus Tour
- From Las Vegas: Grand Canyon National Park Bus Tour
Top Grand Canyon highlights to look out for
See all photos
Find your way around Grand Canyon
South Rim
Address: Grand Canyon Visitor Center, South Entrance Road, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023 | Find on Maps
- By bus: Take a Greyhound or FlixBus to Flagstaff, Arizona, then catch a shuttle to the visitor center.
Nearest stop: Grand Canyon Visitor Center - By train: Take a train to Williams Junction, AZ then take the Grand Canyon Railway to the Grand Canyon Depot.
Nearest station: Williams Junction, AZ - By car: From Las Vegas, take US-93 South to Kingman, AZ. Merge onto I-40 East and follow AZ-64 North to Grand Canyon.
Parking: The Visitor Center has multiple parking lots (1, 2, 3, and 4).
North Rim
Address: North Rim Visitor Center, AZ-67, North Rim, AZ 86052 | Find on Maps
- By bus: Take a Greyhound or FlixBus to St. George or Kanab in Utah and arrange a private shuttle to the North Rim.
Nearest stop: St. George, Utah - By train: There are no direct train services to the North Rim. Opt for bus or car travel instead.
- By car: From Las Vegas, take I-15 North to UT-9 East, then follow US-89A South through Fredonia, AZ, and continue on AZ-67 South to the North Rim.
Parking: There is a designated parking lot located near the visitor center and lodge.
West Rim
Address: Grand Canyon West, 5001 Diamond Bar Road, Peach Springs, AZ 86434 | Find on Maps
- By bus: You can easily take a FlixBus to the West Rim. Another great option is to opt for a bus tour that includes round-trip transfers.
Nearest stop: Grand Canyon West - By train: Take a bus to Williams, Arizona from where you can take the Grand Canyon Railway train to the West Rim.
Nearest station: Williams Junction, AZ - By car: Take US 93 South for about 130 miles in total which will take 2 to 2.5 hours without stops to reach the West Rim.
Parking: Hualapai Welcome Center
Plan your visit
Opening hours
Best time to visit
Itinerary
Accessibility
Rules & safety
Dining
Stay
Visitor tips
- Timings: While the Grand Canyon itself is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the activities and tours usually take place between 8am and 6pm.
- Visitor Center hours:
South Rim: 9am to 4pm
North Rim: Mid-May to mid-October from 8am to 6pm
West rim: 8am to 6pm - Best time to visit: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) are ideal for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is perfect for activities like rafting but expect higher temperatures (90°F+ at the canyon floor) and more visitors, especially at the South Rim.
Summer (June to August)
Summer brings with it extreme heat, especially in the inner canyon, where temperatures often exceed 100°F (38°C). At the South Rim, the weather is more manageable, with highs between 80°F and 90°F (27°C to 32°C). Despite the heat, this is peak tourist season, and crowds are at their highest. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August, occasionally causing flash floods in the steeper regions.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is one of the most pleasant times to visit the Grand Canyon, with cooler temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C) at the South Rim. The North Rim, though quieter, closes in mid-October due to snowfall. By September, monsoon rains taper off, but light showers or brief thunderstorms may still occur early in the season.
Winter (December to February)
Snowfall is common, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C). Snow blankets the South Rim, creating a stunning contrast against the canyon’s red rocks. Roads can occasionally close due to heavy snowfall, and icy conditions make some trails difficult to traverse. The North Rim remains closed from mid-October until mid-May.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times to visit the Grand Canyon. Temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F at the South Rim, with milder weather perfect for hiking and exploring. Crowds are much lighter compared to the summer months. However, early spring can still bring occasional snow showers at the higher elevations, and rain is likely in March and April.
West Rim (4-5 hours)
- Skywalk (1 hour): Start your Grand Canyon West Rim adventure by stepping out onto the famous Skywalk. This glass bridge extends over the edge of the canyon, offering thrilling views 4,000 feet above the Colorado River below.
- Eagle Point (1 hour): Explore Eagle Point, known for its eagle-shaped rock formation. Here, you can also enjoy cultural exhibits at the Hualapai Village, showcasing the traditions and crafts of the Hualapai tribe.
- Guano Point (1 hour): Visit Guano Point, one of the most scenic points on the West Rim. Hike the short trails to the top of the point for spectacular panoramic views of the canyon and the Colorado River, and discover the history of the old Guano mining operation.
- Helicopter Tour (30 minutes - 1 hour): Take a thrilling helicopter ride to see the Grand Canyon from above. Choose from various tour options, including a ride to the floor of the canyon, offering a unique perspective and views you can’t get from the rim.
- Colorado River Tour (1 hour): If time allows, hop aboard a river tour for an exciting boat ride along the Colorado River. This experience lets you see the Grand Canyon from the water, providing a stunning view of the canyon walls and the natural beauty surrounding the river.
Grand Canyon National Park (4-5 hours)
- South Rim Visitor Center (30 minutes): The Visitor Center is a great starting point where you can gather information, pick up maps, and get insights into the park’s history and geology.
- Mather Point (30 minutes): Head to Mather Point, one of the most popular and easily accessible viewpoints on the South Rim. Enjoy panoramic views of the canyon and take in the vastness of the Grand Canyon.
- Bright Angel Trail (1 hour): Experience a portion of the famous Bright Angel Trail. You don’t have to hike all the way down to the river, but even a short hike down provides incredible views.
- Helicopter Tour (30 minutes - 1 hour): For a bird’s-eye view of the Grand Canyon, take a helicopter tour that gives you a sense of the canyon's scale.
- Yaki Point (30 minutes): Visit Yaki Point which is less crowded and offers an excellent vantage point for photos, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
- Desert View Watchtower (1 hour): Finish your tour at Desert View Watchtower, located at the eastern end of the South Rim. This historic tower offers fantastic views of the canyon and the Colorado River and provides a great spot for a peaceful break.
- Wheelchair-accessible areas: The South Rim offers several accessible viewpoints, including Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Desert View Watchtower, all equipped with paved paths. The Rim Trail near Grand Canyon Village is also wheelchair-friendly.
- Wheelchair availability: The South Rim Visitor Center rents manual wheelchairs free of charge, subject to availability.
- Shuttle buses: Most shuttle buses at the South Rim are wheelchair accessible and equipped with ramps and tie-downs.
- Service animals: Service animals are allowed in all areas where visitors are normally allowed to go.
- North rim access: While more remote, the North Rim has paved viewpoints like Bright angel point, but the terrain can be more rugged than the South Rim.
- Drones: Flying drones in Grand Canyon National Park is strictly prohibited without a special permit. Ensure you comply with this rule to avoid fines.
- Weather considerations: Summer temperatures in the inner canyon can exceed 110°F, making hydration crucial. Bring at least 1 gallon of water per person per day if you’re hiking below the rim.
- Wildlife: The Grand Canyon is home to many animals, including squirrels, deer, and even mountain lions. Never feed or approach wildlife, as it’s illegal and dangerous.
- Trail safety: Stay on marked trails and avoid shortcuts. The steep drop-offs at many viewpoints can be hazardous. Always hike with appropriate gear and check weather conditions before starting.
- Park entrance fees: The entrance fee for the Grand Canyon is $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days). Annual passes and special discounts are available for seniors and military members.
South Rim:
- El Tovar Dining Room: A historic restaurant located in the El Tovar Hotel, offering gourmet meals with stunning canyon views. Reservations are highly recommended.
- Bright Angel Lodge: Try the Arizona Room for a southwestern-inspired meal with canyon views. A more casual option is Bright Angel Fountain for grab-and-go snacks.
- Market Plaza: Offers a variety of options, including Canyon Village Market for groceries.
West Rim:
- Skywalk Café: Located at Eagle Point, this café offers snacks and quick meals with views of the Skywalk.
North Rim:
- Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room: Known for its rustic charm and views of North Rim, this restaurant offers both breakfast and dinner made with local ingredients.
- Dress in layers while taking the helicopter tours. Even during the summer, it can get chilly in the helicopter.
- On boat tours, take motion sickness precautions if you're prone to seasickness.
- Jeep tours cover rugged terrain, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
- The Grand Canyon operates a free shuttle bus service at the South Rim. It runs along four routes: Village Route, Kaibab/Rim Route, Hermit Road Route, and Tusayan Route (seasonal). The buses stop at key viewpoints, lodges, and visitor centers, making it easy to get around.
- If you plan on hiking below the rim, keep in mind the hike down is much easier than the hike back up.
- Whether hiking or sightseeing, start your day early to avoid the midday heat and the largest crowds, especially in the summer.
- Cell phone service is spotty throughout the park, especially below the rim. Download maps and guides ahead of time.
Top things to do at Grand Canyon
Hiking
The Grand Canyon has hiking trails for every level. For an easy stroll, try the Rim Trail that is mostly paved. For something more intense, take the South Kaibab Trail. If you’re up for a challenge, the Bright Angel Trail is a tough trek with steep elevation on the way back.
Viewpoints
For unbeatable views, start at Desert View Watchtower which offers 360-degree vistas of the canyon and Colorado River. Head to Mather Point during sunrise to capture the canyon’s layers as they light up. Prefer a quieter spot? Yaki Point, only accessible by shuttle, is a peaceful place to watch the colors shift at sunset.
Grand Canyon Village
Grand Canyon Village serves as the central hub of Grand Canyon National Park, offering accommodations, dining, and access to iconic viewpoints like Mather Point and Bright Angel Trail. It is home to landmarks like the El Tovar Hotel, Hopi House and Bright Angel Lodge.
Yavapai Geology Museum
Yavapai Geology Museum’s displays make it easy to understand how the Colorado River and millions of years of erosion shaped this iconic landscape. Interactive models break down the layers you’re seeing, so you leave with a better sense of the canyon’s age and scale, and how its unique geology came to be.
Whitewater rafting
Did you know you could do adventure sports at the Grand Canyon? Single-day whitewater rafting trips give you exciting Class III and IV rapids, while multi-day expeditions (7 to 14 days) let you cover more of the canyon’s hidden spots. Experienced guides handle the rafting, so you can enjoy the thrill of rapids.
Hopi House
Explore authentic Hopi craftsmanship at Grand Canyon Village. Built in 1905 by architect Mary Colter, it’s designed like a traditional pueblo, with intricate handmade pottery, woven rugs, and silver jewelry crafted by Hopi artisans. Shopping here not only connects you with Native American culture but also supports Indigenous artists directly.
Grand Canyon IMAX Theater
Before you dive into the canyon, stop at the IMAX Theater at the Visitor Center in Tusayan. The 34-minute film Grand Canyon: The Hidden Secrets is an immersive experience, showing aerial shots of the canyon, reenactments of early explorers, and a look at the river rapids. It’s perfect for families and history lovers who want context before they hit the trails.
Beyond Grand Canyon
Antelope Canyon
The Grand Canyon, stretching 277 miles across northern Arizona, is a breathtaking showcase of layered red rock carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. Its vast expanse reveals a kaleidoscope of colors—deep reds, vibrant oranges, and earthy browns—that shift with the sunlight, offering majestic views.
Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck
The Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck offers panoramic views of Paris, with iconic landmarks like the Seine River, Notre-Dame, and the Arc de Triomphe visible from above. Whether visited by day or illuminated at night, the experience is nothing short of magical, blending romance and history high above the City of Light.
Fly LINQ Zipline
Fly LINQ Zipline offers a thrilling ride over the vibrant LINQ Promenade in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. Soaring 12 stories above ground at speeds up to 35 mph, riders get a unique, adrenaline-pumping view of the city's dazzling lights and energy.
Frequently asked questions about Grand Canyon tours
Should I take a guided tour?
Taking a guided tour of the Grand Canyon can greatly enhance your experience, especially if it’s your first visit. There are many guided tours at the Grand Canyon, including helicopter flights, jeep tours, boat tours, and hiking tours. Jeep tours often take you to hidden spots along unpaved roads, while helicopter flights give you a bird’s-eye view of the canyon.
Can I customize my tour?
Yes, several tours allow customization. For example, you can upgrade to include Skywalk entry, a Hummer tour, or additional adventures like helicopter and boat tours.
How early do I need to book my tickets?
Book your tickets at least 6 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer and fall). Helicopter rides, rafting trips, and overnight stays at Phantom Ranch can sell out months in advance.
Can I book last-minute tickets?
While last-minute bookings are possible for some tours, it’s better to book in advance to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Is the Skywalk included in all tickets?
Not all tickets include Skywalk access. It’s available as an upgrade with some packages, particularly for West Rim tours.
Can I take a boat tour without doing whitewater rafting?
Yes, smooth water boat tours offer calm waters and stunning canyon views. This is ideal for those who want to enjoy the river without the intensity of rapids.
Can I visit both the North and South Rims in one trip?
Yes, but keep in mind it's a 5-hour drive between the two. To fully appreciate each, spend at least one full day at each rim. The South Rim offers more amenities and popular viewpoints, while the North Rim is quieter and with a more rugged landscape.
Can you visit the Grand Canyon on a budget?
Yes, it is! The entrance fee grants access to the park's viewpoints and trails, most of which are free. Opt for camping instead of staying at hotels and pack your own meals to cut down on dining costs. The park’s shuttle system makes it easy to get around without spending extra on guided tours.
What should I wear on the tour?
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. The weather at the Grand Canyon can vary, so layering is recommended, and sunscreen is essential for outdoor activities.
Are these tours suitable for families?
Yes, many tours cater to families, including bus tours and some helicopter rides. However, check for age restrictions on specific tours, especially for aerial activities.
What’s the best time to take a helicopter tour?
The best time to take a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon is in the morning (8am to 10am) for better visibility or late afternoon (3pm to sunset) for dramatic lighting with long shadows.
Are the tours accessible for people with disabilities?
Some tours are wheelchair accessible. It’s best to confirm specific requirements at the time of booking.
Do I need to bring identification?
Yes, bring along government-issued photo identification.