Exploring the wonders of the Grand Canyon has never been more accessible than with this comprehensive tour departing from Las Vegas. Guests embark on an unforgettable journey, soaring over the canyon’s breathtaking landscape in a fixed-wing aircraft before transitioning to a helicopter for an up-close aerial perspective. The adventure continues with a leisurely boat cruise down the mighty Colorado River, offering a unique vantage point to admire the canyon’s geological marvels. But the tour’s highlights don’t end there, as visitors delve deeper into the West Rim‘s hidden gems through a self-guided exploration and shuttle system. With so much to discover, it’s no wonder this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an immersive Grand Canyon experience.
Key Points
- This 7-hour tour offers aerial views of Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and the Colorado River, as well as helicopter flights and a boat cruise into the Grand Canyon.
- The tour includes a 35-minute aerial view, a 5-minute helicopter flight to the Grand Canyon’s bottom, and a 15-minute boat cruise on the Colorado River.
- Participants can explore the West Rim of the Grand Canyon via a self-guided tour and hop-on/hop-off shuttle, and learn about the canyon’s geology through audio commentary.
- The tour is available in multiple languages, and advance booking is recommended due to its popularity.
- The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or a fear of heights, and proper attire and sun protection are essential.
Tour Details
The tour lasts for 7 hours and is available in a variety of languages, including English, Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Thai, making it accessible to a wide range of international visitors.
Plus, this popular tour is likely to sell out, so advance booking is recommended.
During the tour, guests will enjoy an aerial view of Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and the Colorado River, followed by a helicopter flight to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and a boat cruise on the river.
Afterward, visitors will explore the West Rim of the Grand Canyon via a self-guided tour with a hop-on/hop-off shuttle.
The tour concludes with an aerial view of the return to the Las Vegas area.
Itinerary Overview
After departing from the Las Vegas area, the tour begins with an aerial view of Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and the Colorado River, lasting approximately 35 minutes. This is followed by a 5-minute helicopter flight that takes guests down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, where they can enjoy a 15-minute boat cruise on the Colorado River. The tour then includes a 5-minute helicopter flight back to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, where visitors can explore the area through a self-guided tour with a hop-on/hop-off shuttle for around 3 hours. Finally, the tour concludes with a 35-minute aerial view as the group returns to the Las Vegas area.
| Duration | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 35 minutes | Aerial view | Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, Colorado River |
| 5 minutes | Helicopter flight | Grand Canyon bottom |
| 15 minutes | Boat cruise | Colorado River |
Highlights of the Tour
Visitors can admire the breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon’s striped canyon walls, unique rock formations, and the majestic Colorado River winding through the heart of the canyon during this tour.
The highlight of the experience is the opportunity to explore the West Rim of the Grand Canyon on a self-guided tour, accessing various lookout points via a hop-on/hop-off shuttle.
Passengers will also get to:
- Float down the Colorado River at the bottom of the canyon on a boat cruise
- Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the canyon and surrounding landscape from a helicopter
- Witness the sheer scale and grandeur of this natural wonder
- Learn about the canyon’s geological history and unique features through audio commentary
- Appreciate the contrasting colors and textures of the canyon’s geology.
Inclusions and Exclusions
In the Vegas: Grand Canyon Airplane, Helicopter and Boat Tour, the package includes park entrance fees, roundtrip flights to the Grand Canyon West, helicopter and boat tours, audio commentary, and hop-on/hop-off shuttle service to various lookout points.
However, food and drinks are excluded, and the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments.
Infants under 2 years old are considered lap children, and passengers over 300 lbs must purchase an additional seat.
The tour provides a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to admire the stunning views of the canyon, explore the West Rim, and float down the Colorado River at the bottom of the canyon.
The inclusions and exclusions are clearly defined, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable tour.
Restrictions and Considerations
This tour has some important restrictions and considerations for potential participants. Passengers over 300 lbs must purchase an additional seat, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments. Infants under 2 are considered lap children.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with a fear of heights or enclosed spaces. Participants should be prepared for the physical demands of the helicopter and boat rides.
Weather conditions can impact the tour, so flexibility is required. Proper attire and sun protection are essential, given the outdoor nature of the experience.
Food and drinks aren’t included, so participants should plan accordingly.
Aerial Views and Flights
The tour begins with an aerial view of the stunning Lake Mead, the iconic Hoover Dam, and the winding Colorado River, providing a breathtaking introduction to the Grand Canyon region. During this 35-minute flight, visitors will be awestruck by the sheer scale and beauty of the landscape.
Next, participants embark on a thrilling 5-minute helicopter descent to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, where they’ll enjoy a 15-minute boat cruise along the Colorado River.
After this up-close encounter, it’s time to soar back up to the West Rim for a self-guided tour with a hop-on/hop-off shuttle, offering ample time to explore the canyon’s magnificent vistas and unique rock formations.
Exploring the West Rim
After soaring back up to the West Rim, visitors can now embark on a self-guided tour, hopping on and off the shuttle to explore the canyon’s magnificent vistas and unique rock formations at their own pace.
The West Rim boasts:
- Breathtaking lookout points with panoramic views of the canyon
- Trails leading to hidden alcoves and serene viewpoints
- Informative exhibits and displays about the area’s geological and cultural history
- Opportunities to spot wildlife like bighorn sheep and California condors
- Unique rock formations like the iconic Eagle Point and Guano Point
With over 3 hours to discover the West Rim, travelers can enjoy the grandeur of the Grand Canyon and create lasting memories of their awe-inspiring experience.
Floating the Colorado River
One of the most captivating moments during the Grand Canyon tour is the serene boat cruise along the Colorado River at the bottom of the immense gorge.
As the boat gently glides across the emerald-green waters, passengers are treated to a unique perspective of the canyon’s towering walls.
The tranquil journey offers a chance to appreciate the sheer scale and grandeur of this natural wonder up close.
With the mighty river as the centerpiece, visitors can take in the intricate rock formations, vibrant hues, and raw power of the landscape.
This 15-minute cruise provides an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of the Grand Canyon, leaving lasting memories of its majestic beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour’s group size is not specified, though it’s likely capped to ensure a personalized experience and smooth logistics. Customers should check with the tour operator for the exact maximum group size before booking.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?
Unfortunately, this tour has a fixed itinerary that can’t be customized to individual preferences. Customers must follow the set schedule, which includes aerial views, helicopter flights, a boat cruise, and a self-guided tour of the Grand Canyon’s West Rim.
Is There a Discount for Families or Senior Citizens?
There are no discounts specifically for families or senior citizens on this tour. However, children under 2 can ride as lap children, and passengers over 300 lbs must purchase an additional seat.
Can I Book This Tour on Short Notice or Is It Recommended to Book in Advance?
This tour is popular and likely to sell out, so it’s recommended to book well in advance. While last-minute bookings may be possible, they’re not guaranteed and may be more expensive. Advance planning ensures availability and the best price.
Are Professional Photography Services Available During the Tour?
Professional photography services aren’t offered during the tour, but guests can take their own photos to capture the stunning aerial views, towering canyon walls, and Colorado River journey. Bringing a camera is highly recommended to document the unforgettable experience.
Recap
This comprehensive Grand Canyon tour offers an unparalleled experience, blending aerial views, helicopter flights, and a boat cruise.
Guests can admire the canyon’s breathtaking geology, float down the Colorado River, and explore the West Rim.
With all transportation, park fees, and audio commentary included, it’s an immersive journey through one of the world’s natural wonders.
Advance booking is recommended due to the tour’s popularity, ensuring a memorable and informed exploration of this iconic destination.
