The Grand Canyon stands as one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural formations, sculpted by the Colorado River over millions of years.
Each year, six million visitors flock to this iconic landmark, with many starting on their journey from Las Vegas.
Travelers have three main options for exploring the Grand Canyon: self-driving, joining a coach tour, or taking a breathtaking helicopter ride.
This article provides all the essential information you need to know before booking a helicopter tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon.
Top Grand Canyon tours from Vegas
It’s highly recommended to book your helicopter tour in advance. With limited seating available, these tickets sell out quickly, so securing your spot early ensures you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.
# Bus tour from Vegas with helicopter landing (West rim)
# Bus tour from Vegas with helicopter landing (South rim)
# Grand Canyon West Rim Air-Only Helicopter Tour
From Vegas: West Rim helicopter tours
Flying over the West Rim offers a true Grand Canyon experience.
You’ll soar above the breathtaking landscapes of the Mojave Desert, Hoover Dam, Colorado River, and the Grand Canyon itself. If your helicopter tour includes a landing, you’ll also descend into the Canyon, touching down on a remote bluff 1.2 km (three-fourths of a mile) below the Rim.
A West Rim helicopter tour from Las Vegas allows you to combine various experiences and activities for an unforgettable adventure.
Here are some options to consider:
Grand Canyon West Rim air-only helicopter tour
Experience the ultimate Grand Canyon adventure with 5 Star Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours‘ exclusive four-hour West Rim tour. Your journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup, followed by a scenic drive to the heliport in Boulder City.
After a short 30-minute drive from Las Vegas, you’ll board a state-of-the-art helicopter for a thrilling 70-minute flight to the Grand Canyon.
This tour offers the longest available flight, covering 30 miles (48 kilometers) over and below the Rim, providing unparalleled views of this natural wonder.
Soar above the majestic and rugged beauty of the Grand Canyon before returning to Boulder City.
For added value, book the Early Bird departure and save $50 per person.
Don’t miss this chance to experience the Grand Canyon like never before!
Departure: Pick up from your hotel in Las Vegas. Alternatively, you can head directly to the meeting point. Address: 5596 Haven St, Las Vegas, NV 89119, USA. Get directions
Extended Grand Canyon flight timings:
- Flights start at 9 am and depart every hour until 2 pm.
- From 2 pm to 6 pm, flights take off every half hour.
- The last flight departs at 6:15 pm.
Early Bird Departure:
- Two slots are available at 7 am and 8 am.
For added value, book the Early Bird departure and save $50 per person.
Cost of the tour (2+ years):
Extended Grand Canyon Flight: US$549 per person
Early Bird Departure: US$499 per person
If you are short on time, check out this 3-hour tour of Grand Canyon onboard the luxurious A-Star helicopter.
Bus tour with helicopter landing in West Rim
This tour to the heart of Grand Canyon is managed by GrayLine Las Vegas.
You will hop aboard a luxurious, air-conditioned bus featuring restrooms, reclining seats, and large windows for a comfortable two-and-a-half-hour drive from Las Vegas to the West Rim.
The standard 12-hour bus tour offers breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon, but for the ultimate experience, upgrade your package.
Enjoy a helicopter landing next to the Colorado River, a scenic boat ride, and a thrilling walk on the Skywalk.
Book this tour and elevate your Grand Canyon adventure!
Departure: Pick up from your hotel in Las Vegas
Tour timings: 6.30 am to 7.30 am
Cost of the tour (2+ years):
Tour, boat ride, Skywalk, & helicopter Landing: US$572 per person
Tour, boat ride, & helicopter Landing: US$532 per person
Tour, Skywalk, & helicopter Landing: US$492 per person
If you prefer a similar experience, but something cheaper, check out this coach trip + helicopter landing tour.
Grand Canyon West helicopter tour with boat ride
Discover the Grand Canyon like never before with Papillon Helicopters. This all-in-one adventure lets you explore the Canyon from the air, ground, and water for an unforgettable experience.
Soar over the breathtaking West Rim on a thrilling helicopter tour, then land on the Canyon floor to explore by foot. Enhance your journey with a 15-minute boat ride on the iconic Colorado River for a truly immersive experience.
For even more luxury, upgrade your 40-minute tour to include a delightful meal package. Don’t miss out on this unique Grand Canyon adventure.
Departure: Grand Canyon West, AZ 86434, USA. Get Directions.
Tour timings: 11.30 am to 3.30 pm
Cost of the tour (2+ years): US$319 per person
If you want a similar experience, but with a little bit of luxury thrown in, check out this deluxe helicopter tour from Las Vegas.
Helicopter flight and Colorado river float
This is an unparalleled Grand Canyon experience with 5 Star Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours. Your adventure begins early with a convenient hotel pickup, setting the stage for an unforgettable day.
Take off from Boulder City airport in a state-of-the-art helicopter and marvel at the stunning Grand Canyon from above. After this breathtaking aerial tour, you’ll return to Boulder City for the next leg of your adventure.
Drive down to the Colorado River launch area at the base of the iconic Hoover Dam, where you’ll board a comfortable raft. Relax and enjoy as you meander along the river through the scenic Black Canyon.
On the way back, you stop at a secluded beach for a dip and then enjoy a picnic box lunch.
Departure: Pick up from your hotel in Las Vegas
Tour timings: 7 am and 8 am
Cost of the tour (2+ years): US$699 per person
From Vegas: South Rim helicopter tours
The Grand Canyon South Rim, known as the Grand Canyon National Park, is the most picturesque part of this natural wonder, showcasing the widest and deepest sections of the canyon.
Although the South Rim is further from Las Vegas and not accessible by helicopter, you can still reach this stunning destination. Opt for a 2-hour and 20-minute airplane flight or a scenic bus tour from Las Vegas.
Upon arrival, embark on one of the latest sightseeing helicopters for breathtaking aerial views of the South Rim.
Bus tour from Vegas with helicopter landing (South rim)
This is a day-long adventure with GrayLine Las Vegas, where you travel from Las Vegas to the South Rim in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus equipped with all necessary amenities, including lunch and hotel pickup.
The standard package offers a comprehensive bus tour to the South Rim, but for an enhanced experience, upgrade to include a helicopter flight, an IMAX movie, a Jeep tour, and more.
Departure: Pick up from your hotel in Las Vegas
Tour timings: Starts early morning
Cost of the tour (2+ years): US$426 per person
Bonus tours
# Experience a 45-minute helicopter flight Over the South Rim from Tusayan, Arizona—an essential tour for those not departing from Las Vegas.
# For a more luxurious experience of the South Rim, check out the Grand Canyon National Park VIP Tour from Las Vegas.
# Looking to spend more time at the Grand Canyon South Rim? Consider the 2-Day West Rim Cabin and Helicopter Tour from Las Vegas.
Know before booking Grand Canyon helicopter tour
In this section, we share everything you must know about Grand Canyon helicopter tours from Sin City.
Heliports in and near Las Vegas
Most helicopter tours departing from Las Vegas include hotel pickup and drop-off, so reaching the heliport is hassle-free. Air tours from Las Vegas typically fly out from one of these three heliports:
McCarran Airport: Located just 10 minutes from downtown Las Vegas, McCarran Airport is easily accessible. A taxi ride from the Strip costs around $15, but many hotels offer shuttle services to the airport.
Henderson Executive Airport: Situated 27 km (17 miles) from the Las Vegas Strip, Henderson Executive Airport is about a 25-minute drive away. This heliport sees an equal number of Grand Canyon helicopter tours departing from its location.
Boulder City Airport: Boulder City Airport is 30 km (19 miles) from Las Vegas and typically takes about 30 minutes to reach by car. All heli tours departing from Boulder City include pickup and drop-off services, making the distance inconsequential.
Note: For those with more time and looking to save money, coach tours to the Grand Canyon are an excellent option. Upon arrival, you can take an aerial tour from the heliport in Grand Canyon Village.
Weight restrictions
Passengers exceeding a certain weight must purchase an additional seat, payable directly to the tour operator on the day of the trip.
Weight limits vary by helicopter: either 113 kg (250 lbs) or 136 kg (300 lbs).
To find the applicable weight limit, select your preferred tour and review the details on the ticket booking page.
Seating arrangement
To ensure a safe flight, the pilot balances the passengers’ weight evenly in the helicopter.
When booking the tour, you will be asked for your weight. On the day of the tour, passengers are seated according to the aircraft’s weight and balance calculations, ensuring a stable and secure flight.
Window Seat
Because passengers are seated based on the helicopter’s weight and balance calculations, a window seat on your Grand Canyon tour isn’t guaranteed.
With most helicopters accommodating seven people (one pilot and six passengers), you have a 66% chance (4 out of 6) of securing a seat with an excellent view.
While middle seats also offer great views, they may not be as optimal as the window seats.
Flying with kids
Infant rates apply for children 24 months and under, while adult rates apply for all other passengers.
Parents must bring their child’s birth certificate or passport as proof of age. During the tour, infants must sit on their parents’ laps.
Children under 18 cannot go on helicopter tours alone and must be accompanied by an adult.
Helicopters used
All helicopter tours from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon offer a world-class experience.
These tours utilize top-of-the-line helicopters specifically designed for sightseeing, such as the A-Star, Bell Ranger, and EcoStar 130.
These helicopters feature large windows for 180-degree unobstructed views, forward-facing seats, quiet interiors, noise-cancellation headphones, and multilingual narration.
Cancellation Policy
To receive a full refund, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the tour date.
If you cancel within 24 hours of the tour’s start time, a 100% cancellation fee applies. No changes are allowed within 24 hours of the tour’s start time.
Please note that helicopter tours require good weather. If a tour is canceled due to poor weather conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Which Grand Canyon helicopter tour to book?
With so many helicopter tours offering so many different experiences, it is natural to feel overwhelmed.
Consider these three factors before booking your aerial tour of the Grand Canyon:
- How much time do you have?
- Do you want to explore the South Rim or the West Rim?
- Do you want to include an adventure activity in your Grand Canyon helicopter tour?
Duration of the tour
First, determine how much time you have, as this will guide you in selecting the perfect Grand Canyon experience.
- 4 to 5 Hours: Choose this 4-hour air-only tour of the Grand Canyon.
- Half a Day: Opt for this 8-hour helicopter tour, which includes a landing on the Canyon floor.
- A Full Day: Consider this 12-hour coach trip, which includes a 20-minute helicopter tour.
Deciding on your available time will help you pick the ideal Grand Canyon adventure.
South Rim or West Rim
Before booking your helicopter tour, decide whether you want to explore the South Rim or the West Rim of the Grand Canyon.
Boat lovers: At the West Rim, your helicopter can land on the Canyon floor, allowing you to board a boat, float on the Colorado River, or go river rafting.
Distance from Las Vegas: Grand Canyon West is 210 km (130 miles) away, while the South Rim is 450 km (280 miles) from Las Vegas.
First-Time Visitors: If it’s your first visit, consider a South Rim coach tour with a helicopter upgrade to enjoy its breathtaking scenic beauty.
Traveling with Kids: Despite the distance, the South Rim is ideal for families due to its numerous hotels, restaurants, and cultural experiences.
Quick and Adventurous: For a shorter tour with adventurous activities, Grand Canyon West is a great choice. Managed by the Hualapai Indians, it features the Grand Canyon Skywalk.
Type of activity
Some tours simply fly you over the Grand Canyon and return you to the helipad.
However, if budget and time are not a concern, opting for tours that include additional activities offers a more enriching experience.
Here are some activities that can be combined with a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon:
- Landing below the West Rim and Skywalk
- Buffet lunch, boat ride, and Skywalk
- Colorado river float
- Combine airplane flight with a helicopter tour
- Shooting range in Arizona’s Mohave Desert
- Rim landing with champagne and picnic
- 3-hour ATV tour of Grand Canyon
- Western ranch experience and horseback ride
- Overnight in a Western-style cabin with West Rim views
How far is Grand Canyon from Las Vegas
The distance from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon depends on the part of the Grand Canyon you plan to visit.
Distance from Las Vegas
| Destination | Distance from Las Vegas |
|---|---|
| Grand Canyon West | 210 kms (130 miles) |
| Grand Canyon South | 450 kms (280 miles) |
| Grand Canyon North | 434 kms (270 miles) |
Public transportation from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon is limited, largely due to Arizona’s sparse population.
Therefore, it’s best to either drive, book a coach tour, or take a helicopter tour for a more convenient and enjoyable trip.
Travel time to Grand Canyon
Cars and coaches usually take around two and a half hours to cover the 210 km (130 miles) to Grand Canyon West.
In contrast, helicopters cover the distance between Las Vegas and Grand Canyon West in just 40 minutes.
Driving to the Grand Canyon South Rim is more challenging, as it takes about 5 hours each way, making a same-day round trip difficult.
For visiting the South Rim, 14-hour coach tours are a better option. Helicopters do not fly to the South Rim because it is beyond their range.
When to take a helicopter tour of Grand Canyon
- If you want to see the Grand Canyon in all its grandeur, from above
- If you want to fly between the steep Grand Canyon walls and experience a floor landing
- If you have less time on your hands because coach tours from Vegas to Grand Canyon take up to 12 hours
- If money isn’t an issue, but a memorable experience and the adrenalin rush matters
More on Grand Canyon tours
# Grand Canyon West Rim helicopter tours
# Grand Canyon South Rim helicopter tours
# Best Grand Canyon helicopter tours
# Grand Canyon helicopter tours at sunset
Recommended Reading
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# How to dress up for helicopter tours
# Overcoming the fear of flying
# Scuba Diving – how long to waiting before flying
# Why helicopter tours are worth it
# FAQs about Helicopter tours
