If you're planning to book one of exciting Grand Canyon helicopter tours, read on for a review of the four most popular tours and companies operating in Arizona and Las Vegas.
The All-American Helicopter Tour
Rating: 4/5
This tour of the Grand Canyon leaves from the Las Vegas airport and takes approximately 3.5 hours. The trip from Las Vegas to the western edge of the canyon is about 45 minutes in each direction. The tour includes landing in the canyon for a champagne lunch, limo pickup and drop-off to and from your hotel, and flying over Lake Mead, Lake Las Vegas and the Las Vegas strip.
The cost of this tour typically hovers around $300. However you should budget for a potential fuel surcharge being added on at the last minute. This unexpected and unadvertised fee is what cost the All-American a five out of five score. Instead of surprising passengers with a $40 expense, they should simply advertise the new price.
Phoenix Grand Canyon Helicopter Adventure Tours
Rating: 2.8/5
These Grand Canyon helicopter tours are from Phoenix, and the majority of the day is spent on a bus. If you're prepared for a 13-hour day, then you can ride a bus from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon airport and afterward enjoy a short helicopter ride.
If you're tight for time and want a full day that includes a stop in Sedona, a drive through Oak Creek and the Grand Canyon, then this is the trip for you. However, for those looking for a relaxing helicopter ride and a short day, you may want to leave from somewhere closer to the canyon. This helicopter and bus tour is priced from $289.
The West Rim Combo Tour with Papillon
Rating: 4.5/5
Papillon is a major helicopter tour operator in Las Vegas, but they also do runs from the Grand Canyon airport. One of their most popular tours is the West Rim Combo that leaves from Las Vegas and includes a boat ride.
The trip starts with a pickup at your Las Vegas hotel. From there is a ride in a luxury SUV to the Grand Canyon where you'll take a short helicopter ride to the bottom of the canyon for lunch. Afterward is a trip on a boat down the Colorado River where you'll be picked back up.
The full day is a great value at around $345, particularly since it includes lunch. That said, the tour makes a stop at the now-open SkyWalk, but its $30 SkyWalk admission cost is not included in your tour fee.
Maverick Helicopter Grand Canyon Tours
Rating: 4.7/5
Maverick has two departure locations - Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon airport. Their Canyon Spirit trip costs just $245 and is one of the few Grand Canyon helicopter tours that actually takes you through the canyon and over the Kaibab National Forest.
The opportunity to view the Grand Canyon from a helicopter ride is an awesome experience. If you select one of the tour options listed above, you won't be disappointed.
For fun information about recreation and travel ideas, please visit recreationtraveltips.com, a popular site about creative ideas for your next vacation, such as the US Open Golf, San Francisco sightseeing tours, and many more!
- Related Videos
- Related Articles
- Ask / Related Q&A
Weekend Cruise Comparison: Norwegian Vs. Carnival
By: CatherineJ Brock | 06/01/2010The cruise vacation industry has blossomed in recent years, offering an array of different experiences for all types of travelers. If you're interested in taking a weekend cruise vacation, one of the first decisions you should make is which cruise line suits you best. You might be tempted to select...
Two Bedroom Bali villas for Family Holiday
By: Balivillas | 06/01/2010Bali is a small island between Java and Lombok. You can reach Bali in just two hours from Singapore, Perth (Australia) 3 hours, Hong Kong about 4.5 hours, and from Sydney/Melbourne it is approx 6 hours. Because of it's size it is relatively easy to explore the island on day tours and return to your hotel or villa in the evening.
Tips for women traveling alone
By: Vandana Makharia | 06/01/2010First of all, chuck any sort of fear that you have in mind about traveling alone. You are sufficient to take care of yourself. All you require is a little tact and alertness.
Road Trip Grill - Road Trip Camping in France
By: Jack Moorehouse | 06/01/2010You have probably heard about backpacking through Europe. Because each country incorporates a heap to supply, why not keep in just one and relish the sites. One country is Europe that's therefore vast is France. Thus by using a rental car, why don't you last that road trip and camp out in France. Here are some tips to assist you get started.
Coleman Roadtrip Grill Accessories Guide
By: Jack Moorehouse | 06/01/2010Anybody can pack a road trip grill into the car and toss a few burgers on it when it's time to eat but how can you tell the real road trip grillmasters from the amateurs at sports and outdoors events? We did our homework and pulled up the best grilling accessories and techniques from the guys who write the barbecue hero books.
Swimming With Dolphins in Bermuda
By: John T. Dixon | 06/01/2010Dolphins are undoubtedly one of the world's most loved mammals. For many people, swimming with dolphins is high up on their list of life ambitions, so while on your holidays to Bermuda, why not take the opportunity to get to know these friendly animals a little better? Bermuda's collection of islands...
EZ Rental Cars - Why Take EZ Rental Cars For Your Business Trip
By: David Patullo | 06/01/2010If you have a planned business trip then one of the things you ought to arrange is transportation. This is not just transportation to get you to your needed location but a means of transportation that can take you from one place to another while away for business. When you...
Exotic Car Rentals - Grabbing the Chance to Drive Your Dream Car
By: David Patullo | 06/01/2010Exotic car rentals can be in the form of driving special cars like sports car or limited edition cars. You might wonder why people go for this option when thinking of a car to rent for a trip. If you are planning to hire a car for vacation or for...
Osteoarthritis - Brief Introduction to Natural Pain Alleviation
By: Trevor Price | 08/01/2009 | MedicineThe most effective method for osteoarthritis pain relief is any treatment that reduces inflammation. And while there are numerous natural treatments and herbs which can do that, it's important to learn which ones work for you. The best part? Many of these natural treatments have little or no side effects. If...
Toss Out the Plaques - Original Retirement Rewards Are in Style
By: Trevor Price | 08/01/2009 | ManagementHanding retiring employees a stack of retirement plaques, shaking their hand and waving them out the door is so last century. Today, long-serving employees want retirement gifts that can be used, enjoyed and truly express an employer's appreciation for their years of service. So, get out of the rut of handing...
Exposing the Bipolar Disorder Quiz For an Acceptable Assessment Instead
By: Trevor Price | 07/01/2009 | HealthUnfortunately, there's no simple, quick and easy test to diagnose people suspected of experiencing bipolar disorder. In fact, this ailment isn't even a single disorder. Rather, it's a term used to describe a number of mood disorders that are identified by mania or manic episodes, bouts of depression, and possibly...
Overcoming Insomnia With Natural Alternatives
By: Trevor Price | 07/01/2009 | MedicineIf you suffer from sleep problems but don't want to run the risk of becoming addicted to drug-based sleeping pills, then consider natural sleeping aids. To learn more about insomnia and how you can beat it the natural way, keep reading. Stay Away from Caffeine Caffeine is in almost everything these days...
Ways to Select the Best 401K and Retirement Calculator
By: Trevor Price | 07/01/2009 | FinanceThere are hundreds, if not thousands, of websites offering a 401(K) calculator or retirement calculator - all promising to show you exactly how much you need to save for your retirement. However, do they actually work? And why do they all say something different? And with all these choices, which one...
Insightful Examination of Cancer Fighting Immune System Supplements
By: Trevor Price | 06/01/2009 | CancerIf you're fighting cancer and are curious about immune system supplements, both clinical and natural, keep reading for an overview of some of the most popular methods. BRMs (Biologic Response Modifiers) Biologic response modifiers are substances that alter the response of specific elements of the immune system to enhance, restore, or direct...
Uncovering Discounts on Bridesmaid Attire in England
By: Trevor Price | 05/01/2009 | MarriageHunting down attractive and affordable bridesmaid dresses in UK bridal salons is hard. Why? Because the bridal salons in the UK hike up the prices for major profit margins simply because they can. Well, start saying no and read on for a list of the best places to find bridesmaid...
Put Together a Rainbow Trout Fishing Journey in Alaska
By: Trevor Price | 05/01/2009 | Sports & FitnessIf you love rainbow trout fishing, Alaska is the place to go. The water is clear, the fish are jumping at your hooks and the scenery is absolutely stunning. However, prior to heading out on a major fishing expedition, please read on for some ideas and hints that will help...