Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Review: Is It Worth The Money?

I've been to Las Vegas twice and seen the Grand Canyon by air on both occasions. Taking a helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon comes at a cost, but in my opinion, it's worth every penny.

I have also viewed the canyon from the seat of an 8-seater fixed-wing plane; however, I found the cabin to be hot and noisy, and it left me feeling queasy. For this reason, from my own experience, I can tell you that the best way to experience the Grand Canyon is on a helicopter tour.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most iconic landmark in Arizona and has captivated the imagination of adventurers and nature lovers for centuries. So, for those seeking an unforgettable Las Vegas experience, a flight over the Grand Canyon is the perfect way to witness one of the world's seven natural wonders.

Please continue reading my Grand Canyon helicopter review to learn about the Grand Canyon helicopter tour I did and why I consider it worth the expense.

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What to expect on a West Rim Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour

A helicopter day tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon West Rim is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines luxury with breathtaking aerial views.

My journey began with a complimentary hotel pick-up by limo and transfer to a heliport on the Las Vegas Strip. Several reputable tour companies offer this thrilling experience, and you can conveniently book your trip in advance. Upon arrival at the heliport, I received a comprehensive safety briefing and met my knowledgeable pilot, who would be my tour guide throughout this remarkable air adventure.

The 45-minute helicopter ride itself was nothing short of spectacular. As we lifted off, I was treated to a bird's-eye view of the glimmering Las Vegas Strip, its iconic hotels, casinos, and vibrant cityscape.

Leaving the city behind, the landscape gradually transformed into a rugged desert terrain, starkly contrasting the bright lights and excitement of Las Vegas.

It was fabulous flying over Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the Mojave Desert; it's quite something to see these landmarks from above.

Learn about the geology of the area

Our pilot shared insightful commentary throughout the flight, pointing out significant landmarks and explaining the region's geology and history.

Our pilot pointed out Lake Las Vegas, an exclusive 320-acre lake community outside Sin City with famous residents, including Celine Dion and Elton John. It also houses the Reflection Bay Golf Course, one of the area's most famous courses. We weren't expecting to see all this built in the desert!

Breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon

As the Grand Canyon came into sight, our helicopter descended into its depths, providing awe-inspiring views of the natural wonder as we approached. The vast expanse of the canyon's vibrant rock formations and the winding Colorado River below left me utterly spellbound.

Landing by the Colorado River

We landed at the bottom of the canyon, on the banks of the Colorado River, and were transferred to a pontoon. We enjoyed a 15-minute boat ride with commentary from our Hualapai guide. It was a fantastic experience to float along the river with the mighty canyon rock walls on either side of us.

Once our boat ride was over, we returned to the helicopter for a flight from the lowest point in the canyon to a landing point. From there, we hopped aboard a shuttle and were driven back to Eagle Point, where we had free time to sightsee and take photographs.

We spent around 3 hours on the ground, which was enough time to enjoy our boat ride, go on the glass Skywalk, explore the Indian Village, and savour refreshments.

Back in the air, we returned to Las Vegas, flying by the hotels along the strip. The sun shining on the buildings was a great way to see Vegas; the aerial views were the perfect ending to a bucket list experience.

Our helicopter tour lasted six hours, from takeoff to landing. It took approximately 45 minutes to fly from Vegas to the West Rim and the same on the return. Allow extra time for a safety briefing and transfer to the helipad from your hotel.

Do you want to do the same helicopter tour as me?

If you're interested in the sound of my helicopter tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon West Rim, one of the best helicopter tours to book is the Grand Canyon Celebration - Helicopter, Boat & Skywalk.

Many canyon tours include a helicopter flight, but not all land in the canyon or offer return flights to Vegas, or fly over the Vegas Strip on the return home. Therefore, be cautious about what you book. The one above includes all those elements.

Entrance fees will be incurred on some helicopter tours to the Grand Canyon if you want to venture on the SkyWalk or try the Zipline. The Grand Celebration tour mentioned above includes entry to the Skywalk and a bonus glass of champagne before your Colorado River cruise!

What to do and see at the Grand Canyon

Upon landing at the Grand Canyon by helicopter, you will find yourself in one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. Here are some of the activities you can do during your visit:

Experience the Grand Canyon West Skywalk

The Skywalk is a breathtaking engineering marvel that extends 70 feet from the edge of the West Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Composed of specially designed glass panels, this transparent, horseshoe-shaped platform provides visitors with a heart-pounding experience of hovering 4,000 feet above the canyon floor. Offering unparalleled panoramic views of the canyon's majestic landscape, the Skywalk allows visitors to feel as if they are walking on air while gazing down into the depths of the Grand Canyon National Park.

Designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, the Skywalk is both an architectural feat and a thrilling attraction. It provides a unique and unforgettable perspective of the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon.

Ride the zipline

The Zipline across a small side canyon at the Hualapai Indian Ranch is thrilling for adventure seekers. As you glide along the line, the rush of wind against your face will create an unforgettable experience.

See Eagle Point Rock

Eagle Point Rock in the Grand Canyon is a striking natural formation renowned for its distinctive and iconic appearance, resembling an outstretched eagle's wings, formed over millions of years through rock erosion. Eagle Rock symbolises spiritual and cultural significance for the area's indigenous people.

Eagle Point is a breathtaking observation point offering one of the best panoramic views. To be in the heart of the canyon, looking at the mesmerising views, is a 'pinch-me-is-this-real' moment.

Visit the Hualapai Indian Village

The Indian Village near the Grand Canyon Skywalk is a culturally rich and immersive experience that offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle, history, and customs of the indigenous Hualapai people. Their name translates to "People of the Tall Pines."

Located on the Hualapai Reservation at the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, Grand Canyon Village showcases the tribe's vibrant heritage through interactive demonstrations, traditional dwellings, and storytelling.

Visitors can engage with tribe members, witness traditional dances, and explore the unique architecture of Hualapai homes. There is also a small souvenir shop. We came home with a handcrafted Hualapai arrow, complete with an authentic label that identified the maker precisely. It is a lovely keepsake of our Grand Canyon tour.

The Indian Village fosters a deeper appreciation for the rich traditions and enduring presence of the native people within the Grand Canyon region, making it an integral part of the Grand Canyon Skywalk experience.

Fascinating facts about the Grand Canyon

• Geological Marvel: The Grand Canyon is believed to be approximately 6 million years old, shaped primarily by the mighty Colorado River as it cuts through it.
• Size and Depth: The Grand Canyon is the most spectacular gorge in the world. It measures over 277 miles in length, up to 18 miles in width, and reaches a maximum depth of over a mile.
• Rock Layers: The canyon's exposed rock layers tell a geological story spanning 2 billion years, showcasing some of the Earth's most ancient rocks.
• Biodiversity: The Grand Canyon is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, including the desert bighorn sheep and the peregrine falcon.
• Cultural Significance: The Grand Canyon, with its archaeological sites and historic connections, holds immense cultural significance for many Native American tribes.
• Protection and Preservation: It was designated as a national park in 1919, underscoring its commitment to preservation and conservation.

Best helicopter tours from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon West Rim

There are numerous helicopter tour options to the Grand Canyon West Rim from Las Vegas. Still, helicopter tours don't come cheap, and Las Vegas to Grand Canyon helicopter tour prices will run into hundreds of dollars/pounds. Check out the best tour for you from the selection below:

My trip to Las Vegas was part of a West Coast Road Trip, which took me from Los Angeles to San Francisco via Yosemite National Park and Las Vegas.

So, in answer to the burning question, is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour worth the expense? My advice is, if you can afford it, don't scrimp on the cost - just book it; you won't regret this bucket-list experience.

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