If you have ever looked at photographs of the Grand Canyon and thought, “Wow, I have to see that place,” you are certainly not alone. But I must let you in on a little secret: the true magic of the canyon does not just come from standing on the edge and squinting over the drop. The real, jaw-dropping, “oh my gosh is this even real?” experience? That comes from the air. I am talking about a grand canyon helicopter tour.

I recall the situation when I flew first. My palms began to sweat in anticipation, my excitement was euphoric and, quite honestly, my stomach felt like it was doing little flip turns, because when you are floating hundreds of feet above one of the most man-made wonders of the earth it is a thrilling and humbling kind of feeling. And friends, let me tell you: it did not disappoint.

Why a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Is a Must

Yes, you could hike in, drive in, or even mule in down the canyon but let us eliminate the fact that it comes with a lot of sweat, sunburn and sore legs. The view is entirely different when it comes to a helicopter tour in Grand Canyon. As can be seen above the canyon is not an open gap in the desert. It contains all the colors of the kaleidoscope, reds, oranges and purples which reflect with every second. And its very magnitude? You get it in the chest. This cannot be described by words.

And, moreover, in case you are a photography addict (as I am) you will go shutter-crazy since all the angles are pageworthy. And the best part, no crowds, no lines, and no please don’t step on my foot drama taking a selfie.You and the helicopter in that blue sky and the enormity of the grandeur of the Canyon below.

How to Pick the Right Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour

Deciding on which grand canyon helicopter tour to choose can be overwhelming, but to help you choose you will find some helpful advice below;

• Diversity of tours: Not every helicopter tour of the grand canyon will be the same. A very high number of packages, routes, and additions is available.
• West Rim Adventures: Certain tours take you over the West Rim and you enjoy the views of the well known Skywalk.
• South Rim Classic: Some make the more conventional choice and visit the South Rim, the classic, picture postcard canyon you have always seen in photos.
• Landing on the canyon floor: To the extent necessary the adventure hearted, some of the grand canyon tour helicopter tours actually land on the canyon floor. Step out, stick your toes in the red sand and perhaps they can raise a small glass of champagne to the occasion–posh!
• Budget Options: Don’t worry if you’re looking for a grand canyon helicopter tour cheap option. You may not be such a champagne or landing sort of person, but still, the aerial sights will prove to amaze you.
• Ride Time: You should factor in this aspect; would you love to have a thrilling 25-minute flight or keep a longer 45-minute on the air including scenic landing comments made by the pilot? Personally, I recommend going long. Floating over the Colorado River feels like having a VIP ticket to nature’s greatest show.

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Cost

Ah, the inevitable question: “How much is it going to cost me? Grand canyon helicopter tour cost can change a lot. Budget tours begin at $150 -$200 per person and deluxe tours that include longer flights, landing experience, and champagne can go to $400-500.

Is it worth it? Absolutely. Consider it an investment in wonder, excitement and an experience that will have everyone back home saying a big sigh of envy. You will not regret this type of splurge.

Experience the Canyon Like a Local

To have a real adventure feel, why not plan to take the grand canyon tour helicopter one sunrise or sunset? Beautiful sceneries are confirmed during the so-called golden hour where the canyon is also seen changing visibly and the depth of shadows is graphically depicted on the rocks and the colors are also turning blue and unrealistic. And even though it does sound like a cliche, I know people tell you this but there is a reason why everybody tells you that, because it is magic. 

Pro advice: Do not be like people who stare at their camera. I did that the first time and after I took about 20 pictures I was barely alive and still had no memory of looking at the ocean and just soaking it in. Take a look, feel a breath and just feel minuscule in the most fulfilling way possible.

Packages and Special Experiences

There are Grand Canyon helicopter tour packages designed for every type of traveler. Romantic couples? Check private tours with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries. Families? Check friendly pilots who make sure the kids are entertained and safe. Adventure seekers? Taking off to swing from the edge of the canyon or flying with the cliffs on one side.

A lot of the packages will even have you mix a helicopter ride with something such as a boat ride down the Colorado River or on a guided hike. They are ideal to fit in two bucket-list activities into one day without feeling on a run.

Safety and Comfort

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Helicopter? Really? Isn’t that dangerous?” Totally fair. I’ll tell you what, such tours would be industry oriented, the pilots are highly trained and the helicopters are of the best standards, and honestly, once you are up in the air with the really gentle lift-off, you do get totally overwhelmed with the fantastic views to spare a single thought to anything else. 

Pro tip: Dress in comfort and take sunglasses with you: you can experience serious reflection off the canyon walls even on a cloudy day. And indeed hang on to your hat- it winds up there!

Making the Most of Your Tour

Want to truly maximize your best grand canyon helicopter tour experience? Here is some inside information

• Arrive early- you have time to engage the airport atmosphere and maybe have a conversation with the pilot.
• Listen to the instructions – The pilots normally have interesting anecdotes about the geology, history, and wildlife found in the canyon.
• Travel light- small cameras or phones are ideal; larger bags are cumbersome
• Live in the moment  – Sometimes it seems tempting to record all the moments, but there are things a brain is supposed to keep as well.

Conclusion

This is one heart which races even while reading this; The grand canyon helicopter tour is not merely a flight; it is a story, a thrill, a memory, and adventure packed into one. The view leaves a person speechless; the hum of the helicopter blades puts the cherry on top. 

This is one adventure that one remembers for a lifetime. Check this out: when you are ready to book, just go to Viator because they have many options on budgets and styles. Viator has you covered whether you are looking to do some light scenic short riding or come in to land on the floor. Whichever you choose, just be ready to have your mind blown because you are going to strap in and look out the window and it is going to be amazing whichever one you choose.

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