Elevate Your New Year's Eve with a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour in 2018

Choosing Your Grand Canyon Adventure

Departures from Las Vegas

Las Vegas-based helicopter tours primarily cater to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. These tours offer a variety of experiences, from simple flyovers to elaborate landing tours. All tours from Vegas pass iconic landmarks such as Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and the Colorado River before reaching the majestic Grand Canyon.

Tour Options:

• Air-Only Tours: The most economical choice, these tours provide a comprehensive flyover of the Grand Canyon and then return to Las Vegas.
• Landing Tours: More immersive, these tours may touch down on the canyon floor or at the rim. The popular Champagne picnic option includes a 30-minute stop at the base of the canyon.
• Upgraded Experiences: For a more luxurious adventure, opt for additions like a Colorado River boat ride or VIP access to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bridge extending 70 feet over the rim with views 4,500 feet to the canyon floor.

Departures from the South Rim

The South Rim offers a different set of tour experiences, adhering to the regulations set by the National Park Service which only permit air tours.

Tour Options:

• Flyover Tours: Available in 30-minute and 50-minute durations, these tours provide expansive views from the South Rim to the North and East Rims.
• Air-Land Combo Tours: A popular choice is the 30-minute helicopter flight paired with a 2-hour Jeep tour, allowing guests to explore the Dragoon Corridor—the widest and deepest part of the canyon—followed by visits to key landmarks.

Deluxe Upgrades

Both locations offer deluxe flight options:

• From Las Vegas: Upgrade to an EC-130 helicopter, enjoy limousine transfers, and extend your tour to include the Las Vegas Strip.
• From the South Rim: The EC-130 helicopter provides enhanced comfort and viewing capabilities.

Preparing for Your Tour

Weather Considerations

Winter weather can impact your tour experience, especially at the South Rim where temperatures are typically colder. Dressing in layers is recommended for Las Vegas departures, while a medium-weight jacket is advisable for the South Rim. Remember, helicopters are climate-controlled, so the interior will be heated.

Booking Tips

To ensure availability and secure the best rates, book your tour online and in advance. This is particularly crucial during the peak New Year's Eve period when demand is high.

Conclusion

Whether you choose the vibrant lights of Las Vegas or the natural beauty of the South Rim, a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon is a spectacular way to ring in the new year. For an unforgettable experience, consider the bottom-landing picnic tour from Las Vegas or the comprehensive 50-minute flyover from the South Rim, which covers up to 75 percent of the park.

For more information on booking and tour details, visit Grand Canyon National Park's official site or check out Vegas.com for specific tour offerings from Las Vegas.