Explore the Grand Canyon: Top Tours Offering Exceptional Value

Choosing Your Grand Canyon Adventure

Grand Canyon Motor Coach Tours

Motor coach tours are an economical choice for exploring the Grand Canyon, with options available from various starting points:

• From Phoenix: Journey to the South Rim with a scenic stop in Sedona. This full-day trip is packed with picturesque views and educational stops.
• From Las Vegas: Head to either the South or West Rim. Enhance your experience with optional upgrades like a helicopter flight to the canyon floor, a walk on the glass Skywalk, or a rafting trip on the Colorado River.

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

Helicopter tours offer a bird's-eye view of the canyon's grandeur. Choose from air-only or landing tours:

• West Rim: Opt for thrilling landing tours that include descending to the canyon floor for a champagne picnic.
• South Rim: Enjoy extensive aerial tours lasting 30 or 50 minutes, covering vast stretches of the park up to its eastern boundary. Note that landing tours are not permitted at the South Rim.

Grand Canyon Airplane Tours

Airplane tours provide a similar route to helicopter tours but at a more budget-friendly price point. These tours are perfect for groups and those preferring a less intense flying experience:

• Options include: Following the 50-minute helicopter route over the South Rim or combining the flight with additional adventures like a helicopter descent to the canyon floor followed by a rafting journey.

Grand Canyon Smooth-Water Rafting

Ideal for families and participants of all ages, these rafting tours offer a gentle yet immersive way to experience the Colorado River:

• From Las Vegas: Start with a helicopter descent to the canyon floor, then bus to Hoover Dam to begin an 11-mile rafting trip to Willow Beach.
• From the South Rim: Embark on a rafting adventure from Glen Canyon Dam to Lee's Ferry, with options to enhance your journey with a 4x4 tour or a scenic flight to the dam.

Planning Your Visit

Grand Canyon tours are immensely popular, so it's wise to book at least one week in advance. For the best prices, book directly through the tour operator's website to access exclusive online discounts.

Interesting Stats and Tips

• The Grand Canyon attracts over 5 million visitors each year, with peak visitation during the spring and summer months. (National Park Service)
• The Skywalk, located at the West Rim, is a glass bridge that extends 70 feet over the rim and offers views of the canyon floor 4,000 feet below. (Grand Canyon West)
• Helicopter and airplane tours are regulated for safety by the FAA, ensuring a safe experience for all passengers.

By choosing the right tour and planning ahead, you can enjoy the spectacular beauty of the Grand Canyon in a way that suits your preferences and budget. Whether it’s the expansive vistas from a helicopter or the up-close encounters of a rafting trip, each option offers a unique way to experience one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.