Explore the Grand Canyon: Aerial vs. Landing Plane Tours

Types of Grand Canyon Plane Tours

Departing from Las Vegas

Las Vegas offers convenient access to both the West and South Rims of the Grand Canyon. A flight to the West Rim takes about 30 minutes, showcasing spectacular views of the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead along the way. Here are your options from Vegas:

• Aerial Tours: These tours provide a bird's eye view of the canyon, perfect for those short on time or preferring not to land.
• Landing Tours: Opt for a more immersive experience with a helicopter descent to the canyon floor. Enhance your adventure with a Colorado River boat trip or gain exclusive access to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends over the canyon for breathtaking views.

For those interested in the South Rim, a plane from Las Vegas can get you there in under an hour, a significant time saving compared to a 5-hour bus journey. These tours often include a 2-hour bus tour within the National Park and the option to add a thrilling rim-to-rim helicopter flight.

Departing from Grand Canyon National Park Airport (GCN)

Located just minutes from the South Rim, GCN offers tours that cover a substantial portion of the park:

• Extended Aerial Tours: A 50-minute flight covers about 75% of the National Park, spanning from the South Rim to the North Rim and along the eastern edges of the canyon.
• Adventure Combos: Combine your flight with a smooth water rafting trip on the Colorado River, starting with a scenic flight to Page, Arizona, followed by a Jeep tour of Antelope Canyon and a rafting journey from the base of Glen Canyon Dam to Lee's Ferry.

Booking Tips and Cost-Saving Strategies

To secure the best experience, booking your tour in advance is crucial. This not only ensures availability but also offers a wider selection of tours and times. Here are some tips for making your booking:

• Book Online: Direct online bookings through the tour operator's official website usually offer the lowest prices, avoiding commissions charged by third-party travel brokers like Expedia or Orbitz.
• Avoid Last-Minute Bookings: While last-minute seats can sometimes be available, booking early is the safest way to ensure you don't miss out.

Why Choose a Plane Tour?

Plane tours of the Grand Canyon offer several advantages:

• Efficiency: Quickly cover large areas of the canyon that would take much longer to see by foot or by car.
• Unique Perspectives: Aerial views provide a unique perspective of the canyon's vastness and geological features that cannot be appreciated from the ground.
• Accessibility: Air tours can accommodate a wide range of ages and physical abilities, making the grandeur of the canyon accessible to more people.

Conclusion

Whether you choose an aerial tour or a landing tour, a plane trip over the Grand Canyon is an unforgettable experience. Decide on your preferred rim, select the type of tour that suits your adventure level, and book directly with tour operators to get the best rates. Prepare to be amazed by one of the world's most iconic natural wonders.

For more information on planning your visit, check the National Park Service website or explore tour options through Grand Canyon Airlines.