Top 5 Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Providers Reviewed

The Grand Canyon is one of those places that’s even more incredible from the air. A helicopter tour gives you jaw-dropping views of the canyon’s vastness, its winding Colorado River, and the stunning rock formations that make it famous. But with so many helicopter companies to choose from, how do you know which one to pick?

In this guide, we’ll break down the top Grand Canyon helicopter tour providers, highlighting what makes each one unique, so you can find the perfect fit for your adventure.

Why Choose a Helicopter Tour of the Grand Canyon?

Breathtaking Views

Maybe the best reason to take a helicopter tour is the amazing aerial views. When you take off, the Grand Canyon opens up into a stunning display of colors, shapes, and shadows.

The wide scenes show just how big the canyon is and all its small details, which you cannot fully see from the ground. You can watch the Colorado River twist through the canyon, showing how strong nature can be over many years.

Whether you are a skilled photographer or just want to make great memories, the incredible views from a Grand Canyon helicopter tour will truly impress you.

Time-Saving

For visitors who have little time, a helicopter tour is a quick way to see the best parts of the Grand Canyon. You can easily add a Grand Canyon tour to your plans without losing precious time in cities like Las Vegas.

Think about seeing the amazing canyon in just a few hours instead of days. A short flight from the Las Vegas Strip can take you right to the canyon’s heart. You can enjoy the views and take great photos before heading back to the lively city.

Viator offers a variety of helicopter tours from Las Vegas that fit into your schedule, whether you have a few hours or a full day.

Exclusive Access

Beyond the stunning views from above, some helicopter tours let you visit the bottom of the Grand Canyon. This special trip lets you stand on the canyon floor, surrounded by high rock walls, and enjoy the calm atmosphere far from the rim.

Picture yourself landing on a quiet flat area. Here, you can enjoy a champagne toast while looking at the wide space around you. This special access gives you a new view of the canyon and helps you feel its size from inside. Take a helicopter tour with landing and experience the true grandeur of the Grand Canyon.

Walking among the ancient rock formations and seeing the Colorado River close up is an adventure that not many people get to have.

Unique Experience

A helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon is more than just a trip—it’s a special and unforgettable adventure. You get to enjoy the beauty of nature and feel a bit of luxury. This ride lets you step out of your comfort zone and experience the thrill of flying. You will see the amazing power and art of nature from above.

Feel the rush as you take off. The wind blows through your hair while the world gets smaller below you. The Grand Canyon opens up in a mix of colors and shapes, leaving you in awe.

Make lasting memories as you soar above one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Helicopter Tour Provider

Safety Standards

When you pick a Grand Canyon helicopter tour provider, safety must come first. Look for companies that have a strong safety history, skilled pilots, and well-kept helicopters. Good providers care for the safety and well-being of their passengers above everything.

Companies like Papillon Helicopters show their commitment to safety. They follow strict maintenance plans and hire pilots who have a lot of experience flying in the Grand Canyon’s airspace. Viator partners with trusted providers that emphasize safety, ensuring a worry-free experience. Don’t be shy to ask them about their safety rules and certifications before you book your tour.

Keep in mind, your safety and peace of mind are very important. Choose a provider that has a good name for safety.

Tour Duration

Tour times can be very different. They can range from quick 30-minute flights to longer trips that last several hours. Think about how much time you have and how deep you want to explore the canyon when you pick a tour.

Short flights give you a taste of the canyon’s beauty. They are great if you are short on time or on a tighter budget. Longer tours allow for a deeper look at the canyon. You will have plenty of time to enjoy the views, take pictures, and really appreciate how big the canyon is.

Also, think about the travel time from where you start and any waiting times you might encounter before you choose your tour.

Check out Viator’s different Grand Canyon helicopter tours to find the perfect option for your schedule.

Routes and Sights

Different helicopter tour companies have different routes and highlight various features of the Grand Canyon. Some tours may focus on the Grand Canyon West Rim, known for its stunning overlooks and the Skywalk. Others explore the wider South Rim and show famous sights, such as the Desert View Watchtower.

Think about what you want to see when picking a tour.

Here are some popular stops that often appear in Grand Canyon helicopter tours:

• Hoover Dam: See this iconic dam from above and admire its design.
• Lake Mead: Take in the beautiful views of this large lake.
• Colorado River: Experience the important river of the Southwest as it cuts through the canyon.

To find the best tour for your interests, check out this West Rim helicopter tour that includes views of all these landmarks.

Comfort & Amenities

While a helicopter trip is about stunning views and great moments, it’s also important to think about comfort. Look for companies that care about passenger comfort. They should have roomy helicopters with big windows so everyone can see clearly.

Features like air-conditioning, quiet headphones, and comfy seats can make your time better, especially on longer rides. Some fancy tours even offer drinks or snacks during the flight to make it feel special.

Keep in mind that a relaxed and pleasant flight makes your overall experience better. This way, you can enjoy the beauty of the Grand Canyon even more.

Price Range

Prices for Grand Canyon helicopter tours can vary a lot. This depends on how long the flight is, the route, where you leave from, and what extras you get. Tours from Las Vegas usually cost less. Basic tours are shorter flights over the canyon and are more budget-friendly. Longer tours do cost more since they include landings and special features.

Think about your budget and what you really want. If you want something affordable, shorter flights still give you great views of the canyon. Check out budget-friendly options that offer incredible views without breaking the bank.

If you want a special and luxurious experience, deluxe tours include landings, champagne toasts, and more extras for an unforgettable adventure.

Reputation & Reviews

Before you book your Grand Canyon helicopter tour, take some time to check the reputation of different tour companies. Look at reviews on websites like TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google Reviews. These can help you learn what past passengers thought about their experiences.

Focus on reviews that mention how professional the pilots are, how good the helicopters are, and how satisfied the people were overall.

A company’s reputation tells you a lot about how much they care about safety, customer service, and the quality of their tours. Viator’s platform makes it easy to read verified customer reviews before booking your helicopter tour.

By picking a well-rated and trusted provider, you can have a safe, fun, and memorable Grand Canyon adventure.

Top Helicopter Tour Providers for the Grand Canyon

Now that you know the important things to think about, let’s check out some of the best helicopter tour providers in the Grand Canyon area. These companies are leaders in their field. They get good reviews for their safety, professionalism, and quality tours.

If you want a fun adventure or a fancy experience, these providers have different choices to fit your budget and likes.

1. Maverick Helicopters – Grand Canyon Deluxe Helicopter Tour with Landing from Las Vegas

If you’re looking to experience the Grand Canyon in the most luxurious way possible, Maverick Helicopters has you covered. Their Grand Canyon Deluxe Helicopter Tour with Landing offers a truly VIP experience, departing straight from Las Vegas.

You’ll start by flying over some of the most iconic sights in the region, like Lake Mead, the Hoover Dam, and the bright lights of the Las Vegas Strip. But the real magic happens when you reach the Grand Canyon. You’ll touch down on a private bluff deep within the Canyon, where you can soak in the views in total privacy. To make the moment even more special, Maverick includes a Champagne toast, so you can raise a glass to one of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth.

The tour doesn’t just focus on the sights; it’s all about comfort too. You’ll be flying in a state-of-the-art sightseeing helicopter, designed for smooth, quiet rides with panoramic windows—so you won’t miss a single inch of the Canyon’s jaw-dropping beauty. Plus, the experience is designed with luxury in mind, offering hotel pickup and drop-off in Las Vegas, and complimentary drinks and snacks to keep you refreshed along the way.

This tour gives you a hefty amount of flying time, so you’ll get to enjoy a full experience without feeling rushed. It’s definitely one of the most exclusive and memorable ways to explore the Grand Canyon, all from the comfort of a helicopter. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to see the Grand Canyon in style, Maverick Helicopters will deliver an adventure you won’t forget.

2. 5 Star Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours – Grand Canyon West Rim Luxury Helicopter Tour from Las Vegas

For those looking to experience the Grand Canyon from a unique and luxurious perspective, 5 Star Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours offers a fantastic option with their West Rim Luxury Helicopter Tour.

Book this tour and get a bird’s-eye view of the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the winding Colorado River, along with stunning rock formations. Your pilot will provide insightful commentary along the way, offering you fun facts and stories about the sights below.

One of the highlights of this tour is the A-Star helicopter. Known for its spacious cabins and panoramic windows, it ensures that you get the best views possible, with a 180-degree perspective of the Grand Canyon. If you’re craving even more of the Canyon, you can upgrade to a longer flight, adding an extra 15 miles of spectacular views, including a deeper dive into the West Rim.

As a family-owned company, 5 Star Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours offers a more personalized experience, and their attention to detail is evident from start to finish. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in a luxury van, making it convenient and comfortable from the moment you’re picked up. Plus, the smaller scale of the operation means you’ll get that extra bit of care and attention throughout your adventure.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable Grand Canyon experience with amazing views and a bit of luxury, this tour is a solid choice. It’s not just about the destination—it’s about the entire experience, and 5 Star delivers that in spades.

3. Papillon Helicopters – Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tour with Champagne Toast

Papillon Helicopters offers an exclusive, VIP experience with their Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tour with Champagne Toast. If you’re looking for a little extra luxury and a lot of unforgettable views, this is the tour for you.

Your adventure kicks off with a smooth, scenic flight from Las Vegas or Boulder City. As you soar above Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the rugged landscapes of Grapevine Mesa and Joshua Tree, your pilot will keep you entertained with fascinating facts about the sights below. The panoramic views from the helicopter are nothing short of stunning, giving you a fresh perspective on some of the most iconic landmarks in the Southwest.

But the real magic happens when you land 4,000 feet below the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. Here, you’ll enjoy a Champagne picnic on the canyon floor, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s natural wonders. There’s something truly special about toasting with Champagne while you take in the grandeur of the Grand Canyon from such a unique vantage point.

What makes this tour even more seamless and comfortable is Papillon’s attention to detail. You’ll be whisked away in style with round-trip transfers from your hotel to the executive terminal, skipping the hassle of long lines. You can choose from several flight times—early morning, late morning, afternoon, or sunset—so you can pick the time that works best for you.

This VIP Grand Canyon experience is a fantastic choice if you want to see the Grand Canyon from the air and from the ground, all while enjoying a bit of luxury along the way. The combination of incredible views and a Champagne picnic makes it an experience you won’t soon forget.

4. Gray Line Las Vegas – Grand Canyon West Rim by Coach with Helicopter Tour and Meals

For those seeking a full day of adventure with plenty of variety, Gray Line Las Vegas – Grand Canyon West Rim by Coach with Helicopter Tour and Meals offers the perfect experience. This tour lets you explore the Canyon from multiple angles, all in one action-packed day.

Your journey kicks off with a luxury coach ride from Las Vegas, where you can relax and enjoy the changing desert landscape as you head toward the West Rim. Along the way, you’ll stop for a photo op at the iconic Hoover Dam—a must-see landmark in the Southwest.

Once you reach the Grand Canyon, the excitement ramps up. You’ll take a helicopter descent to the canyon floor, a rare experience that gives you an up-close look at the Canyon’s vast beauty. The aerial views are nothing short of spectacular.

After the helicopter ride, you’ll have time to explore the West Rim with a scenic shuttle tour, stopping at Eagle Point and Guano Point—two of the best vantage points in the Canyon. The views here are simply awe-inspiring.

Gray Line’s full-day Grand Canyon tour includes meals, and for an added thrill, you can upgrade to visit the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bridge extending out over the edge for a heart-pounding view straight down.

This tour is perfect if you want a well-rounded Grand Canyon experience with a mix of coach travel, helicopter flight, and scenic sightseeing. With meals and the Skywalk upgrade, you’re in for a day full of unforgettable memories.

5. Detours of Arizona – Grand Canyon Helicopter & Ground Tour From Phoenix

If you’re based in Phoenix or Scottsdale and want a day trip that mixes both land and sky views of the Grand Canyon, Detours of Arizona – Grand Canyon Helicopter & Ground Tour offers a fantastic option. It’s the perfect way to see the Canyon from multiple perspectives while enjoying a comfortable, scenic journey.

The adventure begins with a scenic drive through the beautiful Sonoran Desert and Coconino National Forest, making the road trip as exciting as the destination itself. As you roll along historic Route 66, you’ll get a real taste of Arizona’s rugged beauty before arriving at the Grand Canyon.

Once there, you’ll take to the skies in a helicopter for an unforgettable flight over the South Rim, North Rim, and Colorado River. The aerial views are breathtaking, allowing you to see the Canyon’s vastness from a whole new angle. From high above, you’ll get a true sense of just how massive and majestic this natural wonder really is.

After your helicopter flight, you’ll have some free time to explore the South Rim on foot. You can walk to various scenic lookout points, taking in the panoramic views and soaking in the beauty of the Canyon at your own pace. Whether you’re snapping photos or just enjoying the quiet grandeur, this time at the rim is perfect for reflection.

The tour wraps up with a comfortable ride back to Phoenix/Scottsdale in a custom High-Roof van, giving you a smooth journey home after a day full of adventure and unforgettable sights.

Book Detours of Arizona for a memorable day of exploration, featuring both helicopter views and scenic ground time at the South Rim.

Tips for a Great Helicopter Tour Experience

Booking in Advance

Grand Canyon helicopter tours are very popular, especially in peak season. If you book in advance, you can get the date, time, and tour type you want. This helps avoid missing out.

This is really important for people wanting early morning or sunset flights. These times give the best light for taking photos.

Booking early also lets you compare prices from different companies. You might find better deals or special offers this way.

What to Wear

Dress in a way that is comfortable for your helicopter tour. Remember, the weather can change. It might feel warm where you are, but it can get much colder when you are up high. This is especially true during early morning or evening flights.

Wearing layers is smart. This lets you change your clothing if the temperature shifts. It is also important to wear comfortable shoes, especially if you land during your tour.

Try not to wear loose clothes or accessories. These can block your view or create safety issues while you fly.

What to Bring

To take beautiful photos of the Grand Canyon, make sure to bring your camera, fully charged batteries, and lots of storage space. A polarizing filter can help cut down on glare and make colors pop. Also, use a lens hood to reduce lens flare.

Remember to pack sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright sun and high elevation. It’s a good idea to put on sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy.

Bring a small bag or backpack for your essential items. These should include water, snacks, and any necessary medications.

Photographing the Grand Canyon

Photographing the Grand Canyon from a helicopter is a great way to get amazing aerial views. To reduce blur from the helicopter’s movement, use a fast shutter speed. Try different camera angles to show the canyon’s size and details.

Taking photos in RAW format will help you have more options later when you edit your pictures. This format makes it easier to highlight bright colors and textures.

Feel free to ask your pilot for tips on the best angles and views for taking beautiful photos.

Be Prepared for Weather Changes

The weather in the Grand Canyon can change without warning. It’s important to prepare for these changes. Make sure to check the weather forecast before your helicopter ride and pack the right clothes.

Even on warm days, bring a light jacket or sweater. The temperature can drop fast at higher altitudes or if your tour gets delayed. If rain is possible, think about packing a lightweight, easy-to-carry rain jacket.

Your safety comes first, so tours might be canceled or moved to a different time because of bad weather.

Additional Experiences to Consider

A helicopter tour gives you an amazing view of the Grand Canyon. Think about adding other fun places to your trip for a better adventure. You can check out the stunning slot canyons of Antelope Canyon. You can also be amazed by the impressive Hoover Dam. Or, you can take a hike in the Kaibab National Forest surrounded by tall ponderosa pines.

Make your trip memorable by experiencing the famous landscapes of the Southwest.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon offers stunning views and an unforgettable experience. When selecting a provider, consider factors like safety, tour length, routes, and available amenities. Some of the top providers include Maverick Helicopters, Papillon Helicopters, 5 Star Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours, Gray Line Las Vegas, and Detours of Arizona. To make sure you get the best spot, book your tour in advance, dress appropriately, and bring along the essentials. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with friends or on social media. The more people who know about these incredible helicopter tours, the more amazing Grand Canyon adventures there will be!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest helicopter company in the Grand Canyon?

Papillon Helicopters is known for its safety and great reputation. They follow strict safety rules and have a modern fleet. Their pilots are skilled and experienced. This makes Papillon a top choice for a safe and unforgettable Grand Canyon trip.

Which part of Grand Canyon is best by helicopter?

Both the South Rim and West Rim have amazing views. The South Rim is best for its famous beauty and wide-open spaces. The West Rim is closer to Las Vegas. It also offers exciting landing spots, making it a special and thrilling place to visit.

What is the best time for helicopter tour in Grand Canyon?

For the best lighting, plan a helicopter tour during the golden hour. This is right after sunrise or just before sunset. The soft, warm light makes the canyon’s colors pop and creates a beautiful atmosphere. Early morning flights usually have fewer planes and cooler weather.

How much does a Grand Canyon helicopter pilot get paid?

A Grand Canyon helicopter pilot’s pay can change based on different things. These include experience, the company they work for, and hours flown. This job can be hard, but it is rewarding too. Some skilled pilots can make a good income, with some earning over a hundred thousand dollars a year.