From happy customers

Loved by 46 million+
Lisa Burgess
GB

Lisa

United Kingdom
Oct 2025
5/5

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What an amazing trip this was. Our guide Gia was sooooo knowledgeable and such good fun. The Canyon itself was simply WOW. We did the sky walk and decided to add the helicopter and boat to our day and I can honestly say it was worth every penny. We will absolutely be back to Vegas and will use this company again.
Terri L Cunkle
US

Terri

United States
Sep 2025
5/5

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It was incredible, we did the VIP tour to go underground along with up top. We were on a tour bus group, could have used at least another 1/2 hour there. But overall loved it. We have been to Vegas several times and this is the first time we've done the Dam tour. A must do.
Kristopher Kulseth
US

Kristopher

United States
Sep 2025
5/5

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Awesome trip! Pilot was friendly, professional, and happy to answer questions during the flight. Highly recommended for all ages!
Sandra Ellington
US

Sandra

United States
Dec 2025
5/5
Trading up to the front two seats is a must. Our first time in a helicopter, and we were amazed at the speed or lack there of. I asked the Pilot what our speed was, thinking it might be around 25 MPH. 155 MPH! Amazing. I never knew this ride could be so smooth, so quiet (Head phones included) so much fun. Smooth landings, not a hint of a bonce. The Hoover Dam is a Master piece. The majestry of the Grand Cayon will take your breath away. Folks, this is a must do thing. A bucket list thing, a once in a life time . DO IT!
Bassha McIntyre
US

Bassha

United States
Dec 2025
5/5
This was amazing! We paid to upgrade to front seats and all I can say is WOW!! The pilot was awesome and we had very little turbulence. He was knowledgeable and had a great playlist! The view is spectacular and I was never afraid or got motion sickness. Landing in the canyon was a lot of fun! We loved the whole experience!
Timothy G

Timothy

Jul 2025
5/5
I was amazed at the views as I walked the rim of the Canyon, but I didn't REALLY see the Grand Canyon until I went on the Papillon flight. You will see the immense scope of the canyon, and our pilot Paolo, was careful to make sure we could see it from as many angles as possible. I opted for the 45-minute tour and it was worth it. Highly recommended.
Thad A

Thad

Aug 2025
5/5
Excellent flight aided by an excellent sound track. We loved our flight over the Grand Canyon! The music made the flight even more enjoyable.
Larry B

Larry

Aug 2025
5/5
It was great! We wished it could have been a little longer. It was a beautiful experience and we are glad we did it. We will recommend.

Why take a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon

Aerial view of the Grand Canyon with winding Colorado River and layered rock formations.
Maverick helicopter flying over the Grand Canyon.
Helicopter pilot flying over Grand Canyon during Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West tour.
Helicopter on the Grand Canyon floor with canyon walls in the background.
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Get the best vantage point of the Grand Canyon

Helicopter tours give you an unmatched perspective on the canyon’s sheer size. From above, you can take in dramatic cliffs, hidden rock formations, and rugged terrain that are often impossible to appreciate from ground viewpoints alone.

Witness one of the world’s most magnificent natural wonders

Soar above a landscape shaped over millions of years. As you fly past sweeping rock layers, watch the canyon come alive with shifting colors, textures, and patterns carved by ancient natural forces.

Travel back in time

Your helicopter becomes a storytelling vessel as you glide over thousands of years of geological history. Pilots often share fascinating insights about the canyon’s formation, Indigenous cultures, and the early explorers who charted this extraordinary terrain.

Explore exclusive sites

Some tours offer landings at remote locations that cannot be reached by foot or by standard tours. These secluded spots allow you to wander through tranquil, untouched spaces and experience the canyon’s raw beauty away from the crowds.

Things to know before booking your Grand Canyon helicopter tour

  • All helicopter and airplane tours follow strict weight regulations. Passengers must weigh under 300 lbs (136 kg); those exceeding the limit may need to purchase an additional seat.
  • The flight portion of the Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tour with Floor Landing is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
  • The 45-min Grand Canyon National Park Airplane Tour includes a boarding ramp and accommodates collapsible wheelchairs.
  • Make sure to request accessibility services at the time of booking.
  • Tour durations, routes, and experiences vary. Choose a 20-minute flight for a quick overview, or opt for a more immersive itinerary that includes floor landings, boat rides, or even a champagne picnic (only available at the West Rim).
  • Flights depend on weather conditions. Schedule your tour at the beginning of your trip in case a reschedule becomes necessary.

Choose the perfect helicopter tour for you

Maverick helicopter flying over Red Rock Canyon near Las Vegas.

Tours from Las Vegas

Aerial tours departing from Las Vegas often include incredible views not only of the Grand Canyon, but also of highlights such as Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the Mojave Desert. They’re designed for maximum convenience, making them ideal for travelers short on time. Some tours even offer hotel pick-ups/drop-offs and a shorter overall commute than driving.

  • Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes - 10 hours
  • Audio commentary: Yes
  • Round-trip transport: Yes

Recommended experiences:

  • From Las Vegas: 70-min Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter or Airplane Tour
  • From Las Vegas: Day Trip to Grand Canyon National Park via Airplane Plus Guided Hummer Tour
  • From Las Vegas: Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tour with Floor Landing
  • From Las Vegas: Grand Canyon West Airplane & Helicopter Tour with Pontoon Boat Ride
Aerial view of Hoover Dam and surrounding desert landscape, Nevada.

West Rim tours

The West Rim is the most visited area of the canyon and the only place where helicopters can descend 4,000 feet to the canyon floor. Flights from Las Vegas typically include aerial views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the Mojave Desert before entering canyon territory.

You can also walk the Skywalk, a glass bridge extending 70 feet from the cliff edge with views straight down to the river below.

  • Duration: 25 minutes - 4 hours
  • Audio commentary: Yes
  • Round-trip transport: Included with select tours

Recommended experiences:

  • Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tour with Floor Landing and Boat Ride
  • From Las Vegas: 70-min Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter or Airplane Tour
  • From Las Vegas: Airplane and Helicopter Tour with Floor Landing and Boat Ride
  • Grand Canyon West Rim Airplane Tour
Two boats navigating the Colorado River at Horseshoe Bend, deep canyon view.

Grand Canyon National Park tours

These flights showcase iconic features such as the Colorado River, North and South Rims, and Kaibab National Forest, offering an appreciation of the canyon’s immense scale. Different flight paths highlight specific regions, whether you want to explore the South Rim or see the landscapes around the North Rim.

All flights follow strict environmental regulations to preserve the park’s natural integrity.

  • Duration: 25 minutes - 10 hours
  • Audio commentary: Yes
  • Round-trip transport: Included with select tours

Recommended experiences:

  • From Las Vegas: Day Trip to Grand Canyon National Park via Airplane Plus Guided Hummer Tour
  • 25-min Grand Canyon National Park Helicopter Tour with Optional Hummer Tour  
  • 45-min Grand Canyon National Park Helicopter Tour with Optional Hummer Tour  
  • 90-min Las Vegas to Grand Canyon North Rim Airplane and Ground Tour  
  • 25/45-min Grand Canyon National Park Helicopter/Airplane & Hummer Tour

Highlights of your Grand Canyon helicopter tours

Guest enjoying aerial view of Grand Canyon West Rim from helicopter, Las Vegas tour.

Inside the cockpit with views of Grand Canyon West

Experience the pilot’s perspective as you soar over the West Rim’s dramatic cliffs, sweeping mesas, and the snaking Colorado River below.

Red helicopter flying over the Grand Canyon.
Couple enjoying champagne picnic during Grand Canyon helicopter tour with landing.
Grand Canyon North Rim at sunset, view from Bright Angel Point.
Grand Canyon aerial view

Plan your visit

Helicopter flying over the Grand Canyon West Rim with Lake Mead in view.
  • Operating schedule: Helicopter tours run year-round except on Christmas Day.
  • Tour duration: 25 minutes to 10 hours, depending on your chosen experience.
  • Flight duration: 5–70 minutes.
  • With round-trip hotel transport: The total time ranges from 4–10 hours.
More on Grand Canyon timings and operating hours
Grand Canyon Skywalk overlooking canyon at sunset, part of Las Vegas helicopter tour.

The Grand Canyon is stunning year-round, with each season offering a distinct atmosphere.

  • Spring & Fall (Mar-May, Sep-Nov): The ideal time to visit. Temperatures range from 60–80°F, crowds are moderate, and spring wildflowers add vibrant color.
  • Summer (mid-May to mid-Sep): The busiest season, especially at the South Rim. Expect long sunny days with temperatures from 40–85°F.
  • Winter (Dec to Feb): A peaceful time to visit with striking views of the canyon dusted in snow. Daytime temperatures hover in the 40s, with colder nights.
Learn more about the weather at Grand Canyon
Guests enjoying scenic views during transfer from Prague to Český Krumlov via Hluboká.
  • Grand Canyon rim & river tours: Hotel pick-up from Downtown Las Vegas and the Strip.
  • South Rim tours: Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines, 3555 Airport Rd, Grand Canyon Village, Las Vegas.
  • West Rim tours: Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines, 1265 Airport Rd, Boulder City, Nevada.
  • Helicopter & Hummer tours: Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours, 3568 Airport Rd, Grand Canyon Village.
  • Tours from Las Vegas: Pick-ups and drop-offs from designated hotels listed on your ticket.
Man holding out an identity card.
  • Carry a government-issued ID.
  • Arrive 30 minutes before departure for check-in.
  • All passengers undergo a weight check.
  • Passengers over 300 lbs will incur an additional seat charge.
  • Bags, purses, and backpacks are not permitted inside the helicopter due to limited space.
  • Children under 8 years old or under 4'9" must use a car or booster seat.
  • Fuel surcharges may apply; check your ticket for details.
  • Follow all safety instructions from staff and pilots.
  • Weather may cause last-minute changes, so stay updated.
Helicopter landing at sunset on Las Vegas Grand Canyon West Rim tour.
  • Book ahead, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
  • Dress comfortably and in layers; temperatures can change during the flight. Closed shoes are recommended, and avoid wearing loose accessories like hats.
  • Photography is allowed, just follow the onboard guidelines.
  • Choose a tour based on your interests; whether you want a quick aerial preview or a full adventure with landings and river experiences.
Plan your visit to the Grand Canyon

Frequently asked questions about Grand Canyon helicopter tours

How long does it take to reach the Grand Canyon by helicopter from Las Vegas?

Most flights reach the Grand Canyon in 35-45 minutes, depending on the tour operator and flight path. Many tours incorporate sightseeing over the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, extending the aerial portion for a more complete experience.

Do Las Vegas tours include hotel transport?

Many tours from Vegas offer complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off from major Strip and Downtown hotels. You’ll be notified of your exact pickup time once your booking is confirmed.

Are helicopter tours from Las Vegas suitable for travelers with limited time?

Absolutely. Many of these tours are designed as quick 3-4 hour excursions, making them perfect for visitors who want to experience the canyon without the long drive.

Can helicopters actually land inside the Grand Canyon?

Only at the West Rim. This is the one area where helicopters are permitted to descend all the way to the canyon floor, about 4,000 feet below the rim.

What can I do during a floor landing at the West Rim?

Depending on your tour, you may enjoy a champagne picnic , explore short walking trails near the landing site, or board a river pontoon boat for a calm ride along the Colorado River.

Is the Skywalk included in West Rim helicopter tours?

Some West Rim packages include Skywalk admission , but not all. You’ll easily find “Skywalk Upgrade” or “Skywalk Entry Included” in your tour description.

Do West Rim helicopter tours offer good views of the Hoover Dam?

Yes, but only the tours that start from Las Vegas. Nearly all West Rim departures from Las Vegas include a flight over Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, offering spectacular aerial views before reaching the canyon.

How are National Park helicopter tours different from West Rim tours?

National Park flights do not land inside the canyon due to stricter regulations. However, the South Rim offers the most iconic and expansive canyon views, while the North Rim provides remote, dramatic scenery rarely seen from the ground.

Where do Grand Canyon National Park helicopter tours take off from?

Most flights depart from Grand Canyon Airport, just a few minutes from the South Rim entrance. Some airplane tours depart from Las Vegas.

Are South Rim helicopter tours good for first-time visitors?

Yes. If you're looking for the classic, postcard-style canyon views and broad panoramas, South Rim flights offer the most dramatic overlooks in the entire canyon.

Do Grand Canyon National Park helicopter flights operate year-round?

Yes, though winter/monsoon flights may be delayed due to weather. Snow on the canyon rim creates a stunning contrast with the red and gold rock layers.