- Mr Plane Guy
- Mar 21, 2023
- 6 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour From Las Vegas: My Honest Review
Is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour from Las Vegas really worth the money? Here's my honest review after landing on the floor of one of the world's most famous natural wonders.
Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links. If you click and buy, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why I Booked A Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour From Las Vegas
If you're researching Grand Canyon helicopter tours from Las Vegas, you're probably asking yourself one question:
Is it really worth spending hundreds of pounds on a helicopter ride?
During a trip to Las Vegas, I made a slightly impulsive decision to tick a bucket-list experience off my travel wish list and book a Grand Canyon helicopter tour.
What followed was one of the most memorable travel experiences I've ever had.
From flying over the Las Vegas Strip and Hoover Dam to landing on the floor of the Grand Canyon for a champagne picnic, this wasn't just a sightseeing flight – it was a genuine once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
In this review, I'll explain exactly what happens, how much it costs, what to pack and whether I think a Grand Canyon helicopter tour from Las Vegas is worth booking.
What Is Included In A Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour?
The tour I booked included:
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Helicopter flight from Las Vegas
Aerial views of the Las Vegas Strip
Views of Hoover Dam and Lake Mead
Landing on the floor of the Grand Canyon
Champagne picnic
Return helicopter flight to Las Vegas
One thing that impressed me immediately was how organised everything was.
I was staying at the Tropicana Las Vegas and was picked up directly from my hotel. The helicopter company operated from its own private terminal just a few minutes from the Strip, making the whole experience feel surprisingly premium.
Check-in was smooth, the staff were friendly, and everything ran exactly on schedule.
Flying From Las Vegas To The Grand Canyon By Helicopter
As someone who had never flown in a helicopter before, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect.
Thankfully, any nerves disappeared as soon as we lifted off.
Within minutes we were flying over the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip, with fantastic views of Mandalay Bay, Luxor and the surrounding resorts.
It felt surreal looking down at the city from above.
The flight then headed east towards the Grand Canyon.
The scenery changed dramatically as we crossed the Nevada desert, passing:
Hoover Dam
Lake Mead
The Grand Wash Cliffs
Joshua Tree landscapes
Vast desert scenery
The helicopter ride itself was incredibly smooth and much more comfortable than I expected.
Around 45 minutes after departure, the Grand Canyon finally appeared beneath us.
The scale is difficult to describe until you see it for yourself.
Photos simply don't do it justice.
Landing On The Floor Of The Grand Canyon
For me, this was the highlight of the entire experience.
Many Grand Canyon helicopter tours simply fly over the canyon.
The tour I booked actually landed on the canyon floor near the West Rim.
As we descended between the towering rock walls, I realised why this is considered one of the best tours from Las Vegas.
It's an incredible feeling knowing you're standing inside one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
After landing, we were treated to a champagne picnic and given time to explore, take photographs and simply enjoy the surroundings.
I was travelling solo, but there were five passengers on our helicopter and everyone was friendly and chatty.
Whether you're travelling alone, as a couple or with friends, I'd happily recommend this experience.
What To Pack For A Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour
The Grand Canyon can be extremely hot, particularly during summer.
Here's what I'd recommend taking:
Essentials
Camera or smartphone
Portable power bank
Sunglasses
Water bottle
High-factor sunscreen
Lip balm with UV protection
Hat
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Light layers depending on the season
Optional
Motion sickness medication if you're prone to travel sickness
Personally, I didn't experience any motion sickness at all and found the flight incredibly smooth.
How Much Does A Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Cost?
Prices vary depending on the type of tour you choose.
Typical prices include:
Tour Type | Typical Cost |
Las Vegas Strip helicopter flight | £80-£120 |
Grand Canyon flyover tour | £250-£350 |
Grand Canyon landing tour | £350-£500+ |
While a Grand Canyon helicopter tour isn't cheap, it's one of those experiences where you genuinely understand the value once you've done it.
When you consider the transport, flight time, landing access and unique views, it's easy to see why these tours are among the most popular activities in Las Vegas. Check out this BLOG post: My Top 10 Things To Do in Las Vegas
Is A Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Safe?
This was one of my biggest questions before booking. My pilot was highly professional, clearly experienced and made the entire journey feel safe from start to finish.
The helicopter was modern, well-maintained and operated by a company that runs these flights every day. As someone who flies regularly and spent years working in aviation, I felt completely comfortable throughout the experience.
Final Boarding Call.
A Grand Canyon helicopter tour from Las Vegas isn't the cheapest activity in Nevada, but it is one of the most memorable.
The views are spectacular, the experience feels exclusive, and landing on the canyon floor is something you'll remember long after the trip ends.
If you're wondering whether a Grand Canyon helicopter tour is worth the money, my answer is simple:
Book it.
Is A Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour From Las Vegas Worth It?
My Honest Verdict: Absolutely.
Without hesitation, this was one of the best travel experiences I've ever had.
I've visited dozens of countries, flown on some incredible airlines and experienced luxury travel all over the world.
Yet landing on the floor of the Grand Canyon remains one of my favourite travel memories.
The combination of:
Flying over Las Vegas
Seeing Hoover Dam from the air
Experiencing the Nevada desert
Landing inside the Grand Canyon
Enjoying a champagne picnic
creates a genuinely unforgettable day.
If you're visiting Las Vegas and only have room in your budget for one big excursion, I would strongly consider making it a Grand Canyon helicopter tour.
Are you also going to San Fransisco? If so you may like this Blog Post about Alcatraz.
Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour FAQ
How long is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour from Las Vegas?
Most tours take between 3.5 and 5 hours including hotel transfers, flight time and time spent inside the Grand Canyon.
Can helicopters land inside the Grand Canyon?
Yes. Certain Grand Canyon West Rim helicopter tours land on the canyon floor, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy refreshments.
What is the best Grand Canyon helicopter tour from Las Vegas?
The most popular tours include a landing at the West Rim combined with views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and the Las Vegas Strip.
Is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour scary?
Not in my experience. The flight was surprisingly smooth and felt very safe throughout.
What should I wear on a Grand Canyon helicopter tour?
Lightweight comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen and sensible walking shoes are recommended.
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Heading to New York? Is a Helicopter ride over New York on your BOOK IT list? Check out my guide here
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Hello, I’m Paul a professional jet-setter and all-around plane travel pro. After 15 years working in and around planes, I became a flight delay expert at a London Airport and mastered plane travel hacks, a PLANE flight expert with BIG travel plans but small carry-on.
Now, I share PLANE travel news, tips, reviews, and deals with honesty, humour, and zero baggage! Thanks for reading Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour From Las Vegas: My Honest Review.
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