Most people go to Vegas for the gambling and high quality entertainment. But a lot of them want a little break from all the glitz and glamour of Sin City. For many, Grand Canyon flights on Las Vegas helicopters are the perfect getaway. Here’s some helpful info on these flights so you can book the one that suits you best.

Which Rim?

Las Vegas helicopters only fly to Grand Canyon West (the South Rim’s out of range). Luckily for Vegas-based travelers, the West Rim is the only place where helicopters are allowed to land on the canyon floor.

The South Rim has helicopter tours too, but if you’re starting from Vegas you’ll need to hop an airplane first. Grand Canyon flights on planes leave from Vegas and fly directly to Tusayan, AZ (at the South Rim) every day of the week. The flight only takes about an hour. After landing, the passengers then board a helicopter for an exciting half-hour rim-to-rim flight. This particular package also includes a bus tour inside the National Park.

The Aircraft

It might not sound like a big deal, but it really is. I’m talking about the type of aircraft you fly in. Basic tours usually use choppers that seat up to six. Personally, I think upgrading to a tour that uses an EcoStar 130 is well worth it. These aircraft have a wraparound windshield that’s great for sightseeing, forward-facing stadium-style seating, and a cabin that’s significantly larger than standard choppers.

Air-Only vs. Landing Tour

Air-only Grand Canyon flights are terrific for folks with limited time or budgets (they’re cheaper). I always prefer the landing tours, though – they give you a more comprehensive canyon experience. My favorite is the one that lands on the bottom for a picnic, with the optional float trip down the Colorado added on.

I also love the landing tour that includes VIP access to the “Glass Bridge.” This is something you really shouldn’t skip: the Grand Canyon Skywalk is made entirely of glass and at its farthest point you’ll be standing 4,000 feet above the bottom and 70 feet past the edge of the rim! It’s an awesome experience you’ll never forget. You won’t even have to wait in line because you get to cut to the front!

Las Vegas helicopters are very popular, and flights sell out frequently. That being said, you can ensure that you have a seat by booking in advance. Even though you might be okay booking 72 hours before the date you want, I’d play it safe by booking at least a week ahead.

Conclusion

Las Vegas has a ton of things to see and do, but Grand Canyon helicopter tours are famous for the great experience they deliver. You can choose from aerial or landing tours, but I prefer the latter because they’re more in-depth. A lot of tour companies are competing for your business, so prices are reasonable. Book ahead and do it on the Internet. By completing your purchase on the tour company’s site, you’ll snag a great Internet rate!

Ready to fly the Grand Canyon? Travel writer Luke Plunket recommends going here to get the best flights at the lowest prices: http://www.grandcanyonhelicopter.org/grand-canyon-helicopter-tour-coupons.html

Ready to fly the Grand Canyon? Travel editor Luke Plunket recommends going here to get the best helicopter tours at the lowest prices: http://www.grandcanyonhelicopter.org/grand-canyon-helicopter-tour-coupons.html

Author Bio: Ready to fly the Grand Canyon? Travel writer Luke Plunket recommends going here to get the best flights at the lowest prices: http://www.grandcanyonhelicopter.org/grand-canyon-helicopter-tour-coupons.html

Category: Travel
Keywords: grand canyon helicopters, grand canyon tours, las vegas tours, las vegas helicopters, national parks