The 8 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours in Sedona
Sedona isn’t just famous for its striking red rock formations and winding canyons—it’s a place that truly shines when viewed from above. The rugged landscape, with its iconic Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock, looks breathtaking from every angle, but from a helicopter, it becomes truly spectacular. Aerial tours let you see places inaccessible by land, soaring over ancient cliff dwellings, windswept mesas, and stunning vistas that look like they belong in a movie. If you want to experience Sedona’s natural beauty without hiking or driving, helicopter tours offer a dynamic, memorable perspective that’s hard to match.
Whether you’re after a quick overview or a comprehensive exploration, Sedona’s helicopter options vary widely in length, scenery, and price. From intimate 20-minute flights to expansive 80-mile journeys, there’s something for every budget and interest. To help you navigate, we’ve compiled the eight best helicopter tours—each with details on what makes them special, what’s included, and who they’re best suited for. Read on to find the perfect aerial adventure for your trip.
1. Sedona Helicopter Tour: Desert Thunder Tour
This 30 to 35-minute tour offers a comprehensive view of Sedona’s most famous landmarks, including Cathedral Rock and the Chapel of the Holy Cross. What sets this tour apart is its detailed narration from the pilot, who shares stories and natural history as you soar over the desert. It’s a popular choice for those who want a fuller experience without a lengthy commitment and includes alcoholic drinks and water to enhance your flight. The route covers Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, Snoopy Rock, Oak Creek Canyon, and Devil’s Bridge, ending with a pass over the Anasazi cliff dwellings in Boynton Canyon.
Guests consistently praise the professional service and stunning views—they note feeling very safe and well cared for. One reviewer called it their first helicopter ride and said, “We felt very safe & well taken care of! Everything was professional.” For travelers seeking a guided flyover with an emphasis on natural and cultural landmarks, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a well-rounded, narrated experience with drinks included. Perfect for those new to helicopter flights or wanting a longer, more detailed overview of Sedona’s highlights.
2. Sedona Helicopter Tour : Dust Devil Tour
At around 20 to 25 minutes, the Dust Devil Tour offers an intimate helicopter experience with a maximum of three people. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, less rushed view of Sedona’s stunning scenery. Starting from the guidance airstrip, this flight takes you over the ancient Anasazi cliff dwellings, which date back over 700 years, giving you a sense of the area’s long history. You’ll also see Devil’s Bridge, Secret Canyon, and the Mogollon Rim, all from a perspective that reveals their grandeur without the crowds.
One key highlight is the small-group format, which makes for a more personalized and flexible experience. The pilot, Jake, is praised for his knowledge and friendly demeanor—many passengers comment on how he made the tour both informative and fun. The tour also includes alcoholic beverages, coffee, and bottled water, making it easy to relax and enjoy.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who value personal attention and want a shorter, scenic outing that hits all the major sights with a small group.
3. Everything Sedona (20+ Mile) – Sedona Helicopter Tour
For around 10 to 12 minutes, this quick tour packs a lot of highlights into a compact flight. It’s designed for travelers with limited time but who still want a comprehensive view of Sedona’s main landmarks, including Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Oak Creek Canyon. The flight is in a small group of just five people, with all seats facing forward for optimal viewing.
This tour is perfect for those who want a taste of Sedona from the air, with the ability to spot Snoopy Rock, the Tea Kettle, and the Fin—all from a bird’s eye view. It’s a straightforward, economical option that offers a quick snapshot of the area’s rugged terrain.
Guests comment that the views are spectacular and that the pilot was very professional. It’s a good introduction for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to see the landscape from above.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a short, affordable helicopter flight that covers all the major icons.
4. Sedona Helicopter Tour: Wild West Tour
Spanning approximately 50 to 55 minutes, this tour takes you beyond Sedona into the greater area, including the nearly 8,000-foot Mt. Mingus and Sycamore Canyon. It’s known for its combination of natural scenery and cultural storytelling, including the story of Butch Cassidy, with a panoramic view of the Verde River and the old mining town of Jerome. The spacious helicopter features large windows, making it easier to spot distant landmarks, and the tour is in a small, comfortable group.
Guests highlight the professionalism of the guide and pilot and express that this trip was a highlight of their Sedona visit. The longer duration allows for a wider view—passing Mingus Mountain, Jerome, and Robber’s Roost—delivering a more complete picture of the region.
Bottom Line: Best for those interested in both scenery and stories, or who want a more extensive tour that goes into the surrounding areas.
5. Canyon Panorama Helicopter Tour
As the shortest on our list at about 15 minutes, this tour starts from a private helipad and heads toward Jerome and Sycamore Canyon, offering a panoramic view of Sedona’s most iconic red rocks. It’s a quick but comprehensive peek at the area’s most famous formations, like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Snoopy Rock, with the added thrill of flying over Midgely Bridge and Oak Creek Canyon.
Perfect for travelers who want a snapshot of Sedona’s landscape without a large time commitment. Reviewers mention that the views are spectacular, and the pilot’s commentary makes the experience engaging. Cost-effective and tailor-made for those on a tight schedule, this tour provides a good balance of scenery and value.
Bottom Line: Great for those short on time but eager to see Sedona’s major sights from the air.
6. Secret Wilderness – 45 Mile Helicopter Tour in Sedona
This 30-minute adventure takes you over Sedona’s lesser-known wilderness areas, flying in a turbine helicopter with six passenger seats. The route includes sweeping views of the rugged wilderness terrain and highlights the hidden beauty that many visitors miss. The pilot offers a guided tour, sharing insights into the landscape’s formation and natural features, making this a more immersive experience.
Though the reviews are positive, the focus on wilderness and remote scenery makes this tour appealing to those wanting to escape the crowds and see some of Sedona’s more untouched areas. The flight’s unique focus on wilderness makes it stand out from more land-mark-oriented tours.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting to explore Sedona’s wild side with a more remote, guided tour.
7. Secret Wilderness Sunset – 45 Mile Helicopter Tour in Sedona
This 30-minute sunset flight combines the thrill of aerial sightseeing with the beauty of Sedona’s dusk lighting. It’s in a turbine helicopter with all seats facing forward, and the air-conditioned cabin ensures comfort during this scenic ride. The sunset adds a special glow to the landscape, making formations like Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock glow with warm hues.
Guests report that the views at sunset are outstanding and that the pilot’s commentary enhances the experience. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a romantic or atmospheric twist on the usual sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a beautiful sunset view that combines scenery with a memorable atmosphere.
8. Mogollon Rim – 80 Mile Helicopter Tour in Sedona
At about 50 minutes, this is Sedona’s most extensive helicopter tour. It covers the spectacular Mogollon Rim, offering breathtaking views of cliffs, forests, and hills. The turbine helicopter with six passenger seats provides a comfortable, stable ride, and the pilot offers a detailed narration of the geological features and local stories.
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting an expansive, panoramic experience that captures the scale of Sedona’s natural landscape. Reviewers mention the superb scenery and the skill of the pilot as highlights. The longer duration and the focus on the Mogollon Rim make it a top pick for those eager to see Sedona’s most impressive vistas.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventure seekers or those interested in wider regional scenery with ample time for exploration from the air.
How to Choose Your Helicopter Tour in Sedona
When deciding which tour is right for you, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you’re pressed for time but want a quick overview, the 15-minute Canyon Panorama Tour is ideal. For those who love a deep dive into wilderness and stories, the Wild West Tour offers a longer, more immersive experience.
If you’re seeking intimate, personalized service, the Dust Devil Tour is a top pick. For romantic sunsets or exploring remote areas, Tours #7 and #6 provide unique options. Finally, adventure travelers eager to see the Mogollon Rim in full splendor should consider the 80-mile Mogollon Rim Tour.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Sedona’s helicopter tours span a wide range of options, from quick snapshots to full-region explorations. For a comprehensive, narrated experience, the Desert Thunder Tour offers a great balance of scenery and storytelling. For those wanting a more intimate flight, the Dust Devil Tour provides a memorable, personalized ride. And if your goal is to see Sedona’s wild and untouched landscapes, the Secret Wilderness tour is hard to beat.
Whatever your choice, a helicopter flight in Sedona promises stunning views and unforgettable memories. Be sure to book early and select a tour that matches your time and interests—these flights fill up quickly during peak season. Enjoy the skies!