Exploring the Grand Canyon West by helicopter is a truly awe-inspiring experience that combines breathtaking aerial views with exclusive access to the Skywalk and a serene pontoon boat ride. We’ll soar over the iconic Hoover Dam and Joshua Tree forests before landing at the canyon floor for a unique perspective of this natural wonder. With VIP privileges, we’ll step onto the Skywalk’s glass-bottom deck, towering 4,000 feet above the Colorado River. There’s no better way to immerse ourselves in the grandeur of the Grand Canyon.
This experience made our article of 5 Outstanding Cruises And Boat Tours In Las Vegas.
Key Points
- An aerial tour of the Grand Canyon, including a helicopter flight over the Hoover Dam and Joshua Trees.
- A landing inside the canyon for a Colorado River pontoon boat cruise.
- VIP access to the Skywalk, a glass-bottom deck 4,000 feet above the canyon floor.
- Pickup and transportation provided from select Las Vegas hotels.
- Restrictions include a 300 lbs weight limit per passenger and no wheelchair accessibility.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The Grand Canyon West Helicopter Tour offers us a remarkable way to experience the natural wonder of the Grand Canyon.
We’ll soar over the iconic Hoover Dam and Joshua Trees before landing deep inside the canyon walls for a Colorado River pontoon boat cruise.
The tour also includes VIP access to the Skywalk, a glass-bottom deck that suspends us 4,000 feet above the canyon floor.
Throughout the experience, we’ll enjoy stunning aerial views, engaging guides, and convenient transportation from Las Vegas.
This comprehensive tour immerses us in the grandeur of the Grand Canyon in an unforgettable way.
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Tour Inclusions and Options
As part of the Grand Canyon West Helicopter Tour, we’ll enjoy a landing on the canyon floor, where we can embark on a pontoon boat ride along the Colorado River. The package also includes a front-of-the-line VIP pass for the Skywalk, a glass-bottom deck suspended above the canyon walls. To make the most of our experience, we can opt for hotel pickup and drop-off, and capture a souvenir photo at the Skywalk. Take a look at the inclusions and options in the table below:
Inclusions | Options |
---|---|
Canyon floor helicopter landing | Hotel pickup/drop-off |
Pontoon boat ride | Skywalk souvenir photo |
Grand Canyon West express shuttle | Gratuities |
Front-of-the-Line VIP Skywalk Pass |
Meeting and Pickup Details
Our tour departs from the Papillon Helicopter Terminal in Boulder City, Nevada.
We must check in 45 minutes prior to our scheduled flight time. Convenient hotel transfers are available from select Las Vegas Strip and Downtown hotels. The meeting point is 1265 Airport Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005, USA.
- Government-issued photo ID is required for passengers 18 and older.
- Personal belongings aren’t allowed on the Skywalk, but lockers are available.
- Infants under 2 years old can accompany adults as lap children with proof of age.
- This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, with a maximum of 6 travelers per group.
Important Information and Restrictions
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.
First, there’s a total weight limit of 300 lbs per passenger. Plus, all passengers aged 18 and older must present a government-issued photo ID.
Personal belongings aren’t allowed on the Skywalk, but lockers are available. Infants under 2 years old are considered lap children, provided they’ve proof of age.
Finally, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and there’s a maximum of 6 travelers per tour group.
Traveler Reviews and Experiences
The helicopter tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon West has a rating of 4.2 based on 81 traveler reviews.
Travelers praise the scenic helicopter ride and professional staff, highlighting the VIP experience that reduces wait times and enhances enjoyment.
However, some have concerns about communication regarding pickup times and tour organization.
Overall, reviewers recommend this as a memorable bucket list experience.
Key takeaways:
- Positive feedback on helicopter ride, views, and staff
- VIP access enhances the experience
- Some communication issues with pickup and organization
- Overwhelmingly recommended as a bucket list activity
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Las Vegas
- Grand Canyon Deluxe Helicopter Tour With Landing From Las Vegas
- Las Vegas Strip Helicopter Night Flight With Optional Transport
- Grand Canyon West Rim Luxury Helicopter Tour From Las Vegas
- Extended Grand Canyon West Rim Air-Only Helicopter Tour
- Grand Canyon West Rim by Coach With Helicopter Tour and Meals
- Grand Canyon West Rim Aerial Tour by Plane From Las Vegas
Exploring the Grand Canyon by Helicopter
We soar above the iconic canyon, marveling at its vast scale and rugged beauty.
The helicopter’s smooth flight offers an unparalleled perspective, allowing us to glide effortlessly over Hoover Dam and the Joshua Tree landscape before reaching the canyon’s edge.
As we descend, the canyon floor comes into view, and we land for an exhilarating pontoon boat cruise along the Colorado River.
The VIP access to the Skywalk‘s glass-bottom deck is the icing on the cake, providing a thrilling and unique vantage point to fully appreciate the grandeur of this natural wonder.
Pontoon Boat Cruise on the Colorado River
After soaring over the canyon by helicopter, we embark on an exhilarating pontoon boat cruise along the Colorado River.
The boat ride offers a unique perspective as we float along the iconic waterway that carved the Grand Canyon over millions of years.
Some highlights of the boat tour include:
- Gliding past towering canyon walls
- Spotting wildlife like bighorn sheep and bald eagles
- Learning about the river’s history and geology from our knowledgeable guide
- Capturing breathtaking photos of the stunning natural scenery
The pontoon boat cruise completes our immersive Grand Canyon experience, providing a perfect finale to our adventurous day.
Experiencing the Skywalk Glass-Bottom Deck
Stepping off the pontoon boat, we make our way to the iconic Skywalk – a remarkable glass-bottom deck that extends 70 feet out over the canyon’s edge. Once at the Skywalk, we’re greeted by the friendly staff and handed our exclusive VIP passes, allowing us to skip the line and access the deck immediately. As we step onto the transparent walkway, we’re rewarded with awe-inspiring 360-degree views of the canyon’s breathtaking landscape. The Skywalk’s stats are equally impressive:
Height | Width | Length |
---|---|---|
4,000 ft | 10 ft | 70 ft |
Snapping a souvenir photo, we savor this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the Grand Canyon from this extraordinary vantage point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Helicopter Tour Suitable for Young Children?
While the helicopter tour can accommodate infants under 2, it may not be the best option for young children. The weight limit and lack of wheelchair accessibility could make it challenging for families with little ones. We’d recommend checking with the tour provider to ensure it’s a good fit.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
While we can’t bring our own food and drinks on the tour, there are options to purchase refreshments at the tour locations. The tour focuses on providing a premium experience, so outside items aren’t allowed.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?
The best time of year to take this tour is spring and fall. The weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and you’ll enjoy stunning views without the extreme summer heat or winter cold. We recommend planning your trip during these shoulder seasons for the optimal experience.
How Long Does the Entire Tour Experience Last?
The entire tour experience typically lasts around 3-4 hours. This includes the helicopter flight, pontoon boat ride, and visit to the Skywalk. It’s a great way to maximize our time and see the Grand Canyon’s highlights in a single day.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for This Tour?
We couldn’t find any specific discounts or special offers listed for this tour, but you may want to check the tour provider’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any current promotions or deals.
The Sum Up
Take to the skies for an unforgettable tour of the Grand Canyon’s West Rim. Soar over the Hoover Dam and Joshua Trees before descending to the canyon floor for a pontoon boat ride along the Colorado River. Cap off your adventure with awe-inspiring views from the Skywalk’s glass-bottom deck. It’s a bucket list experience you won’t soon forget.
📍 This experience made our list of the 5 best Cruises And Boat Tours in Las Vegas
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