Las Vegas: Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Airplane Tour

This tour offers a full-day adventure that combines aerial sightseeing with land explorations of some of the Southwest’s most iconic landmarks. Although we haven’t personally taken it, the detailed reviews and itinerary reveal a compelling mix of scenic views, guided canyon walks, and photo opportunities that are hard to beat. We love the way it balances convenience with authentic experiences—flying over vast deserts and then walking through the mesmerizing Antelope Canyon, all in one day.

Three standout features catch our eye: the stunning aerial views of Hoover Dam, Lake Powell, and Glen Canyon, the guided walk through Antelope Canyon’s twisting sandstone corridors, and the breathtaking overlook at Horseshoe Bend. Plus, a box lunch adds a thoughtful touch for refueling mid-journey. A potential consideration is the price point of $759, which is on the higher side but justified by the comprehensive nature of the tour and high-quality guided experiences.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of aerial sightseeing, natural beauty, and guided walking tours. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see multiple Southwest highlights in one day with small-group intimacy, this will likely tick your boxes. However, it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues or who prefer more leisurely, less structured visits.

Contents show

Key Points

Comprehensive experience combining flight and land excursions
Small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more personal experience
Guided tours provide expert insights and photography tips
Includes a box lunch, adding value for full-day travel
Strict baggage and equipment rules to ensure safety and preservation of site integrity
Good for travelers who love scenic views and photo opportunities but may be less suitable for those on a tight budget or with mobility restrictions

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

This tour is a well-crafted blend of aerial views and ground exploration, designed to maximize your exposure to some of the most famous sights in the Southwest. Starting from a convenient meeting point near Boulder City, you’ll first hop in a sightseeing airplane that carries you over the Nevada and Arizona deserts—offering vistas of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Glen Canyon, and Lake Powell. This initial flight sets a dramatic tone, giving you a sense of the scale and beauty of the region.

The key to this experience is the combination of aerial and land-based adventures. After the flight, you’ll be transferred to Horseshoe Bend, where a short hike leads you to the edge of the iconic twisting cliffs. Here, the views of the Colorado River are so distinctive that many travelers describe them as “breathtaking” and “a photographer’s dream.”

Following this, you’ll visit Antelope Canyon, one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world. The guided tour inside allows for ample photo opportunities of the wave-like sandstone walls, illuminated by rays of sunlight filtering through narrow openings. The entire experience is designed to highlight both the magnificence of natural geological formations and provide opportunities for capturing memorable images.

The return flight caps the day, giving you a bird’s-eye perspective of the region one last time. Throughout the tour, the small group size ensures personalized attention from guides and pilots, making it easier to ask questions or get photography tips.

Looking for more options in Las Vegas? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: 1265 Airport Rd
The journey begins here, with a requirement to arrive 45 minutes before departure. Though you’ll need to drive from the Vegas Strip—about 40 to 50 minutes—it’s worth the early start for the exclusivity and planning peace of mind.

Stop 1: Aerial View over Boulder City (1.5 hours)
The first leg is a scenic flight. Many reviews note how the views of the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and Glen Canyon are awe-inspiring. One traveler mentioned, “The pilot was fantastic, pointing out landmarks I wouldn’t have recognized on my own.” The flight is not just scenic but educational, offering context about the region’s vast reservoirs and engineering marvels.

Stop 2: Horseshoe Bend (1.5 hours)
After landing, a short transfer takes you to Horseshoe Bend, where a guided walk to the overlook reveals a dizzying view of the Colorado River winding through the rocky cliffs. Reviewers loved the “stunning panoramic views” and described it as a “must-see” highlight of the tour. The walk itself is relatively short but includes some uneven terrain, so wear comfortable shoes.

Stop 3: Antelope Canyon (1.5 hours)
Next, you enter the world-famous slot canyon with a guided tour inside. Here, you’ll find yourself surrounded by twisting sandstone walls illuminated by beams of sunlight, creating perfect photo opportunities. Multiple reviews praise the tour guide’s knowledge and the “photographer’s paradise” quality of the canyon. Keep in mind that cameras, tripods, and selfie sticks are not allowed inside, so plan your photo-taking accordingly.

Stop 4: Lake Powell and Additional Views (1.5 hours)
The final aerial segment offers views of Lake Powell, with many reviewers noting how the landscape looks even more spectacular from above, especially with the setting sun casting warm hues.

Return Flight and End Point
The tour concludes with a return flight back to the starting point, bringing the day full circle with one last chance to take in the vast landscape from the sky.

What’s Included and Practicalities

For $759, you’ll receive all entrance fees, guided tours, flights, and transfers (if you opt for the hotel pickup). The inclusion of a box lunch is a practical touch, giving you energy for the full day of sightseeing. The small group size (up to 8 participants) helps ensure a more intimate experience and easier interaction with guides.

Transportation from the Strip to the air terminal is not included unless you select the hotel transfer option, so plan accordingly. It’s a scenic drive, but be aware it takes about 40-50 minutes.

Important rules include restrictions on drones, selfie sticks, tripods, backpacks, and large bags—these are all prohibited to protect the fragile canyon environment and ensure safety. Passengers are weighed at check-in, with a surcharge for those over 300 lbs, so pack light and be prepared.

Weather considerations mean flight times are approximate and subject to change. Be prepared for variable conditions and check the forecast before booking.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Reviewers appreciated the professionalism of the pilot and guides. One shared, “The pilot was knowledgeable and friendly, making the flight enjoyable and informative.” Others mentioned the “stunning views” from the plane, emphasizing that the aerial perspective added a new dimension to their understanding of the landscape.

Many travelers expressed that the Horseshoe Bend overlook is a highlight, describing it as “more impressive than I expected,” with some noting the short hike was manageable even for casual walkers.

Inside Antelope Canyon, several reviewers highlighted how guides provided excellent photo tips, helping travelers capture the sandstone’s vibrant colors and intricate formations. However, one comment pointed out that tripod restrictions meant some wanted to bring more professional gear, but understood the safety reasons.

In terms of value, while the price is not cheap, many found it justified by the combination of flights, guided land tours, and the overall convenience of visiting multiple sites in one day. A few reviewers mentioned that the small group size enhances the experience—more personalized, less rushed, and better photo opportunities.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager for a full day of sightseeing, especially those who love aerial views combined with on-the-ground exploration. It’s perfect if you want an organized, all-in-one package that covers major highlights without the hassle of multiple bookings or transfers.

However, it’s less suitable for people with mobility issues or those on a tight budget. The walking involved at Horseshoe Bend and inside Antelope Canyon requires a reasonable level of mobility, and the cost may be prohibitive for some travelers. Also, those seeking a more leisurely or less structured experience might find the schedule a bit tight.

There's plenty more to explore in Las Vegas

Final Thoughts

This Las Vegas Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Airplane Tour packs a lot into one day. From soaring over vast desert landscapes to walking through a world-famous slot canyon, it offers a rich mix of sights that showcase the natural beauty of the Southwest. The inclusion of aerial views adds a unique perspective, allowing you to grasp the scale of these landmarks in ways ground visits alone can’t provide.

The guided canyon tours and small group size mean you’ll get personalized insights and plenty of chances for stunning photos, even if you have to leave your tripods at home. While the price might seem steep, the combination of flights, guided land tours, and the convenience of a single-day experience offers solid value—especially for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the very best.

In the end, this tour is best suited for those craving a full, immersive day of sightseeing with an emphasis on spectacular views and photographic opportunities. If you’re prepared for a busy schedule, willing to adhere to safety rules, and eager to explore some of the most famous vistas in the American Southwest, this adventure is likely to leave lasting memories.

FAQ

Is transportation from the Las Vegas Strip included?
You need to drive yourself to the air terminal, which is about 40-50 minutes from the Strip. There are optional hotel transfers available if you choose that option.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts between 6.5 to 9 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and weather conditions. Check the availability for specific starting times.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID card is required. Remember that drones, selfie sticks, tripods, backpacks, and larger bags are not allowed inside the canyons or on the flights.

Is there a weight limit?
Yes, passengers over 300 lbs (136 kg) will be charged for an extra comfort seat. Passengers are weighed at check-in.

Can infants participate?
Infants under two years old can join as lap children with proof of age. All travelers 18 and over need government-issued ID.

What is the group size?
The experience is limited to small groups of up to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
This tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those over 300 lbs.

What is included in the price?
Entry fees, the airplane flight, a pilot and guide, guided tours of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, and a box lunch.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. Photographers will love the guided tips inside Antelope Canyon and the stunning aerial and overlook views, though tripods are prohibited inside the canyon.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded, visually stunning way to see some of the Southwest’s most photographed sights without the hassle of separate bookings. It’s perfect for those who love scenic vistas, guided insights, and are ready for a full day of exploration from the comfort of a small group.