Why You Must Reserve Your Helicopter Tour
Grand Canyon helicopter tours are a great way to see large portions of this immense natural wonder. At 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide, the National Park is so large that you almost have to see it from the air. Plus, nothing's quite like soaring above the canyon walls' vibrant layers of colors, with the glistening silver ribbon of the Colorado River snaking its way between them far below. A lot of travelers think Grand Canyon helicopter tours are the only way to go.
But that brings up something really important about these exciting tours - whether you're flying to the West Rim or the South Rim, it's really important to book in advance.
There are plenty of reasons why.
First and foremost, Grand Canyon helicopter tours are incredibly popular. And seats are limited, so they often sell out very quickly. Making reservations ahead can mean the difference between having a seat and missing out completely. Landing helicopter tours from Las Vegas are in particularly high demand, so if you're interested in one of them it's especially important to book in advance.
You'll have more choices in departure dates and times when you book in advance, and you'll maximize your chances of getting one of the better flight times. You'll have more choices in specific tour packages and add-on options, too. For example, the West Rim chopper flights that land on the canyon's floor are incredibly popular. You can avoid being closed out from that popular option if you book in advance.
You'll also be able to get better prices if you make reservations ahead. A lot of travelers mistakenly believe that booking after they arrive in Las Vegas is the best way to arrange Grand Canyon helicopter tours. It's a common and unfortunate mistake, because waiting until the last minute means you'll pay more for your tour than you need to. You'll pay full retail price instead of getting the discount you hope for, and you probably won't even get the tour or flight time you really want.
Book Online
Instead of booking your tour through your hotel concierge or at a Vegas Strip ticket kiosk, make your reservations on the Internet before you arrive at Sin City. Most experts recommend booking your helicopter tour at least a week or two before your desired date. When you book in advance directly on the tour operator's website, you can get special Internet pricing that can be as much as 30% off the tour's retail price! Just make sure you complete the entire transaction online or you'll lose that great discount.
Booking in advance is convenient, but it also gives you a lot more options than you'd have by waiting until the last minute. You'll have a much greater chance of getting the tour package you want on the date and at the time that's most convenient. And don't forget, you can also save a ton of money by making your reservations in advance.
Understand that all helicopter tours that depart from Las Vegas to the West Rim are all-inclusive. What this means is that they come with nearly everything, including free hotel pick up and drop off, professional guide, lunch and all Park fees and taxes. In other words, you won't get hit up for pesky additional fees after the fact! South Rim travelers need to be aware that they are responsible for getting to and from the airfield in Tusayan, AZ, which is just 10 minutes from Grand Canyon Village, the economic hub of the Park and home to all the major lodges.
24 Hours
Remember to re-confirm your flight at least 24 hours ahead of time. I find this essential because you'll learn if there's any weather issues to deal with or if you flight's been postponed or rescheduled, which doesn't happen often. Relatedly, most reputable helicopter companies offer a really fair cancellation policy. For instance, the good ones will offer a 100 percent refund if you cancel within 24 hours of your scheduled departure time or if there's inclement weather, which, in most cases, is brief so expect to be rescheduled.
Dress for comfort. Summers at the West Rim are incredibly hot. Indeed, the A/C in helicopters is superior, but if you've opted for a landing tour, you'll be outdoors in the elements. The South Rim is much more temperate at this time of the year because it's elevation is 6,000 feet. Either way, I suggest you bring a hat, sunglasses, sun block and water. Winter at the West Rim is mild but it can get windy and I always find that a windbreaker works well. The South Rim, on the other hand, is prone to snow, so bundle up and wear a pair of sturdy shoes or boots.
In sum, don't wait 'til you arrive in Las Vegas to book your fabulous Grand Canyon helicopter tour. Book in advance and you'll find some terrific deals, but the best deals are always online. Finding the right Grand Canyon helicopter tour at the right price is a great way to put the Internet to work.
Click Here For Helicopter Prices & Availability
Have a grand day,
P.S. I rate the top 3 Grand Canyon helicopter tour companies that fly out of Las Vegas, NV. Click here to see who's my #1 choice. .