Tour Overview
Experience the Grand Canyon South Rim by land and air on this spectacular private guided tour from Phoenix or Scottsdale. Includes a luxury ground tour plus a breathtaking 45-minute helicopter flight over the canyon's deepest sections.
Duration: 11-13 hours
Tour Highlights
- Private Experience: Your own dedicated guide and vehicle (SUV for 1-5 guests, van for 6-13)
- Flexible Timing: The itinerary is highly customizable; the only fixed timing is making the 45-minute helicopter flight.
- 45-Minute Helicopter Flight: Soar above Marble Canyon, Pointe Imperial, Little Colorado River, the Dragon Corridor, and the North Rim.
- Aerial Views: See canyons, fault lines, and towering rock formations missed by many guests.
- South Rim Views: Spend approximately 3 hours inside Grand Canyon National Park.
- Village Time: Visit Grand Canyon Village, including El Tovar and Hopi House.
- Scenic Stops: Your guide can work in route additions such as Cameron Trading Post, Williams on Route 66, or Sedona with Oak Creek Canyon, timing permitting.
- Expert Narration: Learn about geology, history, and culture from your guide.
Tour Itinerary
After departing the Phoenix metro area, your tour travels through the expansive Sonoran Desert filled with native saguaro cactus. The scenery begins to change as you increase in elevation and views of the cactus fade into pine trees. As you continue further into Northern Arizona, you'll travel the outskirts of the Route 66 town of Flagstaff and see the San Francisco Peaks among the seemingly endless Ponderosa Pine Forest.
You'll experience about three hours within the National Park marveling at the beauty that is the Grand Canyon. The itinerary is highly customizable; the only fixed timing is making the 45-minute helicopter flight. Don't forget to visit the historic El Tovar Lodge and Hopi House in Grand Canyon Village. While at the South Rim, you will have opportunities to walk the rim, shop, and capture photographs before your flight.
The highlight of your day is a spectacular 45-minute helicopter tour of the widest and deepest portion of the Grand Canyon. This 80-mile flight showcases canyons, fault lines, and towering rock formations that are otherwise missed by many guests, with views that include Marble Canyon, Pointe Imperial, Little Colorado River, the Dragon Corridor, and the North Rim. While on the helicopter tour, you will be treated to views only seen by less than 10% of all visitors to Grand Canyon National Park.
Added Bonus: We are happy to include other destinations along the route to/from Grand Canyon, timing permitting. Visit the famous Cameron Trading Post on the Navajo Nation, experience the historic Route 66 town of Williams, or relish in the beauty of Sedona including the scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon. Your guide will manage the timing of the day to include as much as possible within 13 hours while still making the helicopter flight.
Pricing
Per person (includes ground tour + helicopter):
1 guest: $1,475
2 guests: $925/person
3-5 guests: $665/person
6-8 guests: $605/person
9-13 guests: $535/person
Plus a $40/group fuel surcharge, added at checkout.
Guide gratuities are not included.
Requirements
- Skill Level: Easy to moderate
- Minimum Age: 3 years old
- Walking: Casual walking on paved or maintained paths
- Elevation: Grand Canyon South Rim elevation approximately 7,000 feet
- Special Requirements: Body weight required at booking; passengers over 300 lbs must purchase an additional helicopter seat (paid directly to the helicopter operator)
What's Included
- Transportation: Round-trip luxury transportation from most Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Tempe hotels, or from your private residence
- Private Guide: Expert narration and logistical handling throughout the day
- 45-Minute Helicopter Flight: Helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon
- Park Entry: Grand Canyon National Park entrance fees
- Water: Unlimited bottled water
What to Bring
- Footwear: Comfortable closed-toe shoes.
- Clothing: Weather-appropriate layers.
- Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Lunch: We suggest bringing a lunch, though you can purchase one at the Grand Canyon - ask your guide for recommendations.
- Personal Items: Camera, medications, and a small bag for personal essentials.
Season & Departure Times
Available year-round, weather permitting. Duration is 11-13 hours. Tours typically depart between 6:00-7:00 AM and return between 7:00-8:00 PM. Pickup is typically provided from your resort, hotel, or vacation rental in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Tempe area. Exact pickup time and location are confirmed the day prior to departure; if you are staying outside the pickup area, we will arrange a convenient meeting point on a case-by-case basis.
Important Notes
Reservations are required. Casual walking is expected during the tour. Meals are not included - guests may bring food or purchase meals during the day. Weather at the Grand Canyon is typically cooler than Phoenix or Scottsdale, so dress in layers and wear comfortable closed-toe shoes.
Weather Dependent: This tour is weather dependent. If the helicopter flight is canceled due to weather conditions, the helicopter portion will be refunded (the ground tour portion is not refundable).
Non-US Citizen Policy
The National Park Service requires a $100 per person Non-Resident Fee for all non-U.S. citizens visiting select national parks, including the Grand Canyon. Full details can be found here: NPS Commercial Tours & Non-Resident Fees.
Cancellation Policy
This tour has a 72-hour cancellation policy. Please refer to your confirmation email for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 11-13 hours. Tours typically depart between 6:00-7:00 AM and return between 7:00-8:00 PM.
How much time do we spend at the Grand Canyon?
You'll spend approximately 3 hours inside Grand Canyon National Park, with time to walk the rim, visit Grand Canyon Village, and board your helicopter flight.
What does the helicopter flight cover?
The 45-minute helicopter tour covers approximately 80 miles over the widest and deepest portion of the Grand Canyon, with views of Marble Canyon, Pointe Imperial, the Little Colorado River, the Dragon Corridor, and the North Rim.
Are there weight restrictions for the helicopter?
Yes. Body weight is required at booking. Passengers over 300 lbs must purchase an additional helicopter seat, paid directly to the helicopter operator.
What is the minimum age?
Children must be at least 3 years old. The tour involves casual walking on paved or maintained paths at approximately 7,000 feet elevation.
Have more questions? View our Private South Rim Tour with Helicopter FAQ →