Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour

From$359.32
45 min
Grand Canyon National Park, USA

About this activity

Experience a 45-minute helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon's South Rim, offering breathtaking aerial views and expert pilot commentary on geological formations.

Highlights

  • Aerial views of the Grand Canyon's South Rim
  • Expert pilot commentary on geological formations
  • 45-minute helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon
  • Breathtaking aerial views of the Grand Canyon's South Rim

Full description

Soar above the majestic Grand Canyon on a 45-minute helicopter flight, departing from Tusayan, Arizona. This exhilarating journey offers unparalleled aerial views of the South Rim's stunning geological formations, including the Colorado River and the Kaibab National Forest. Your expert pilot will provide insightful commentary, enriching your understanding of this natural wonder. Capture unforgettable photos and create lasting memories as you witness the Grand Canyon from a unique perspective. This tour is perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, offering a thrilling and informative experience that showcases the grandeur of one of the world's most iconic landmarks.

Included / Excluded

  • 45-minute helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon
  • Breathtaking aerial views of the Grand Canyon's South Rim
  • Expert pilot commentary on geological formations
  • Ground transportation to the helicopter departure point

Itinerary

1

Pass by: You will depart Tusayan, Arizona located in the South Rim of the Grand Canyon on the safest and most comfortable-tourism based helicopter in the world. On your 45-minute helicopter flight, enjoy the luxurious comfort and wraparound windows which offer breathtaking views of the Canyon. Enjoy the fantastic views of the Canyon as you fly over the 1.6 million-acre (6,500 km²) Kaibab National Forest, which borders both the north and south rims of the Grand Canyon. The Kaibab National Forest is home to the world’s largest ponderosa pines.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Pass by: Upon reaching the edge of the canyon, the South Rim gently drops away as the North Rim and east end of the canyon come into view – this is definitely one of the greatest views of the Grand Canyon.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Pass by: You will continue your journey as you follow the Colorado River upstream viewing at a distance the 146-square mile Painted Desert and the 70-foot (21-meter) Desert View Watchtower, a National Historic Landmark.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

Pass by: The Desert View Watchtower features an observation deck from which visitors to the national park can view eastern portions of the Grand Canyon.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

Pass by: Next, view Marble Canyon, the section of the Colorado River which marks the beginning of the Grand Canyon, and Point Imperial, the highest point on the North Rim at 8,803 feet (2,683 meters). Point Imperial overlooks the Painted Desert and the eastern end of Grand Canyon. You will fly through the Canyon above the North Rim heading south through the Dragon Corridor, the widest and deepest section of the Canyon.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Pass by: At the end of your helicopter flight, you will cross over the Colorado River and fly over the South Rim and the Kaibab National Forest to land. Please note: Per FAA regulations, all passengers 18 years and older will be required to show photo ID such as a driver's license or passport at the time of check-in.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Important information

Know before you book

  • Flights are subject to weather conditions; check the forecast before booking.
  • Children under 2 years old may be required to sit on an adult's lap during the flight.
  • Weight restrictions may apply; contact the operator for specific details.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort during the flight.
  • Bring a valid ID for check-in and security purposes.
  • Ensure you arrive at the departure point at least 30 minutes before the scheduled flight time.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 3 days before the activity starts

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Accessibility

  • Infants Required On Laps

Good to know

  • Due to comfort and weight / balance of the aircraft, passengers weighing over 275 lbs (124 kg or 19.6 stone) will be required to purchase an additional seat; this is payable directly to the tour operator on the day of the tour
  • Individual passenger weights, including infants, MUST be advised at time of booking
  • Pilots are unable to assist passengers boarding and disembarking due to insurance regulations
  • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
  • Per FAA Regulations, original government issued photo ID such as a REAL-ID compliant driver's license or a valid passport is required for all travelers over the age of 18. Photocopies or digital IDs are not accepted. Any guest arriving without original, government-issued identification will be denied check-in, and no refunds will be issued for any guest in the reservation.
  • Helicopter seating is based on legal weight & balance limits and will be assigned after check-in. Maverick Helicopters does not guarantee seating next to or in the same row of the rest of the party.”

Traveler reviews

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Awesome !

It’s a one of a kind experience! It’s safe, and unimaginable under any other circumstance! Reality is truly fantastically amazing…. I would put this experience as #1 on everyone’s Bucket List !

John_CMay 24, 2026VIATOR

Unforgettable First Grand Canyon Experience Thanks to Duncan!

Our helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon was absolutely unforgettable, and Duncan made the entire experience incredible from start to finish. As first-time visitors to the Grand Canyon, we were already excited, but Duncan took it to another level with his professionalism, knowledge, and calm, confident flying. He made us feel completely safe while also making the ride fun, informative, and breathtaking. The views were beyond anything we could have imagined, and Duncan pointed out amazing landmarks and shared interesting facts throughout the tour, which made the experience even more special. His smooth takeoffs, landings, and maneuvering allowed us to truly relax and soak in every second of the stunning scenery. You can tell Duncan genuinely loves what he does, and his enthusiasm made our first trip to the Grand Canyon one we will never forget. If you’re lucky enough to have Duncan as your pilot, you are in for an amazing experience. Highly recommend!

Shannon_RMay 24, 2026VIATOR

Best Euphoric Experience Ever

Without a doubt the helicopter tour with Maverick Helicopters over the Grand Canyon was the absolute highlight of our entire American trip! From the second we lifted off, the experience was pure adrenaline and awe. Our pilot made the flight unforgettable — the music he chose matched every single moment perfectly, almost like a movie soundtrack to one of the most majestic places on earth. Flying between those mysterious peaks and endless plateaus of the Grand Canyon gave us a feeling of euphoria that is impossible to describe and honestly something you will never experience anywhere else. One of my favorite parts was hearing the pilots insights about the caves, the Native American history, and the incredible geology of the canyon. And of course seeing the Colorado River winding through the canyon from above was absolutely surreal. This wasn’t just a helicopter ride — it was an emotional, breathtaking experience we will remember forever. Thank you Maverick Helicopters and Donovan for creating a core memory for us!

Andrea MMay 24, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Amazingly breathtaking

If you are hesitant at all due to anything…. Don’t be. This was our first time going to the Grand Canyon and so unbelievable happy we saw it for the first time this way. Emotionally, breathtaking views . I am still trying to process how amazing God’s work is. Would highly recommend to everyone. And if you can get our pilot Drew! Consider yourself lucky and safe. He gave us a great experience and the ride was smooth. I felt comfortable within minutes. A must do adventure with your loved ones. My kids and husband were blown away.

Carmen_FMay 23, 2026VIATOR

No Need to Fear Heights with Maverick Helicopters

This was an absolutely awesome experience. Check-in and flight instructions were simple, and the pilot was friendly and knowledgeable. As a person who is scared of heights this was definitely an adventure for me but the pilot kept the helicopter steady, provided information about the Grand Canyon and kept everyone calm and comfortable. It was a great experience for me.

G1802GLjonathanjMay 23, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Due to comfort and weight / balance of the aircraft, passengers weighing over 300lbs. will be required to purchase an additional seat. This is payable directly to the tour operator on the day of the tour Individual passenger weights, including infants, MUST be advised at time of booking Pilots are unable to assist passengers boarding and disembarking due to insurance regulations Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund Per FAA regulations, all passengers 18 years and older will be required to show photo ID such as a driver's license or passport at the time of check-in. Helicopter seating is based on legal weight & balance limits and will be assigned after check-in. Maverick Helicopters does not guarantee seating next to or in the same row of the rest of the party.”