Scottsdale is a fantastic base for helicopter flights and tours, thanks to its proximity to Arizona’s most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re after a quick glimpse of the desert’s iconic formations or a full-day expedition to the Grand Canyon, Scottsdale offers options that suit various interests and budgets. For instance, a 1-hour private adventure provides a personalized way to see Four Peaks and the Salt River canyons, while the Grand Canyon private tour delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with aerial views of Sedona, Marble Canyon, and Meteor Crater. The city’s central location means you can combine city sights with remote wilderness — no long drives needed.
One tour that stands out is the Phoenix Private 1 Hour Helicopter Adventure Flight. It offers a quick but comprehensive aerial tour of some of Arizona’s most stunning landmarks. For those craving an epic adventure, the Grand Canyon Private 4-Hour Helicopter Adventure promises breathtaking views over multiple iconic sites. And if you have more time and want to see the most spectacular scenery in one trip, the Antelope Canyon Private Helicopter Adventure takes travelers all the way to Page, AZ, with up to 4 hours on the ground exploring the canyon itself. Read on for detailed descriptions of each.
1. Phoenix Private 1 Hour Helicopter Adventure Flight
Starting off the list is the Phoenix Private 1 Hour Helicopter Adventure Flight, which offers a personalized aerial tour of Scottsdale and the surrounding Arizona landscapes. Departing from a private hangar just 20 minutes from Phoenix, this tour focuses on low-altitude, high-adrenaline flying over some of the most recognizable sights. You’ll cruise over the Four Peaks Mountain Range, renowned for its distinctive three-peaked profile, and swoop through the Salt River canyons and lakes, adding a splash of adventure to the flight.
One of the highlights is flying over the Fountain Hills Fountain, which is among the tallest fountains in the world, reaching 560 feet into the sky. The tour also includes views of Old Town Scottsdale, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, and Pinnacle Peak Park. The itinerary emphasizes scenic beauty, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the rugged terrain and lush river valleys. The price of around $1,450 per person reflects the exclusive experience and private nature of the flight, making it ideal for those seeking a tailored, intimate view of Arizona’s landscapes.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a quick, private, and immersive view of some of Scottsdale’s most iconic sights, combining comfort with adventure.
$1,449.50 per person
2. Grand Canyon Private 4-Hour Helicopter Adventure from Phoenix
At number 2, the Grand Canyon Private 4-Hour Helicopter Adventure is a top choice for travelers craving a comprehensive, high-end experience. Starting just 20 minutes from Scottsdale, this tour is a private roundtrip journey that takes you over Arizona’s most stunning landscapes, including Sedona’s red rock formations, Marble Canyon, and the Painted Desert. The flight culminates with a 25-minute aerial tour of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, offering panoramic views of the layered rock walls, the winding Colorado River, and expansive vistas that simply must be seen to be believed.
What makes this tour stand out is its cinematic quality — the helicopter’s low-level maneuvers and scenic flight paths give a feeling of flying through a movie set. The itinerary also features a flyover of Meteor Crater, one of the best-preserved impact sites on Earth, used by NASA astronauts for training. The price of $6,000 per person is steep but reflects the private, luxurious nature of the experience, suitable for those looking for an exclusive adventure with personalized service.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an opulent, all-encompassing aerial tour that includes Sedona, Marble Canyon, and the Grand Canyon, this tour offers the best for discerning travelers.
$6,000.00 per person
3. Antelope Canyon Private Helicopter Adventure from Phoenix
The Antelope Canyon Private Helicopter Adventure is a six to eight-hour journey that takes you deep into some of Arizona’s most photogenic scenery. Departing from Scottsdale, this tour is the longest and most comprehensive on our list, offering up to 4 hours of ground time in Page, AZ — the gateway to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.
You’ll first fly over the Red Rock Canyons of Sedona, then traverse the Painted Desert, Marble Canyon, and Meteor Crater. The highlight is landing in Page, where you can explore Horseshoe Bend in person — a twisting river bend that’s one of the most photographed spots in the Southwest. The tour is ideal for dedicated photographers, canyon explorers, or anyone who wants a luxury, all-in-one aerial and ground experience of northern Arizona.
Since this is a private, elite experience, reviews note the professionalism and route flexibility. The $8,000 price tag makes it a serious investment, but it’s worth it for those seeking a comprehensive, cinematic adventure with total privacy and exclusive access.
Bottom Line: Best suited for serious adventurers or photography lovers wanting to combine aerial views with in-depth ground exploration of the most stunning sites in northern Arizona.
$8,000.00 per person
4. Sedona 2 Hour Private Helicopter Adventure from Phoenix
Finally, the Sedona 2 Hour Private Helicopter Adventure is an excellent choice for travelers wanting a longer, more immersive experience in Sedona’s famous red rock country. Similar in style to the 1-hour tour, this one extends to around 2 hours, giving you more time to explore and fly low over key formations like the Mogollon Rim and the Tonto National Forest.
The tour’s private aspect means you get a tailored experience, with plenty of photo opportunities of the towering spires and vibrant canyons. An added bonus is flying over the famous TPC Scottsdale course, home of the Waste Management Open — a fun nod to local golf fans. This is ideal for those who want a deeper look at Sedona’s landscapes without committing to a full-day trip.
Considering the price of $3,125 per person, it offers good value for a private, extended aerial experience in one of Arizona’s most beloved spots.
Bottom Line: This tour appeals to travelers seeking a longer, personalized Sedona experience with excellent photo opportunities and scenic variety.
$3,125.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Helicopter Tour
When selecting a helicopter tour in Scottsdale, think about your budget, time constraints, and what sights excite you most. For a quick private flight over Scottsdale’s highlights, the 1-hour adventure fits perfectly. If you’re dreaming of an epic journey that covers Sedona, Marble Canyon, and the Grand Canyon, the 4-hour private tour is your best bet. For a luxury, in-depth exploration of Northern Arizona, the Antelope Canyon experience is unmatched.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons in spring and fall. Also, consider your fitness level and comfort with flying — these tours involve low-altitude flying and some maneuvering, which thrill-seekers will love but might be less suitable for those prone to motion sickness.
Final Thoughts
Scottsdale offers a diverse range of helicopter experiences, from quick scenic flights to luxurious, multi-site expeditions. If your goal is a quick glimpse of the city’s highlights, the private 1-hour flight is a great start. For those wanting something more comprehensive and exclusive, the Grand Canyon or Antelope Canyon adventures are hard to beat. Meanwhile, Sedona’s two-hour private tour provides a longer, more detailed look at red rock country.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance and considering your personal interests and budget will ensure you get the most from your aerial adventure. Arizona’s landscapes are spectacular from the ground — but from the sky, they become downright unforgettable.