National Park Aerial Safari 3 Day Private Tour

Experience the rugged beauty of the American West from a new perspective with the National Park Aerial Safari 3-Day Private Tour. Priced at $39,320 per group (up to 8), this exclusive adventure combines stunning flightseeing, private ground tours, and memorable hikes. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon South Rim, Monument Valley, Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park—all in just three days. What makes this tour particularly appealing is the seamless blend of aerial views and on-the-ground exploration, giving you a comprehensive sense of these extraordinary landscapes.

Two features we especially appreciate are the private flights, which cut down on crowds and maximize comfort, and the expertly guided land excursions, like the Navajo Jeep safari and Antelope Canyon tour, which add depth and local insight. A potential drawback? The cost is certainly steep, making it more suitable for travelers seeking a luxury experience or a special occasion. This tour is perfect if you’re after an all-encompassing, hassle-free way to see some of the most famous sights in the West with a small, private group.

Key Points

• Private, all-inclusive experience with expert guides and pilots
• Stunning aerial views of major landmarks like the Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend
• On-the-ground adventures include Jeep safaris and guided canyon tours
• Luxury touches, such as hotel stays in 3-star or better accommodations
• Designed for small groups of up to 8 people for a personalized experience
• Cost reflects a premium, all-in-one way to see the West from the sky and land

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Aerial Safari

The entire experience is carefully crafted to blend the thrill of flying with the intimacy of private tours. We’ll walk through each day to help you visualize what you’ll encounter and why it might be worth the investment.

Day 1: From Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup from Las Vegas around 7:00 am. We love the convenience—avoid the hassle of driving yourself—and the luxury of being transported in an air-conditioned vehicle. After a quick briefing, you’ll take off in a private plane, flying over the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the Colorado River before landing at the Grand Canyon South Rim. The aerial approach is far more dramatic than any viewing platform; flying over these iconic formations gives you a sense of scale that photos can’t match.

Once on the ground, you’ll join the Buck Wild open-air Jeep tour—a highlight for many—where you’ll see the canyon from a different vantage point, guided by an expert who shares interesting stories and geological insights. The adventure lasts about three hours and includes park entrance fees, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics.

Day 2: Monument Valley and Antelope Canyon

The second day kicks off with a Grand Canyon sunrise, a moment we’re told is truly special. After breakfast (optional), you’ll hop into your private plane again and fly eastward, with aerial views of Monument Valley, Lake Powell, and Horseshoe Bend. These vantage points are particularly praised for their breathtaking scenery—“the views are incredible” and “you can’t beat seeing these formations from the sky.”

Landing in Monument Valley, you’ll go on a classic Navajo-guided Jeep safari lasting 1.5 hours, exploring the iconic butte-studded landscape, with Navajo guides offering authentic stories about their homeland. Later, you’ll take a short flight over Horseshoe Bend, with your guide providing context about this dramatic curve in the Colorado River.

In the afternoon, the private tour continues with a visit to Antelope Canyon, one of the most photographed slot canyons in the Southwest. The guided tour here (1.5 hours, included in the price) offers a close-up look at the narrow, wave-like formations, with guide Carolene Ekis often praised for her insightful narration. This part of the trip is a favorite for many travelers, offering extraordinary photo opportunities and a chance to experience Navajo culture firsthand.

Day 3: Bryce Canyon and Zion

The final day begins with a flight to Bryce Canyon, famous for its vibrant hoodoos—tall, thin spires that seem to rise straight out of the earth. You can choose to hike into the canyon or bike along scenic routes, both options offering different perspectives of the landscape’s surreal beauty. The three-hour visit includes park entrance, letting you enjoy the view at your own pace.

Next, the tour concludes with a flight over Zion National Park, marveling at towering sandstone cliffs and lush valleys. The scenic flight provides a fitting finale, with panoramic vistas that are truly unforgettable. Zion’s grandeur, combined with the previous stops, makes this a very special way to cap off your adventure.

Practical Aspects: What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are all the essentials: private transportation, park entrance fees, expert guides and pilots, two nights in comfortable hotels, and multiple guided tours. The tours of Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, and the Grand Canyon are all included, along with private plane flights—an element that’s both thrilling and efficient.

Optional meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are available, adding flexibility for your preferences and schedule. However, personal items, souvenirs, or extra activities outside the itinerary are not included.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a private plane and vehicle means you’ll avoid crowded bus tours and enjoy a more personalized experience. Group size is limited to 8, ensuring ample space and individualized attention. This intimacy often translates to more engaging guides and a relaxed atmosphere.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to travelers who value luxury, convenience, and exclusivity. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see the West’s top sights with a small group, this experience offers unmatched comfort and intimacy. It’s ideal for special occasions or a once-in-a-lifetime trip—and those willing to invest in an all-encompassing adventure that combines aerial views with memorable land excursions.

While the price is considerable, the value lies in saving time, avoiding logistical hassles, and gaining access to private tours and flights that most visitors can’t arrange on their own. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want to maximize scenery and comfort without sacrificing authenticity.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day private aerial safari provides a comprehensive, scenic immersion in some of the most iconic landscapes of the American West. The combination of stunning aerial views, expert-guided ground tours, and comfortable accommodations makes it a compelling choice for those who seek a premium experience.

However, it’s important to recognize that this is a luxury, all-inclusive tour with a premium price tag. For travelers who prioritize comfort, exclusivity, and expertly curated experiences, it offers excellent value—particularly when compared to the potential costs and logistics of arranging similar visits independently.

If you’re after a convenient, scenic, and memorable journey through the Southwest’s highlights, this tour could be just the ticket. For those seeking a more budget-friendly or flexible itinerary, self-driving or group-based tours may be better suited, but they likely won’t match the personalized and luxurious feel of this private experience.

FAQs

How many people are in the group?
Up to 8 travelers, ensuring a small, intimate experience with plenty of personal attention.

What is included in the price?
All park admissions, private flights, private transportation, guided tours (including Navajo Jeep safari and Antelope Canyon), hotel accommodations, and gratuities for guides and pilots.

Can I customize meals?
Breakfast, dinner, and lunch are optional and can be added, but personal items and extras are not included.

What if I want to see other sites?
The tour is designed around these key landmarks. Additional sites would require separate arrangements outside the package.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with flying and active outdoor excursions.

How early should I book?
Given the premium nature and limited group size, booking well in advance is recommended.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring comfortable clothing, layers for changing weather, camera gear, and a sense of adventure. Be ready for some fantastic scenery from both the sky and ground.

In essence, this National Park Aerial Safari offers an extraordinary way to see some of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes—combining the thrill of flight with the richness of on-the-ground exploration. It’s a journey for those looking to experience the West in style, comfort, and depth.