Tusayan is a fantastic base for exploring the Grand Canyon from above. Its close proximity to the South Rim makes it a convenient starting point for helicopter flights that reveal the canyon’s vastness and striking landscapes from a unique perspective. Whether you’re after a quick scenic overview or a longer, more immersive flight, Tusayan offers several options that cater to different interests and budgets. Our favorites include a 45-minute flight soaring over the Dragon Corridor, a versatile tour combining helicopter views with Hummer adventures, and a comprehensive ride that explores multiple rims and scenic highlights—each providing its own special way to experience this natural wonder.
We particularly like the From South Rim: Grand Canyon Spirit Helicopter Tour for its breathtaking views of Painted Desert and Dragon Corridor, as well as the Grand Canyon Village helicopter and Hummer combo for its flexibility and extended time. Meanwhile, the Tusayan: Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride with Optional Hummer offers a more intimate, focused experience over the South Rim. Whatever your preference, each of these tours provides a memorable way to see the canyon from the sky.
Quick Overview
Below is a quick snapshot of the top helicopter tours in Tusayan:
– The From South Rim: Grand Canyon Spirit Helicopter Tour features a 45-minute scenic flight, with spectacular views of Painted Desert, Kaibab Forest, and Dragon Corridor.
– The Grand Canyon Village: Helicopter Tour & Hummer Tour Options offers a versatile experience, combining aerial views of both rims with optional sunset Hummer rides, lasting from 30 minutes up to 3.5 hours.
– The Tusayan: Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride with Optional Hummer provides a 45-minute helicopter adventure, with scenic views of the South Rim, Eastern, and Northern rims, plus the option to add a Hummer tour.
1. From South Rim: Grand Canyon Spirit Helicopter Tour
This 45-minute helicopter tour from Tusayan takes you high above the South Rim, with a focus on the Painted Desert, Kaibab National Forest, and the Dragon Corridor—the widest and deepest part of the canyon. Starting near the South Rim, your pilot will whisk you past rugged cliffs, the Desert View Watchtower, and Point Imperial, giving you a sweeping panorama of the canyon’s layered rock formations. What makes this flight special is the route through the Dragon Corridor, a spectacular stretch renowned for its depth and scale.
Rated 4.9/5 with over 1,700 reviews, this tour is praised for its stunning views and smooth flight experience. Many travelers mention that the pilot commentary helps bring the scenery to life, making it more than just a pretty view. It’s a great choice if you want a quick yet comprehensive aerial overview, especially for first-timers. The price of $339 per person reflects its premium experience but offers excellent value given the length and quality of the flight.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a mid-length, scenic helicopter adventure that captures the canyon’s highlights, this tour hits all the right notes without taking up your entire day.
2. Grand Canyon Village: Helicopter Tour & Hummer Tour Options
This tour combines a helicopter flight over the North and South Rim with the option to add a Hummer tour at sunset, making it a flexible choice for travelers wanting both aerial and land-based exploration. The helicopter portion lasts from 30 minutes to 3.5 hours, depending on the package, and provides a panoramic view of the canyon reaching a mile deep near the South Rim. The aerial route includes sights of the South Rim, as well as the distant North Rim on a clear day.
Guests who opt for the Hummer upgrade can explore the canyon in a rugged vehicle, often with guides sharing insights into the landscape and local wildlife. With over 2,450 reviews and a rating of 4.6/5, this tour is praised for its value and variety. Travelers say the combination makes for a “full day of canyon exploration,” and the sunset Hummer ride offers dramatic lighting for photography.
At around $289 per person for just the helicopter, this tour offers excellent value, especially when combined with land adventures. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive experience, blending aerial views with outdoor exploration.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want the most flexible and in-depth canyon experience, this tour’s combination of helicopter and optional Hummer ride is hard to beat.
3. Tusayan: Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride with Optional Hummer
This 45-minute helicopter tour departs from Tusayan, offering a focused yet expansive view of the South Rim, with the opportunity to see the Eastern and Northern rims too. Flying over the deepest part of the canyon, the pilot will highlight key rock formations, the Colorado River, and the surrounding Kaibab Forest. The route includes spectacular aerial views of the canyon’s rim and the chance to gaze into the bottom of the canyon, where layers of colorful rock tell a story millions of years in the making.
Rated 4.7/5 with 129 reviews, this tour is appreciated for its intimate scale and high-quality views. Travelers often note that the flight feels personalized, with clearer views and more direct routes over scenic highlights. The optional Hummer upgrade allows you to extend your adventure on the ground, exploring nearby viewpoints or enjoying a sunset ride.
Priced at $399 per person, this tour is slightly more expensive but justifies it with its scenic depth and less crowded feel. It’s ideal for visitors staying in Tusayan who prefer a shorter, more tailored aerial experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re in Tusayan and want a dedicated helicopter experience with the option to add a land-based adventure, this tour offers both flexibility and quality.
How to Choose the Right Helicopter Tour in Tusayan
When deciding between these options, consider how much time you want to spend in the air, your budget, and whether you’d like to combine land adventures. The From South Rim: Grand Canyon Spirit Helicopter Tour is perfect for a quick but stunning overview. If you want a full-day, versatile adventure with both aerial and land explorations, the Grand Canyon Village tour with Hummer is a great fit. For those staying in Tusayan and seeking a more personalized experience, the Tusayan helicopter ride strikes a good balance.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak months in spring and fall, to secure your preferred time slot. Also, check if combining with other activities like sunset Hummer rides enhances your experience.
Final Thoughts
Tusayan offers a range of helicopter tours that cater to different interests and schedules. The Spirit Tour provides a quick yet impressive view of key sights. The Grand Canyon Village combo offers the most variety and a full day of adventure, making it suitable for travelers wanting more. Meanwhile, the Tusayan helicopter ride is perfect for a focused, high-quality experience close to your accommodations.
No matter which you choose, booking ahead is wise to ensure you get the time and experience you want. Each tour offers a unique way to enjoy the grandeur of the Grand Canyon from above—so pick the one that best fits your travel style, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.
Happy flying, and don’t forget to bring your camera!