Las Vegas: Grand Canyon Heli Tour and Valley of Fire Landing

If you’re dreaming of soaring above some of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest, the Las Vegas: Grand Canyon Heli Tour and Valley of Fire Landing offers a truly memorable experience. This three-hour adventure combines exhilarating helicopter flights with spectacular scenery, from the bright lights of Vegas to the tranquil beauty of the Valley of Fire. It’s a premium way to see the grandeur of the Canyon, with the added thrill of a champagne toast and a secluded landing.

What we love about this tour is its combination of luxury and authentic scenery. The helicopter is described as comfortable and well-equipped, and the narration by the pilot enriches the experience with interesting details about each sight. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the cost — $599 per person — which might be steep for some travelers, but many feel the value matches the price, especially given the exclusivity and the photo opportunities.

This experience is best suited for travelers who crave panoramic views, are comfortable with helicopter rides, and want a special way to celebrate a milestone or simply elevate their Vegas trip. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure that’s packed with photo opportunities and luxury touches, this tour could be perfect.

Key Points

• Stunning vistas: Experience breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon, Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and the Valley of Fire.
• Exclusive experience: Small group size (limited to 6 participants) ensures a more intimate and personalized adventure.
• Luxury touches: VIP check-in, a champagne toast, and a scenic 30-minute landing add a touch of indulgence.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Multiple scenic flights over major landmarks, culminating in a spectacular sunset over the landscape.
• Photographer’s dream: Ideal for capturing unforgettable photos of natural and man-made wonders.
• Value for price: The 100-minute flight, guided commentary, and VIP experience make it a solid investment for those seeking a premium tour.

The Experience in Detail

We’re all about providing honest, thorough insights, and this helicopter tour checks many boxes for a memorable adventure. Starting at the 5 Star Helicopter Tours heliport, just a quick 15-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip, the check-in process is streamlined and comfortable. The fact that the check-in includes a safety briefing (lasting around 30 minutes) ensures everyone is prepared and confident before lifting off.

The Departure and Scenic Flyovers

Once aboard the helicopter, the true journey begins. The aircraft is described as luxurious, with commentary provided by your pilot, whose insights transform the flight from mere sightseeing to an engaging narrative. You’ll fly over Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel that’s impressive both from the ground and the air, with many reviewers mentioning how the scale of the dam, Lake Mead, and nearby Fortification Hill volcano is awe-inspiring.

As you head toward the Grand Canyon, your pilot will point out key landmarks, including the Bypass Bridge, which offers a stunning view, and Lake Mead’s expansive waters. The 30-mile descent into the canyon provides unparalleled photo opportunities, with some reviewers mentioning the unmatchable views of the canyon’s layered rock formations bathed in sunset light.

The Grand Canyon

The highlight of this tour is, of course, the awe-inspiring vistas of the Grand Canyon itself. Flying above and below this natural wonder gives you a sense of its immense scale and geological beauty. Several reviews note that words and pictures fall short of capturing the true majesty of the canyon, but the feeling of flying over such a vast, colorful landscape is indescribable.

Valley of Fire Landing and Photo Stop

After the canyon, the helicopter glides over Lake Mead and heads toward Valley of Fire State Park. Here, the experience shifts from just flying to really experiencing the landscape. You’ll descend for a 30-minute landing on a secluded overlook, where the striking red rock formations glow in the sunset.

One reviewer, Heidi, described this part as “words, pictures, … cannot describe this,” emphasizing how breathtaking the scenery is. During this stop, you’ll have ample time to take photos, enjoy the scenery, and toast with champagne — a thoughtful touch that elevates the trip into a celebration of natural beauty.

Return Flight and Vegas Skyline

As the tour winds down, your pilot will take you back over the Las Vegas Strip. Expect to see iconic landmarks like Caesars Palace, the Bellagio, the Stratosphere Tower, and the Guardian Stadium glowing in the twilight. It’s a fitting end to an already spectacular journey, as you descend back to the heliport.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Start & Safety Briefing: Located at 5 Star Helicopter Tours, check-in is smooth, with friendly staff setting the tone for a relaxed experience.
• Hoover Dam & Lake Mead: First flight segment, where you’ll marvel at the dam’s scale and Lake Mead’s vastness.
• Fortification Hill & Canyon Flyover: Your pilot will point out volcanic formations and geological features.
• Grand Canyon: The core of the tour, with a 30-mile scenic descent offering close-up views of the canyon’s layered walls.
• Valley of Fire: The highlight for many, with a 30-minute land stop to explore and photograph the vividly colored rocks.
• Vegas Skyline: The final leg offers a bird’s-eye view of the neon-lit cityscape, perfect for capturing in your camera.
• Return & reflection: Back at the heliport, with plenty of photos to sort through and memories to cherish.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $599 per person includes water, soda, a 100-minute helicopter flight, pilot commentary, champagne toast, and all taxes and fees. The fuel surcharge is also covered, so there are no hidden costs. However, in-flight videos are available for purchase if you want to relive the experience.

A notable plus is the small group size — limited to 6 participants — which makes for a more personalized and comfortable experience. The VIP check-in process, combined with the luxurious helicopter, ensures you feel special from start to finish.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your ID or passport for check-in.
• Wear comfortable shoes — you might get some time to explore during the Valley of Fire stop.
• Book in advance as starting times vary and spots fill quickly, especially during peak seasons.
• Consider your weight: the tour notes that passengers over 250 lbs/113 kg need to purchase an additional seat, so plan accordingly.
• Photos matter: bring a camera or smartphone with good zoom capabilities to capture the stunning landscapes.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Heidi’s comment that “words, pictures, … cannot describe this” encapsulates how incredible the views are. She also highlighted how friendly everyone was, from staff to pilots, making the experience feel special. The sense of being transported over iconic landmarks, with a knowledgeable pilot narrating, makes the tour feel both luxurious and authentic.

Another reviewer appreciated how the pilot’s detailed commentary enriched the experience, turning a sightseeing flight into an educational journey. The 30-minute Valley of Fire landing was described as “breathtaking,” with the vibrant colors of the rocks shining under the sunset, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Certainly, this helicopter tour offers a premium, visually stunning experience that’s hard to match. The combination of scenic flights, a VIP landing, and a champagne toast makes it perfect for special occasions or travelers who want a unique perspective of Las Vegas and the Southwest’s natural wonders.

While the price is on the higher end, many feel the value lies in the exclusivity, comfort, and unforgettable views. If you’re after a bucket-list adventure that blends natural beauty with a touch of luxury, this trip is a strong contender.

That said, it’s best suited for those comfortable with helicopter rides and eager to splurge on a truly memorable experience. For travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic, and well-organized tour with stunning photo opportunities, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The provided data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but typically, helicopter tours recommend age-appropriate passengers. It’s best to check directly with the operator.

How long is the entire tour?
The overall duration is 3 hours, including check-in, safety briefing, and flights.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring your passport or ID, and wear comfortable shoes — especially for the Valley of Fire stop.

What landmarks will I see during the flight?
You’ll fly over Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Fortification Hill, the Grand Canyon, and Valley of Fire.

Can I purchase a video of my flight?
Yes, in-flight videos are available for purchase, although they are not included in the base price.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What if I weigh more than 250 lbs?
Passengers over 250 lbs/113 kg are required to purchase an extra seat.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking early is recommended, especially during busy seasons, as availability can be limited.

Are there any hidden costs?
All taxes, fees, and fuel surcharges are included in the $599 price.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

In essence, this tour offers a rare combination of luxury, adventure, and jaw-dropping scenery, ideal for those who want more than just a standard sightseeing experience.