The 3 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours In Tusayan

Exploring the Grand Canyon from Tusayan is a must-do for any traveler eager to see one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. What makes Tusayan such a prime base for helicopter flights is its proximity to the South Rim, offering quick access to soaring above the canyon’s stunning vistas. These helicopter tours provide unique perspectives that ground-based viewpoints simply can’t match, revealing the canyon’s vast depth, intricate rock formations, and surrounding landscapes like Painted Desert and Kaibab Forest. Whether you’re after a quick 30-minute flight or a longer, more comprehensive aerial journey, Tusayan’s helicopter experiences stand out for their exceptional views and well-reviewed service.

Many of these tours also combine helicopter flights with land-based adventures, such as Hummer rides, giving you a layered look at the canyon’s landscape. This list includes options suitable for different budgets and time frames, from short scenic flights to immersive half-day excursions. If you’re craving a memorable way to see the Grand Canyon, these tours are as close as it gets to flying over a natural masterpiece.

1. From South Rim: Grand Canyon Spirit Helicopter Tour

At number 1, the Grand Canyon Spirit Helicopter Tour offers a 45-minute flight with some of the most striking views of the canyon. Starting from the South Rim, this tour takes you over the Painted Desert, Kaibab National Forest, and the Dragon Corridor—the canyon’s widest and deepest stretch. Flying through the Dragon Corridor, which is often considered the highlight, provides an expansive perspective that’s hard to match from the ground.

The tour stands out for its frequent daily departures and highly positive reviews—rated 4.9 out of 5 based on over 1,500 reviews. Passengers rave about the professional pilots, especially mentioning guides like Drew and Gabriel for their friendly demeanor and narration. The views of Point Imperial and Marble Canyon are breathtaking, with some noting that sitting in the front seat elevates the experience. Cost at $339 per person might seem steep, but many feel it’s justified for the once-in-a-lifetime views and high-quality helicopter.

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-reviewed experience with scenic highlights like the Painted Desert and Dragon Corridor. It’s one of the most popular for good reason, especially if you want the most iconic aerial views.

2. Grand Canyon Village: Helicopter Tour & Hummer Tour Options

Number 2 on our list pairs a helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon with the option to explore by Hummer at sunset. This combo offers a multi-layered approach, giving you a scenic flight over both the North and South Rims, followed by a land-based adventure in a rugged Hummer vehicle. The helicopter portion, at 25 minutes, is a solid window into the canyon’s grandeur, flying over the South Rim where the depth is around a mile.

The tour is highly rated at 4.6 out of 5 from nearly 2,000 reviews, with many mentioning the ease of booking, safety, and the memorable views. The Hummer ride is an additional feature that provides a different perspective—more grounded and close-up—with some guests describing it as “fantastic” and “the best way to see the canyon.” The mixed option is well suited for those wanting both aerial and land-based experiences, especially if they want a flexible, full-day adventure.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a broader experience, combining flight and land exploration, with the chance to see the canyon from multiple angles. The added Hummer adventure enhances the overall value.

3. Tusayan: Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride with Optional Hummer

Finally, the Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride from Tusayan offers a 45-minute flight starting at $399 per person. This tour is notable for its emphasis on experiencing the deepest and widest parts of the canyon, with magnificent aerial views of the South Rim, Eastern, and Northern rims. Flying from Tusayan provides convenient access to the canyon’s most iconic sections, with pilots showing you the rock formations and depths that make the Grand Canyon famous.

Rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 74 reviews, this tour is appreciated for its scenic vistas and the opportunity to see the canyon from multiple perspectives. The optional Hummer adds a land adventure that many find enhances the trip, especially when driven by Gigi, whom some reviews highlight as “fantastic.” The flight duration of around 40 minutes balances quality and cost, with the added land tour providing a well-rounded experience.

Bottom Line: This tour offers a slightly longer flight and the option for a land adventure — great for travelers who want a comprehensive, bit more luxurious experience directly from Tusayan.

How to Choose Your Perfect Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour

When selecting between these options, think about your priorities: budget, time, and what kind of experience you’re after. The South Rim: Grand Canyon Spirit Helicopter Tour is ideal if you want the most celebrated views and a quick, high-quality flight. If you prefer a combination of aerial and ground exploration, the Grand Canyon Village combo balances both, especially with the sunset Hummer option. For those based in Tusayan or seeking a longer, more intimate flight, the Tusayan helicopter experience provides a deep dive into the canyon’s depths with flexible land add-ons.

Booking early is recommended, especially for popular times like summer or fall. Consider your fitness level, time constraints, and whether you want a quick view or a more immersive exploration. Comparing prices and itineraries can help you pick the best fit for your adventure style.

In summary, Tusayan offers a solid range of helicopter tours that cater to different preferences and budgets. For the most iconic views, the Spirit Helicopter Tour delivers a high-quality experience rated nearly perfect by travelers. If you want a broader adventure, the combination of helicopter and Hummer tours adds variety and a deeper appreciation of the canyon’s landscape. For those staying in Tusayan and seeking a longer, personalized experience, the longer helicopter ride with optional Hummer is a superb choice. Whatever your pick, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unforgettable perspectives of the Grand Canyon.