The Top 4 Helicopter Flights & Tours In Grand Canyon National Park

Exploring the Grand Canyon from the sky is one of those bucket-list moments that’s hard to beat. The sheer size, vibrant colors, and rugged terrain are breathtaking from any angle, but seeing it from a helicopter takes it to a whole new level. Because the Canyon stretches over 277 miles and drops more than a mile in some places, a helicopter flight offers a quick, comfortable way to take in sights that are difficult to appreciate from the ground. Whether it’s flying over the Colorado River, drifting along the North Rim, or circling the South Rim, these tours give you a perspective that’s both expansive and intimate.

While the Grand Canyon is famous for its rugged hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, a well-chosen helicopter tour can reveal hidden vistas and tell a story in a way that ground tours simply can’t match. The variety of options—including different durations, routes, and add-on experiences—means you can tailor your trip to your interests, time constraints, and budget. To help you decide, we’ve rounded up the top helicopter tours that deliver spectacular views and memorable experiences, from quick scenic flights to longer explorations of the North Rim.

Quick Overview

Our list features four standout helicopter experiences in the Grand Canyon. Two are shorter, around 25 to 30 minutes, perfect for a quick yet stunning overview—such as the 25-min Grand Canyon South Rim EcoStar Helicopter Tour. The longer options include the Grand Canyon Helicopter 45-Minute Flight with Optional Hummer Tour, which combines aerial views with a ground adventure, and the 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, offering a comprehensive journey from the South Rim. Plus, the North Rim helicopter tour stands out for its unique perspective over the less-visited North Rim and optional Hummer extension. Each offers a different balance of time, route, and added experiences, so keep reading to find the best fit for your trip.

1. Grand Canyon Helicopter 45-Minute Flight with Optional Hummer Tour

At number 1, this 45-minute flight offers an in-depth look at the Canyon from the air. The tour includes flying over the narrow Dragon Corridor, Imperial Point, and both the North and South Rims, all with expert narration that shares fascinating facts about this natural wonder. If you’re interested in combining aerial and ground exploration, you can add an optional guided Hummer tour to see the canyon from the ground as well.

This tour is praised for its balance of length and value, priced at $399 per person for roughly 45 minutes in the air. Reviewers often mention the spectacular views of the Colorado River, and the fact that the pilot’s commentary adds context to what you’re seeing. Several note that the experience is “well worth it,” and a memorable way to take in this enormous landscape. The helicopter is a comfortable ECO-Star, and the flight covers both rims, giving you a full scope of the canyon’s grandeur.

Bottom line: This tour appeals if you want an immersive experience with a good mix of flying and optional terrestrial sightseeing, especially if you’re keen on a longer, more comprehensive aerial view.

2. 25-min Grand Canyon South Rim EcoStar Helicopter Tour with Optional Hummer

At number 2, this shorter, 25-minute flight packs a punch with sweeping views of the widest and deepest part of the canyon. It’s designed for travelers who want high-impact scenery without spending a lot of time in the air. During the flight, you’ll traverse over the North and South Rims, fly through the dramatic Dragon Corridor, and take in the vast landscape of this natural marvel.

This tour also offers an upgrade to include a ground Hummer tour, which takes you to Moran Point and other rims after your flight, making it a nice combination of aerial and terrestrial sightseeing. Priced at $339, it offers excellent value for a half-hour in the air, especially given the stunning views and the chance to extend your adventure. Reviewers rave about the smooth ride and friendly staff, and many mention how memorable it is to see the canyon from this vantage point. The pilot’s professionalism and the clear narration enhance the experience.

Bottom line: If you’re limited on time but still want a high-quality helicopter experience, this tour gives you the essentials with the option to add a ground tour for fuller exploration.

3. Helicopter Tour of the North Canyon with Optional Hummer Excursion

On our list at number 3 is a North Rim helicopter tour, offering an exclusive perspective over the less-visited side of the canyon. The flight lasts about 25 minutes but can extend to 4.5 hours if you include the optional Hummer tour of Moran Point and other scenic spots. Flying over Kaibab National Forest into the Dragon Corridor allows you to see the deepest and widest part of the canyon with unparalleled clarity.

The tour’s highlight is its focus on the North Rim, which is often less crowded but equally stunning. The optional Hummer extension, which lasts around 2 hours, takes you along the rim to key viewpoints. Reviewers mention that the aerial views are “unbeatable,” and the tour is particularly suited for those wanting a more isolated and peaceful canyon experience. Priced at $289, it’s a solid option for those who want a shorter flight but are willing to extend it for a more comprehensive ground tour.

Bottom line: This experience is ideal if you’re interested in the North Rim’s unique vistas and want the flexibility of a combined helicopter and Hummer adventure.

4. 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona

Number 4 on our list is a longer, comprehensive flight departing from Tusayan, offering a full 45-minute journey through the canyon’s most iconic sights. This tour flies from the South Rim, passing over Kaibab National Forest, Painted Desert, Desert View Watchtower, Marble Canyon, and Point Imperial before returning along the Dragon Corridor. The ECO-Star helicopter’s wraparound windows make sure no stunning detail is missed.

Rated with a perfect 5-star from nearly 1,900 reviews, this is the most popular choice for its balance of length, comfort, and scenery. The pilot, such as Mathew, is described as knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience both safe and engaging. The tour covers all the main viewpoints with plenty of photo opportunities, including the mighty Colorado River and the world’s largest ponderosa pines in Kaibab Forest. Many reviewers say it’s “the most amazing way to see the canyon,” and the fact that it includes all taxes and fees simplifies planning.

Bottom line: For travelers who want a comprehensive, high-quality flight that covers the key sights of the South Rim, this tour is hard to beat, especially given its strong reviews and lengthy duration.

How to Choose the Right Helicopter Tour in the Grand Canyon

When selecting a helicopter tour, consider your budget, available time, and what you want to see. If you’re pressed for time but still want a stunning overview, the 25-minute EcoStar or longer 45-minute options are excellent. For those craving the most immersive experience, the longer 45-minute flight from Tusayan offers a detailed view with excellent reviews.

If you’re interested in a less crowded perspective or want to explore the North Rim, the optional Hummer tours combined with helicopter flights provide a great way to see more of the canyon’s quieter sides. Remember to book early, especially in peak seasons, as these tours are popular and fill quickly.

Final Thoughts

The range of helicopter tours in the Grand Canyon means there’s something for every traveler—whether you want a quick overview or a detailed exploration of both Rims. For sheer popularity and outstanding reviews, the 45-minute flight from Tusayan stands out as a top pick, while the North Rim helicopter offers a quieter, more exclusive experience for those who want to venture off the beaten path.

No matter which you choose, a helicopter tour promises a breathtaking view and a story to tell for years to come. Be sure to book early, bring your camera, and prepare for a truly awe-inspiring adventure above one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes.