45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 2,046 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona worth booking?
45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona is a 0.8-hour experience in Grand Canyon National Park, United States, from $359 per person. It scores 71 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 2,046 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 71 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (2,046)
- Duration
- 0.8 hours
- From
- $359 per person
Your tour beings at the Grand Canyon airport in Tusayan, Arizona. Fly over the ponderosa pines of Kaibab National Forest on a 45-minute helicopter excursion from the Grand Canyon South Rim. Upstream on the Colorado River are views of the Painted Desert and Desert View Watchtower. View Marble Canyon and Point Imperial as you fly through the Canyon and climb above the North Rim to head south through the Dragon Corridor, the Canyon’s widest and deepest section.
What you get
About this experience
Your tour beings at the Grand Canyon airport in Tusayan, Arizona. Fly over the ponderosa pines of Kaibab National Forest on a 45-minute helicopter excursion from the Grand Canyon South Rim. Upstream on the Colorado River are views of the Painted Desert and Desert View Watchtower. View Marble Canyon and Point Imperial as you fly through the Canyon and climb above the North Rim to head south through the Dragon Corridor, the Canyon’s widest and deepest section.
What's included
Included
- All taxes and fees
- 45-minute helicopter flight
Not included
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
What you'll see and do
Kaibab National Forest
You will depart Tusayan, Arizona located in the South Rim of the Grand Canyon on the safest and most comfortable-tourism based helicopter in the world. On your 45-minute helicopter flight, enjoy the luxurious comfort and wraparound windows which offer breathtaking views of the Canyon. Enjoy the fantastic views of the Canyon as you fly over the 1.6 million-acre (6,500 km²) Kaibab National Forest, which borders both the north and south rims of the Grand Canyon. The Kaibab National Forest is home to the world’s largest ponderosa pines.
Pass by without stopping
Upon reaching the edge of the canyon, the South Rim gently drops away as the North Rim and east end of the canyon come into view – this is definitely one of the greatest views of the Grand Canyon.
Pass by without stopping
Painted Desert
You will continue your journey as you follow the Colorado River upstream viewing at a distance the 146-square mile Painted Desert and the 70-foot (21-meter) Desert View Watchtower, a National Historic Landmark.
Pass by without stopping
Grand Canyon Desert View Watchtower
The Desert View Watchtower features an observation deck from which visitors to the national park can view eastern portions of the Grand Canyon.
Pass by without stopping
Marble Canyon
Next, view Marble Canyon, the section of the Colorado River which marks the beginning of the Grand Canyon, and Point Imperial, the highest point on the North Rim at 8,803 feet (2,683 meters). Point Imperial overlooks the Painted Desert and the eastern end of Grand Canyon. You will fly through the Canyon above the North Rim heading south through the Dragon Corridor, the widest and deepest section of the Canyon.
Pass by without stopping
The Colorado River
At the end of your helicopter flight, you will cross over the Colorado River and fly over the South Rim and the Kaibab National Forest to land. Please note: Per FAA regulations, all passengers 18 years and older will be required to show photo ID such as a driver's license or passport at the time of check-in.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Grand Canyon National Park
All passengers must be checked in 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time; failure to comply may cause flight cancellation with no reimbursement.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
All passengers must be checked in 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time; failure to comply may cause flight cancellation with no reimbursement.
Options you can book
Canyon Spirit
Important Information: You must be at the departure point at least 30-minutes prior to the flight time listed below.
DO NOT REMOVE
Before you book
- Cancellation
- If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 7 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Maverick Helicopters AZ
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Due to comfort and weight / balance of the aircraft, passengers weighing over 275 lbs (124 kg or 19.6 stone) will be required to purchase an additional seat; this is payable directly to the tour operator on the day of the tour
- Individual passenger weights, including infants, MUST be advised at time of booking
- Pilots are unable to assist passengers boarding and disembarking due to insurance regulations
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
- Per FAA Regulations, original government issued photo ID such as a REAL-ID compliant driver's license or a valid passport is required for all travelers over the age of 18. Photocopies or digital IDs are not accepted. Any guest arriving without original, government-issued identification will be denied check-in, and no refunds will be issued for any guest in the reservation.
- Helicopter seating is based on legal weight & balance limits and will be assigned after check-in. Maverick Helicopters does not guarantee seating next to or in the same row of the rest of the party.”
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 2,040 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Value for money
4 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
2,040 verified traveler reviews for 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Best way to see Grand Canyon!
Incredible experience! Our pilot was professional, knowledgeable and personable. The flight was very comfortable and the views were OUTSTANDING! Absolutely recommend!
via Viator
Flytime
This is an excellent way to see the Canyon. Very nice operation ,excellent pilot and worth the expense
via Viator
The best wedding anniversary !
Our experience was amazing. The view from above was breathtaking. We strongly recommend Maverick Helicopter Rides to everyone if you want to experience the Grand Canyon at its best. This was our 40th wedding anniversary and am so glad that we shared it with them.
via Tripadvisor
Scenic view
Unique breathtaking experience. Amazing view. We had so much fun. Pilot did a great job. Definitely worth the money.
via Viator
Positive experience - even with a cancelled flight!
We were due to fly with Maverick Helicopters on Mon 28 September but due to weather conditions, all flights were cancelled. We revised our itinerary so that we could return two days later for the flight, but again, it was decided that the low cloud meant that it wasn’t possible or safe to fly once again. Although naturally disappointed, I wanted to leave this review entirely in praise of the staff at Maverick Helicopters in Tusayan, Arizona. They could not have been more charming, helpful, accommodating and sympathetic for our situation and we have nothing but positive feedback for their professionalism and safety ethics. They gave advice on how to obtain a full refund from our provider and to my astonishment, today I saw that they had applied and gained the refund on my behalf. This took away the worry and time in having to go through the refund process in the middle of our holiday. I would recommend anyone thinking of taking a helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon to book with Maverick. Safety first - so thank you Maverick - it was a pleasure meeting you all and continued success in the future!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 0.8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Non-refundable
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $359 to $1,000
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 716
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 71
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Grand Canyon National Park.
How much does 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona cost?
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Prices start at $359 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Grand Canyon National Park usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona take?
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Plan for about 0.8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Grand Canyon National Park is not rushed.
Is 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 71 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 2,046 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Grand Canyon National Park, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona?
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No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.
Is 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 0.8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona?
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Around 716 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Grand Canyon National Park can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Grand Canyon National Park and add a light layer if any part of the 0.8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Grand Canyon National Park within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Grand Canyon National Park?
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The Grand Canyon splits into three very different products: South Rim ground tours, helicopter and fixed-wing flights, and Colorado River rafting days. Most visitors arrive from Las Vegas, Sedona or Flagstaff, so drive time is the number one factor in how good the day feels. Our ranking treats total transit hours as part of the value calculation, not a footnote. On Outty we rank every Grand Canyon National Park experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour, Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Grand Canyon National Park?
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March to May and September to November. South Rim stays open year round. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Grand Canyon National Park?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona?
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Included: All taxes and fees; and 45-minute helicopter flight. Not included: Gratuities; and Hotel pickup and drop-off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona?
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All passengers must be checked in 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time; failure to comply may cause flight cancellation with no reimbursement. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Individual passenger weights, including infants, MUST be advised at time of booking. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona?
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Across 2,046 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include value for money, photo opportunities, the guide. Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.
What booking options are available for 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Canyon Spirit, DO NOT REMOVE. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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