Grand Canyon helicopters fly to the National Park from sunrise to sunset. For most travelers, every flight is one to remember. But what if I told you that by timing your flight right, it could be even better?
As a travel reviewer, I've been taking canyon helicopter trips for years. I've done early morning, lunch and dusk. Each gives you a unique view of the Park. However, if I had my druthers, I'd stick to morning departures.
I say this for a couple of reasons:
1. The air is smoother. As the day progresses, the sun heats the ground and produces turbulence. I've never had a ride that was uncomfortably bumpy. However, if you're looking to take pictures, it matters. It also might make a difference if you are prone to motion sickness.
2. The air is clearer. The winds pick up after lunch and they bring dust and possibly smoke from area wildfires, which, because of drought, occur quite regularly during summer. That said, a bit of haze intensifies sunsets and makes early evening flights worth your consideration.
3. Summer thunderstorms avoided. The northern Arizona monsoon season runs from July through September. The season is marked by quick afternoon storms. The worst that can happen is you'll be grounded until the storm passes. I, however, think it's worth the wait: The Grand Canyon looks absolutely beautiful after a rain shower.
To get the flight and time you want, you must book your Grand Canyon helicopter tour ahead of time by at least a week. This rule of thumb applies to tours that originate from Las Vegas and Grand Canyon Airport (a.k.a. South Rim in Arizona).
Further reasons to RSVP are:
1. Helicopter tours are extremely popular and sell out. Last-minute bookings for two or more people are hard to get. If you do succeed, expect to pay out the nose.
2. Morning and sunset flights are at the top of everyone's wish list.
3. Helicopters only hold six people plus the pilot, thus putting a further stress on availability.
Like everyone else, I'm looking for a great deal on helicopter tours, too. Every day I scour the Web for friends, family and clients. I've boiled down my strategy to get flight discounts to two simple points:
1. Reserve in advance. The further out the better, with a minimum of a week ahead of time.
2. Buy your seats on the Internet. It's common knowledge that the best deals are online. I only use tour operators that offer special online pricing.
3. Complete the entire reservation online. Using an agent will cost you more. This is the step that everyone falls down on.
I strongly believe that the absolute best way to enjoy the National Park is by taking a Grand Canyon Helicopter tour. The canyon is a massive place (like over 1 million acres!), and helicopters are the best way to come to terms with its awesomeness. And, for those who want to take their canyon experience to the next level, fly in the a.m.
Mr. Kravitz is a travel writer who writes regularly about the Grand Canyon. He recommends this Grand Canyon helicopter website for readers interested in flying over the National Park.
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