The Grand Canyon is the most popular tourist destination in the American Southwest. There are a number of ways to see the West Grand Canyon, but the most time efficient is a tour departing from Las Vegas. A road trip from Las Vegas to Phoenix is a great way to see all the sites, but requires about a week and hours of driving.

Should you take an air tour?

Because of the sheer size of the Grand Canyon, it is hard to grasp the magnitude of the landscape without being above it. Unique combinations of geologic color and erosional forms decorate a canyon that is 277 river miles (446km) long, up to 18 miles (29km) wide, and a mile (1.6km) deep. No single viewpoint on the ground can encompass the scope of the canyon

Airplane tour vs. helicopter?

Both have advantages. An airplane tour can be better because the flights generally fly about 1,000 feet above the helicopter tours. This can result in a wider angle for photographs. However, helicopter flying lower offer more detail for a personal viewing experience. Also, the average visitor has fewer opportunities to experience a helicopter flight.

Best time of day

Although all flights are similar, during the summer months early morning flights and sunset flights will have less turbulence as the air heats up during the day.

Bus tours

Air tours not for you? The Grand Canyon bus tour is a great way to get to the canyon without have to worry about driving out there. And you’ll still be back to Las Vegas the same day.