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Papillon Helicopters Review – Best Options & Prices

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After taking two Papillon helicopter tours , we have written this in-depth Papillon review to share our impressions and experience.

Our first time taking a Papillon tour was during our 10-day American West Coast road trip . On that occasion, we took the Grand Discovery  and it was outstanding! Some years later, we found ourselves with one extra day in Las Vegas, so we decided to take another Papillon helicopter to the Grand Canyon , the Celebration with Strip , to land at the bottom of the canyon and see the Strip at sunset, and it was one of the best experiences of my life.

Papillon helicopter Las Vegas reviews

Papillon Helicopters Review

If you haven’t flown with Papillon   yet, you should know that this company is well-known for its  air tours of the Grand Canyon  and it’s one of the largest sightseeing companies in this area. Papillon Helicopters is a trustworthy company with over 50 years of experience. Its fleet of 48 aircraft is specially designed with large windows and comfortable seating so you can have the best flight ever.

In this  Papillon review , I’ll share more about what to expect from a Papillon tour, how to get the cheapest Papillon helicopter flights and their most popular tours that visit the Grand Canyon and other beautiful areas in the southwest.

Papillon helicopter tours

You can find  Papillon helicopter tours  to the Grand Canyon no matter your budget or schedule. In this guide, I’ll cover a few different  Papillon helicopter tour reviews departing from :

  • Grand Canyon South Rim
  • Grand Canyon West Rim
  • Page, AZ (Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend)

As you can see, you can take a  Papillon helicopter from Vegas, Nevada,  or Arizona. Besides, some of the best  Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas   are with this company, so let’s dive into the details !

Papillon helicopter Las Vegas tours

Papillon’s most popular packages are the  Las Vegas helicopter tours . Since many people visit this city every year, these are the most convenient option for most tourists. Some  Papillon helicopters from Las Vegas  just explore the Strip and the city surroundings from the air. However, there are some tours that go farther and soar over other natural landscapes such as the Grand Canyon.

Papillon helicopter Grand Canyon

Most of these  Grand Canyon helicopter tours from Las Vegas   go to the West Rim, although there are South Rim trips, too.

Most popular Papillon helicopter tours from Las Vegas

These are the top 3 Papillon helicopters from Las Vegas:

  • Strip Highlights , Las Vegas Strip by ? (10 min) | from $84
  • Golden Eagle , Grand Canyon by ? (3 hours) | from $319
  • Celebration with Strip , Grand Canyon with landing + Las Vegas Strip by ? (4 hours) | from $460

Taking a  Papillon helicopter to Las Vegas Strip is the most unique way to see Sin City, and it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. However, if you can afford it, take a  Papillon helicopter to the Grand Canyon . It worth the money but keep in mind that you’ll spend most of your flight traveling between Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon.

That is why we decided to take the Celebration with Strip during our last visit to Las Vegas. That way, we could spend more time at the Grand Canyon since that tour also includes a landing on the bottom of the canyon. We also upgraded the tour to soar over Las Vegas Strip at sunset and it was an experience we will never forget.

Most Papillon helicopters from Las Vegas visit the West Rim but some also visit the South Rim, which is still part of the national park but a little farther away. The cheapest Papillon flights go to the West Rim, and they are also more popular since you can land on the canyon floor on some tours. The views from the South Rim are superior, but I only recommend taking a tour there if you’re already at the South Rim and can take one of the Papillon tours that depart from its South Rim terminal .

Papillon helicopter Grand Canyon South Rim (National Park)

As I said, a  Grand Canyon helicopter tour   with Papillon is a one-of-a-kind experience, especially if you take a flight from the South Rim, which is part of the Grand Canyon National Park. Since canyon floor landings aren’t allowed in this area, the land is better-preserved and absolutely stunning. Check out some  Papillon tour reviews  of the South Rim below.

Papillon Grand Canyon helicopters reviews

Most popular Papillon helicopter tours from Grand Canyon South Rim

Here are the best  Papillon tours  departing from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim:

  • North Canyon , Grand Canyon by ? (30 minutes) | from $209
  • Imperial with EcoStar , Grand Canyon by ? (50 minutes) | from $299
  • Grand Discovery , Grand Canyon by ✈️(45 minutes) | from $149

The South Rim in Grand Canyon National Park is a prime destination thanks to its magnificent views. Besides, you can find several  Papillon helicopter tours  departing from the terminal at this location.

When we flew from the South Rim, we took the Grand Discovery tour , which is probably the cheapest Papillon tour since it’s by airplane instead of helicopter. Anyway, the views were incredible but I didn’t think they were as good as the Imperial with EcoStar Papillon helicopter tour. If you can’t afford that tour, don’t worry. The South Rim has some of the most incredible geological formations in the entire canyon and seeing them from a birds-eye perspective, no matter which tour you take, is something you have to see to believe !

Papillon helicopter Grand Canyon West Rim tours

Taking a  Papillon helicopter from the Grand Canyon  West Rim is a wise choice if you’re in Las Vegas and want to fly over the Grand Canyon but have a tight budget. Rent a car in Las Vegas , drive to the West Rim, and you can get cheap Papillon helicopter tours  from there.

Papillon helicopters reviews

Driving to the Grand Canyon South Rim (which is part of the national park) will take you much longer, but the West Rim is only 2 hours from Sin City. Besides, since the West Rim is not part of the national park, below-the-rim landings are allowed, and most popular tours there include them.

Most popular Papillon helicopter tours from Grand Canyon West Rim

These packages have the top  Papillon Grand Canyon helicopter tour reviews :

  • Helicopter Air Tour , Grand Canyon by ? (15 minutes) | from $229
  • GCW Helicopter Landing , Grand Canyon with landing by ? (30 minutes) | from $259
  • Over the Edge Helicopter & Boat , Grand Canyon with landing by ??️ (tour time varies) | from $269

Another advantage of taking a Papillon helicopter tour from the West Rim is that you will have plenty of time before and after the tour to explore the most popular lookouts on your own, such as Guano Point and Eagle Point. Besides, you can also upgrade your Papillon helicopter tour to include the Skywalk admission .

Papillon helicopter from Page, AZ (Antelope Canyon/Horseshoe Bend)

If you’re interested in  visiting Antelope Canyon , you’re in luck because there are a few  Papillon helicopters  that depart from Page, AZ. These thrilling tours will soar over some of the most spectacular rock formations in the area, giving you a unique perspective of the canyon, Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend , and other beautiful landmarks in Arizona.

Best papillon tours helicopter page

Most popular Papillon helicopter tours from Page, AZ

These are the highest-rated  Papillon helicopter tours  from Page, AZ:

  • Horseshoe Bend Air Tour , Horseshoe Bend by ? (12 minutes) | from $164
  • Lake Powell & Alstrom Point , Page, AZ by ? (20 minutes) | from $249
  • Top of the World , Antelope Canyon by ? (3.5 hours) | from $350

Without a doubt, a  Papillon helicopter  flight in Page, AZ is totally worth it. Take a tour to mystical Antelope Canyon, where you can see the sunlight glinting off the red and white strata. Don’t forget about nearby Horseshoe Bend, an intriguing geological curve in the Colorado River.

Flying over this desert landscape is an exhilarating experience. During your ride, you can get aerial views of Lake Powell, Alstrom Point, the Gunsight and Tower Buttes, Navajo Canyon, and the Glen Canyon Dam.

Papillon helicopter tour prices

Papillon is not just one of the most experienced sightseeing companies in the area, but their rates are the lowest around, too. Plus, you can rest easy knowing there aren’t any hidden costs or surprise fees you’ll have to deal with. You can find a  Papillon helicopter to Vegas  for as low as $84! Papillon helicopter tour prices will be higher if you want to visit the Grand Canyon. But still, they are cheaper than the other helicopter companies operating in the Grand Canyon.

What I love about Papillon is that each flight is narrated and led by expert pilots and guides, creating an enjoyable and safe experience. As you can read in all the  Papillon Grand Canyon helicopter reviews , every tour is unique and exciting, so what are you waiting for?

Papillon helicopter discounts

One of the best things about  Papillon helicopters  is their pricing. You’ll never have to deal with booking fees or unexplained charges when you hire one of these tours.

Papillon helicopters Grand Canyon

Besides, Papillon has a  Special Offers  section on their website so you can find the best deals on  Papillon helicopters from Las Vegas , the Grand Canyon, and Page, AZ. This way, you can check the upfront costs and compare prices online in minutes.

Papillon cancellation policy

Papillon’s cancellation policy is quite simple. You’ll have to reconfirm your flight at least 48 hours before departure. If you want to cancel your  Papillon helicopter tour , you can do so without penalty up to 48 hours in advance. When you cancel, you’ll receive a credit voucher valid up to one year from when you first booked your tour.

Papillon helicopter reviews by customers

If you’re still not sure about booking a  Papillon helicopter tour , consider that it was named the Best Helicopter Tour for 2020 by  USA Today , and it was a Best of Las Vegas 2020 Gold Winner. It’s also a top-ranking Grand Canyon tour company on TripAdvisor, with 4.5/5 stars based on over 1,000  Papillon reviews . The company also has 4.7 stars and over 1,300  Papillon helicopter reviews  on Google.

Papillon’s low, transparent pricing, dedication to customer service, and a renowned fleet of sightseeing aircraft makes it a perfect choice for individuals, couples, and families.

My experience – Papillon helicopter Grand Canyon review

I couldn’t end this guide without giving you my  Papillon review . As I said, we took a  Papillon helicopter to the Grand Canyon  during our  West Coast USA road trip , and it was a magical experience.

Papillon Las Vegas helicopter tours reviews

Even on shorter flights, you can’t beat the aerial views you get from a  Papillon helicopter . The feeling you get when flying over the Grand Canyon and seeing the full magnitude of it from above is hard to put into words. Plus, a heli-tour is the best way to avoid the crowds!

We’ve taken a few rides with Papillon and we always find a tour that suits our budget, schedule, and preferences. The flights are enjoyable, and we appreciate that Papillon gives customers as much airtime as possible.

My experience – Papillon Las Vegas helicopter tour review

Riding in a  Papillon helicopter from Vegas  was one of our top  things to do in Las Vegas   when we took a trip to Sin City. We took the Celebration with Strip because we wanted to land at the bottom of the canyon and see the first lights of Vegas’ nightlife twinkle on the Strip. And it was absolutely stunning!

Papillon helicopter Las Vegas

Not only was this one of the best  day trips from Las Vegas , but we also got to enjoy a champagne picnic by the Colorado River. This was a pricier flight package, but it was an incredible adventure I would love to repeat someday.

Is a Papillon helicopter flight worth it?

Before you even consider this question, my answer is YES! A  Papillon tour  is a great way to explore a new place and have an unforgettable adventure. While there are shuttle buses and road trip packages, taking a  Papillon helicopter  or airplane is something I highly recommend.

Not only will you have a blast, but you’ll get exclusive birds-eye views of famous sights like the Grand Canyon National Park, the Vegas Strip, and the Mojave Desert. Moreover, if you’re worried about cost, I can assure you that Papillon has the lowest prices as well as  special offers  that you won’t want to miss.

I hope you enjoyed reading this  Papillon helicopter review ! Now you should have all the information you need to book an amazing  Papillon helicopter tour  in the southwestern USA. Of course, if you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment.

Happy flying!

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PAPILLON GRAND CANYON HELICOPTERS (Las Vegas) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

Photo of Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters - Grand Canyon, AZ, US.

Review Highlights

Serena D.

“ We took the 35 min helicopter ride thru the south rim of the Grand Canyon. ” in 2 reviews

Cat G.

“ This was expensive but worth every penny . ” in 3 reviews

Amanda C.

“ I don't really know how you couldn't give a favorable review for a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon. ” in 2 reviews

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Photo of Marci` B.

Our aircraft are specifically designed for sightseeing with onboard upgrades developed and patented by Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters. Our planes are designed to provide the most comfortable ride possible as well as ideal sightseeing. Our helicopter fleet are also fitted with oversized windows for sightseeing and photography. All flights also offer pre-recorded narration in 16 languages provided through noise-cancelling headphones. Your adventure with Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters extends beyond air travel. In fact, our catalogue of tours also include horseback, hiking, ATV and Jeep tours, and river rafting excursions at the canyon. Create memories to last a lifetime when you join us on a scenic journey to the most beautiful landform in the American Southwest. …

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Photo of Rich D.

Nice enough tour over the Grand Canyon but the ground crew had zero interpersonal skills. You can't rush people who never were under a rotor who can't hear over the turbine engine. We were on with French tourists so the pilot had to repeat everything in French and play the Canyon history recording twice, once in English and again in French, so we were unable to ask questions. When it's warm and sunny in the afternoon, air conditioning would have been nice. The picture they take of you in front of the helicopter was terrible, so we saved some money.

Photo of Alissa D.

My family and I (6 of us all together) had an amazing ride today! Definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! I'll break my review down. Pros: BREATHTAKING VIEWS. Enough said on that. Our pilot was Abby, and she was such a gem! Super sweet, nice, and friendly. She made small talk with us during our flight and we felt comfortable asking her any questions. She was awesome and gave us a very gentle ride! You can tell she knew what she was doing. Another Pro was that we were all able to fit into one helicopter. We also got a nice picture of us taken in front of the helicopter before we took off (the photo is $20 to purchase and $5 for a digital copy). Cons: The price. It's expensive no doubt (we paid around $200 a person), but for an experience like this we all agreed it was worth it. Another con was that it got really stuffy and hot in the helicopter, so I would recommend dressing lightly. Also, it was a little crammed in the helicopter. Three of us has to sit in a row, one person in the middle who didn't really get to look out of the helicopter. You are assigned seats based on your weight and can't choose where you sit (which we totally understand is necessary). Overall I would recommend this place to anyone who is looking to do something different and stretch their boundaries. Thanks again, Abby!! :)

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See all photos from Alissa D. for Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

Photo of Brandon B.

My first helicopter ride ever, on New Years Day 2018! For nearly an hour, the prices are reasonable for the higher end copter (expensive but I have seen worse for tourist areas). I was a little scared that the ride could be rough but it was extremely smooth, we had a great pilot. The music is cute, timed to make your mood react to different sights, most memorably going off the lip of the canyon to Strauss Thus Spracht Zarathustra, which was most effective! They fly over the river on the east curve of the south rim and over the highlights of the North Rim before heading back over around the park entrance again. This can't be beaten for a different sense of the grandeur of the canyon and how all the parts of it relate as you take an all-around look, better than you could get on land. The company was great and they moved us through efficiently and safely. Highly recommended!

Photo of Papillon G.

Papillon G.

Business Owner

Feb 4, 2018

We're thrilled to hear how much you enjoyed your tour. Helicopter flight is a thrilling experience, and wins over even the most fearful of flying. Thank you for choosing us to show you the Grand Canyon. Sincerely, Papillon Management

Photo of Jen M.

Worth every penny! Enough room in the helicopter. My husband is 6'4 270lbs and he was comfortable throughout the ride. The windows give a great view of the Grand Canyon. We did the 35 minute helicopter flight and it was amazing! I love how you can communicate with the pilot with your own headset. Dont think twice - you wont be sorry :)

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See all photos from Jen M. for Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

Photo of Stephan C.

I spent a lot of money for 50 min in the middle seat of an old Bell. I heard the ride was awesome. It wasn't for me. In the middle seat of an old Bell, you get to see a lot of the inside of a helicopter. The windows on an old Bell are rather small and if you are stuck in the middle you get to watch the people seated at the windows enjoy the view. You don't get to pick your ride and you don't get to pick your seat so if you are assigned to an old Bell and you are assigned the one middle seat, the experience is underwhelming but the price is the same.. As you can see from the forward facing photo, the passengers are rather slight of build but the gap between the seats is not large. Now imagine packing three people on the rear seat who have an avg weight of 170 lbs.

What you see in the middle

What you see in the middle

from the middle looking rt.

from the middle looking rt.

Photo of Eric P.

Worst. Tour. Operator. Ever. Who cancels a tour at the last minute and offers no options? These guys. No creativity to schedule another bus ... just "you are fucked" bye bye. Thanks for ruining my daughters trip to the Canyon. Oh, and my birthday. You rock. Dicks.

Photo of Amanda C.

I don't really know how you couldn't give a favorable review for a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon. If nothing else, it was bound to help me fulfill one of the main activities featured on The Bachelor, without all the drama. A group of 3 made a reservation for a helicopter trip in March only a day in advance and had no problem getting the time of our choice. The woman booking the reservation was kind of sketchy, but I think they use some kind of booking agency. She wasn't really consistent with her rates. Anyway, we each ended up paying $153 which I think is pretty standard for this activity. Once you get to Papillon, you leave everything except your camera in the car, go inside and get weighed, watch a safety video, then board your chopper. The North Rim flight is around 30 minutes, and a pleasant combo of music and narration of canyon history is played through your headset throughout. This must not have been a very crowded day, because the 3 of us got our own helicopter which looks like it can accomodate 6. One of my picky friends sat on the wrong side of the helicopter which disrupted the weight, but we didn't tip over. The views are absolutely spectacular and I would recommend doing this if you are able. You get to see how the topography changes from the south to north rim (which most visitors never get to see anyway) and the canyon and Colorado river in between. Windy days will likely leave you nauseous at the end.

Photo of Serena D.

Best experience ever!! We took the 35 min helicopter ride thru the south rim of the Grand Canyon. From other reviews promoting the more expensive helicopter we decided to do it and it was SO worth the extra costs. The windows were so much bigger and the ride was smooth and quieter (just as shared by other reviews). We'd definitely recommend Papillon as they took care of us, the staff were great and the experience was truly one of a kind!

Photo of Diane E.

What a great way to see the view! It was easy to find the airport and everything was very organized. The guy who runs the safety video is great! Towards the end he was lip syncing along with the narrator and doing the flight attendant type motions. Hilarious! My husband and I shared the ride with 3 Chinese tourists who were very personable. The pilot played a canned "tour speech" first in Chinese and then in English. They could have left that out, I don't think any of us paid much attention to it. I would prefer an occasional comment from the pilot or silence. But it was easily enough ignored. I thought the 25 minute ride was good, my husband would have loved an even longer ride. Oh and when they say no baggage on the helicopter, they mean it. I thought I could at least bring a small belly bag, but we had to put that, our hats and our binoculars in the car. This was a great adventure!

Photo of Jan Marie B.

first class service..wonderful pilo..highly recommend this smooth ride with extraordinary views of the grand canyon..well worth it!

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Review of Papillon Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour - Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

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Review of Papillon Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour

We (big party) booked a tour to the West Rim on February. The tour was very unorganized and confusing because we had to switch buses multiple times to get to the final destination. I guess Papillon is merging us with other travel companies to make it a full load to Grand Canyon West. We were picked up 15 min late and wasted 45min in a center waiting for the tourists from other companies. Then they squeezed everyone into two double-decker buses. We were told to meet on the bus at 3:45pm and everyone on our bus showed up on time. However, our driver was NO WHERE TO BE FOUND!! We waited for 90 minutes on the bus wondering what the heck happened and he finally showed up and told us there were a few poeple missing on the other bus. Our bus was full and he could have taken us back to our hotel first. The other bus has nothing to do with our bus! Why did we have to waste our precious time for the other bus to get filled up? We had a lot of activities planned in Vegas and we needed to get back in town by 7pm (as promised). We traveled 9000 miles to visit Vegas and the time wasted due to the company's poor planning was unacceptable. We did not get back to our hotel until 9pm and we missed our show. Despite the poor planning and service, the experience and view in West Rim itself was amazing. I will not recommend anyone to use this company.

We found a great deal online one morning before work. I used the chat facility to have questions answered, the service was great. All of my questions were answered immediately and we booked on the spot. We rang to confirm the night prior as requested, a little odd, but we did it anyway. The mini van that picked us up was squashy and old, it barley fit in the 12 people it was picking up. But the van that took us back was much larger and comfy. Our only hiccup was that our helicopter required a door latch to be repaired after its early morning flight which put us behind, we could see other ones sitting on the Tarmac, but were told that we needed to go in the one designated. They gave us free drink vouchers for the 30 min inconvenience. Our pilot was delightful, she was just back from 9 weeks maternity leave! She had so much patience for the 4 year old and his constant questions. She made us feel very comfortable and made up for any bad feelings anyone had over getting up for a 6.30 pick up and being told at 8.30 that the flight was delayed! The gift shop was a surprise. There were items of varying value, and a lot of the stuff was very reasonably priced. We ordered cappuccino and got some dirty watery chocolate tasting coffee stuff that was un-drinkable. If you have the chance to take a flight though the canyon, I would recommend Papillon.

The staff at Papillon were professional and efficient. Picked us up at our hotel about, a twenty minute ride to the air field in Boulder City. Checked in, watched a safety video and then met our pilot, this all took about 45 minutes from the time we arrived. Our pilot was great. He was very knowledgeable, entertaining, and funny. We paid $250 per person for front seat on the 70 minute helicopter tour.

We read lots of reviews of helicopter tours and chose Papillon. We found a nice deal on the price (229 per person), and booked online. You have to put your weight in when you sign up (makes sense, they want to be safe with weight limits and load). Website said that for passengers over 300lbs, there may be a $50 charge. I didn't mind that too much. My fiancee is 315, solid guy. Registration says you will be weighed prior to boarding the copter (again, makes sense). The confirmation email said that you have to call them 24 hours prior to your appointment to RE-confirm or you will be waitlisted. Seems kind of stupid. I mean, I paid $458, like I am not going to show up? Then, I get an email that says I owe $200 for a "comfort seat" for my 300+lb passenger. ????? Basically the cost of another space on the helicopter? Not cool with that. I called to cancel. I am monitoring to make sure we get refunded, and hoping that we don't have to fight them for it. Will keep posted.

Thank you for your review. We do only charge a $50 to $200 comfort seat fee for any passengers weighing 300+ lbs. This is stated in our FAQ section on our website. Our competitors charge their full price ($250 to $500 depending on the tour) for a comfort seat. We only charge $200 for helicopter flights departing from Las Vegas and $50 for helicopter flights departing from the Grand Canyon (because they are shorter flights). Please contact our guest services if you would like any more information.

We booked the celebration tour to the GC for Wednesday 20th February 2013. We confirmed the day before as instructed. The weather forecast was looking dodgy with high wind and possible snow. The next day we were waiting as instructed, about 20 minutes after our agreed pick up time, we called and informed the flight had been cancelled due to the weather. I totally agree they were right to cancel but they should have called then we could have made other plans for the day. We were lucky and managed to book into a tour on the Friday. The tour we took part in was good. We were concerned that we did not see the safety video, we were given a sticker, went to sit in the video are, but was told that we needed to go and board. I am sure that the FAA would not be impressed. Our pilot was good, he was on his last day, so seemed a bit demob happy, constant weak jokes. Slightly in bad taste the joke referring to learning how to fly online, we all remember 9/11. Flying to the GC was impressive and no tour company can take credit for the beauty of the GC, it was awe-inspiring. Upon landing we were given a basket of "food". Only edible thing was the satsuma. Champagne was ok tho. We spent more time in a bus to and from Boulder than actually in the air. Would I recommend, possibly not, would be cheaper to hire a car and spend a couple of days in the GC.

Were considering doing the helicopter tour, but went with the more economical plane tour of the west rim. I was worried about dealing with small airplane windows, but they were all quite wide and provided stunning views. Seeing the canyon from this vantage point is really something not to be missed as it helps you get a much better feeling for how massive the canyon really is. The experience with Papillon was also really great. PIckup was on time, the flight went smoothly, and drop off was easy. Would highly recommend.

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Papillon Helicopter Tour - Grand Canyon with Champagne

How can Papillon Helicopter Tours be reviewed because they do not fulfill their advertised offer. The scenery is as you would expect STUNNING. It was a terrific experience from a helicopter and then to land but that is where it ends. Champagne and light picnic refreshments were included in the 30 minute stop. I think this was a joke! The champagne was clearly sparkling wine and had never seen France. This company have the buying power to be able to negotiate a good deal on proper champagne. The light picnic refreshments was not even a play on the words! The basket contained a fruit chew, a bag of fudge biscuits, a baby bel and a breakfast granola bar. This is not a light refreshment for an adult spending over £400 each. The company land often enough they could have someone stationed there during the working day laying a table for each landing of Hors d'Oeuvres. This was not something for the company to save money on. Very disappointing. The company state there is a fuel charge of $30 per person due to increased fuel. World fuel prices have decreased yet they have the audacity to still charge this. A photograph is taken by the helicopter before take off. Great you think, but then they want $25 for a copy in a paper wallet marketing their company. The pilot was friendly and knowledgeable with a good taste in music but he then pimped himself for a gratuity. He was doing his job. I’ve never been asked to tip the pilot on American Airlines! So I can safely say the company did not satisfy my expectations.

Date of experience : February 22, 2024

After looking around at various…

After looking around at various websites that offer such activities, we got in the car and drove there. When we arrived, we were able to book a trip 20 minutes before departure. Actually for 20 minutes, but they made us happy with a 45 minute helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon in Arizona. It was a great experience. Thank you! I will recommend everyone to do that.

Date of experience : January 06, 2024

Papillon Helicopter - Think Twice Before Booking

When visiting Grand Canyon West Rim and wanting a helicopter ride with river landing, be sure you are ready to forego your skywalk West rim visit because Papillon Helicopter can keep you waiting for 4 hours even though we were booked in for 11am as a group! And they will keep extending the time and keep you waiting without further updates and worst of all, you see them sending other clients on flight who came in later! And be ready that they will cancel your flight when they are unable to cope with the orders after waiting for 4 hours. Telling you nonchalantly that the pilots are finishing work and they will refund you the money! Depressingly disappointing after travelling 2.5hrs from Las Vegas and waited 4 hrs to get cancelled and missing my Skywalk!

Date of experience : May 16, 2023

Shambolic company,booked sunset tour…

Shambolic company,booked sunset tour with landing and champagne picnic..pilot forgot the champagne and picnic on our helicopter and we were sat with nothing for an hour in Grand Canyon whilst he helped with the other tours from their company. As you weren’t allowed to take a drink with you and we’d not eaten before it was a very hot and thirsty hour!! Final straw was being offered the other people’s leftovers. As I’d paid almost £1200 for the tour I found this insulting. Offered us champagne on return?? Not worth the money, staff are terrible and customer service is worse. Far better helicopter tours in vegas, do not use these!!

Date of experience : May 08, 2023

Family Helicopter Grand Canyon Ride

We booked a family of 4 to ride the Papillon Helicopter at the Grand Canyon to see the North Rim for 30 miinutes. The staff were wonderful in getting us set up and our pilot Matthew did an excellent job in flying over and around the Grand Canyon and telling us the history. We recommend this to anyone visiting the Grand Canyon. A must see and experience!

Date of experience : February 12, 2022

great vacation

my friend advised me to have a vacation in exotic Turkey and I dont regret about it. im not used to so hot climate but the attendance to tourists is great. highly recommend. great animation team! I liked Tamer (entertainment manager) and Masha (fitness animator) a lot! thanks free of charge bevaregas)) great

Date of experience : August 23, 2016

Be awhere of hidden fees !

The Heli trip was perfect , but keep in mind , that if you book a Heli trip from Crand Canyon West , they charge you an extra fee off $41 per person - entry fee to the reservate (!). And Papillon , they don't care , and they don't make it clear on the web-site, or in the email booking confirmation. What a surprise for a family of 5 - 225$ extra !

Date of experience : February 06, 2012

Grand Canyon and Skywalk

Had a great trip. Had read reviews and was worried about wait times at Grand Canyon so we took the 08:00 trip with hotel pickup at 06:15 Pickup was on time and flight took off a few mins late at 08:10. Pilots were chatty and great. Had 2 hours at Grand Canyon. Plenty of time as we’re no queues at that time for skywalk or anything else. Reservations guy told us that you couldn’t but food or drink on trip and you’re not allowed backpack on helicopter so we stuffed food and drink in pockets and made uncomfortable trip. However you can buy food and drink at boulder base and at Grand Canyon so a little more/better advice on that front would be good. Also, trip only takes a few hours so not a huge issue anyway, especially food. Really good trip but recommend going early as loads of busses arriving at canyon as we were leaving so I’m sure queues would have been much worse and risk you seeing everything. Also would recommend try upgrade to front seats. We were in back but up front looked awesome

Date of experience : October 28, 2023

Las Vegas by Night

What a great experience :) Unfortunately, just a short flight over Las Vegas - but better than nothing! Thanks, Jenny

Date of experience : June 10, 2017

Beware of cancelled flights

I phoned Papillion Flights Las Vegas. A lady told me that only one fligth was possible the Next day, and that I had to pay the full Price. She was rather rude and I was charged the full Price from my VISA Card after 5 min. The same day the flight should take place they cancelled the flight even though I was told that they only had 2 seats available for that fligt Here 7 days later I have not seen my Money on my account, and that is not ok. Best regards Ib Busk Nielsen, Denmark

Date of experience : July 09, 2014

Really bad experience…

We booked this tour a month before our vacation. We were only in Vegas for 3 full days. We booked and paid $1200 for the early tour – 6am, so that we could be back early and have most of the day in Vegas. The night before the our tour I checked my emails and discovered that they woud now be collecting us at 12.20pm and not 6am as we had booked and paid for!!!. I phoned the company and spoke to their rep, who told me that the early tour was now fully booked!. I told him that we had booked this over a month ago but he said that there was now no room on the early tour. This messed up our few days in Vegas as we would now not be returning to Vegas till 8pm approx. and we would now loose a full day. We also heard of another couple who were waiting to be picked up at 8am but were phoned at 8.15am and told they would not be collected till 10am They are responsible for this bad scheduling and booking. I have sent them two emails looking for some form of compensation for them messing up our stay in Vegas but this company will not even reply to these requests. Also their rep I spoke to on the phone sent an internal email to the supervisor in Boulder city in which he stated that we “should be handled with care”. What a truly obnoxious and despicable way for them to describe myself and my wife - once they had taken our money. We also did not get a safety briefing in Boulder City airport There are many other companies in Vegas running tours – use one of them

Date of experience : May 05, 2023

Wow what an amazing experience me and my wife booked the grand celebration package and it didn't disapoint, the views were amazing and once we landed for our champagne picnic at the bottom of the canyon it provided us with some fantastic photo opportunities but the highlight of the whole trip was Derek our pilot who made the trip fun and informative, also taking photos of us when down in the canyon, would definitely recommend when visiting the area😁

Date of experience : September 26, 2023

AVOID AT ALL COSTS

Please do not make the mistake we made and book tours with this sorry excuse for a company!! We had booked well in advance for the flight and tour of the Grand Canyon. As advised by Papillon, we rang them to confirm our pick up 2 days before we had scheduled to go to the Grand Canyon for our first wedding anniversary. We were unfortunately informed (only when we rang them 2 days before the flight it should be noted) that the airplane would be in for maintenance that day and our trip was cancelled. They initially said they had no other availability whilst we were in Vegas and therefore we requested a refund to try and book another tour instead. We were shocked to be informed that refunds take up to 2 weeks. This means they had $800 of our money and due to them not informing us, we couldn’t even book with a different company. This was just the beginning… Begrudgingly, we continued with the refund. The extremely rude employee didn’t just ask for our debit card number to process the refund though but also the expiry date and the SECURITY CODE. When I questioned why on earth they would need those personal, security details to give us our own money back she shouted down the phone “OH. MY. GOD. THIS GUY THINKS I’M TRYING TO STEAL HIS MONEY!” Which was actually a genuine concern of mine given the details she had asked for. She then immediately put me on hold and then through to other member of their team. Amazingly (or so we thought), this new employee magically found us a place on a flight the day after the original one. Just 12 hours before we were supposed to leave, we got an email saying again that this second flight had also been cancelled… Again the short notice meant we were totally unable to book through a different provider and they still had a huge amount of our money. We believe this flight never actually existed and it was a ploy to pacify us. We rang to get our refund sorted and whilst apparently being connected to a senior member of their team, they put us on hold with a looping automated message - forcing us to hang up. We rang back (again, which being from England was costing us a lot in overseas phone calls) and the employee guaranteed us that a manager was working on our case and would ring us back within 1 hour (this would have been 11:30am). They also requested that we sent an email explaining the problems we had encountered. We did not hear back from them (shock)… I had to send a follow up email the day after asking what was happening. Eventually, over 24hrs after they said they would get back to us, they offered us a chance of a free Vegas Night Flight. Brilliant you think? Not at all. They knew we left Vegas the day their insincere offer came through and therefore we would never be able to take this flight - hence why they didn’t reply with this offer when they had guaranteed us they would. Total joke and a total disgrace. To top it all off, our refund actually has us $40 down due to currency fluctuations. So we paid $40 + more in phone calls to get cancelled on twice and ruin our honeymoon and anniversary. Not to mention the time we wasted dealing with their issues and rude employees. We are devastated. DO NOT BOOK WITH THIS COMPANY!!! Shocking service, disgusting organisation and disgraceful customer care. AVOID AVOID AVOID!!!

Date of experience : August 14, 2023

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Grand Canyon Tours

Papillon offers a wide range of Grand Canyon National Park experiences at the South Rim, perfect for the whole family. Our South Rim helicopter tours and sightseeing airplane tours fly you over the deepest and widest regions of the canyon. We also operate ground tours aboard a customized open-air Hummer vehicle, so you can explore the best lookout points on foot. See the Grand Canyon South from the sky, from the edge, or along the Colorado River with Papillon!

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Fly Over the Grand Canyon

A rainbow helicopter flies over the Grand Canyon and Colorado River.

North Canyon Tour

Fly over the widest and deepest parts of the South Rim on this Grand Canyon helicopter tour - you'll see towering rock formations, the lush Kaibab Forest, and the Colorado River from above!

From: Grand Canyon National Park over Grand Canyon

Duration: Approximately 25-30 minutes

Features: Views of Grand Canyon National Park | Helicopter

A helicopter tour seen mid-flight over the Grand Canyon

Imperial with EcoStar

This Grand Canyon helicopter tour flies over the deepest and widest sections of the national park, for aerial views of 1.7 million-year-old stone! You'll also see the Kaibab Forest, the Colorado River, and tons of unique rock formations.

Duration: Approximately 40-50 minutes

A red and white airplane flies over the Grand Canyon in a clear sky.

Grand Discovery Air Tour

This airplane tour showcases the most incredible sights of the Grand Canyon's South and East Rims. You'll see impressive aerial views of ancient rock formations, the Kaibab Forest, and the Colorado River between the canyon walls.

Duration: Approximately 40-45 minutes

Features: Views of Grand Canyon National Park | Views of Colorado River | Airplane

Rainbow livery Grand Canyon Tour helicopter

North Canyon Family Flight

This Grand Canyon helicopter tour shows you aerial views of the deepest and widest parts of the South Rim, as well as the Colorado River, the Kaibab Forest, and plenty of unique rock formations. The perfect family adventure!

From: Grand Canyon National Park to Grand Canyon National Park

a red helicopter lands at the grand canyon air terminal after a tour over the South Rim

Imperial Air Tour on Eco Family Flight

Explore the North and East Rims of the Grand Canyon on a helicopter tour offering 180-degree views and aerial sights of the deepest and widest parts of the park. Recommend for groups of 4+.

Duration: Approximately 45-50 minutes

Rim and Air Adventures

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Grand Discovery Rim to Sky

Explore the Grand Canyon National Park from all angles with this combo airplane tour and Hummer ground excursion. You'll see views of the canyon expanse from the sky, then travel to multiple famous lookout points on an open-air Hummer vehicle.

Features: Stand on the Edge | Airplane | Hummer

Discover Page/Antelope Canyon

a raft floats along the Colorado River

Canyon and River Adventures Tour

Experience the best of the Desert Southwest with an airplane flight over the Grand Canyon, a guided tour into the depths of Antelope Canyon, and a rafting adventure along the Colorado River and through Horseshoe Bend!

From: Grand Canyon National Park to Page/Antelope Canyon

Duration: Approximately 12½ - 13 hours

Features: Antelope Canyon | Horseshoe Bend | Airplane | Raft | Boat

horseshoe bend in page arizona seen with a cloudy sky in the background

Grand Canyon with Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

Experience the wonders of the Grand Canyon at sunrise, and tour Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon all in one day. Take a helicopter from Grand Canyon National Park to Page, AZ, as you enjoy the pinks and reds of the sun’s early light across the Canyon. Once on the ground, take a guided tour that includes views of the spectacular Horseshoe Bend and an exploration of Antelope Canyon.

Duration: Approximately 8½ hours from pick-up to drop-off

Features: Adventure Tour | Views of Grand Canyon National Park | Views of Antelope Canyon | Helicopter

Ground Tours

Family standing near the edge of the Grand Canyon with a Buck Wild Hummer in the foreground.

The Signature Tour

This Grand Canyon South Rim ground tour takes place aboard a customized open-air Hummer vehicle, which will take you to several famous lookout points with time to explore at each!

Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Features: Stand on the Edge | Grand Canyon National Park | Hummer

the Colorado River flowing between two massive canyon walls

Grand Canyon Coach and River Trip

Enjoy a peaceful float along the Colorado River on this exciting tour from the Grand Canyon. Along the way, you'll see ancient petroglyphs and you'll even travel through the world-famous Horseshoe Bend!

Features: Meal | Bus | Boat

Hmm… We couldn't find a tour that fits your selection. Adjust the filters and try again.

Grand Canyon Tour FAQs

What are the best grand canyon tours.

  • Papillon offers Grand Canyon trips daily that can take you to the West Rim, South Rim, or North Rim. The Grand Canyon is an easy day tour from Las Vegas. All of our Las Vegas Tours to Grand Canyon as well as our Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours from the national park fly daily!

What cities feature tours to the Grand Canyon?

We offer Grand Canyon tours from four different cities.

  • Tours from Las Vegas
  • Tours from Phoenix
  • Tours from the Grand Canyon West Rim
  • Tour from Grand Canyon South Rim

We also offer tours from Page, Arizona exploring world-famous destinations like Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Tower Butte, Rainbow Bridge, and Lake Powell.

What is the best way to tour Grand Canyon National Park?

  • If you are short on time and want to see a lot of the Grand Canyon South Rim an air tour is the best way to spend your time. Remember, Grand Canyon National Park is huge at 1.7 million acres and, aboard an air tour, visitors have a chance to see the most photogenic viewpoints this beautiful destination offers.

What is the best part of the Grand Canyon to visit?

Both the Grand Canyon South Rim and the West Rim offer equally exciting, but different, sightseeing experiences. The South Rim contains some of the most world-famous views of the park, as well as shopping, dining, and a variety of hotels. The West Rim is a more rugged and natural location, and is home to the Skywalk Bridge, two unique lookout points, and a nearby Native American village to explore. The West Rim is also the only region where helicopter tours land on the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

How much is a tour of the Grand Canyon?

  • The price of each Grand Canyon tour is based on the type of tour and the length of your tour but ranges between $200 and $500 or more.  Papillon offers helicopter, airplane, ground, and boat tours of the Grand Canyon. Trips range from a quick sightseeing tour to a trip where you land at the bottom of the Grand Canyon in a helicopter and then take a float trip on the Colorado River!

Should I book a Grand Canyon tour in advance?

It is highly recommended that you book your Grand Canyon tour in advance. Whether you are flying to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas , or would like to experience a tour while already at the Grand Canyon, it is non uncommon for tours to sell out on a regular basis. Check Papillon's available dates listed on tour pages and book your tour today!

What is the best time of the year to visit the Grand Canyon?

  • When planning your trip to the Grand Canyon, look to visit in either the spring or fall for the most comfortable weather. The months of April and May offer warm days, cooler nights, and you might even be able to capture photographs with snow on the canyon rims in throughout the Kaibab National Forest. Late October and November, prime time during the fall season to experience smaller crowds and all-around beautiful weather before winter hits, are exceptional times to visit.

When not to visit the Grand Canyon?

Summers at the Grand Canyon can reach high temperatures with powerful sunlight. The later summer months can also experience sudden rainstorms. In the winter months, the temperature at the Grand Canyon drops and annual snowfall is to be expected. The canyon still experiences visitation year round, but springtime and fall are the most popular times to visit.

How much is the entrance fee to the Grand Canyon?

The entry fees for Grand Canyon National Park vary depending on the vehicle being used. Current entrance fees are listed  here . Prices for Grand Canyon West general admission, which provides a day pass to the tourism area of the Hualapai Indian reservation, which includes the Grand Canyon Skywalk, are available  here .

How many days do you really need for the Grand Canyon?

The length of your visit to the Grand Canyon depends on your desires and interests. At the Grand Canyon National Park, you can stay at a variety of hotels located along the canyon's edge and explore for several days, or you can visit on a day tour from Las Vegas . At the West Rim, you can experience a helicopter landing on the very bottom, the Skywalk bridge, the most popular lookout points, and the nearby Native American village in just a day's time on a Grand Canyon helicopter tour from Las Vegas .

Where do you stay when visiting the Grand Canyon?

At the Grand Canyon South Rim, there are a variety of both modern and historic hotels, some of which are located along the canyon rim and offer stunning views. You can also camp or park an RV at the South Rim with reservations. It is highly recommended to book your stay in advance as these hotels and campgrounds are very high-demand.

The West Rim also offers camping and glamping, as well as nearby cabins available for rent, and these are recommended to be booked in advance, as well. The West Rim can be fully experienced on a day tour from Las Vegas , so an overnight stay is not always necessary.

Is Antelope Canyon near the Grand Canyon?

  • Antelope Canyon is located about 2 hours northeast of the Grand Canyon South Rim. Luckily with Papillon, you don’t have to make the drive. Simply hop aboard an airplane from the Grand Canyon South Rim for a full-day adventure. Learn more about the Grand Canyon airplane tour with Antelope Canyon and river rafting excursions.

Purchase Helicopter Tour Gift Certificates

Grand Canyon Tours From the South Rim

See the Grand Canyon from a brand new perspective aboard a South Rim helicopter tour or sightseeing airplane flight with Papillon! Our all-encompassing tours, including Hummer ground tours and river rafting adventures, offer the most impressive views of the largest expanses of the park. 

Whether by airplane, ground, or helicopter, the Grand Canyon National Park, also known as the South Rim, features some of the most majestic topography on the planet. We should know - we've been taking guests on tours of the area for 60 years!

Watch the Helicopter Ride Grand Canyon Video

Fly over a huge portion of Grand Canyon National Park aboard one of Papillon’s helicopters which are designed specifically for tourism.

Best Grand Canyon Tour Packages

Papillon has flown the Grand Canyon since 1965 and has established itself as the world's most experienced and largest sightseeing company operating in the National Park. 

Our goal is to offer the most innovative tours of the Grand Canyon available, allowing you to see each and every unique section of the 6,000 foot deep, 277-mile long, 18-mile wide canyon. On all our trips, whether by helicopter, airplane, boat, or Hummer vehicle, you’ll learn about the history and the geology of the canyon with the first and largest Grand Canyon helicopter sightseeing company!

Visiting the South Rim soon? Check out our Grand Canyon National Park Guide  for more information about Grand Canyon National Park activities, attractions, visitor information, and more.

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

We are the preferred helicopter tour provider for the Grand Canyon National Park Service and we're certified to fly the entire Grand Canyon. We are proud to fly the most advanced tour helicopters available. Our EC-130s provide forward-facing, theater-style seating for unobstructed 180-degree views of the canyon’s majestic landscapes.

Aboard our luxury helicopter tours, you can gaze across the Grand Canyon’s vast expanse and straight down to the depths of the canyon floor. You can always expect best-in-class safety, service, and sightseeing during your tour with Papillon. 

Discover all of the Grand Canyon helicopter tours today.

Grand Canyon Airplane Tours

Experience magnificent aerial views soaring over the Grand Canyon aboard one of Papillon’s sightseeing airplane tours. Our aircraft are equipped with headphones for tour narration in multiple languages, climate-controlled cabins, plush seating, and high wings for unobstructed sightseeing and photography opportunities of the magnificent scenery beneath you.

Browse all of the Grand Canyon airplane tours with Papillon.

Grand Canyon Ground Tours

Want to visit as many famous Grand Canyon lookout points as possible? Book a Hummer tour and travel to several of the South Rim's most remarkable sights. During your tour along historic Desert View Drive, you’ll make several photo stops at scenic viewpoints and lookouts with time to explore at each. You can even book your Hummer tour at sunset for an even more magical view!

Grand Canyon Rafting Tours

Are you ready to escape the crowds at the Grand Canyon? Enjoy a day trip to the nearby city of Page, Arizona, where you can experience a Colorado River rafting adventure. You'll float through the world-famous Horseshoe Bend and even explore the depths of the mystical Antelope Canyon!

Check out the Grand Canyon rafting trips that Papillon offers!

Grand Canyon South Rim Attractions

The Grand Canyon South Rim has grown to be one of the most visited destinations in the world, boasting upwards of 6 million tourists each year. Between the breathtaking views and countless activities - Hummer excursions, helicopter tours, airplane tours, and rafting trips to name a few - the Grand Canyon has undoubtedly earned its status as one of the World's Seven Natural Wonders.

Incredible sights and formations can be found in nearly every direction on tours of the Grand Canyon South Rim. Aboard a South Rim helicopter tour, you can catch aerial views of many of these world-renowned landscapes.

  • Glimpse Zuni Point, the scenic overlook nestled into the South Rim
  • Pass over Dragon Corridor, the deepest and widest part of the Grand Canyon
  • Gaze out as you soar over the Kaibab National Forest. This enormous blend of aspens, spruces, pines, and firs is sure to take your breath away. You may even see deer, mountain lions, or black bears in their natural environment. 

Papillon also offers incredible ground tours of the Grand Canyon South Rim as well. Hop aboard a customized open-air Hummer vehicle for a tour through the Grand Canyon National Park. Hummer tours will stop at several of the Grand Canyon's most famous lookout points for photos and time to explore at each location.

Discover all Grand Canyon South Rim Tours .

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Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Reviews

Papillon or maverick.

  • How to Get Deals
  • Air or Landing Tour?
  • South Rim, West Rim?
  • Best Time to Fly
  • Best Las Vegas Flights
  • Best South Rim Flights

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Types of Helicopters

This is the biggest differentiator. Papillon's fleet is comprised of a mix of choppers including Bell Rangers, AStars and EcoStar 130s. Maverick, by contrast, uses only the EcoStar. Let's dig a little deeper...

Papillon uses the Bell Ranger and the AStar for Las Vegas Strip flights and value-priced landing tours. These helicopters are solid and dependable but they have quirks. The Bell Ranger, for example, has a rear-facing bench seat, and the Bell and the AStar come with smaller, more compressed cabins (e.g. less personal space). They're also a tad noisy even if you are wearing a noise-canceling headset.

The EcoStar is a whole different animal. It's aerodynamic design lets it cut through the air like a knife, resulting in an incredibly smooth rid. Its tail rotor is a Fenestron, which is designed to reduce noise by up to 35 percent. But the real benefits of an EcoStar are these:

  • 25 percent larger cabin;
  • 180-degree wraparound windshield;
  • Individual bucket seats configured "stadium style" and all facing forward;
  • Superior climate control (important during 100 degree summers and 35 degree winters!).

Papillon's fleet includes the EcoStar but you aren't guaranteed to be on one unless you take one of the higher-priced landing tours that depart from the Strip or Boulder City, Nevada. Maverick, which operates the largest fleet of EcoStars in the world, only flies the EcoStar so your are guaranteed to be aboard one.

For more on this subject, here's an authoritative article I just wrote about tour helicopters .

papillon helicopters

Air Terminals

Location is key, especially considering how bad Las Vegas traffic can get. Papillon conveniently has a terminal located just off The Strip on Tropicana Avenue, right next to Las Vegas' main airstrip. It's about 10 to 15 minutes away from all major resorts. The issue, however, is that a limited number of flights depart from it (sunset tours, a few landing tours, and all of the company's 15-minute Strip helicopter rides). The majority of Papillon's flights depart from it's private terminal in Boulder City, Nevada, which requires a 35-minute shuttle bus commute. Is it worth the ride? Yes, because it's the primary reason why Papillon's tours are cheaper than Maverick's (and everyone else's for that matter).

Maverick's main terminal in Las Vegas is on The Strip. In fact, it's across the street from Mandalay Bay and accessible from any major Strip resort within 10 minutes. The company also owns its own terminal in Henderson, Nevada, which is 10 minutes south of its Strip headquarters. Like Papillon's, Maverick's South Rim air terminal is located in the Grand Canyon National Park Airport Complex, which is just 10 minutes south of Grand Canyon Village. The common theme among all of Maverick's terminals is luxury. Go into any one of them and you feel like a VIP who's gained access to a luxurious lounge outfitted with plush leather chairs and couches, parquet floors and recessed lighting. Unlike Papillon, there are no crowds - just travelers who are willing to pay a premium for superior service and a superior product.

Types of Tours

Papillon and Maverick offer a great selection of tours. However, Papillon's line up is much more diverse, especially when it comes to landing tours. For instance, Papillon has a West Rim trip that goes to the bottom, includes a boat ride down the Colorado River and all-access tickets to the Grand Canyon Skywalk. At South Rim, Papillon offers a number of creative packages, the most impressive are the sunset Jeep safari and the National Park Harley Davidson motorcycle ride.

Sunset tours are very popular and both companies offer them. Papillon's are cheaper, particularly the one that departs from its Strip terminal and lands on the bottom for a picnic. Maverick, however, offers more sunset departures so you're nearly guaranteed to find availability if you decide to go within 24 hours. I also like the Maverick sunset air tour that detours over the Valley of Fire on the way back to Vegas from the canyon.

Maverick leads the pack when it comes to charter and group tours. In fact, nobody does helicopter weddings like Maverick. Further, the company is usually the first one film production crew's call upon when they need to charter an aircraft. Corporate events is another one of the company's strengths, and I'll go on the record recommending Maverick if you plan to celebrate a special event like a proposal, an anniversary or a vows renewal.

Las Vegas Strip flights last just 15 minutes but they are extremely popular with travelers. Papillon's tours are the cheapest but they are only available during the day. Maverick's cost a little more and they are available day and night. Further, unlike Papillon, Maverick uses the EcoStar on these tours, which is crucial as you fly over such world-famous landmarks like:

  • Paris' Eiffel Tower;
  • The Bellagio Fountains;
  • The Luxor Pyramid;
  • The Stratosphere Tower

...and much more!

maverick helicopters

Papillon is your value leader and nobody beats their prices. How does Papillon stay so affordable? Volume. Each year, the company transports more than 500,000 people to the Grand Canyon. That's a lot of business, and that's one of the reasons why they have such great prices . The other reason is their Boulder City terminal - the cost to fly out of Boulder is cheaper than out of Las Vegas. This economy of scale also benefits South Rim pricing, too. Don't expect Maverick to ever match Papillon's prices. Why? Because Maverick targets the 5-star traveler who is primarily interested in quality, personalization and luxury.

Reservations & Deals

Tours offered by these companies are in high demand. These trips regularly sell out during spring, summer and fall. So, if you're serious about taking a safe and fun helicopter tour, you need to book it at least a week in advance. I urge you not to wait until the last minute, and I don't advise booking a helicopter tour once you arrive in Las Vegas or in Tusayan. If you do that, several things can happen:

  • You'll pay more for the flight;
  • You won't get the flight you want;
  • You won't get the flight time you want (mornings and sunset are best).

In addition to advance reservations , you can also save money by purchasing your tour online. Papillon and Maverick have excellent websites that feature safe and secure online booking forms. Expect to save up to 35 percent over the retail price if you purchase direct from these companies. Avoid buying from third-party travel sites like Expedia, Priceline and Orbitz. You will pay more, and the cancellation policy will not be as generous as the one you'll get from Papillon and Maverick. Make absolutely sure you complete your transaction on the Web. Failure to do this can result in you paying full retail price.

Papillon and Maverick are the best Grand Canyon air tour companies in operation today. They have the best safety records, tour selection and prices. That said, if you are looking for great value, go with Papillon. If you are looking for a 5-star luxury, fly Maverick. Remember to reserve your helicopter ride in advance (by at least a week!). When it comes time to buy your flight, use the Internet. That's where the best deals are. Both companies operated incredibly safe and secure websites, and, in order to qualify for their special Internet discounts, you've got to complete your transaction online. Pick either one of these companies. You'll be 100 percent satisfied.

Click Here for Papillon Helicopter Prices

Click here for maverick helicopters prices.

Have a grand day,

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IMAGES

  1. Grand Canyon Air Tour by Airplane with Sunset Hummer

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  2. PAPILLONS RESTAURANT TOURS

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  3. Helicopter Flight Over The Grand Canyon

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  4. Papillon Helicopter Tours

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  5. Grand Canyon Celebration Tour

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  6. Papillon Grand Celebration Helicopter Tour review

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COMMENTS

  1. Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

    Helicopter Tours. Open now. 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM. Write a review. See all photos. About. Since 1965, The Papillon Group has been providing visitors a privileged perspective to one of the world's greatest natural wonders. Papillon is the only company flying the entire Grand Canyon, including areas untouched by man and inaccessible by foot. As one ...

  2. Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

    8:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Write a review. See all photos. About. Papillon Helicopters is the largest helicopter sightseeing company, serving the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas. Choose from a variety of aerial tours, landing tours and more. We offering helicopter, airplane, and bus combos spanning from day tours to overnight at the Grand Canyon.

  3. PAPILLON GRAND CANYON HELICOPTERS

    Specialties: Soar across the Southwest on a world-class helicopter tour from Las Vegas. Experience the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, and more. Soar into adventure with Papillon today! Papillon is the largest and most experienced helicopter tour company in the world. We've been flying world-class tours from Las Vegas since 1965. Whether you're exploring the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, the ...

  4. Papillon Helicopters Review

    If you're still not sure about booking a Papillon helicopter tour, consider that it was named the Best Helicopter Tour for 2020 by USA Today, and it was a Best of Las Vegas 2020 Gold Winner. It's also a top-ranking Grand Canyon tour company on TripAdvisor, with 4.5/5 stars based on over 1,000 Papillon reviews.

  5. Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

    5:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Write a review. See all photos. About. Papillon Helicopters is the largest helicopter sightseeing company, serving the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas. Choose from a variety of aerial tours, landing tours and more. We offering helicopter, airplane, and bus combos spanning from day tours to overnight at the Grand Canyon.

  6. Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

    Papillon is the only company flying the entire Grand Canyon, including areas untouched by man and inaccessible by foot. As one of the world's oldest and largest sightseeing companies, Papillon flies an estimated 600,000 passengers a year on its daily tours to the Grand Canyon and the surrounding southwest.

  7. Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

    Book your tickets online for Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, Boulder City: See 5,302 reviews, articles, and 3,155 photos of Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, ranked No.28 on Tripadvisor among 28 attractions in Boulder City.

  8. Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

    Recognized world wide for its aircraft tours, Papillon's fleet of 70 helicopters and airplanes gives guests a bird's eye view all their own. Whether by helicopter, plane, or coach, Papillon offers more than 40 unique excursions. Choose from air only flights, combo tours, all-day excursions, or a stunning flight to the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

  9. Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

    8:00 AM - 5:30 PM. 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM. Write a review. See all photos. 1479. About. Since 1965, Papillon Group has been providing visitors with a privileged perspective of one of the world's greatest natural wonders. Papillon is the only company flying the entire Grand Canyon, including areas untouched by man and inaccessible by foot. As one of ...

  10. Discover Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

    Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters is the largest and most experienced Grand Canyon helicopter tours company in the world. We've been flying guests on daily tours since 1965, and with three exclusive landing sites on the floor of the canyon, the immersive experience we offer is unrivaled by any other tour company.

  11. Grand Voyager Tour by Papillon

    Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters: Grand Voyager Tour by Papillon - See 5,310 traveler reviews, 3,155 candid photos, and great deals for Boulder City, NV, at Tripadvisor.

  12. Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

    Specialties: Soar across the Southwest on a world-class helicopter tour from Las Vegas. Experience the Grand Canyon National Park and the West Rim. Soar into adventure with Papillon today! Since 1965, Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters has flown over half a million passengers on world-class tours of the Grand Canyon and beyond. Today, Papillon continues to operate daily tours of the Grand ...

  13. Most Popular and Best Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

    Papillon Helicopters offers the most popular and best Grand Canyon tours with our fleet of sightseeing helicopters. With more than 50 years of experience, phenomenal reviews, and trips from Las Vegas and within the Grand Canyon, our award winning Grand Canyon helicopter tours are perfect for any group or any budget. Helicopter Tours.

  14. PAPILLON GRAND CANYON HELICOPTERS

    Specialties: Our aircraft are specifically designed for sightseeing with onboard upgrades developed and patented by Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters. Our planes are designed to provide the most comfortable ride possible as well as ideal sightseeing. Our helicopter fleet are also fitted with oversized windows for sightseeing and photography. All flights also offer pre-recorded narration in 16 ...

  15. Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

    Papillon helicopter tours at the Grand Canyon National Park range from approximately 25-30 minutes to 45-50 minutes in length. You can also combine your helicopter tour with a ground excursion aboard an open-air Hummer vehicle for an extended tour of up approximately 3 hours.

  16. Review of Papillon Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour

    Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters: Review of Papillon Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour - See 5,298 traveler reviews, 3,155 candid photos, and great deals for Boulder City, NV, at Tripadvisor. Skip to main content. ... We read lots of reviews of helicopter tours and chose Papillon. We found a nice deal on the price (229 per person), and booked online.

  17. Bus Trip to the South Rim

    Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters: Bus Trip to the South Rim - See 5,310 traveler reviews, 3,155 candid photos, and great deals for Boulder City, NV, at Tripadvisor. ... The price: I searched several tours and chose this one which had availability less than 24 hours before. I paid $119 after comparing the trips and because it stated they had ...

  18. Papillon Helicopter Tours Review

    Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters Review. When it comes to Grand Canyon helicopter tours, Papillon is my first choice. First and foremost, the company, which has been in commercial operation since 1965, is the only one that has been consistently able to offer the lowest prices on the best tours. Other air-tour companies have tried to compete ...

  19. Papillon Reviews

    Papillon Helicopter Tour - Grand Canyon with Champagne . ... Had read reviews and was worried about wait times at Grand Canyon so we took the 08:00 trip with hotel pickup at 06:15 Pickup was on time and flight took off a few mins late at 08:10. Pilots were chatty and great. Had 2 hours at Grand Canyon.

  20. Review of Papillon Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour

    Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters: Review of Papillon Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour - See 5,310 traveler reviews, 3,155 candid photos, and great deals for Boulder City, NV, at Tripadvisor. Skip to main content. ... We read lots of reviews of helicopter tours and chose Papillon. We found a nice deal on the price (229 per person), and booked online.

  21. Grand Canyon Helicopter

    The price of each Grand Canyon tour is based on the type of tour and the length of your tour but ranges between $200 and $500 or more. Papillon offers helicopter, airplane, ground, and boat tours of the Grand Canyon. Trips range from a quick sightseeing tour to a trip where you land at the bottom of the Grand Canyon in a helicopter and then ...

  22. Papillon or Maverick?

    Types of Tours. Papillon and Maverick offer a great selection of tours. However, Papillon's line up is much more diverse, especially when it comes to landing tours. For instance, Papillon has a West Rim trip that goes to the bottom, includes a boat ride down the Colorado River and all-access tickets to the Grand Canyon Skywalk.