The South Rim is known for having the most spectacular vistas in the Grand Canyon — and there’s no better way to see it than from the air.
Grand Canyon helicopter tours from South Rim depart from Tusayan, flying over both the South and North Rims, giving you a comprehensive experience of this natural wonder in a short amount of time.
In this article, we break down the best helicopter tours from the South Rim, organized by tour operator, our top picks, and by lowest to highest price.
Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!
Types of South Rim tours — What you see
Grand Canyon helicopter tours from South Rim typically last between 25 and 45 minutes, and the main differences are which sights you will witness as you flyover the South Rim and towards to the North Rim.
These are the main highlights you can expect to see:
- Colorado River: Flowing for over 2,000 kilometers, the Colorado River has shaped the Grand Canyon over millennia, and you’ll follow parts of its path on your helicopter tour.
- Dragon Corridor: The majority of flights pass over the Dragon Corridor, the deepest and widest section of the Grand Canyon and a sight to behold.
- Kaibab National Forest: Bordering the North and South Rims and spanning 1.6 million acres, the Kaibab National Forest is home the largest ponderosa pine forest in the US.
If you’re interested in exploring the West Rim, check out the best Grand Canyon helicopter tours from Las Vegas.
Read more about Grand Canyon helicopter tours here.
Helicopter tour outfitters operating from the South Rim
There are two main helicopter outfitters operating from the South Rim:
Both are located at the Grand Canyon National Airport in Tusayan, Arizona, and you will meet at the terminal before your flight.
See our comparison of the best helicopter tours from the South Rim below:
Papillon Helicopters
Top TourScanner Pick: EcoStar Helicopter Tour
For those worried about their carbon footprint, this tour over the North and South Rim offers a greener journey in the quieter ECO-Star helicopter, allowing you to hear the sounds of nature.
Why we chose this tour: Eco-friendly flight
Price: From $329 in off season, from $349 in peak season
Add-ons: 2-hour Hummer tour (+$115), 2-hour sunset Hummer tour (+$135)
Duration: 25-min flight
North Canyon Helicopter Tour
This short helicopter tour stands out not just for its lower prices, but for the opportunity to fly into the depths of the Dragon Corridor.
Why we chose this tour: Best value for money
Price: From $269 in off-season, from $289 in peak season
Add-ons: 2-hour Hummer tour (+$115), 2-hour sunset Hummer tour (+$135)
Duration: 25-30-min flight time
45-Minute Imperial Helicopter Tour
See more of the Grand Canyon on this 45-minute flight, that goes beyond the North and South Rim to fly over of the Eastern region too.
Why we chose this tour: Includes North, South and Eastern regions
Price: From $399 in off-season, from $449 in peak season
Add-ons: 2-hour Hummer tour (+$115), 2-hour sunset Hummer tour (+$135)
Duration: 45-50-min flight
Maverick Helicopters
Dancer Helicopter Tour
While this flight is short, it’s not lacking in incredible sights. Highlights of this tour include Vishnu Schist, one of the oldest rock sections in the canyon, and the Tower of Ra, which overlooks the South Rim.
Why we chose this tour: Unique sights
Price: From $309 in off season, from $389 in peak season
Duration: 25-min flight
Top TourScanner Pick: 45-Minute Spirit Helicopter Tour
This comprehensive flight will take you over some of the most stunning sights in the Grand Canyon and beyond, passing by the Painted Desert, Marble Canyon and Desert View Watchtower.
Why we chose this tour: Highest rated by travelers
Price: From $419 in off season, from $439 in peak season
Duration: 45-min flight