0Facebook 0Twitter 0Pinterest WhatsApp0shareThe South Rim is known for having the most spectacular vistas in the Grand Canyon — and theres 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 youll 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 youre 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:

　　Papillon Helicopters Maverick Helicopters 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, its 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

　　Compare Grand Canyon helicopter tours from South Rim

　　

Tour Operator	Price	Highlights	Duration
Papillon Helicopters	From $269	Fly through Dragon Corridor	25-30 min flight
Maverick Helicopters	From $309	Fly over Tower of Ra and Vishnu Schist	25-min flight
Papillon Helicopters	From $329	Eco-friendly helicopter	25-min flight
Papillon Helicopters	From $399	Includes, North, South and Eastern regions	45-50 min flight
Maverick Helicopters	From $419	Fly over Painted Desert and Marble Canyon	45-min flight

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　　When is the best time for a helicopter tour from South Rim?

　　Tours at sunset offer Golden Hour photo opportunities, while midday flights give clearer views of the canyon. During the off-season, youll benefit from cheaper helicopter prices, cooler weather and fewer crowds.

　　What you need to know before your flight?

　　You need to arrive at the terminal 30-45 minutes before flight time. The exact location is available on the booking page. In order to balance the helicopter, weight limits of around 300 lbs are instituted. If you weigh above the tour operators minimum, you will be required to buy an additional seat. If you are 18 years or older, you must bring a photo ID such as a passport or drivers license. You may be expected to pay an additional fuel surcharge of $15. Service animals are not allowed.