Adventure Collective Journal

The Adventure Collective Journal publishes in-depth travel stories, destination guides, and adventure features that celebrate discovery and wonder. A digital magazine for explorers and dreamers alike.

← Back to Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

3-Day National Park Aerial Safari: Grand Canyon, Monument Valley & Zion

3-Day National Park Aerial Safari: Grand Canyon, Monument Valley & Zion

Soar over the Grand Canyon, Jeep through Monument Valley with Navajo guides, and explore Antelope Canyon in a private three-day aerial safari. This curated trip stitches the American West together with private flights, open-air jeeps, guided hikes and included hotels.

Las Vegas, Nevada
3 days (approx. 72 hours)
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Hydrate and pace yourself

Desert heat and elevation changes dehydrate quickly—carry at least 1.5–2 liters and drink regularly, especially before short hikes at higher elevations.

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes

Trails include sand, slickrock and uneven steps in slot canyons—light hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip work best.

Protect against sun and glare

Wide-brim hats, sunglasses and SPF 30+ sunscreen are necessary; the plane and open-air jeeps offer no shade.

Prepare for altitude swings

Mornings at Bryce or the Grand Canyon can be chilly and thin air may affect breathing—bring layers and allow 10–20 minutes extra rest during hikes.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Early-morning Grand Canyon overlooks near Desert View for quieter light
  • Short Navajo-guided walks off the main Monument Valley loop for intimate viewpoints

Wildlife

  • Desert bighorn sheep
  • Ravens and red-tailed hawks

Conservation Note

Stick to marked trails and follow Navajo guides’ instructions—these fragile sandstone formations and desert soils recover slowly; operators work with parks and tribal authorities to limit impact.

The itinerary crosses ancestral Navajo lands and historic routes carved by explorers and early American road builders; Monument Valley has long been a living cultural landscape for the Diné (Navajo) people.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour (sunrise and sunset), Mid-morning for slot-canyon shafts, Late afternoon for warm desert light
Key viewpoints:
  • South Rim overlook at Grand Canyon for layered depth
  • Monument Valley Navajo-guided overlooks for butte silhouettes
  • Antelope Canyon interior where light beams form midday
Subjects to capture:Aerial landscapes (canyons and rivers), Slot-canyon textures and light shafts, Navajo-guided Jeep scenes and cultural moments

What to Bring

Sturdy hiking shoesEssential

Grip and foot protection for rocky viewpoints, slot-canyon steps and sandy approaches.

Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)Essential

Sun is intense at high desert elevations and on open-air Jeep sections.

Layered insulating jacketEssential

Early mornings and high-elevation stops can be chilly—a lightweight insulated layer is useful year-round.

Camera with extra batteries / memory

Private flights and canyon interiors offer high-contrast scenes—spare power and storage help capture them.

Common Questions

Is this tour truly private?

Yes—this itinerary is run as a private tour with your own guide and private plane; it requires a minimum purchase of 8 seats per booking.

How much walking is involved?

Each ground stop features short, guided walks—typically 1–3 miles total per stop with modest elevation changes; long backcountry hikes are not part of the itinerary.

What’s the luggage policy for the plane?

Private aircraft restrict checked luggage—guides will provide specific size and weight limits; pack a daypack with essentials and follow supplier guidance sent after booking.

Are park entrance fees included?

Yes—park admission fees are included in the tour price as listed in the inclusions.

What happens in bad weather?

The operator may cancel flights in unsafe weather; the cancellation policy is strict (all sales final) so check insurance options and confirm weather procedures with the supplier before booking.

Is this suitable for children or infants?

Infant seats are available and the tour is marketed as suitable for a range of ages, but because aircraft and jeep rides have safety limits, notify the operator about ages and special needs at booking.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

3 days (approx. 72 hours)

Location

Las Vegas, Nevada

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Appropriate for travelers in average physical condition who can handle short hikes (1–3 miles) with modest elevation change and multiple transfers.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Las Vegas?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

Check Availability & Book Now