Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour with Colorado River Raft or Emerald Cave Kayak from Las Vegas
Pair a 90-minute helicopter flight over Hoover Dam and the West Rim with a Colorado River raft or an emerald-hued kayak trip. This full-day combo delivers aerial drama and calm river time with easy hotel pickup from Las Vegas.
The Experience
Before You Go
Confirm pickup time
Call the operator 24 hours before your tour to confirm exact pickup and check-in details; pickups usually start ~90 minutes before flight time.
Bring sun protection
High desert sun and reflected river light make sunglasses, sunscreen and a brimmed hat essential for both flight and river segments.
Secure electronics
Use a small dry bag for phones and cameras on rafts and kayaks; helicopters allow handheld cameras but secure straps are a must.
Plan for weight policy
Passengers over 250 lbs may need to purchase an extra seat for balance and comfort; check the operator policy in advance.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Guano Point overlook on the West Rim for dramatic canyon profiles
- •Boulder City’s Hoover Dam Museum for context on the dam’s construction and engineering
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Osprey and bald eagles
Conservation Note
The Colorado River corridor is ecologically sensitive; operators follow Leave No Trace principles and guests should avoid disturbing riparian vegetation and wildlife.
The flight path runs over land shaped by the Colorado River for millions of years and past Hoover Dam, a 1930s engineering project that reshaped the Southwest’s water and power systems. The West Rim sits on Hualapai tribal lands with cultural significance.
Photographer's Notes
- • Overhead pass above Hoover Dam and the bypass bridge
- • Touchdown point beneath the West Rim for layered canyon walls
- • Emerald Cave entrance from the river for vivid water color
What to Bring
Sunglasses with strapEssential
Protects eyes from harsh sunlight and prevents loss during river sections.
Light wind shellEssential
High-elevation winds can be chilly in the helicopter and on the river; a packable shell helps.
Dry bag (small)Essential
Keeps phone, wallet and camera safe during kayak or raft segments.
Closed-toe water shoes
Provides traction and protection when entering/exiting boats and walking on rocky shores.
Common Questions
How long is the helicopter flight?
The scenic helicopter portion is approximately 90 minutes round-trip, offering panoramic views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and the West Rim.
Can I choose between rafting and kayaking?
Yes — the tour includes either a Colorado River raft float or a 4-mile kayak trip to Emerald Cave; select your preferred option when booking.
Is lunch included?
A boxed lunch and bottled water are included with the raft option; kayak participants should bring snacks as lunch is not provided.
Do I need to bring ID?
Yes. A valid government ID matching the booking name is required to board the helicopter.
What is the weight policy for the helicopter?
Passengers between 250–375 lbs may be required to purchase an additional seat for safety and balance; the maximum allowable body weight is 375 lbs.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled for adverse weather or insufficient passengers; you are eligible for a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours prior.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–11 hours
Location
Las Vegas, Nevada
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; able to board a raft or kayak, handle up to 3 hours of paddling or light swimming.
Topics
Ready to Explore Las Vegas?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now