From there it was on to Lake Meade and Hoover Dam. Despite increased national homeland security concerns, we were able to circle the Dam and see just how monstrous it actually was. From that point on it was Mother Nature’s turn to impress. Our pilot continued to point out points of interest including the rock formations approaching quickly in front of us on what appeared to be a collision course – they were vents of now long extinct volcano.
When we finally came upon the Grand Canyon; it was breath-taking. We flew what appeared to be close enough to reach out on either side and touch the side walls. We then descended nearly 4,000 feet into the canyon to our landing site alongside the Colorado River.
With permission from the Hualapai Nation, our pilot, gingerly maneuvered the helicopter between the canyon walls and positioned our helicopter for a landing. After landing, lunch was served, including a champagne toast, under an authentic Native American cooking shelter called a Ramada. During the time on the ground, passengers were free to explore and take photos.
After 30-45 minutes, it was time to depart for the final leg of the journey home. As we skimmed the desert on our way back to Las Vegas, we kept our eyes open. Elk, deer, mountain lion and fox are often spotted among the Joshua trees below us.
Children & Persons with Disabilities
The flight is a great experience for children and is not off limits to those who are disabled. My daughter, who is in second grade, loved the experience. She had a great time and learned more about the Grand Canyon and desert southwest than she could ever learn in a textbook.
As far as persons with disabilities, the flights are accessible. The only portion of the flight that would not be accessible is the landing inside the Grand Canyon. Obviously, Papillon is very conscientious of the goal to minimize its impact on the environment so there is no prepared helicopter landing area at the Grand Canyon; in fact, there aren’t even any permanent restroom facilities. At the Grand Canyon, the helicopter kicks up a whirl of dust as it lands on the riverbed next to the river.
Costs
Costs vary dramatically depending on the type of tour selected. The least expensive tour is a Vegas Neon Lights tour which runs around $75 for a 15 minute flight of the Vegas strip. The Grand Celebration tour, described above, costs $309 for adults. If your pockets are even deeper, you can charter your own bird for a solo flight or for a private wedding.
Information/Reservations:
702.736.7243 Toll Free: 888.635.7272
Email: Las@papillon@con1
Website: Papillon.com
