This trip was amazing start to finish. Upon arrival at the airport we were greeted and given an overview of our day by a vibrant and friendly staff member. We were given free snacks (choices of Rice Krispie treats, pop tarts, granola bars, peanuts, trail mix, crackers etc.)and water to pack and take with us for the day. Got our pic taken in front of the plane and 5x7 prints given to us when we got back (ours came out a little blurry so you may wanna take some on your cell or personal camera too just in case). Bill our pilot was exceptional. He was friendly and informative and guided us throughout the day. The flight from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon was smooth and the plane was roomy. We had one stop in Sedona to pick up another family joining us on our tour and getting to see the red rocks of Sedona was an unexpected treat...the air strip was on top of a rock/mountain so quite the experience landing and taking off. Upon arrival at the canyon we went to the helicopter ride first. Exhilarating! First time on a helicopter and it was great. Ride was short to the base of the canyon then we got on a boat to ride in the Colorado for a bit. Our boat driver Jared was GREAT. He took the best pics of our group and did a 360 with the boat to get killer panoramic pics. After the boat ride it was back to the helicopter for another short ride back to the top of the canyon. From there we went to the Skywalk via a bus ride. Got suckered into buying all the pics since you can’t take your own camera but the pics are great—got all 14 on a jump drive for around 68 dollars. They do have lockers to put your stuff in free of charge since you can’t take them with you on the attraction. The skywalk was great but not as big as we expected. There is also a great ledge out front when you get off the bus to get some good pics. From there off to lunch...only disappointing part of trip. Was cafeteria type lunch with choice of meat, corn on cob that was dry and instant mashed potatoes with gravy. Salad, roll, and cookie included. Personally I would rather pack a lunch but it was included so really can’t complain. After lunch you can climb on the rock formations or hike for a bit at Guana point. Cool opportunity to take pics where it looks like you are hanging off the cliff. From there back to the bus and then the flight home. Left around 7:15 am and back around 2:45 pm....again had the extra stop in Sedona to drop off the other family. Got our pics given to us from the AM upon arrival and had a fresh brownie that was in the lobby while we waited for our Uber ride back to hotel. Overall great experience and I highly recommend.
Tips—
1. Bring a small bag that fits on your shoulder to carry water/snacks—we did small drawstring ones and it was perfect.
2. Load up on a few snacks and water provided upon arrival at Westwind so you don’t have to pay for them while at the canyon
3. Check weather. Parts of tour were cold so a light jacket was perfect.
4. Wear tennis shoes. Terrain is rocky/gravel and we saw way too many people in sandals or heels.
5. Wear sunscreen...especially on face, bring a hat if you like.
6. Sunglasses are a must.