Multi-Day Excursions
Flying M Air is the only helicopter tour and charter operator offering the following multi-day excursions:
- Lake Powell Aerial Photography Excursion
- Sedona Getaway
- Grand Canyon Getaway
- Arizona Red Rocks Helicopter Excursion
- Land of the Navajo Helicopter Excursion
- Southwest Circle Helicopter Adventure
Have an idea for something different? Contact us to discuss it.
Lake Powell Aerial Photography Excursion 
Gather up your cameras, lenses, and tripod for a photo journey you’ll never forget!
This two-day photo excursion for two begins at 8 AM in Phoenix, AZ, where your pilot will pick you up at the Phoenix area airport of your choice. From there, it’s a 2-1/2 hour flight to Page, AZ on the southwest end of beautiful Lake Powell. Along the way you’ll pass by the former ghost town of Jerome and incredible red rock formations west of Sedona. After a quick fuel stop at Williams, AZ, the flight path will skirt the restricted Grand Canyon airspace to enter the Painted Desert right over the Little Colorado River Gorge. From there, you’ll fly over the remote homesteads of the western most part of the Navajo Reservation before landing at Page Municipal Airport.
From the airport, you’ll head directly to Antelope Canyon a magnificent slot canyon carved into solid sandstone. Arriving at mid-day, the light will be just right for photography. You can choose from Upper Antelope Canyon, which is smaller and more dramatic but often quite crowded or Lower Antelope Canyon, which is larger and more difficult to maneuver in, but seldom crowded. Either way, you’ll have time to photograph the swirling patterns of erosion on the rock walls.
Afterwards, check into your hotel room at Wahweap Marina, right on the shore of Lake Powell. Depending on the time of year, you can relax for a while on your room’s balcony or with a dip in the pool.
Two hours before sunset, you’ll head back out to the airport for your first of two hour-long photo flights along the lake. The helicopter will be prepared with doors off, so there’s nothing between your camera lens and the lake’s outrageous scenery. Your flight will include views of the Glen Canyon Dam and Bridge, famous Horseshoe Bend, the Wahweap and Antelope Marinas, Padre Bay, and Gunsite Butte, before heading uplake as far as the Confluence of the SanJuan River to more remote canyons and scenery. At that time of day, the low-lying sun will accentuate the colors of the rocks and deepen the shadows.
After an evening on your own back at the lodge, you’ll get an early start the next day with a flight as early as sunrise. You’ll retrace the route you followed the evening before or tell the pilot where you want to go to capture the images you have in mind.
After checking out and lunch on your own, you’ll return once more to the airport for your flight back to Phoenix. The pilot will take you on a different route that includes an overflight of Meteor Crater, a fuel stop at Flagstaff, and a quick red rocks tour of Sedona. You’ll touch down in Phoenix before 4 PM.
Package Price
Total price for this excursion is $3,495 double occupancy for two people. (This price covers both people.) Due to size and weight constraints, we cannot accommodate more than 2 people for this excursion. Add $250 for single occupancy for two passengers. This price is guaranteed for all trips booked through December 31, 2008.
Package price includes round trip helicopter transportation between Phoenix and Page, a total of 2 hours of doors-off aerial photography flight time in the vicinity of the lake, Antelope Canyon Tour, ground transportation in Page, and lodging for up to two people as described. Passengers are responsible for all incidental costs not specifically included in the description, including all meals and the cost of personal items purchased on the trip.
Flying M Air reserves the right to change hotel accommodations and flight routes from what may be listed here in the event of unavailability or inclement weather. In all instances, substituted accommodations will meet or exceed those offered here.
Customize Your Excursion
You may choose among the following options to customize this excursion:
- Aerial photography flights only. Provide your own transportation to Lake Powell and make all of your own hotel and tour arrangements. This option is recommended for people who plan to be in the area for other purposes or for groups larger than 2 people. If you select this option, you’ll get just two flights of one hour each over the lake. Deduct $500.
- Additional aerial photography flight time. Time is billable in tenths of an hour. Add $495 per hour.
- Additional people. We cannot fly more than 2 people from Phoenix to Page and back for an overnight trip due to weight and stowage constraints. However, if other members of your party want to meet at Page, we can take them on the aerial photography portions of the flight. Our helicopter can accommodate up to 3 passengers for photography. There’s no additional fee if these people fly during the 2 hours of total aerial photography flight time included in this trip. If more time is needed, it’s avaiable at the rate of $495 per hour for up to 3 people. Please keep in mind that performance is limited when the helicopter flies at or near maximum gross weight. For that reason, we recommend no more than two photographers on board for any flight.
- Doors off for all flight time, including travel time. This slows down the aircraft, increasing the amount of travel time. Add $500.
- Visit both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons while at Page. For best lighting, this should be done on two separate days, so departure on second day will be delayed. Add $100.
- Additional nights at Lake Powell. Add $500 per night. (Remember, the pilot and aircraft must remain in Page, too.)
- Return via Monument Valley. You’ll get look at the most famous of the monuments from the air. This will add nearly an hour to the total flight time. We are currently not approved to do aerial photography flights over Monument Valley without a permit. Also, choosing this option will force a fuel stop in Winslow instead of Flagstaff. Add $750.
Reservations are Required
Reservations are required at least 14 days in advance. To guarantee availability, we recommend booking 30 to 60 days in advance. A 50% deposit is required at the time of reservation. Full payment must be received within 3 days of departure. We have a 30-day cancellation policy; all deposits are forfeited for cancellations less than 30 days before departure date.
Weight Restrictions
Total passenger and luggage weight is limited to 550 lbs. Luggage size is limited by stowage space constraints. Each passenger may bring 1 small overnight bag, 1 camera bag, and 1 tripod. (A tripod is highly recommended for Antelope Canyon photography.)
Other Considerations
Walking distances of up to 1/4 mile may be required at Page Municipal Airport, Antelope Canyon, and Wahweap Lodge. This trip is not recommended for people with health problems or special dietary needs, or people who have difficulty getting around. Trip starts and ends at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (or another Phoenix area airport of the passenger’s choosing).
Although the weather in Northern Arizona during the spring and autumn months is generally picture perfect (pun intended), Flying M Air cannot control the weather. If conditions are safe for flight, the flight will be conducted and no refunds will be given. Flying M Air reserves the right to delay flights in the event of problematic weather. A full refund of the excursion price will be given if the excursion must be cancelled due to weather.
Important Note
This trip is not being offered as a guided tour. Instead, it is a series of charter helicopter flights, for the purpose of transportation between Phoenix and Page and aerial photography in the vicinity of Lake Powell, packaged with lodging and tours offered by a licensed tour operator. Although the helicopter flights pass over and through some of the most incredible scenery the southwest has to offer, Flying M Air is not a tour operator in these areas and is not conducting the flights as tours.
Sedona Getaway
Sedona is hours away by car but can be reached within a hour by helicopter. Why not make the most of an overnight or weekend getaway by letting Flying M Air take you to there?
The red rocks of the Sedona area are even more spectacular when you see them from the window of a helicopter. Choose lodging in uptown Sedona, near shopping and dining, or on Airport Mesa, which offers sweeping views of the town and rock formations. We can also arrange for a Jeep tour, horseback ride, or other activities.
Pricing
Includes round trip transportation between Wickenburg or Phoenix area airports (listed below) and Sedona, Sedona red rocks helicopter tour, pilot waiting time, round trip ground transportation from Sedona airport to Uptown Sedona, and overnight lodging. Prices are per flight, not per person; we can accommodate up to 2 people with luggage on this flight.
|
Origination Point
|
|||
|
Wickenburg
|
Glendale, Deer Valley (Phoenix), Scottsdale
|
Sky Harbor (Phoenix), Mesa, Chandler
|
|
| One Night |
$1,295
|
$1,595
|
$1,795
|
| Two Nights |
$1,695
|
$1,995
|
$2,195
|
| Additional Nights |
add $400 per night
|
||
Grand Canyon Getaway
It’s four hours by car from Phoenix and the traffic on I-17 can be horrendous! Let us cut your travel time to a 90-minute scenic flight. Not only will you get to the Grand Canyon faster, but you’ll get a personalized tour of the scenery — including Sedona’s red rocks — along the way. Best of all, it includes a 25-minute Grand Canyon helicopter tour with one of the park’s authorized tour operators, entrance into the park, and overnight accommodations walking distance from the rim!
Pricing
Includes round trip transportation between Wickenburg or Phoenix area airports (listed below) and Grand Canyon Airport, Sedona red rocks overflight en route, Grand Canyon helicopter tour, pilot waiting time, National Park entrance fee, and round trip ground transportation from Grand Canyon Airport to Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim. Prices are per flight, not per person; we can accommodate up to 2 people with luggage on this flight.
|
Origination Point
|
|||
|
Wickenburg
|
Glendale, Deer Valley (Phoenix), Scottsdale
|
Sky Harbor (Phoenix), Mesa, Chandler
|
|
| One Night |
$1,695
|
$2,095
|
$2,295
|
| Two Nights |
$2,085
|
$2,495
|
$2,695
|
| Additional Nights |
add $400 per night
|
||
Arizona Red Rocks Helicopter Excursion
Join us for a three-day, two-night excursion to a pair of Arizona’s most popular destinations: Sedona and the Grand Canyon.
Forget the rental car and the long, boring drives between destinations! This trip takes quick and scenic routes to maximize your time at the destinations and includes more than 3 hours of helicopter flight time, a Sedona Jeep tour, a Grand Canyon helicopter tour, and deluxe overnight accommodations at both locations.
Day 1: Phoenix to Sedona
Your trip begins at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (or any Phoenix area general aviation airport), where you’ll meet your pilot and climb aboard Flying M Air’s helicopter. You’ll make the 60-minute flight to Sedona, crossing over metropolitan Phoenix and beautiful Lake Pleasant, climbing through Black Canyon, and dropping into the Verde Valley. From there, you’ll head through Oak Creek to Sedona for your first stop at “America’s most scenic airport.” You’ll take a 10-minute shuttle ride to Uptown Sedona for a 2-hour Jeep tour among Sedona’s famous red rocks, shopping, and lunch or dinner on your own. Then its back up to Airport Mesa where you’ll check into your red rock view room at Sedona Sky Ranch. Sit on your room’s deck and watch the sun set over the town.
Day 1 Included Activities & Accommodations:
- 1-hour scenic helicopter flight from Phoenix area to Sedona.
- 2-1/2-hour Jeep Tour with Earth Wisdom Jeep Tours among Sedona’s red rocks.
- Red Rock view room with private patio at Sedona Sky Ranch Lodge.
Day 1 Suggestions for Activities on Your Own
- Shopping in Uptown Sedona and/or the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village.
- Lunch and/or dinner in Sedona or at the Sedona Airport Restaurant.
- Swimming at Slide Rock State Park or in the Sky Ranch Lodge pool.
For more information about Sedona, visit the Sedona Chamber of Commerce Web site.
Day 2: Sedona to Grand Canyon
In the morning, return to the helicopter for the 45-minute flight to the Grand Canyon. We’ll start with a red rock tour just west of Sedona before climbing over the Mogollon Rim and crossing the high desert to Grand Canyon Airport. You’ll start your visit to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim with a 25-minute helicopter tour over the Canyon with one of the park’s licensed tour operators. At the end of the tour, board a shuttle bus for the 15-minute ride into Grand Canyon National Park. Enjoy a walk along the Rim, browse through the gift shops and museum displays, have lunch, take a bus along West Rim Drive for a variety of canyon views. You can even take a short hike into the canyon itself. In the afternoon, you’ll check into your room at one of the park’s South Rim accommodations, walking distance to the Rim and its incredible views.
Day 2 Included Activities & Accommodations:
- 1-hour scenic helicopter flight from Sedona to Grand Canyon Airport, including a red rock tour of Sedona.
- 25-minute helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon with Maverick Helicopters.
- Room at Bright Angel Lodge, Thunderbird Lodge, or Kachina Lodge on Grand Canyon South Rim. (On some dates, room has full or partial view into canyon.)
Day 2 Suggestions for Activities on Your Own
- Hike along Grand Canyon South Rim or partway down Bright Angel Trail. (It is not possible to hike all the way into the canyon and back in the time available to you.)
- Take the free shuttle along the canyon’s West Rim Road, with stops at various lookout points.
- Take the free shuttle to the Visitor Information Center for interpretive displays, ranger activities, and bookstore.
- Lunch and dinner in one of the five restaurants in Grand Canyon Village (on the rim). (If you’d like to have dinner at historic El Tovar, please let us know when booking this excursion so we can reserve a table for you.)
- Shopping in gift and book stores in Grand Canyon Village.
For more information about the Grand Canyon, visit the Grand Canyon National Park Web site.
Day 3: Grand Canyon to Phoenix
The last day of your adventure begins with a 90-minute helicopter flight from the Grand Canyon past Sedona and down the Verde River’s winding canyon to the Phoenix area. We’ll land at Sky Harbor airport (or another valley airport of your choosing) where you’ll say goodbye to your pilot and head home.
Day 3 Included Activities:
- 90-minute scenic helicopter flight from Grand Canyon to Phoenix area, including overflight of Sedona and Verde River.
Package Price:
2007 Pricing: $3,495 double occupancy for two people. (This price covers both people.) Due to size and weight constraints, we cannot accommodate more than 2 people for this excursion. Add $500 for single occupancy for two passengers; keep in mind that we may not be able to reserve an additional room at all destinations, so the sooner you book your excursion, the greater the chance of getting the additional room. This price is guaranteed for all trips booked or conducted through December 2007.
2008 Pricing: $4,495 double occupancy for two people. (This price covers both people.) Due to size and weight constraints, we cannot accommodate more than 2 people for this excursion. Add $1,000 for single occupancy for two passengers; keep in mind that we may not be able to reserve an additional room at all destinations, so the sooner you book your excursion, the greater the chance of getting the additional room. This price is guaranteed for all trips booked during 2008.
Package price includes helicopter transportation, tours, and lodging for up to two people as described, and most ground transportation. Package price also includes luggage designed to fit our luggage compartments and Flying M Air hats for each passenger. An additional fee may apply for substitutions of any included tours or accommodations. Price does not include 8% sales tax. Passengers are responsible for all incidental costs not specifically included in the description, including all meals, some ground transportation, and the cost of personal items purchased on the trip.
Flying M Air reserves the right to change hotel accommodations and some services from what may be listed here in the event of unavailability. In all instances, substituted accommodations and services will meet or exceed those offered here.
Upcoming Excursion Dates
Because of the multiple-hotel coordination required for this tour, it is offered on specific dates only. Please contact us for a list of available dates.
Other dates may be available for excursions if booked at least 30 days in advance. Please contact us with requested dates as far in advance as possible to see if we can accommodate you.
Reservations are Required
Reservations are required at least 30 days in advance. A $200 deposit is required at the time of reservation. A 50% deposit is required 30 days before the departure date. Full payment must be received within 3 days of departure. We have a 30-day cancellation policy; all deposits are forfeited for cancellations less than 30 days before departure date.
Weight Restrictions
Total passenger and luggage weight is limited to 600 lbs. Luggage size is limited by stowage space constraints; details will be provided at booking.
Other Considerations
Walking distances of up to 1/4 mile is required at both stops. This trip is not recommended for people with health problems or special dietary needs, or people who have difficulty getting around. Trip starts and ends at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (or another Phoenix area airport of the passenger’s choosing).
Download a Printable Itinerary
Click here to download a printable sample itinerary for this excursion. (Adobe Reader or other PDF reader is required.)
Questions?
If you have any questions about this excursion, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Land of the Navajo Helicopter Excursion
Join us for a three-day, two-night excursion to two remote destinations at the edge of the Navajo Reservation: Lake Powell and Monument Valley.
Leave the city and crowded tourist destinations behind! Climb aboard our helicopter and for a scenic flight that will show you the reservation as no one else can. This excursion includes more than 5 hours of helicopter flight time, a Lake Powell cruise, an Antelope Canyon tour, a Navajo-led tour of Monument Valley, and deluxe overnight accommodations at both locations — including a Monument Valley-view room at historic Gouldings Lodge.
Day 1: Phoenix Area to Lake Powell and Page
Your Land of the Navajo Helicopter Excursion begins at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (or any Phoenix area general aviation airport), where you’ll meet your helicopter pilot and climb aboard Flying M Air’s 2005 Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter. You’ll make the 2-hour flight to Page on Lake Powell. The flight takes you over incredible desert scenery, including Lake Pleasant, Sedona, the Little Colorado River Gorge, remote Navajo homesteads, and the rock formations of the Echo and Vermillion Cliffs. You’ll start your area activities with a Navajo-led tour of Antelope Canyon — an incredible slot canyon carved through the sandstone — at the best time of day for photography. In the afternoon, board a tour boat on Lake Powell for a fascinating look at the lake. You’ll spend the night in a lake-view room at the Wahweap Lodge, where you can stroll along the water’s edge at sunset.
Day 1 Included Activities & Accommodations:
- 2-1/2-hour scenic helicopter flight from Phoenix to Page, including overflight of Little Colorado River Gorge and Horseshoe Bend.
- 1-1/2-hour tour of Upper Antelope Canyon with Roger Ekis’ Antelope Canyon Tours.
- 3-hour Navajo Tapestry cruise on Lake Powell.
- Lake view room with private patio at Lake Powell Resort’s Wahweap Lodge.
Day 1 Suggestions for Activities on Your Own
- Tour of Glen Canyon Dam.
- Swimming at one of the Wahweap Lodge’s two pools.
- Lunch and dinner at the Wahweap Marina’s restaurants.
For more information about the Lake Powell area, visit the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Web site.
Day 2: Page to Monument Valley
In the morning, return to the airport and helicopter for the next leg of your trip, a 75-minute flight along the southern shore of Lake Powell to Monument Valley. You’ll see views of Lake Powell and its San Juan River arm that few area visitors ever see. Approach Monument Valley from the west, past little-known, magnificent buttes. You’ll land at the airstrip at Goulding’s Lodge, a historic trading post with restaurant and motel overlooking Monument Valley’s most famous rock formations. After lunch on your own, you’ll take a 3-1/2 hour tour of Monument Valley, driving among the famous sandstone buttes with Navajo guides. Afterwards, settle into your room at Goulding’s, with a private balcony overlooking the valley.
Day 2 Included Activities & Accommodations:
- 1-1/4-hour scenic helicopter flight from Page to Monument Valley, including views of Rainbow Bridge and Monument Valley from the air.
- 3-1/2-hour Navajo-led tour of Monument Valley.
- Earth Spirit Show
- Monument Valley view room at Goulding’s Lodge.
Day 2 Suggestions for Activities on Your Own
- Stroll through historic Goulding’s Museum and Trading Post.
- Swimming in indoor heated pool.
- Lunch and dinner Goulding’s Lodge Stagecoach Restaurant.
For more information about Goulding’s Lodge, visit the Goulding’s Lodge Web site.
Day 3: Monument Valley to Phoenix
The last day of the trip begins Monument Valley and heads southeast, crossing the Navajo Reservation over the Painted Desert. Your hour-plus flight will overfly the Grand Falls of the Little Colorado River and incredible Meteor Crater before heading east to Winslow for a fuel stop and lunch at historic La Posada Hotel. Back in the air, we’ll head southwest past Sedona and down the Verde River’s winding canyon to the Phoenix area. We’ll land at Sky Harbor airport (or another valley airport of your choosing) where you’ll say goodbye to your pilot and head home.
Day 3 Included Activities & Accommodations:
- 2-hour scenic helicopter flight from Monument Valley to Winslow, including overflight of Grand Falls of the Little Colorado and Meteor Crater.
- Lunch at La Posada Hotel.
- 1-1/2-hour scenic helicopter flight from Winslow to Phoenix area, including overflight of Sedona area and Verde River.
Package Price:
2007 Pricing: $3,995 double occupancy for two people. (This price covers both people.) Due to size and weight constraints, we cannot accommodate more than 2 people for this excursion. Add $1,000 for single occupancy for two passengers; keep in mind that we may not be able to reserve an additional room at all destinations, so the sooner you book your excursion, the greater the chance of getting the additional room. This price is guaranteed for all trips booked or conducted through December 2007.
2008 Pricing: $4,995 double occupancy for two people. (This price covers both people.) Due to size and weight constraints, we cannot accommodate more than 2 people for this excursion. Add $1,000 for single occupancy for two passengers; keep in mind that we may not be able to reserve an additional room at all destinations, so the sooner you book your excursion, the greater the chance of getting the additional room. This price is guaranteed for all trips booked during 2008.
Package price includes helicopter transportation, tours, and lodging for up to two people as described, and most ground transportation. Package price also includes luggage designed to fit our luggage compartments and Flying M Air hats for each passenger. An additional fee may apply for substitutions of any included tours or accommodations. Price does not include 8% sales tax. Passengers are responsible for all incidental costs not specifically included in the description, including all meals, some ground transportation, and the cost of personal items purchased on the trip.
Flying M Air reserves the right to change hotel accommodations and some services from what may be listed here in the event of unavailability. In all instances, substituted accommodations and services will meet or exceed those offered here.
Upcoming Excursion Dates
Because of the multiple-hotel coordination required for this tour, it is offered on specific dates only. Please contact us for a list of available dates.
We do not normally conduct this excursion during Summer or Winter months. If you have specific dates in mind, please contact us with requested dates as far in advance as possible to see if we can accommodate you.
Reservations are Required
Reservations are required at least 30 days in advance. A $200 deposit is required at the time of reservation. A 50% deposit is required 30 days before the departure date. Full payment must be received within 3 days of departure. We have a 30-day cancellation policy; all deposits are forfeited for cancellations less than 30 days before departure date.
Weight Restrictions
Total passenger and luggage weight is limited to 550 lbs. Luggage size is limited by stowage space constraints; we will provide luggage for each passenger for this trip.
Other Considerations
Walking distances of up to 1/4 mile is required at several stops. This trip is not recommended for people with health problems or special dietary needs, or people who have difficulty getting around. Trip starts and ends at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (or another Phoenix area airport of the passenger’s choosing).
Important Note
This trip is not being offered as a guided tour. Instead, it is a series of charter helicopter flights, for transportation purposes only, packaged with lodging and tours offered by licensed tour operators at destination locations. Although the helicopter flights pass over and through some of the most incredible scenery the southwest has to offer, Flying M Air is not a tour operator in these areas and is not conducting the flights as tours.
Download a Printable Itinerary
Click here to download a printable sample itinerary for this excursion. (Adobe Reader or other PDF reader is required.)
Southwest Circle Helicopter Adventure
Join us for a 6-day, 5-night adventure that includes 5 popular destinations with over 8 hours helicopter flight time, overnight accommodations, tours, and more!
Day 1: Phoenix to Sedona
Your Southwest Circle Adventure begins at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (or any Phoenix area general aviation airport), where you’ll meet your helicopter pilot and climb aboard Flying M Air’s 2005 Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter. You’ll make the 60-minute flight to Sedona, AZ, crossing over metropolitan Phoenix and beautiful Lake Pleasant, climbing through Black Canyon, and dropping into the Verde Valley. From there, you’ll head through Oak Creek to Sedona for your first stop at “America’s most scenic airport.” You’ll take a 10-minute ride to Uptown Sedona for a Jeep tour among Sedona’s famous red rocks, shopping, and lunch or dinner on your own. Then its back up to Airport Mesa where you’ll check into your red rock view room at Sedona Sky Ranch. Sit on your room’s deck and watch the sun set over the town.
Day 1 Included Activities & Accommodations:
- 1-hour scenic helicopter flight from Phoenix area to Sedona.
- 1-1/2-hour Jeep Tour with Earth Wisdom Jeep Tours among Sedona’s red rocks.
- Red Rock view room with private patio at Sedona Sky Ranch Lodge.
Day 1 Suggestions for Activities on Your Own
- Shopping in Uptown Sedona and/or the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village.
- Lunch and/or dinner in Sedona or at the Sedona Airport Restaurant.
- Swimming at Slide Rock State Park or in the Sky Ranch Lodge pool.
For more information about Sedona, visit the Sedona Chamber of Commerce Web site.
Day 2: Sedona to Grand Canyon
The next day, return to the helicopter for the 45-minute flight to the Grand Canyon. We’ll start with a red rock tour just west of Sedona before climbing over the Mogollon Rim and crossing the high desert to Grand Canyon Airport. You’ll start your visit to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim with a 25-minute helicopter tour over the Canyon with one of the park’s licensed tour operators. At the end of the tour, take a 15-minute ride into Grand Canyon National Park. Enjoy a walk along the Rim, browse through the gift shops and museum displays, have lunch, take a bus along West Rim Drive for a variety of canyon views. You can even take a short hike into the canyon itself. In the afternoon, you’ll check into your room at one of the park’s South Rim accommodations, walking distance to the Rim and its incredible views.
Day 2 Included Activities & Accommodations:
- 1-hour scenic helicopter flight from Sedona to Grand Canyon Airport, including a red rock tour of Sedona.
- 25-minute helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon with Maverick Helicopters.
- Room at Bright Angel Lodge, Thunderbird Lodge, or Kachina Lodge on Grand Canyon South Rim. (On most dates, room has full or partial view into canyon.)
Day 2 Suggestions for Activities on Your Own
- Hike along Grand Canyon South Rim or partway down Bright Angel Trail. (It is not possible to hike all the way into the canyon and back in the time available to you.)
- Take the free shuttle along the canyon’s West Rim Road, with stops at various lookout points.
- Take the free shuttle to the Visitor Information Center for interpretive displays, ranger activities, and bookstore.
- Lunch and dinner in one of the five restaurants in Grand Canyon Village (on the rim). (If you’d like to have dinner at historic El Tovar, please let us know when booking this excursion so we can reserve a table for you.)
- Shopping in gift and book stores in Grand Canyon Village.
For more information about the Grand Canyon, visit the Grand Canyon National Park Web site.
Day 3: Grand Canyon to Lake Powell and Page
After a leisurely breakfast, return to the airport where the helicopter waits. From Grand Canyon Airport, it’s a 75-minute flight to Page on Lake Powell. The flight takes you over incredible desert scenery with glimpses of Grand Canyon’s eastern end, the Little Colorado River Gorge, remote Navajo homesteads, and the rock formations of the Echo and Vermillion Cliffs.
You’ll start your area activities with a Navajo-led tour of Antelope Canyon — an incredible slot canyon carved through the sandstone — at the best time of day for photography. In the afternoon, board a tour boat on Lake Powell for a fascinating look at the lake.
You’ll spend the night in a lake-view room at the Wahweap Lodge, where you can stroll along the water’s edge at sunset.
Day 3 Included Activities & Accommodations:
- 1-1/4-hour scenic helicopter flight from Grand Canyon to Page, including overflight of Little Colorado River Gorge and Horseshoe Bend.
- 1-1/2-hour tour of Upper Antelope Canyon with Roger Ekis’ Antelope Canyon Tours.
- 3-hour Navajo Tapestry cruise on Lake Powell.
- Lake view room with private patio at Lake Powell Resort’s Wahweap Lodge.
Day 3 Suggestions for Activities on Your Own
- Tour of Glen Canyon Dam.
- Swimming at one of the Wahweap Lodge’s two pools.
- Lunch and dinner at the Wahweap Marina’s restaurants.
For more information about the Lake Powell area, visit the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Web site.
Day 4: Page to Monument Valley
In the morning, return to the airport and helicopter for the next leg of your trip, a 75-minute flight along the southern shore of Lake Powell to Monument Valley. You’ll see views of Lake Powell and its San Juan River arm that few area visitors ever see. Approach Monument Valley from the west, past little-known, magnificent buttes. You’ll land at the airstrip at Goulding’s Lodge, a historic trading post with restaurant and motel overlooking Monument Valley’s most famous rock formations. After lunch on your own, you’ll take a 3-1/2 hour tour of Monument Valley, driving among the famous sandstone buttes with Navajo guides. Afterwards, settle into your room at Goulding’s, with a private balcony overlooking the valley.
Day 4 Included Activities & Accommodations:
- 1-1/4-hour scenic helicopter flight from Page to Monument Valley, including views of Rainbow Bridge and Monument Valley from the air.
- 3-1/2-hour Navajo-led tour of Monument Valley.
- Earth Spirit Show
- Monument Valley view room at Goulding’s Lodge.
Day 4 Suggestions for Activities on Your Own
- Stroll through historic Goulding’s Museum and Trading Post.
- Swimming in indoor heated pool.
- Lunch and dinner Goulding’s Lodge Stagecoach Restaurant.
For more information about Goulding’s Lodge, visit the Goulding’s Lodge Web site.
Day 5: Monument Valley to Flagstaff
The longest flying day of the trip begins Monument Valley and heads southeast, crossing the Navajo Reservation over the Painted Desert. Your hour-plus flight will overfly the Grand Falls of the Little Colorado River and incredible Meteor Crater before heading west along the path of historic Route 66 to Flagstaff. On the ground in the Flagstaff area, take a short hike among the ruins at Walnut Canyon. Later, you’ll unwind at a historic downtown hotel within walking distance of shops and restaurants. Optional activities include a daytime or nighttime trip up to the Lowell Observatory for a tour or a look through its 24-inch telescope.
Day 5 Included Activities & Accommodations:
- 2-hour scenic helicopter flight from Monument Valley to Flagstaff, including overflight of Grand Falls of the Little Colorado and Meteor Crater.
- Walnut Canyon visit with optional hike.
- Overnight lodging at The Inn at 410, a bed and breakfast lodge within walking distance of historic downtown Flagstaff.
Day 5 Suggestions for Activities on Your Own
- Shopping and dining in historic downtown Flagstaff.
- Tour of Museum of Northern Arizona.
- Daytime and/or nighttime tour of Lowell Observatory. (Nighttime availability varies depending on season.)
- Chair lift to top of Snowbowl (if open).
For more information about Flagstaff, visit the Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce Web site.
Day 6: Flagstaff to Phoenix
The last day of your adventure begins with an hour-long helicopter flight from Flagstaff though Oak Creek Canyon, past Sedona, and down the Verde River’s winding canyon to the Phoenix area. We’ll land at Sky Harbor airport (or another valley airport of your choosing) where you’ll say goodbye to your pilot and head home.
Day 6 Included Activities:
- 1-1/4-hour scenic helicopter flight from Flagstaff to Phoenix area, including overflight of 2006 Sedona wildfire area and Verde River.
Package Price
2008 Pricing: $6,995 double occupancy for two people. (This price covers both people.) Due to size and weight constraints, we cannot accommodate more than 2 people for this excursion. Add $1,000 for single occupancy for two passengers; keep in mind that we may not be able to reserve an additional room at all destinations, so the sooner you book your excursion, the greater the chance of getting the additional room. This price is guaranteed for all trips booked during 2008.
Package price includes helicopter transportation, tours, and lodging for up to two people as described, and most ground transportation. Package price also includes luggage designed to fit our luggage compartments and Flying M Air hats for each passenger. An additional fee may apply for substitutions of any included tours or accommodations. Price does not include 8% sales tax. Passengers are responsible for all incidental costs not specifically included in the description, including all meals, some ground transportation, and the cost of personal items purchased on the trip.
Flying M Air reserves the right to change hotel accommodations and some services from what may be listed here in the event of unavailability. In all instances, substituted accommodations and services will meet or exceed those offered here.
Upcoming Excursion Dates
Because of the multiple-hotel coordination required for this tour, it is offered on specific dates only. Here is a current list of upcoming dates:
2008
September 21 - 26
September 28 - October 3
October 5 - 10
October 12 - 17
October 19 - 24
October 26 - 31
November 2 - 7
November 9 - 14
November 16 - 21
We do not normally conduct this excursion during Summer or Winter months. If you have specific dates in mind, please contact us with requested dates as far in advance as possible to see if we can accommodate you.
Reservations are Required
Reservations are required at least 30 days in advance. A $250 deposit is required at the time of reservation. A 50% deposit is required 30 days before the departure date. Full payment must be received within 3 days of departure. We have a 30-day cancellation policy; all deposits are forfeited for cancellations less than 30 days before departure date.
Weight Restrictions
Total passenger and luggage weight is limited to 550 lbs. Luggage size is limited by stowage space constraints; we will provide luggage for each passenger for this trip.
Other Considerations
Walking distances of up to 1/4 mile is required at several stops. This trip is not recommended for people with health problems or special dietary needs, or people who have difficulty getting around. Trip starts and ends at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (or another Phoenix area airport of the passenger’s choosing).
Important Note
This trip is not being offered as a guided tour. Instead, it is a series of charter helicopter flights, for transportation purposes only, packaged with lodging and tours offered by licensed tour operators at destination locations. Although the helicopter flights pass over and through some of the most incredible scenery the southwest has to offer, Flying M Air is not a tour operator in these areas and is not conducting the flights as tours.
Download a Printable Itinerary
Click here to download a printable sample itinerary for this excursion. (Adobe Reader or other PDF reader is required.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to take the trip exactly as described here?
A: We do offer several options for tours and lodging. You will receive a preferences form that explains options and gives you an opportunity to customize your trip. Most tour preferences can be accommodated, however lodging is reserved up to one year in advance and is sometimes difficult to change. The more advance notice we have, the more likely it is that we can make changes.
As for routes, our flight path is predetermined based on scenic value and time/fuel constraints. We need to stick to the route for flight following purposes. If you’d like to take a different route, please contact us about a custom excursion.
Q: Does the trip have to depart on a Sunday?
A: Again, reservations for lodging are made far in advance. With enough advance notice, we may be able to change the dates. Contact us to discuss your needs.
Q: A day at each destination doesn’t seem like much. Won’t we feel rushed?
A: Probably not. Remember, travel time from destination to destination is greatly reduced by the flight. You’ll have at least 6 waking hours each day to do things on your own, before or after the included tours.
Q: Do you have a longer version of this trip?
A: Not yet. But if you have an idea for a longer trip, please contact us to discuss it.
Q: Do you have a shorter version of this trip?
A: Yes, we do. The Arizona Red Rocks Excursion and Land of the Navajo each cover half of this trip in 3 days.
Other Questions?
If you have any questions about this excursion, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll do our best to answer your questions to help you better understand this great opportunity.
