Showing posts with label Canyon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Canyon. Show all posts

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Grand Canyon Skywalk Price

!±8± Grand Canyon Skywalk Price

No trip to Las Vegas is complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon Skywalk. Compared to the price of other Vegas attractions, the bridge is a consummate bargain. But only if you purchase the right package.

I've been writing about the Glass Bridge for years, and I'll be the first to admit that figuring out how much it costs can be a bit of a mystery. I've just researched prices and they've changed again! But in a good way.

Here's what it cost

The last price update simplified costs. It was an unfathomable mish-mash before. Here's where things stand now:

Hualapai Legacy Package
.05 per person

Legacy Silver Package
.83 per person

Legacy Gold Package
.81 per person

These prices include all taxes and fees.

The Packages

My opinion is that if you make it out to Grand Canyon West, you've got to do the Skywalk. In fairness, there are many people who are content to stand at the West Rim and enjoy the majestic views. Fortunately, there's a package for all types of visitors. Here's a quick breakdown:

Hualapai Legacy Package
This option does not include the Skywalk. It does give you unlimited access to the Park, wherein you can use the hop-on-hop-off shuttle to see Guano Point, Eagle Point, the Hualapai Ranch, and the Native American Village.

Legacy Silver Package
Same as the Hualapai Legacy Package but includes a BBQ lunch and a gift shop voucher.

Legacy Gold Package
The best for last! Includes unrestricted access to the glass bridge, plus everything in the Silver Package,

Location is Everything

The Grand Canyon Skywalk makes for a great day trip from Las Vegas. It's just 120 away from Sin City. You can self-drive there but understand that the last 10 miles to the rim are on rough unpaved dirt road. Rent a sport utility vehicle with four-wheel-drive. Or book a tour and hand over the logistics to a professional guide (at the time of writing, there are reports that GPS units are inaccurately providing directions to the West Rim).

Glass Bridge Tours from Las Vegas

I've run the numbers on self-driving to this attraction and it's prohibitive (gas, insurance, SUV rental, parking, Park fee, etc.). Tours from Las Vegas are by far the most economical. There are plenty from which to choose:

Helicopter
It takes a helicopter 45 minutes to reach the rim. Packages range from just the Skywalk to flying 4,000 feet to the bottom and rafting the Colorado River (my favorite).

Airplane
Planes take just 25 minutes and are the quickest way to get there. Includes same side-trips that come with helicopter tours.

Bus
Great for budget travelers. Takes 2.5 hours to get to the rim. Expect to spend half a day or more on this tour (it's worth it!). Same add-ons that come with helicopter rides.

Getting There is Half the Journey

The great thing about Las Vegas tours to Grand Canyon West is the trip over. Highlights include Lake Mead, the largest man-made reservoir in the nation, historic Hoover Dam (stunning from the air; bus trips include a photo stop), the new Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge, the Colorado River, Black Canyon, and an ancient stand of Joshua Tree forest.

The Best Deals? Book Online

If you drive yourself, there are no deals. You arrive at the Park and you pay fixed prices. Tours are a different story. The Skywalk is popular and travel agents in most cases are getting full price. Don't be that person. Shop the Internet. There are some amazing deals on the Web. I personally use a broker who saves me up to 35%. It's a fact that tour operators and brokers post their best prices online. Make sure to apprise yourself of them.

Ready to Walk the Sky?

Don't let Grand Canyon Skywalk's price hold you back from experiencing this fantastic outdoor attraction. The only misstep here is to take the cheap package (or self-drive). Tours from Las Vegas, in my opinion, are the best way to do this trip. They're all-inclusive and you don't have to deal with that dirt road. No matter how you get to the West Rim, just make sure you skywalk the Grand Canyon before you leave Vegas. The experience is worth it.


Grand Canyon Skywalk Price

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Friday, December 2, 2011

How to Get a Cheap Grand Canyon Skywalk Tour

!±8± How to Get a Cheap Grand Canyon Skywalk Tour

The Grand Canyon Skywalk is one of Las Vegas' hottest natural attractions. Tour prices are all over the map, and most of them are ridiculously high. But deals exist. Here are some tips on how to get them:

#1 Take an all-inclusive tour. There are three types: Bus, helicopter, and airplane. Bus is the cheapest option; helicopter the most expensive.

#2 Don't buy from third parties. You will pay more if you purchase a tour from a travel agent, an online broker (e.g. Viator) or a hotel concierge.

#3 Purchase direct. You are buying "wholesale" when you purchase straight from the tour operator.

#4 Book in advance. You will always save money if you buy a high-season ticket during low season.

#5 Book online. Service and transaction costs are cheaper for the tour operator, which results in lower tour prices for you. The exception: The operator's 800# -- using it may result in a price increase.

I researched the Internet for the best online deals for Grand Canyon Skywalk tours from Las Vegas. Here are my findings:

Bus

Grand Canyon Coaches led the pack. Its all-inclusive West Rim bus tour with Skywalk costs 9. Transport is aboard a state-of-the-art luxury bus. Includes Skywalk, BBQ lunch, and plenty of time to sightsee Grand Canyon West. Travel time: 2.5 hours.

Helicopter

Papillon Helicopters smoked the competition. Their Skywalk tour came in at 5 (regularly 9), more than 20 percent cheaper than that of other operators. Includes the EcoStar 130 deluxe helicopter, BBQ lunch, and rim-top sightseeing. Flight time: 45 minutes.

Airplane

Grand Canyon Airlines was the clear winner. Their air tour with Skywalk cost 0 (regularly 9) and uses the award-winning Vistaliner aircraft, a custom-built fixed-wing airplane designed specifically for sightseeing. Includes lunch and time to explore the rim. Flight time: 25 minutes.

Here are a couple more things to consider as you choose which tour is right for you:

Luxury buses feature over-sized windows, plush seats, and clean restrooms. They also include a "smooth-ride" suspension system that ensures you travel in maximum comfort. Helicopters fly at a lower altitude than airplanes. This results in closer, clearer views of Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon. Airplanes are the quickest way to get to the West Rim. From a time and expense standpoint, they are the most economical way to fly.

The Grand Canyon Skywalk, a joint venture between a Las Vegas businessman and the Hualapai Indian Tribe, extends 70 feet over the edge of the rim and suspends you more than 4,000 feet above the Colorado River. The structure can hold 120 people at one time, and there is no time limit to how long you can stay on the bridge.

Its horseshoe-shaped deck is made of 46 Saint-Gobain Diamant low-iron glass panels that cost 0,000 each. To protect the panels from being scratched, personal electronics, including cameras and cell phones, are not allowed. Protective fabric shoe covers are provided. Stationary cameras and staff photographers are available to take your picture.

If you are visiting Las Vegas, make the Grand Canyon Skywalk a "must-see" attraction. Located just 120 east of town, the Skywalk can be reached by bus, helicopter, and airplane. There's a tour for every budget. To get the best deal, book direct on the tour operator's website where prices will be at or near wholesale. Then kick back and prepare yourself for the what will be the experience of a lifetime.


How to Get a Cheap Grand Canyon Skywalk Tour

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Monday, November 21, 2011

Daytrips From Las Vegas - Grand Canyon Skywalk Or South Rim?

!±8± Daytrips From Las Vegas - Grand Canyon Skywalk Or South Rim?

Deciding on whether to visit the Skywalk or Grand Canyon National Park while staying in Las Vegas? That's a tough one. Both attractions are worth the trip. However, there are some logistical and budgetary differences between the two that can help solve the dilemma for you.

For your consideration:

Time

The one-way drive time by bus from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West is 2.5 hours and 5.5 hours to the South Rim. Budget an entire day for either trip. The South Rim bus, which leaves early, will have you back at the hotel at 9 p.m., while the West Rim bus returns by 6 p.m.

Distance

The one-way driving distance from Las Vegas to the West Rim is 128 miles and 279 miles to the South Rim. Both are relatively long trips. Fortunately, today's motor coach has all the amenities, including plush seats and a clean bathroom. There are also a number of stops where you can stretch your legs (including Hoover Dam).

Things to Do

Here's where the two Rims begin to separate. The West Rim has more man-made attractions; the South, more natural ones. The infrastructure (dining, lodging, amenities) is more developed at South Rim. Here are specifics:

South Rim

Lookouts

This part of the Park is filled with famous lookouts, including Mather Point, Yaki Point, Yavapai Observation Station, Hermit's Rest and more.

Restaurants

Plenty of casual dining here. The Bright Angel Lodge restaurant serves up home-style cooking that's priced right. Maswick Lodge offers cafeteria style. There's a small snack bar behind the Lodge Restaurant. High-end dining (and cocktails) can be had at El Tovar. Near Mather Campground is a supermarket with deli, fried foods, and pizza.

Gift Shops

Something for everyone. Hopi House specializes in Native American crafts (can be pricey). The gift shop at Bright Angel Lodge, Verkamp's, and Lookout Studio are great for souvenirs. Fine art is available on the "bottom" floor of Kolb Studio.

Grand Canyon West

Skywalk

The Glass Bridge has become Las Vegas' hottest "off-Strip" attraction. Since opening to the public in 2007, more than one million people have experienced the Bridge. It's a fantastic structure: Made of special glass, it extends 70 feet over the Canyon, wherein you are suspended 4,000 feet above the Colorado River.

Hualapai Ranch

Includes an authentic western town with live gunfights. Horseback riding and river rafting starts here. Helicopter flights take visitors to bottom of the Canyon. Lodging is available for overnight stays.

Lookouts

Eagle Point is the main lookout for the West Rim. Spectacular views are to be had. Be warned - There's no guardrail. The area includes an Indian village and outdoor amphitheater for talks on local culture, flora, and fauna.

Gift Shops/Food

The West Rim is still evolving. Currently, there' the gift shop run by the Hualapai Indian Tribe. Inside, you can purchase snacks and souvenirs. Most bus tours will include lunch, which will most likely be a barbeque prepared for you by the Hualapai.

Weather

The South Rim, elevation 7,000 feet, is 1,500 feet higher than the West Rim, so expect cooler temperatures. Other than that, both areas are subject to extreme weather. Here's a quick look at annual temperatures for both rims:

West Rim/Skywalk

Elevation is 4,700+ feet.

Jan. - March Average high temperature: 70 degrees. Average low: 43 degrees.

April - June Average high temperature: 96 degrees. Average low: 65 degrees.

July - Sept.: Average high temperature: 105 degrees. Average low: 76 degrees.

Oct. - Dec.: Average high temperature: 76 degrees. Average low: 46 degrees.

South Rim

Elevation is 7,000 feet

Jan. - March Average high temperature: 45 degrees. Average low: 21 degrees.

April - June Average high temperature: 69 degrees. Average low: 39 degrees.

July - Sept.: Average high temperature: 82 degrees. Average low: 52 degrees.

Oct. - Dec.: Average high temperature: 52 degrees. Average low: 27 degrees.

What to Wear & What to Bring

Warm layers in the winter and wind-resistant, cool clothing in the summer. Expect winter snow at the South Rim and wear pants, shoes and a jacket (it's not uncommon to see people in shorts!). During the summer, always bring a water bottle and plenty of sunscreen.

Cost

Grand Canyon West rim tours start at . South Rim at . Tour prices include Park entrance fees. Book online to get the best price. Skywalk tickets are extra and cost .95 for adults, .95 for children ages 3-11, and .95 for seniors and military personnel.

Wrap Up

South Rim or West Rim? Tough call. Both destinations feature incredible beauty and attractions. It really boils down to how much time you have and your budget. Focus on these two criteria and you'll know which Grand Canyon tour is right for you.


Daytrips From Las Vegas - Grand Canyon Skywalk Or South Rim?

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Sunday, November 13, 2011

Grand Canyon Bus Tours - A Great Value!

!±8± Grand Canyon Bus Tours - A Great Value!

Have plans to visit Las Vegas, or the Grand Canyon soon? There are some outstanding deals on Grand Canyon bus tours, from Las Vegas, NV to the Grand Canyon and back again.

The Bus tour packages pick up passengers at most of the Las Vegas hotels, and offer economical tour packages to either the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, or the West Rim areas. The South Rim is the biggest, widest, and deepest part of the magnificent Grand Canyon. It is literally up to 21 miles across, and up to 8,400 feet deep! That's over one mile deep, amazing! The South Rim is also the National Park Service center of the Grand Canyon, and offers the best possible views, and photo opportunities. The South Rim also offers much educational information as well. South Rim tour packages allow people to walk on the trails along the top edge at Mather Point, Bright Angel lodge, the Grand Canyon Village, and Yavapai point. Walking trails are literally right along the edge of the canyon. Some good tours also take people directly to the National Geographic Center, where lunch may be included at a food court. There is also an IMAX movie, that normally has an optional fee.

The West Rim is the location of the "Skywalk" the glass bridge that has had much international publicity. The West Rim tours typically offer more activities, and diversions. The West Rim is the home of the Hualapai Indians. There is an Indian Village, small Indian Market, and a lunch buffet offered at the West Rim. Some tour packages include viewing of Indian dances as well. There is also an "Old West" cowboy ranch, and cowboy "gunfight show" offered as well, sometimes at an extra cost. Tourists are taken to Eagle Point, and Guano Point, the best overall viewing areas of the West Rim. The Skywalk is near Eagle point, and tour passengers are shuttled over to the nearby location where the Skywalk sits, allowing views of 4,000 feet straight down to the Colorado River at the bottom of the canyon. The Haulapai Indians collect an "optional fee" of 35.00 per person to walk on the glass bridge. Unfortunately no cameras, or cell phones are allowed on the glass bridge itself. There is an Indian photographer who is available to snap instant photos of tourists, for a small fee. The West Rim may be more fun for families who are visiting with children!

South Rim Bus tours from Las Vegas, and back can sell anywhere from 179.99 down to discounted prices of 79.99. West Rim packages from 199.99 down to discounted prices of around 115.00. Be very cautious of Web Sites that add "hidden fees". Some companies may add 1-3 extra fees, which can add up to another 20.00 to 30.00 dollars. Be sure and look for ads, sales agents, or websites that indicate "no hidden fees".

Tours are commonly offered at "discounted prices, or rates" by both sales booths in Las Vegas, and numerous websites. I have heard problems with booking on-line, and about very confusing websites that confounded people. Other common problems included many of these on-line bookers adding "Hidden-fees", and customers not knowing who's taking them. Good detailed information about the Bus company providing the service should be indicated... Is the Bus company good, or bad? Are the buses new, or old? Do the buses have good air conditioning? Do the buses have restrooms on board? etc. So, basically look for a tour booker, or website that indicates no hidden fees, and newer tour buses/or luxury motor coaches in their tour description. Also look for an indication of the experience of the tour booking agency, how long have they been doing this? Understanding which bus company is providing the service should be part of choosing a good tour. Good service, and an explanation of how nice, and new the luxury motor coaches are should be part of a good tour description as well.

Bus Tours to both the South Rim, and the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, go 365 days a year. South Rim bus tours take 14-15 hours from Las Vegas,and back again- due to the distance involved. The South Rim is 5 hours driving one way from Las Vegas. The West Rim bus tours take approximately 11 hours round trip, from Las Vegas and back as the West Rim is 3 hours driving one way from Las Vegas. I have heard of numerous testimonials of people telling me how much they had enjoyed their tours, to both the Grand Canyon West Rim, and Grand Canyon South Rim. Choosing a company with the Newest, most comfortable luxury motor coaches (some have super comfortable 81 passenger double-decker tour buses!),can make the longer driving distances much more pleasurable & tolerable. Most buses are washed daily, have restrooms on-board, play DVD movies, and have individual air conditioning controls at the seats. Grand Canyon Bus Tour options, are the most affordable, and because of the simplicity can be booked easily on-line. Tours can be booked all hours, and the bus packages are very rarely ever sold out. If booking "on-line" look for a website that has a simple menu, and explains the company background, and experience. A simple website can make the "Buying Experience" very easy and less time-consuming also. It is also a good idea to get to bed early,as the bus tour packages depart around 6:00am, Las Vegas time.

People who drive on their own, frequently under-estimate driving distances, gas costs, entry fees, and costs for meals. The West Rim has a much higher entry fee than the South Rim, as the South Rim is operated by the National Park Service. The South Rim however, involves a driving distance of 270 miles ( 5 hours ) - one way, whereas the West Rim again is 155 miles ( 3 hours ), one way - from Las Vegas.

Even though tours are generally offered at "Substantial Discounts", but don't forget that there is an "optional fee" of 35.00 to walk on the new "Skywalk",at the West Rim - that goes directly to the Hualapais. Both the South Rim, and West Rim bus tours generally include breakfast and lunch, and a 20 minute photo stop at Hoover Dam on the way. Some West Rim tours also include activities; such as the Indian traditional dances, and an "Old West" cowboy gunfight show.

So,in summary -if you want to visit the Grand Canyon, and save money doing it, while in Las Vegas, (tours pick up at Las Vegas hotels)...First study, and choose whether you would prefer a "South Rim tour, or a West Rim tour. If booking on-line; look for a website that's easy to navigate, and check the companies experience (how long have they been doing this? ) Look for a company that represents good Tour Bus Companies, with newer tour buses (service providers), and offers discounted rates, but beware of the "hidden fees". Remember, the lowest price does not always equate to the best "Tour for your money". If you feel comfortable with your sales agency, paying .00 to 115.00 per person, is a pretty good deal for a great tour of the Majestic Grand Canyon.


Grand Canyon Bus Tours - A Great Value!

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