Are you wondering what to do for Spring Break this year? Are you getting bored with the usual spring getaway destinations? Then you should do something totally different, like go to the Grand Canyon and take a float tour. If you go to the South Rim, you can book a full day floating tour along the Colorado River.
Tours From Arizona
The airport in Tusayan, Arizona is situated near the main gates to the park at the South Rim, and that is where the float tours begin. When you book your tour, you get to choose between a basic and deluxe version.
The basic tour starts out with a 2 1/2 hour bus ride to the Glen Canyon Dam. The bus takes you to the pontoon raft where you begin your float tour, but the ride on the bus isn't wasted time since you'll see many interesting sights along the way. For 15 miles, you will travel down the beautiful river, ending up at Lee's Ferry.
The Deluxe Tours
After your river tour, you'll get back on your air conditioned sightseeing bus and complete the land portion of your adventure. You'll be given the chance to shop for souvenirs and crafts when your bus makes a stop at the Cameron Trading Post.
Now if you want something different and a little bit more 'VIP', then make sure you book a deluxe tour. Instead of the initial 2.5 hour bus ride, deluxe tours include a plane ride that will fly you over the South Rim, and past the Vermilion Cliffs, before arriving at the Glen Canyon Dam. Your air tour lasts about an hour, and you'll be treated to some spectacular views.
The deluxe tour also includes a Jeep ride before you board the float tour. The sightseeing Jeeps carry eight passengers as they travel past notable landmarks like Horseshoe Bend and the Slot Canyons. The deluxe tour is definitely worth the extra cost if you can fit it into your budget.
The River Tour
No matter which tour option you choose, your river tour will be the same. This is a truly magical experience. There are no white water rapids on this journey, so the ride is smooth, allowing you to really take in the sights. There are several beautiful beach areas along the tour where your raft will make a stop so you can explore on foot or swim. Float tours are group and seniors friendly, so they offer a great experience for anyone who is fit and able.
However, these tours are very popular, and they fill up quickly, especially during Spring Break. Therefore, you want to book your tour in advance, and the easiest way to do that is online. It's good to get your tour bought about two weeks ahead of time, but you could also book it after you book your hotel room so you don't forget. When you pay online with your credit card, your tickets will be guaranteed, and you will also enjoy the lowest possible rates.
Final Thoughts
Make this Spring Break an exciting one by taking a tour of the Grand Canyon that includes a raft ride along the Colorado River. Upgrading to the deluxe tour is recommended if you want the most comprehensive experience. However, the basic tour is great too and they both offer the same river experience. Either way you are going to have an awesome adventure that is completely unique to the Grand Canyon. Don't forget to buy your tour as soon as you can so you won't lose out on the chance to have a day of fun!
Tours From Arizona
The airport in Tusayan, Arizona is situated near the main gates to the park at the South Rim, and that is where the float tours begin. When you book your tour, you get to choose between a basic and deluxe version.
The basic tour starts out with a 2 1/2 hour bus ride to the Glen Canyon Dam. The bus takes you to the pontoon raft where you begin your float tour, but the ride on the bus isn't wasted time since you'll see many interesting sights along the way. For 15 miles, you will travel down the beautiful river, ending up at Lee's Ferry.
The Deluxe Tours
After your river tour, you'll get back on your air conditioned sightseeing bus and complete the land portion of your adventure. You'll be given the chance to shop for souvenirs and crafts when your bus makes a stop at the Cameron Trading Post.
Now if you want something different and a little bit more 'VIP', then make sure you book a deluxe tour. Instead of the initial 2.5 hour bus ride, deluxe tours include a plane ride that will fly you over the South Rim, and past the Vermilion Cliffs, before arriving at the Glen Canyon Dam. Your air tour lasts about an hour, and you'll be treated to some spectacular views.
The deluxe tour also includes a Jeep ride before you board the float tour. The sightseeing Jeeps carry eight passengers as they travel past notable landmarks like Horseshoe Bend and the Slot Canyons. The deluxe tour is definitely worth the extra cost if you can fit it into your budget.
The River Tour
No matter which tour option you choose, your river tour will be the same. This is a truly magical experience. There are no white water rapids on this journey, so the ride is smooth, allowing you to really take in the sights. There are several beautiful beach areas along the tour where your raft will make a stop so you can explore on foot or swim. Float tours are group and seniors friendly, so they offer a great experience for anyone who is fit and able.
However, these tours are very popular, and they fill up quickly, especially during Spring Break. Therefore, you want to book your tour in advance, and the easiest way to do that is online. It's good to get your tour bought about two weeks ahead of time, but you could also book it after you book your hotel room so you don't forget. When you pay online with your credit card, your tickets will be guaranteed, and you will also enjoy the lowest possible rates.
Final Thoughts
Make this Spring Break an exciting one by taking a tour of the Grand Canyon that includes a raft ride along the Colorado River. Upgrading to the deluxe tour is recommended if you want the most comprehensive experience. However, the basic tour is great too and they both offer the same river experience. Either way you are going to have an awesome adventure that is completely unique to the Grand Canyon. Don't forget to buy your tour as soon as you can so you won't lose out on the chance to have a day of fun!
About the Author:
Grand Canyon National Park specialist Rick Sneeds suggests these Canyon tours and especially these Colorado River one-day rafting tours within the National Park: http://www.grandcanyondaytrips.com/float-trips/
