A lot of folks look for vacations that aren’t just fun, but also help them get back in touch with nature. If that describes you, then one of the Grand Canyon float tours would be a perfect choice. The Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and it’s an amazing place. Below is some information about taking one of these exciting trips.

The Tours

First of all, find out the type of raft for the tour you are considering. If you can, choose a tour that uses a motorized pontoon raft that holds about 19 passengers. Even though you stay on smooth water, these rafts are built to handle whitewater rapids. This means you can feel safer on the water.

These floating tours of the Grand Canyon last all day. Many are labeled half-day tours, but when you take into account the time involved in getting there and returning back to your hotel, you’ll be gone the whole day. You’ll need to bring some salty snacks, water and an extra set of clothes.

These floating tours are very popular so you should get your seats as early as possible. You might be able to sneak in 72 hours ahead, but booking a week in advance is much safer. Since many groups take these tours, it is harder to get several seats together, so if your whole family is going you may have to book even earlier.

Smooth Waters

As I mentioned earlier, there aren’t any rapids on these trips, so kids 4 and up can participate. You can choose a more adventurous trip that covers whitewater and lasts from three days to a month, but these cost a lot more.

You can choose the West or South Rim for your smooth water excursion. Vegas-based folks will start with a chopper flight to the bottom at Grand Canyon West. The float tour begins at the base of Hoover Dam and ends eleven miles away at Willow Creek. Watch for bighorn sheep, they hang out in Black Canyon, clinging to the sides of the cliffs!

At the South Rim, you can choose between a deluxe or basic tour. The basic tour takes you by bus to the base of Glen Canyon Dam. You’ll then hop into your boat and float 15 miles down river to historic Lee’s Ferry. The upgraded package substitutes a plane flight for the bus ride and adds a unique 4×4 tour of Antelope Canyon.

Internet Specials

I highly recommend booking these adventures on the Internet. Besides being convenient, booking online is the best way to snag a discount. Just be sure to get your seats on the tour operator’s website and avoid intermediaries like Expedia, Priceline, and Viator. The tour companies own and operate the tours, and they always offer the best deals. Just make sure to complete your purchase on the company’s website. That is the only way you can get the Internet discount.

Grand Canyon raft tours over smooth waters are fun adventures you don’t want to miss. Plan to leave your hotel in the morning and return in the evening. These tours are great for family getaways since all ages love them. There is no better way to immerse yourself in the amazing beauty of the Grand Canyon.