Looking for the Grand Canyon rafting tour that has it all? Here's one that comes with a smooth-water float tour, a backcountry Jeep ride, and an airplane flight that will cover in 30 minutes what would take days to experience on foot.
This seasonal trip (runs from April to November) kicks off with an airplane flight from the South Rim's Grand Canyon Airport.
The plane bears east where you'll see The Navajo Indian Reservation, Painted Desert, and the very stretch of Colorado River on which you'll be floating.
You'll deplane at Page, AZ, and transfer to a 4x4 Jeep for a backcountry trip to famous Antelope Canyon, home to slot canyons.
These narrow passages, some of which barely let a group walk single-file between them, are made of beautifully weathered Navajo sandstone and are a photographer's paradise.
The Jeep then takes you to imposing Glen Canyon Dam, a 700-foot behemoth that proudly tames the mighty Colorado River.
You'll burrow through a two-mile access tunnel until you reach the riverbank where you'll board your professional-grade rubber pontoon boat.
The float ride goes to Horseshoe Bend, a wonderful "U" in the river that beautifully contrasts the river's turquoise waters against the iridescent orange sandstone cliffs.
Downstream, you'll pull out on a sandy beach and take a quick walk to see a set of ancient petroglyphs.
You'll continue to pontoon down the Colorado until you reach the historic town of Lee's Ferry, founded by John D.
Lee, who was hired by the Mormon Church to run the ferry service so church members could make their way south.
Construction of Navajo Bridge in 1928 shut down the ferry.
Today, the town, which consists of an old fort and trading post, is the starting point for multi-day white-water expeditions.
Lee's Ferry is also where you'll transfer to a climate-controlled luxury bus and make your way back to Grand Canyon National Park.
En route, you'll see from ground level what you covered earlier by air.
There's also a stop at Cameron Trading Post, which sells authentic Navajo Indian handicrafts.
During summer, bring lots of sunscreen and dress in loose-fitting clothes.
I also recommend a hat with a brim.
Swimming is encouraged, so either wear your trunks at the get-go or wear your suit under your clothes.
Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water, which will be provided as part of the trip.
Great guides make this tour extraordinary.
The airplane segment has a taped narration translated in 10 languages.
Your river guide knows the Colorado like the back of his hand and is happy to expound on the area's geology and natural history.
Bus drivers are well versed on the fantastic scenery and landmarks you'll be passing through on your way back to the South Rim.
I find this float tour with airplane flight and bus trip to be one of the best trip packages offered at the South Rim.
It's also priced right.
But savvy travelers can get an even better deal if they purchase it on the Internet.
Remarkably, I've seen it discounted by up to 35 percent.
This one-day smooth-water float tour is a wonderful way to experience the Grand Canyon.
Making it an even more fantastic package are the airplane, jeep, and bus segments.
Kids ages four years and up can do it.
And there are no rigorous fitness requirements.
All you need to bring is your sense of adventure.
Then prepare yourself for the best canyon experience of your life.