Grand CanyonUnited States
natureadventurehikingphotographyroad-trip
Nearly two billion years of geological history carved into layered red rock, the Grand Canyon is a mile deep and 18 miles wide. No photo does it justice — the scale hits you physically when you first stand at the rim.
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Daily Budget
$80-150/day
mid-range tier
Weather
Rim is high desert (2,100m). Summers hot on the rim (30°C), infernal at the bottom (45°C+). Winters cold with snow on the rim. Spring and autumn ideal.
Top Things to Do in Grand Canyon
- South Rim — the classic viewpoints (Mather Point, Yavapai, Desert View)
- Bright Angel Trail — the most popular hike into the canyon
- Rim-to-Rim hike — 34km crossing for experienced hikers (permit required)
- Helicopter tour — see the full scale from above
- Havasu Falls — turquoise waterfall deep in the canyon (Havasupai tribe permit)
Travel Tips
- 1.Don't underestimate the canyon — hiking down is easy, climbing back is brutal in the heat
- 2.Carry at least 1 litre of water per hour of hiking in summer
- 3.Havasu Falls permits sell out in minutes when released in February — be ready