The Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World is a popular vacation destination in Arizona, and for good reason. With the range of recreational activities, dining options, accommodation, and sightseeing opportunities, it’s not hard to see why about six million people flock to the Grand Canyon every year.
Take in the breathtaking scenery, explore spectacular wildlife and go hiking. You will be spoilt for choice with the list of things to see and do at the Grand Canyon. There is something to cater to the needs of travelers of all ages and interests.
To make the most of your trip to this national park, put these tips into consideration.
1. Get LASIK before your holidays
Bid your goodbyes to contact lenses and expensive prescription glasses. Enjoy your holidays the best way possible by taking advantage of the freedom LASIK surgery offers. Many people now get LASIK or lens replacement surgery, in order to see the scenery better.
Once the procedure is complete, you will enjoy crisp, clear vision in time for your holidays. See the Grand Canyon and the world at large in a whole new way. Get ready to enjoy a new life without expensive contact lenses or prescription glasses.
2. Adequate Planning
The first thing that should come to mind is how you’re going to get there and by what means. Next up is to know if you will be doing it as part of an organized tour. If you are considering doing it without a tour guide, how do you intend to get to the Grand Canyon from your hotel? Do you have a list of must-see sights? More importantly, your travel plan will be based on the number of days allocated for the trip.
Failure to plan will negatively impact your travel experience at the park. The truth is you will enjoy the national park more if you plan ahead of time.
3. Explore Different Areas of the Park
Covering 1,218,375 acres (493,059 ha), it is impossible to explore all that the park has to offer in one trip. To make it easier for visitors, the park is divided into different sections including the South Rim, Grand Canyon West, Grand Canyon East, and the North Rim. It is expedient that you choose the part of the park you’d like to explore in advance.
Tourists can’t get enough of the South Rim, a must-visit for first-time visitors. The South Rim is open to visitors all season long. North Rim, on the other hand, closes from October to May, so you may not be able to see it during winter.
So if you’re thinking that you can explore the two sections at the same time, it is somewhat impossible. Note that the travel time between the two attractions is about 5 hours drive.
4. There are Entrance Fees
On your way to the national park, remember to come with your wallet because the Grand Canyon National Park has entrance fees. The money contributes to the cost of running and maintaining the park. You can either buy the tickets online or at the entrance to the park.
5. Camping
If you would like to make the most of your trip to the national park, you’d need to spend at least a day. The Grand Canyon is an ideal location for camping. You will find lots of campers at the national park in the summer. You can camp on the rim and in the canyon. The park is home to lots of incredible campgrounds including Desert View, and Mather Point, both of which visitors can book without much stress.
6. Do Not Go Into the Caves
This is a friendly warning. The Grand Canyon is home to around 1000 caves, but just one, known as the Cave of the Domes, is open to the general public. This is because the caves provide a habitat for the wildlife within the park. A vast majority of the caves have remained unexplored, and the park has ensured it stays this way. Also, stay clear of the rock squirrel, as they are considered the most dangerous animal in the park.
The Grand Canyon has plenty of things to see and do. It has some amazing hikes designed for every type of traveler. For a truly immersive experience, a trip to the Grand Canyon National Park promises to be one you will never forget in a rush.