Commonly Asked Questions

Grand Canyon Expeditions receives a lot of questions from guests just like you – many who have the same questions as you do!  We’ve compiled a list of questions and information for some light reading before your trip.

Commonly Asked Questions:

Why eight, nine, fourteen or sixteen days? Isn’t it possible to go through faster?

We take the time to make sure you have the finest experience possible. We refuse to rush you. For each individual the Grand Canyon becomes unforgettable. Only when you’ve looked up at its rim towering a mile above you, ridden Colorado River’s exciting rapids, explore the many side canyons, and camped on the river’s beaches can you begin to appreciate the Grand Canyon. Time never seems sufficient for all there is to see and do on a Grand Canyon voyage.

Which is the best month to go?

We take most of our people during June, July, and August when many families plan their vacations. During the summer, daytime temperatures range from 80 to 100 degrees, with a 10-to-20 degree drop at night. The lack of humidity together with frequent swimming or wading keeps you comfortable.  Temperatures are a bit milder in the spring and fall, and these are very pleasant times to be in the Canyon. Many wildflowers are in bloom in April and May.

How strenuous is a river trip?

You’ll probably be more active than you are at home, but our river trips are not physically taxing. For your own assurance, you may wish to have a medical checkup before your trip. All hiking, swimming, and other activity on the trip is optional.

But I can’t swim!

No problem! Neither can many of the other people who come with us. We supply US Coat Gaurd approved life preservers, and each person is required to wear one at all times aboard the boats.

How much time each day will we spend on the boats?

You will be on the boats an average of four to five hours a day. Because we allow 8, 9, 14 and 16 days to go through the Canyon, there is plenty of time each day to stop and explore side canyons, swim or hike.

We’d like to bring our children. Is there a minimum age?

We recommend our expeditions for children eight years and older. If your children have had some camping experience, enjoy the outdoor life, feel at home around the water, and adjust easily to being with an adult group, they’ll enjoy the trip with you. We leave the final decision to parents. Young people under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

How about camping? I’ve never slept outdoors.

That’s not unusual. But if you’ve thought of camping as damp and “buggy”, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. The Canyon is a friendly place to sleep – you can roll out your bed almost anywhere. Infrequent rain showers seldom last long, and with the right gear, you can enjoy them. Chances are, once you try river camping you’ll look forward to nightly sessions around the camp and sleeping under the stars in the clear Canyon air.

I’m on a special diet. Will it be possible to stay on it while on the river?

If we know before your river trip, we will try to bring the special foods you prefer, or you may bring them and we will provide storage.

What kind of toilet facilities will we use on the river?

We carry portable, sanitary toilets which will be set up near campy every evening and will be available for use through the following morning. We stop frequently during the day for you, and your guide will explain the procedure for these rest stops.

I get sea-sick easily. Is this a problem on a river trip?

You are extremely unlikely to experience any kind of motion sickness while aboard our rafts. This has not been a problem with any of our guests. The up-and-down action of the boat while going through rapids is fun and lasts for just a few minutes at a time. On calmer water the motion you’ll feel is relaxing.

Is it possible to charter a river trip?

We arrange charter trips for many different groups and organizations. Special charter rates are available.

Are your trips ever delayed?

We have seldom canceled or postponed trips, or been delayed in our schedules; however, due to weather conditions, water fluctuations, insufficient reservations or other factors beyond our control, we cannot be responsible for the delay, cancellations, or rescheduling of any trip. In the event we cancel or reschedule your trip, your money will be refunded or applied to another trip, as you prefer.

What about trip insurance and emergencies?

Cancellation

Grand Canyon Expeditions strongly encourages all trip participants to purchase trip cancellation insurance to protect your vacation investment. At times, various situations occur when a guest needs to cancel their trip. In these situations, we generally do not have time to refill the space, yet, we have already spent considerable time, money and energy preparing for your trip. Because of our short season and a very limited number of available seats, we cannot afford the financial loss that cancellations cause.

With that said, Grand Canyon Expeditions is strongly recommending our short term travel cancellation and accident insurance. We do regret we can not make exceptions for personal emergencies. Please consider the investment you are making in your vacation and whether or not you can afford the loss if you did have to cancel.

Emergencies

Although we spare no effort to assure a safe trip, a river expedition or a canyon hike is not without some risks. We are equipped to handle emergency first aid. In case of illness or accident, Grand Canyon Expeditions will attempt to provide aid and arrange evacuation when your guide determines evacuation is necessary. We cannot assume responsibility for injury to passengers or personal belongings, or for time or expenses incurred from the negligence of others. Cost of specialized means of evacuation, such as helicopters, and medical care beyond first aid are the financial responsibility of the ill or injured person.

I still have questions about the trip I selected.

If our detailed information and packing list, which we will send to you prior to your trip, does not answer all your questions, please call or email our office and we’ll gladly help you.