In search of the Grand Canyon rafting tour that has it all? Here's one which includes a smooth-water float tour, a backcountry Jeep trip, and an airplane ride that will cover in a half-hour what would take days to discover on foot.

This seasonal getaway (runs from April to November) commences with an plane trip from the South Rim's Grand Canyon Airport. The plane bears east where you will see The Navajo Indian Reservation, Painted Desert, and the very stretch of Colorado River on which you'll be floating.

You will deplane at Page, AZ, and switch to a 4x4 Jeep for a backcountry trip to celebrated Antelope Canyon, home to slot canyons. These slim passages, a few of which scarcely let a group walk single-file between them, are made of wonderfully weathered Navajo sandstone and are a photographer's heaven.

The Jeep then takes you to imposing Glen Canyon Dam, a 700-foot giant that imposes its will over the awesome Colorado River. You'll burrow through a two-mile access tunnel until you get to the riverbank where you'll board your professional-grade rubber pontoon boat.

The float ride goes to Horseshoe Bend, a fantastic "U" in the river that beautifully contrasts the river's turquoise waters with the iridescent orange sandstone cliffs. Downstream, you'll pull out on a sandy beach and have a quick walk to discover a set of old petroglyphs.

You'll continue to pontoon on the Colorado River until you reach the historic town of Lee's Ferry, started by John D. Lee, who was retained 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 trips.

Lee's Ferry is also where you'll transfer to a climate-controlled luxury coach and will be your mode of transport back to the National Park. On the way, you'll see from ground level what you covered previously by air. There's also a stop at Cameron Trading Post, which sells authentic Navajo Indian crafts.

During summer time, bring a lot of sun block and dress yourself in loose-fitting clothes. In addition, I suggest a hat with a brim. Swimming is encouraged, so either wear your trunks at the get-go or have on 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 remarkable. The airplane segment has a taped narration translated in 10 different languages. Your river guide understands 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 points of interest you will be passing through on your way to the South Rim.

I find this float tour with airplane flight and bus trip to be among the best trip packages available at the South Rim. It is also priced right. But smart travelers can usually get a much better deal if they acquire it on the web. Amazingly, I have seen it reduced 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 plane, jeep, and bus segments. Children ages four years and up can do it. And there are no rigorous fitness requirements. All you have to bring is your sense of adventure. Then prepare yourself for the greatest canyon experience of your life.