The Grand Canyon Skywalk is definitely one of Las Vegas' most popular natural attractions. Tour costs are all over the map, and most of them are absurdly high. But deals exist. The following are several ideas on how to get them:

1. Pick an all-inclusive tour. Right now there are three sorts: Bus, helicopter, and airplane. Bus is the least expensive option; helicopter is the most high-priced.

2. Do not get from third parties. You will pay a lot more if you buy a tour from a travel advisor , an online broker (e.g. Viator) or a hotel concierge.

3. Purchase direct. You're buying "wholesale" whenever you purchase straight from the tour operator.

4. Book in advance . You will constantly save money in the event you acquire a high-season ticket during low season.

5. Book online. Service and transaction fees are cheaper for the tour operator, which results in lower tour prices for you. The exception: The operator's 800# -- using it may result in a price boost.

I researched the The net for the most effective on the internet deals for Grand Canyon Skywalk tours from Las Vegas. Here are my findings:

Bus

Grand Canyon Coaches led the pack. Its all-inclusive West Rim bus tour with Skywalk costs $129. Transport is aboard a state-of-the-art luxury bus. Includes Skywalk, BBQ lunch, and plenty of time to sightsee Grand Canyon West. Travel time: 2.5 hours.

Helicopter

Papillon Helicopters smoked their competitors. Their Skywalk tour came in at $375 (regularly $469), much more than 20 percent cheaper than that of other operators. Includes the EcoStar 130 deluxe helicopter, BBQ lunch, and rim-top sightseeing. Flight time: 45 minutes.

Airplane

Grand Canyon Airlines was by far the best in its category. Their air tour with Skywalk cost $200 (regularly $349) and uses the award-winning Vistaliner aircraft, a custom-built fixed-wing airplane created precisely forsightseeing. Includes lunch and time to explore the rim. Flight time: 25 minutes.

Here are a couple a lot more things to take into account as you pick which tour is appropriate for you:

• Luxury buses feature over-sized windows, plush seats, and clean restrooms. They also include a "smooth-ride" suspension system that ensures you travel in maximum comfort.

• Helicopters fly at a lower altitude than airplanes. This results in closer, clearer views of Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon.

• Airplanes are the quickest way for you to get to the West Rim. From a time and expense standpoint, they're the most low-cost way to fly.

The Grand Canyon Skywalk, a joint venture between a Las Vegas businessman and the Hualapai Indian Tribe, extends 70 feet over the edge of the rim and lifts you more than 4,000 feet above the Colorado River. The structure can hold 120 people at one time, and there's no time limit to how much time you can continue being on the bridge.

Its horseshoe-shaped deck is made of 46 Saint-Gobain Diamant low-iron glass panels that cost $250,000 each. To safeguard the panels from being scratched, personal electronics, which includes cameras and cell phones, aren't allowed. Protective fabric shoe covers are provided. Stationary cameras and staff photographers are available to take your picture.

If you are visiting Las Vegas, make the Grand Canyon Skywalk a "must-see" attraction. Located just 120 east of town, the Skywalk can be reached by bus, helicopter, and airplane. There's a tour for each and every budget. To get the best deal, book direct on the tour operator's website where costs will be at or near wholesale. Then relax and prepare your self for the what will likely be the experience of a lifetime.