Grand Est Travel Agencies Weather a Turbulent Market


Fabrice Poulain, nouveau président des EDV Grand Est, a ouvert la convention qui se tient actuellement au Shandrani Beachcomber, à l'Ile Maurice - Photo CE

Attitude Hotels


« I’m pleased to have filled up in the current context » a lancé Fabrice Poulain, directeur général de Fensch Voyages, qui ouvrait sa première convention des EDV Grand Est, qui se tient actuellement au Shandrani Beachcomber à l’Ile Maurice, sous sa nouvelle casquette de président.

« Je m’inscris dans la continuité du travail accompli par Michelle Kunegel (dirigeant de LK Tours et ex-présidente des EDV Grand Est, ndlr). » a-t-il poursuivi.

Le président, accompagné des administrateurs et d’un bureau composé de Delphine Schwanger (Josy Tourisme) vice-présidente Alsace, Bertrand Billerey (FAB Travel) vice-président Champagne, Sandra Fagnoni (Sangio Horizons) trésorière et Laetitia Jacques (EuroMoselle Loisirs) secrétaire, souhaite aussi engager une dynamique de recrutement de nouveaux adhérents.

L’événement réunit 46 participants, dont deux agences non adhérentes aux EDV, autour de conférences, de tables rondes, du traditionnel workshop inversé et d’ateliers pratiques.


The Role of EDV


Guillaume Beurdeley a rappelé le rôle et les missions des Entreprises du Voyage - Photo CE

Guillaume Beurdeley, secrétaire général adjoint des Entreprises du Voyage, a ainsi rappelé que l’organisation repose sur deux grands piliers : la défense collective des intérêts de la profession et les services proposés aux adhérents.

Ces derniers comprennent notamment un accompagnement juridique, social et fiscal, la mise en place de webinaires d’experts et la publication de ressources consacrées à la facturation électronique ou encore à l’intelligence artificielle, sans oublier les services de formations via Travel Pro Formation.

Sur le volet de la défense des intérêts collectifs, le secrétaire général adjoint a ajouté que le syndicat intervient auprès des pouvoirs publics français et européens, notamment sur la directive Voyages à forfait, la convention collective, la réglementation aérienne ou encore la lutte contre l’exercice illégal de la profession.

Eva Gonzalez, cofondatrice de l’agence de voyages Rev’ d’Evasion qui n’est pas adhérente aux EDV a apprécié les échanges : « There is a real exchange; we discover a lot of things. The inverse workshop was also great. The conferences are also very good. But above all, the act of exchanging is important. Everyone is listening, there is sharing.

Ça rebooste, et cela donne de nouvelles idées. On réapprend finalement à connaître les EDV
».


EDV Barometer: “In terms of bookings, there is a certain return to normal”


Les participants à la convention EDV Grand Est dans le hall d'entrée du Shandrani Beachcomber à l'Ile Maurice - Photo CE

Au-delà de ces missions, la convention a également été l’occasion de faire le point sur la conjoncture et sur l’activité des opérateurs de voyage.

Guillaume Beurdeley a rappelé les chiffres du dernier baromètre des Entreprises du Voyage, issu des données Orchestra.

After a difficult spring, affected by the Middle East conflict, August showed early positive signals. However, September 2026 remains below September 2025 in departures, although the decline is less pronounced than in the previous month.

Le nombre de dossiers en départs diminue ainsi de 5,5% sur un an, contre -9% en août. Le volume d’affaires recule de 4,1%, tandis que le panier moyen progresse de 1,5%, à 1 853 euros.

« En termes de prises de réservation, on trouve un certain retour à la normale », a toutefois précisé Guillaume Beurdeley lors de la convention. Les réservations enregistrées en septembre reculent en effet de seulement 1,7% en nombre de dossiers, tandis que le volume d’affaires progresse de 3,3%. Le panier moyen atteint 2 004 euros, soit une hausse de 5,1%.


Les opérateurs du Grand Est sont plus résistants

Sur le terrain, Fatima Faivre, directrice du réseau Prêt-à-Partir, constate que la classe moyenne n’est plus là : « Les familles nous ont manqué cet été et ont été compensées par des personnes qui ont davantage de temps et d’argent, notamment des actifs et des retraités.

On perd des passagers, cela m’inquiète et m’interroge, mais c’est compensé par un prix moyen très important.

Nous avons aussi réalisé cet été des dossiers d’un montant que nous n’avions pas l’habitude de faire auparavant. Je reste cependant très optimiste. Cette année a quand même été positive.
»

Pour Fabrice Poulain, les opérateurs du Grand Est sont plus résistants à la crise actuelle : « Notre positionnement géographique nous permet de bénéficier d’un grand nombre de possibilités, au départ de Strasbourg, de Bâle-Mulhouse mais aussi du Luxembourg.

Nous pouvons profiter des prix très compétitifs des tour-opérateurs allemands, et bénéficier aussi de la qualité des produits Luxair et LuxairTours, qui est le premier le tour-opérateur dans le Grand Est.
 »


C’est surtout vrai pour les agences situées dans une zone proche des frontières.

Philippe Blanchet, directeur commercial d’Euro Moselle Loisirs le confirme. Son réseau situé en Moselle et Meurthe-et-Moselle profite de la proximité notamment du Luxembourg : « Notre clientèle française se compose à la fois d’actifs qui travaillent pour beaucoup au Luxembourg, où les salaires sont plus élevés, et de retraités qui ont également travaillé de l’autre côté de la frontière. Ils sont donc moins sensibles à l’inflation.

D’autre part, nous pouvons nous appuyer sur le large réseau moyen-courrier de Luxair qui nous permet de proposer un large éventail de destinations. »

Un constat partagé par Régis Heitzler, fondateur de Voyage De Rêve à Neuf-Brisach dans le Haut-Rhin, une commune proche de la Suisse et de l’Allemagne, où de nombreux Français travaillent, passant chaque jour de l’autre côté de la frontière : « Les salaires sont plus élevés, les problématiques de pouvoir d’achat moins prégnantes et nous bénéficions d’offres particulièrement compétitives de la part des voyagistes allemand[s]. »


Grand Nord Grand Large Expands Its Winter Bivouac Trips


Grand Nord Grand Large développe une gamme de voyages autour du bivouac hivernal - Depositphotos.com, rdonar

Aer Lingus


Snow bivouacking is developing as a new way to explore the polar environments.
Grand Nord Grand Large (GNGL) offers several itineraries that allow travelers to progress, from mountain initiation to autonomous trips in northern regions.
The offering rests on an immersive approach to travel, with nights in tents or under a tipi, the preparation of the camp, the management of the cold and, depending on the stays, pulling a pulka or advancing with dog teams.
Participants are accompanied in learning the techniques needed for these environments.


From the Vercors to Nordic Territories

The itinerary can begin in the Vercors, with a weekend introduction to winter bivouacking. Travelers learn, notably, how to set up a camp, tow a pulka, and insulate themselves from the cold, before a night under a tipi. The stay is offered from €480 for three days.

In Norway, GNGL offers a six-day trek off the beaten path. The aim is to develop participants’ autonomy through orientation, terrain reading, the use of maps and GPS, and cold management. The stay is listed from €1 790.

The Finnish Lapland constitutes a more immersive stage, with ten days of trekking through snowy forests and frozen lakes. Travelers pull their pulka and participate in camp setup, meal preparation and water provisioning. The stay is offered from €3 690.

Finally, in Canada, GNGL combines a dog-sled raid with bivouacking for ten days. Participants take part in daily tasks, notably camp setup and provisioning of wood and water. The trip is offered from €3 190.


Amelia Brille Published by Amelia Brille TourMaG.com Editor
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The Grand Sancerrois Earns the Destination of Excellence Label


Le Grand Sancerrois décroche le label Destination d’Excellence - Depositphotos.com @ AlisaFoytik

CroisiEurope


The Grand Sancerrois has just earned the State label Destination of Excellence, slated to gradually replace the Qualité Tourisme brand by the end of 2026.

This distinction notably rewards the territory’s efforts in terms of welcoming quality, environmental responsibility, and accessibility.

The public establishment in charge of the Grand Sancerrois’ tourism competence obtained the new label following an audit conducted according to the State’s framework, which assesses two aspects, quality and environmental responsibility.

To read : The Grand Sancerrois officially launches its destination strategy

The territory records a compliance rate of 88.80% on the “Quality” pillar and 87.72% on the “Environmental Responsibility” pillar. The audit particularly confirms adherence to mandatory criteria regarding customer listening and accessibility.


Un nouveau référentiel plus exigeant

Created by the State, the Destination of Excellence label is set to replace the Qualité Tourisme brand, with its phase-out planned by the end of 2026.

It rests on two pillars, the quality of hospitality and services, as well as practices related to sustainable development and accessibility.

This evolution notably strengthens the environmental requirements that destinations and candidate tourism operators must meet.

For the Grand Sancerrois, this labeling continues a process started several years ago. The territory has held the Qualité Tourisme brand since 2019 and launched in 2023 its “Tourisme Positif” initiative dedicated to sustainable tourism.

The label should also help reinforce the visibility and attractiveness of the Grand Sancerrois among visitors and professionals.

The destination highlights its two wine appellations, Sancerre and Chavignol, as well as the Pays-Fort, the Loire des îles, its gastronomic offerings, and its nature- and heritage-related activities.


Amelia Brille Publié par Amelia Brille Rédactrice TourMaG.com
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Alsace Ecomuseum: Grand Est Region Announces €300,000 in Support


La Région Grand Est va proposer une aide de 300 000 euros en faveur de l’Écomusée d’Alsace - Depositphotos.com, wirestock_creators

CroisiEurope


Placed this summer in safeguard proceedings by the Colmar Judicial Court, the association managing the Alsace Ecomuseum must now work on restoring its financial situation and preparing the continuation of its activities.

Created more than 40 years ago thanks to the commitment of volunteers, the site has become the largest ecomuseum in France.

It today counts more than 70 Alsatian houses preserved and has welcomed over 7 million visitors since its creation.

The Region thus regards the Ecomuseum as a facility that is at once patrimonial, cultural and touristic, contributing to Alsace’s attractiveness.


Un soutien pour préparer l’avenir

The €300,000 announced are intended to enable the Ecomuseum to continue its restructuring and development projects and to strengthen its appeal to visitors.

For Franck Leroy, president of the Grand Est Region, the site is an important element of Alsace’s tourism reach, beyond regional borders.

“In the face of the difficulties it is currently facing, the Region is here and stands by its side“, he said.

This financial support should thus permanently reinforce the Ecomuseum’s position among the region’s main heritage and tourist sites.


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2027 Presidential Election: Grand Oral on Tourism Scheduled for December 1


De gauche à droite : Christelle Chassagne (Présidente d’ADN Tourisme), Jean-René Morice (Président d’INNTO France), Valérie Boned (Présidente de la CAT) et Géraldine Leduc (Conseillère du président de l’ANETT) - Crédit photo : Alexandre Nestora

Climats du Monde


Tourism is entering the preparations for the 2027 presidential election.

ADN Tourisme, the National Association of Elected Officials of Tourism Territories (ANETT), the Confederation of Tourism Stakeholders (CAT) and INNTO France announce the organization of a day devoted to the sector’s stakes.

The “Grand Oral Tourism – Presidential Election 2027” will take place on 1 December 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., at the InterContinental Paris Le Grand.

The organizations indicate that Gabriel Attal, David Lisnard, Édouard Philippe and Bruno Retailleau have already confirmed their participation.


Auditions dedicated to the sector’s challenges

Each candidate will be interviewed individually under similar conditions, with equal speaking time and a common framework.

The auditions, lasting about 45 minutes, will include an interview on the candidate’s strategic vision, thematic exchanges, and two segments dedicated to their proposals and commitments.

Among the topics to be addressed are competitiveness, taxation, simplification, employment, training, investment, access to vacations, housing, mobility and the ecological transition.

The four organizations thus aim to make tourism a clearly identified topic in the presidential debate and to obtain from candidates precise positions on the sector’s main issues.


A day for tourism professionals

The various auditions will be recorded to enable their distribution on digital channels and to keep a record of the positions presented by the candidates.

The initiative comes as tourism represents a significant weight in the French economy.

In 2025, France welcomed 102 million international visitors and recorded 77.5 billion euros of international tourism revenue.

The sector also accounts for around 8% of GDP and more than 2 million direct and indirect jobs according to public data.


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Grand Hyatt Miami Beach: 800-Room Hotel Soon Connected to the Miami Beach Convention Center


Le Grand Hyatt Miami Beach franchit une nouvelle étape avec la pose de sa dernière poutre - Photo : Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau

MSC Croisières


The project of Grand Hyatt Miami Beach takes a new step.

On July 28, public and private partners gathered around the project celebrated the laying of the last beam of the future hotel, located in the immediate vicinity of the Miami Beach Convention Center.

With 800 rooms, the establishment is expected to open its doors by the end of 2027 and become the convention center’s flagship hotel.

Its direct connection to the complex, via a climate-controlled walkway, should enable Miami Beach to enhance its capacity to host large-scale professional events.


A hotel designed for the convention market

Located at the corner of the 17th Street and Convention Center Drive, the Grand Hyatt Miami Beach will be directly accessible from the Miami Beach Convention Center, recently renovated.

The future establishment will feature 12 floors of guest rooms, including 50 suites, as well as four levels dedicated to meetings and events.

In total, it will offer around 10,220 m² of meeting spaces, to which will be added a Grand Lawn of nearly 740 m² installed on the fifth-floor terrace-garden.

The offering will be complemented by two pools, a fitness center with spa facilities, a Grand Club, a signature restaurant and a bar-lounge.

Près des deux tiers des chambres disposeront par ailleurs d’un balcon, avec pour certaines des vues sur l’océan Atlantique ou la baie de Biscayne.

Le projet prévoit également environ 1 580 m² d’espaces commerciaux au niveau de la rue, ainsi que de nouveaux espaces publics et des cheminements destinés à favoriser les déplacements à pied et à vélo.


A strategic infrastructure for Miami Beach

For local business tourism players, the arrival of the Grand Hyatt should respond to growing demand. 28.3 million visitors were welcomed to Miami and Miami Beach in 2025, according to data released by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau.

David Whitaker, president and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, believes that the hotel connected to the convention center could notably enable the destination to position itself for new international events.

According to him, several major conventions and trade shows that had not previously taken place in Miami Beach would now express interest in the destination.

The project also follows a $640 million investment in renovating the Miami Beach Convention Center.

For Freddie Peterson, the center’s general manager, the future hotel thus represents the missing piece of the complex to have both event infrastructures and lodging capacity suited to large international gatherings.


An urban project beyond hospitality

Led by Terra and Turnberry, with Hyatt operating the establishment, the project also aims to participate in transforming the Convention Center district.

Designed by architect Bernardo Fort-Brescia of Arquitectonica and built by Balfour Beatty, the Grand Hyatt is set to improve connections with the main attractors of Miami Beach, notably Lincoln Road, the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, the Bass Museum, the Miami City Ballet and the arts district.

New public spaces, pedestrian promenades, bike-share stations and better connections to public transportation are also planned. These developments are intended to support the city’s sustainability and resilience goals.

For Hyatt, which continues its expansion in major international destinations, the project should also strengthen its presence in the big-event segment.


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The Telegramme Group Acquires the 4-Star Le Grand Bé Hotel in Saint-Malo


Le Groupe Télégramme s'offre l'hôtel 4* « Le Grand Bé » à Saint-Malo - Photo : Groupe Télégramme

TAP Air Portugal


The Groupe Télégramme is accelerating its territorial growth strategy by investing in high-end hospitality.

On Friday, July 10, 2026, the group formalized the acquisition of the Grand Bé hotel, a 4-star establishment of reference located within the city walls in Saint-Malo, in close proximity to the future National Maritime Museum.

This operation marks a key milestone for the company, which intends to rely on its local roots and its multiple areas of expertise to consolidate the attractiveness of this major Saint-Malo address.

Ideally designed to appeal to both tourist and professional clientele, the property features a bar, a rooftop, dining spaces as well as a wellness area with a spa.

For business tourism, the hotel also offers facilities dedicated to seminars, meetings and corporate events.

As part of this overall business turnaround, the group integrates a industry-recognized professional with over twenty years of experience, Marc Scognamiglio, who will oversee the property’s future alongside the teams already in place.


Strong local and event-driven synergies on the horizon

Integrating the Grand Bé into Groupe Télégramme will generate clear complementarities with the acquiror’s historical lines of business, notably in the sectors of media, communications and events.

The group plans to capitalize on its deep knowledge of the region and on its network of partners to develop the professional seminars segment, maximize opportunities around business tourism and enrich the overall customer experience.

This ambition is directly shared by Régis Rassouli, Deputy CEO for Development of Groupe Télégramme: “Le Grand Bé is a renowned address for the quality of its welcome, its exceptional location and the commitment of its teams. Our ambition is to continue its development in the respect of its identity, by relying on the Group’s expertise to strengthen its attractiveness and support its evolution. ”

To support this modernization, a investment plan will begin by the end of 2026 and span 2027.

The budget envelopes will be primarily allocated to the complete renovation of the wellness space, to specific interior fittings and to the redesign of the decoration, while ensuring the venue’s historic assets are preserved.

According to Jean-Baptiste Pavin, CEO of Groupe Télégramme, “Le Grand Bé is an emblematic establishment that benefits from a history, an identity and a recognized know-how. Its acquisition illustrates our commitment to invest sustainably in value-creating projects that are useful to the territories.

Whether it is informing, supporting businesses or organizing major events, our ambition remains the same: to create connections, to deliver high-quality experiences and to contribute to the radiance of the territories in which we are involved.
”

France’s Grand Sites Network Expands With New Territories


Le Réseau des Grands Sites de France intègre de nouveaux territoires, Bonifacio, Depositphotos.com

Costa Rica


The Network of Grand Sites of France records new progress in protecting and managing remarkable landscapes.

Following the recent favorable opinions of the Superior Commission of Sites, Le Havre du Payré and Bonifacio reach a decisive milestone by becoming Grand Site of France Projects.

This will enable these two territories to commit to implementing their projects and territorial action programs.

This dynamic is accompanied by the Gard Department joining the network and the integration of Gergovie as an associated member.

These efforts aim to reconcile the preservation of designated landscapes with the management of tourist visitation and the maintenance of the local quality of life.

To read : The Grand Site of France label renewed for the Poitevin Marsh

Once these plans are deployed, the two local authorities will be able to submit their official candidacy for the Grand Site of France label.


The Network’s Annual Meetings Will Be Held in Nîmes

The arrival of the Gard Department within the body of major local authorities marks a strong commitment to environmental management. 

Already managing more than 4,500 hectares of sensitive natural spaces, the territory will also host the Annual Meetings of the Network in Nîmes, from 13 to 15 October 2026, around the theme of the residents’ place.

De son côté, the Gergovie plateau and the Arverne sites located in the Puy-de-Dôme join the network as an associated member.

Fortified by its major archaeological heritage and its viewpoints over the Chaîne des Puys, the site begins its journey of support before obtaining validation from the Ministry of Ecological Transition to fully engage in the initiative.

Zimbabwe: Hyatt Announces Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls Opening at The Kingdom


Le Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom est l'établissement plus proche de l'entrée du parc national des chutes Victoria du côté zimbabwéen - Depositphotos.com, dtemps

Costa Rica


The Hyatt group is preparing to open the Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom in Zimbabwe by the end of 2027.

This property will undergo a complete renovation to meet Grand Hyatt brand standards.

Ideally situated five minutes on foot from the tropical rainforest surrounding Victoria Falls, the hotel will form the second site of the company in the country.

Originally built in 1966 and redesigned in 1999, this iconic resort is embarking on a global transformation of its architecture and interior décor.

The management agreement signed between a Hyatt subsidiary and Albwardy Investments aims to reinvent this benchmark of African hospitality into a high-end destination.

From its inauguration under the new banner, World of Hyatt members will be able to accumulate and redeem their benefits during their stays.


A Renovation Project and a Strategic Location for Regional Tourism

Upon reopening, the Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom will offer 245 fully redesigned rooms.

The facilities will also include 1,800 square meters of space dedicated to meetings and receptions, three restaurants, a spa, a fitness center, and a large lounge-hall.

Moreover, the hotel benefits from a prime location in the heart of Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Positioned as the closest property to the entrance of the Victoria Falls National Park on the Zimbabwean side, it is also a 20-minute drive from the international airport. This geographic setting will facilitate visitors’ access to regional safari circuits, cultural activities, and local gastronomic experiences.

What to Do at the Grand Canyon: 10 Ideas for Outings and Activities

Summary


  • 1. Explore the South Rim


  • 2. Hike the Bright Angel Trail


  • 3. Take a helicopter tour over the canyon


  • 4. Visit Grand Canyon Village


  • 5. Discover the Skywalk on the West Rim


  • 6. Hike the South Kaibab Trail


  • 7. Participate in educational programs


  • 8. Enjoy the Desert View Watchtower


  • 9. Explore the North Rim


  • 10. Colorado River rafting


  • 11. Explore Mather Point at the Grand Canyon


  • 12. Stay in Tusayan, Arizona


  • How long does it take to visit the Grand Canyon?


  • What is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon?


  • Where is the Grand Canyon?


  • Where to stay at the Grand Canyon?


  • How to visit the Grand Canyon by car?

The Grand Canyon, located in Arizona, is one of the world’s most renowned natural wonders. This national park offers breathtaking landscapes, unique geological formations, and a variety of activities that draw millions of visitors each year.

1. Explore the South Rim

The South Rim is the most-visited section of the Grand Canyon, open year‑round and easily accessible. For viewpoint enthusiasts, Mather Point and the Yavapai Point are essential stops. They provide expansive panoramas that capture the canyon’s grandeur. For those wanting to learn more, the Grand Canyon Visitor Center offers informative exhibits on the park’s geology and history.

2. Hike the Bright Angel Trail

The Bright Angel Trail, located at the South Rim, is one of the park’s most popular hikes. This trek offers an immersion into the canyon, passing through varied landscapes and stunning vistas. While demanding, this excursion provides opportunities to observe local wildlife and flora. It is recommended to come well prepared, with ample water and energy snacks.

3. Take a helicopter tour over the canyon

For those who want to appreciate the Grand Canyon from the air, a helicopter flight offers a unique perspective. Several companies offer tours that sweep over the rock formations, letting you view parts of the canyon inaccessible by foot. This activity is a quick and memorable way to marvel at the vastness of the canyon.

4. Visit Grand Canyon Village

The Grand Canyon Village serves as the perfect starting point to explore the South Rim. With its many shops, restaurants, and accommodations, the village provides everything needed for a comfortable visit. You can also discover historic buildings, such as the El Tovar Hotel and the Lookout Studio, which add a cultural dimension to this discovery.

5. Discover the Skywalk on the West Rim

The West Rim, distinct from the South and North Rims, houses the famous glass Skywalk. Located on land belonging to the Hualapai Tribe, this structure offers a novel experience, allowing visitors to walk safely over the edge and gaze down at the canyon beneath their feet. Although it lies outside the national park boundaries, this tribal‑managed region also provides striking views at Eagle Point and Guano Point.

6. Hike the South Kaibab Trail

The South Kaibab Trail is a true adventure for hikers seeking a rush. This trail starts near Yaki Point and descends steeply into the canyon. Hikers are rewarded with overlooks like Ooh Aah Point and Skeleton Point, where striking landscapes unfold. As with any canyon hike, thorough preparation is essential.

7. Participate in educational programs

Ranger programs provide a unique opportunity to learn more about the Grand Canyon’s geology, ecology, and history. These educational presentations, often free, are available at the Grand Canyon Village and make for excellent activities for families or curious visitors.

8. Enjoy the Desert View Watchtower

At the eastern edge of the South Rim sits the Desert View Watchtower. This observation tower offers a panoramic view of the canyon and the Colorado River. The structure itself is inspired by ancient Puebloan architecture and houses murals by Fred Kabotie that tell Hopi history and culture—a native people.

9. Explore the North Rim

Less visited than the South Rim, the North Rim is prized for its wilder surroundings and cooler temperatures. Access to the North Rim is seasonal, closing in winter due to snow. Lookouts such as Point Imperial and Cape Royal offer different perspectives on the canyon, rewarding those who take time to explore this edge.

10. Colorado River rafting

For adventure seekers, a rafting trip on the Colorado River is a must. This activity reveals the canyon in a different light, navigating thrilling rapids and savoring the serenity of the river’s calmer stretches. Several options are available, ranging from short excursions to multi‑day journeys.

11. Explore Mather Point at the Grand Canyon

The scenic overlook at Mather Point, perched along the rim inside Grand Canyon National Park, is often the first stop for visitors. Accessible by car, it allows for a few minutes’ walk from the Visitor Center parking, offering a panoramic glimpse without committing to a long hike. For those wishing to extend the visit, the nearby Rim Trail allows a half‑day stroll along the canyon’s edge, with options for a picnic or a sunset.

12. Stay in Tusayan, Arizona

The village of Tusayan, located just outside the Grand Canyon’s southern edge, provides lodging and services for park visitors. It offers early access to the park, helps you manage driving times, and allows combining canyon exploring with camping or a lodge stay, possibly as part of a broader Western road trip.

Starting from Tusayan, it’s especially practical to plan an early departure to fully enjoy sunrise or sunset over the rim, walk a few minutes on the Rim Trail, and be ready for following hours of driving or the next day’s adventures.

In conclusion, the Grand Canyon offers a multitude of activities that will satisfy travelers of all backgrounds. Whether you are drawn to contemplating its spectacular vistas, exploring its hiking trails, or discovering its cultural riches, everyone can have a rewarding experience. The park invites both awe and reflection on the world’s natural beauty.

How long does it take to visit the Grand Canyon?

For a standard visit to the Grand Canyon National Park, whether along the rim or at the rim’s edge, an afternoon or a half‑day (2–4 hours) can be enough to admire the panoramas and take a short walk along the edge.

However, if you plan longer activities—longer hiking, descending to the canyon floor, overflights, or camping under the stars—it is advisable to allocate one to two days, or more, to explore not only the overlooks but also the more remote areas.

A well‑planned itinerary thus offers the option of a day return or a more complete stay, depending on the pace you choose.

What is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon?

The best period to visit the Grand Canyon falls between April and October, particularly May and September, when temperatures are moderate, crowds are lighter, and park areas are more comfortable.

In particular, the months of May, September, and October are highlighted as the most favorable due to milder weather and fewer crowds. In contrast, summer is the peak season, and the northern access road is closed in winter because of snow, which can limit visits.

Where is the Grand Canyon?

The Grand Canyon is located in the northwest part of the state of Arizona, in the United States, essentially within the Grand Canyon National Park. The canyon stretches for hundreds of kilometers along the Colorado River.

While near states such as Nevada (and Las Vegas for those planning an American West road trip), its location remains in Arizona and forms an integral part of the American West and the world’s natural heritage.

Where to stay at the Grand Canyon?

To stay at the Grand Canyon, several options are available: inside the park, particularly on the South Rim where accommodations are open year‑round and fill up quickly. You can also opt for campgrounds (Grand Canyon campgrounds, Grand Canyon National campgrounds) or lodges near the rim, with the possibility of camping under the stars. It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons: spring, summer, and early autumn.

How to visit the Grand Canyon by car?

Visiting the Grand Canyon by car fits perfectly into a road trip from Las Vegas or other cities of the American West. Plan the driving distances, sections accessible to cars, parking, when to arrive to avoid crowds (avoid 10:00–16:00 on the access road), and use overlooks such as the South Rim for breathtaking views.

The national park is open 24/7 all year round for the South Rim. By car, this also makes it possible to access lodging, camping, and to do a day trip or a longer stay depending on your initial itinerary.

This article was drafted with the help of artificial intelligence and then corrected, expanded, and approved by the editors of the editorial team.