Private Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, & Canyon Safari

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of exploring Yellowstone National Park with a personal touch, the Private Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, & Canyon Safari offers a well-rounded, intimate experience of America’s first national park. This private tour, priced at $699 per person, promises a full day of sightseeing that hits all the main highlights: from the famous Old Faithful geyser to the colorful splendor of Grand Prismatic Spring, and the breathtaking canyon vistas. With a carefully curated itinerary, luxury transportation, and a knowledgeable guide, it’s designed to give you both comfort and depth.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the personalized approach — you’re not stuck with a large group, and the itinerary is flexible enough to focus on what interests you most. The inclusion of custom snacks, high-end lunch options, and top-notch spotting scopes elevates the experience. A possible downside to keep in mind is the price, which is on the higher end, but given the private setting and all included amenities, it might be worth the splurge for those looking for a premium Yellowstone adventure. This experience suits travelers who value comfort, personalized attention, and an in-depth look at Yellowstone’s most iconic sights.

Key Points

• Private, personalized tour tailored to your group
• Luxury transportation in a full-sized SUV for maximum comfort
• Expert guide with local knowledge and spotting equipment
• Incredible photo opportunities at Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, and waterfalls
• Flexible itinerary allowing time for wildlife viewing and optional hikes
• All-inclusive snacks and high-end lunch for a stress-free day

Exploring Yellowstone with a Private Guide

This tour is all about convenience and tailored experiences. From the moment your guide picks you up, the focus is on providing a smooth, engaging day. Your guide, a local enthusiast, will navigate the park’s lower loop, ensuring you see the highlights without the hassle of planning or driving yourself. The vehicle, a full-sized luxury SUV, offers ample space for comfort, with plenty of room for camera gear and spotting scopes.

The tour is designed for most travelers, with most people able to participate. The private aspect means your group won’t be rushed or crowded, allowing for spontaneous stops or extra time at favorite spots. Plus, with pickup offered, the logistics are simplified, especially if you’re staying in Jackson Hole or nearby.

Itinerary Breakdown: A Closer Look

Stop 1: Yellowstone Entrance and Geothermal Wonders

Your journey begins by entering the park at the closest point to your pickup location, which means less time spent in transit and more time exploring. The focus here is on geothermal activity — geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. The guide’s local expertise shines as they point out features you might miss on your own, plus there’s plenty of wildlife viewing along the way. The admission is free, which is a nice bonus.

Stop 2: Old Faithful Geyser

No visit to Yellowstone is complete without witnessing the iconic eruption of Old Faithful. This geyser erupts roughly every 90 minutes, shooting thousands of gallons of water into the air. Watching this natural spectacle is mesmerizing, and your guide will explain the science behind the eruptions, helping you understand what causes this geothermal marvel. You’ll also have time inside the Old Faithful visitors center and the historic Inn, both full of stories and photos from the park’s early days.

Stop 3: Grand Prismatic Spring

Next, you’ll visit the Grand Prismatic Spring, renowned for its vibrant colors caused by pigmented bacteria thriving in its hot waters. Your guide will explain how each color indicates different temperature zones and biomes within the spring. This site is a photographer’s dream, and you’ll love the variety of perspectives available from the various viewpoints.

Stop 4: Fairy Falls Hike and Overlook

For those interested in a bit of activity, there’s an optional hike to Fairy Falls, which provides some of the best panoramic views of the Grand Prismatic Spring from above. The hike is manageable, about an hour, and the view from the overlook is truly breathtaking—perfect for memorable photos.

Stop 5: Fountain Paint Pot

This stop is essentially a geothermal showcase, where you get to see geysers, mud pots, hot springs, and fumaroles all in one place. It’s an up-close experience that brings the park’s geothermal diversity to life, and your guide’s insights will make the visit more meaningful.

Stop 6: Gibbon Falls

A short stop at Gibbon Falls offers a scenic break with a stunning waterfall view. The overlook provides a great photo opportunity, and it’s a peaceful moment amid the park’s more active geothermal sites.

Stop 7 & 8: Artist Point & Lower Falls Trail

These two stops work together to showcase the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Artist Point is famous for its panoramic views of the canyon and the falls below. The Brink of the Lower Falls Trail adds another perspective, giving you a closer look at the roaring falls — perfect for dramatic photos and appreciating the raw power of Yellowstone’s geology.

Stop 9: Hayden Valley Wildlife Viewing

This area is renowned for wildlife sightings, including bison, elk, wolves, and bears. Your guide will bring UHD spotting scopes and binoculars to enhance your chances of spotting animals in their natural habitat. According to a recent review, Hayden Valley is “wildlife watching at its very best,” making this a highlight for many visitors.

Stop 10: Yellowstone Lake

The tour concludes with a visit to Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-altitude lake in the U.S. Its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings offer a perfect spot to reflect on the day’s adventures.

What’s Included & What to Expect

Among the many perks, this tour includes coffe and tea, snacks (custom requests at no extra charge), high-end sandwiches, soda, bottled water, and expert guidance. The lunch options are especially noteworthy — thoughtfully prepared by a local shop, with upgrades available like bison sandwiches, adding to the gourmet feel.

Your guide also supplies UHD binoculars and spotting scopes, meaning wildlife and distant views will be clearer and more detailed. This attention to detail helps turn a sightseeing trip into a more immersive experience.

The tour is flexible enough to accommodate most travelers, and the private nature makes it ideal for families, couples, or groups who want a more tailored experience. The only extra costs are the park entrance fee ($20/person unless you have an annual pass) and gratuities, which are customary but not obligatory.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

A recent reviewer described the experience as “unforgettable and stress-free,” highlighting how seamless and personal the day felt. The guide’s local expertise was a standout, with one noting they appreciated the detailed explanations about geothermal features and wildlife habits. The flexibility enjoyed by travelers was another plus, allowing for moments of spontaneous photo-taking or wildlife spotting.

Another reviewer loved the “breathtaking views” at Artist Point and Fairy Falls, saying that the stops allowed them to “capture memories they will cherish forever.” The inclusion of luxury transportation and custom snacks makes this tour feel like a special treat rather than just another sightseeing bus trip.

Pricing and Value

While $699 per person might seem steep, it’s crucial to consider what’s included: private transportation, a dedicated guide, gourmet lunch, snacks, and specialized spotting equipment. For a personalized, all-encompassing Yellowstone experience, this package offers a lot of value, especially for travelers who prefer to skip the crowds and enjoy more comfort.

It’s also booked on average 85 days in advance, highlighting its popularity among those planning well ahead for a memorable visit. If you’re looking for a stress-free, immersive way to see Yellowstone’s highlights with a small group, this tour is a strong contender.

The Sum Up

This Private Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, & Canyon Safari blends luxury, personalized attention, and expert insights into a memorable Yellowstone adventure. Perfect for travelers who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and quality experiences, it offers a comprehensive look at the park’s most iconic features, with plenty of opportunities for photos, wildlife encounters, and learning.

While the price is higher than some group tours, the private setting and included amenities make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a tailored, hassle-free day out. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another visit, this tour ensures you’ll see Yellowstone’s highlights without feeling rushed or crowded.

If you value stunning vistas, expert guidance, and a customized experience, this safari is likely to meet your expectations—and possibly exceed them.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in a luxury full-sized SUV, expert local guide, UHD binoculars and spotting scopes, coffee, tea, snacks, a high-end lunch (with upgrades available), soda, and bottled water.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 6 to 12 hours, depending on the pace and stops that you choose to make.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate. Since it’s a private tour, it can be tailored to your group’s needs and mobility levels.

What is the price for this experience?
It costs $699 per person, which covers most amenities and personalized service, making it a good value for such a comprehensive, private adventure.

Are park entrance fees included?
No, the $20/person entrance fee or an annual NPS pass is not included and must be paid separately.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
While the core stops are fixed, the private nature of the tour allows some flexibility based on your interests and timing.

Are meals and snacks provided?
Yes, high-end sandwiches from a local shop are included, with special requests and dietary accommodations available at no extra charge.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less notice means no refund.

This tour offers an engaging, high-quality way to experience Yellowstone’s most famous sights with comfort and expert guidance. Well-suited for those wanting a personalized journey that truly captures the park’s natural beauty.