From Rapid City: Custer State Park Private Safari and Hiking

If you’re dreaming of a day in South Dakota’s wild heart, this Custer State Park private safari and hiking tour offers a tailored way to see the area’s iconic wildlife and rugged scenery. We’ve looked into this experience to help you decide whether it’s worth your time and money.

What immediately catches the eye is the personalized nature of this tour — it’s just your group, in a private setting, which means no crowded buses or noisy groups. Plus, the chance to get up close with bison and other animals in their natural habitat is hard to beat. We also appreciate the combination of wildlife viewing and scenic hiking, which offers a well-rounded experience.

On the flip side, the price of $758 for up to two people might seem steep at first glance. But when you consider the all-inclusive nature, private guide, and personalized attention, it starts to make more sense. Still, it’s a good idea to compare this with other options if you’re traveling solo or as a couple.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love wildlife, want a personalized, flexible experience, and enjoy combining vehicle safaris with outdoor hiking. It’s ideal for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and who appreciate the chance to connect privately with nature in a stunning setting.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience ideal for small groups or couples
• Combines wildlife safari with scenic hiking for a full-day adventure
• Emphasis on close encounters with bison and other native animals
• Includes transportation, meals, and park entrance fees for ease
• Suitable for travelers comfortable with moderate hikes
• Weather conditions will influence the experience, so plan accordingly

An authentic wildlife adventure in South Dakota’s largest state park

This tour from Rapid City offers an excellent way to experience Custer State Park, renowned for its abundant wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. It’s a well-designed blend of guided safari and outdoor exploration, perfect for those seeking a personal connection with nature.

The full-day format (around 8 hours) allows enough time to enjoy both the wildlife and the scenic beauty at a relaxed pace. The private group setting ensures you won’t be jostled by strangers, and the hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics hassle-free.

Custer State Park is famous for its herds of bison — South Dakota’s iconic symbol — along with antelope, mule deer, white-tailed deer, mountain goats, coyotes, elk, and bighorn sheep. Regularly ranked among the top wildlife destinations in the world, the park offers a genuine chance to see animals in the wild rather than in a zoo.

The safari experience: Close encounters and feeding burros

Once inside the park, the highlight is the open-air jeep safari — a fantastic way to see animals in their natural environment. The vista views from the vehicle are exceptional, and the open-air format is a big plus, giving unobstructed sightlines and a more immersive experience.

Guests have the opportunity to get out and feed burros, which is a fun, hands-on moment that appeals to kids and adults alike. Several reviews praise the up-close animal sightings, with one traveler noting, “We loved the way the safari brought us face-to-face with the herd of bison, it felt like a true wilderness experience.”

Scenic hiking: Trails that showcase the park’s natural beauty

After the safari, the tour shifts to hiking the park’s scenic trails. The hikes are of moderate difficulty and typically last around 3-4 hours, making them suitable for most active travelers prepared for some uneven terrain.

Hiking in Custer State Park reveals some of the most stunning views in the Black Hills — towering granite formations, lush meadows, and panoramic vistas. The trails vary, but most are accessible and well-maintained, allowing you to soak in the landscape at your own pace.

Lunch and downtime: Historic lodges and flexible options

A highlight of the tour is lunch at the Custer State Game Lodge or an alternative chosen by your guide. The lodge has a charming, historic ambiance that adds to the overall experience. You’ll enjoy a hearty meal, giving you energy for the afternoon’s adventures.

The tour covers park entrance fees, hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, snacks, and water, which simplifies planning. You won’t need to worry about extra costs unless you choose to purchase additional food or drinks.

Remember that additional food and drinks outside of what’s provided are not included, so consider bringing extra snacks if you get hungry. Also, since the tour takes place rain or shine, dress accordingly, and bring essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, and a camera.

The day typically begins with hotel pickup in Rapid City or Hill City, with a flexible starting time depending on availability. The private nature of the tour means your guide will tailor the experience to your interests and pace.

The safari vehicle, being open-air, offers unmatched views but also means you’ll be exposed to weather conditions. Be prepared for possible chills or sun exposure, depending on the season.

Once at the park, expect to drive through diverse terrains, spotting wildlife along the way. The feeding of burros is a fun highlight, providing a chance for some interactive animal encounters.

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to hiking, with trails that reveal the park’s dramatic landscapes and sweeping vistas. The moderate difficulty means you’ll need good walking shoes, but the scenic rewards make it worthwhile.

Reviewers consistently mention how close-up wildlife sightings are a highlight, with many noting the stunning views from the safari vehicles. One reviewer shared, “The safari was an incredible way to see bison and elk — we felt like we were in a National Geographic special.”

The personalized nature of the tour is also highly praised. Travelers appreciate the flexibility and the chance to ask questions directly to the guide, who is knowledgeable about the park’s ecology and history.

Some mention the moderate hikes can be physically demanding depending on conditions, so it’s best for active travelers. Since the tour is not suitable for people with back problems, keep that in mind if you have mobility issues.

Considering the cost of $758, the value lies in the all-inclusive, private experience. You get park entry, transport, meals, snacks, and a dedicated guide — all tailored for your group. If you’re seeking an intimate, flexible way to enjoy South Dakota’s wildlife and scenery, this tour delivers in spades.

While the price might seem high, it’s comparable to other private tours that include park access and personalized guiding. It’s particularly appealing for couples or small groups who want a customized, high-quality experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

This is a perfect choice for wildlife enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and travelers who value private, tailored experiences. It’s especially suitable for those who want to combine wildlife viewing with scenic hiking, and who aren’t bothered by moderate physical activity.

Families with active children will likely enjoy the interactive feeding and wildlife encounters, but those with mobility limitations should note the moderate hikes.

If you’re after a comprehensive day in the Black Hills that balances wildlife, scenery, and outdoor activity, this tour checks all the boxes.

This Custer State Park private safari and hiking tour offers a memorable way to connect with South Dakota’s natural beauty. The combination of close wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and personalized attention makes it stand out. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to skip the crowded tours and enjoy a more intimate experience.

While the price may be a factor for some, the inclusion of transport, meals, and park fees means there are no hidden costs — just pure adventure and discovery. The scenic hikes provide a peaceful counterpoint to the thrill of animal sightings, ensuring a well-rounded day.

Overall, if you’re eager to see bison herds, mountain goats, and elk in their natural environment, and you love outdoor activities, this tour will deliver a genuinely rewarding experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is mainly aimed at adults and active travelers, children who enjoy outdoor hikes and wildlife may find it very engaging. Keep in mind the hikes are of moderate difficulty.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
Lunch, snacks, and water are included, but additional food and drinks are not part of the package, so bringing some extra snacks may be helpful.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, along with sunglasses and sunscreen. Since the tour is rain or shine, dress appropriately for weather conditions.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in uncertain travel plans.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, families with active children can enjoy the experience, especially the animal feeding part. Just be mindful of the hiking difficulty and weather.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You may see bison, antelope, mule deer, white-tailed deer, mountain goats, coyotes, elk, and bighorn sheep.

How long is the hiking?
The hikes last approximately 3-4 hours and are considered of moderate difficulty.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for your group only, providing a more personalized experience.

What are the start times?
Start times depend on availability; be sure to check when booking.

Is this tour available year-round?
The tour runs rain or shine, and the availability can vary, so check current scheduling when booking.

This Custer State Park private safari and hiking tour offers an excellent, well-rounded way to enjoy South Dakota’s wild side, especially for those who value personalized service and natural beauty. Whether you’re a wildlife lover or an outdoor enthusiast, this experience promises a day full of memorable sights and genuine encounters.