Adventure Collective
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour in Custer State Park, SD - Rapid City

Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour in Custer State Park, SD

Custermoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be comfortable sitting in an open-air Jeep and able to enter and exit the vehicle safely.

Overview

Explore South Dakota’s Custer State Park Wildlife Loop by open-air Jeep, spotting bison and other wildlife up close. Enjoy expert commentary and hidden road access on this unique private safari.

Custer, South Dakota

Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour

Between 1.5 - 2 Hours • Named "Top 10 Safaris in US"!

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About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable guided tour of Custer State Park's Wildlife Loop in a custom open-air Jeep Wrangler. Experience exclusive access to interior roads, ensuring prime bison sightings and breathtaking views. With a knowledgeable guide, enjoy educational insights and photo opportunities, making this safari a unique adventure in nature.

Named Top Ten Safaris in the U.S.!

Duration

Each tour lasts between 1.5 - 2 hours

About

Our Buffalo Safari Tour will take you where only we can go: on the interior gravel roads of the Wildlife Loop Road to access the wildlife. Trek through the park in an open-air jeep in search of pronghorns, elk, and the noble buffalo. Along the way, your driver & guide will share historical and educational facts about the park and wildlife—and help you spot the critters.

Where you'll go

  • To the bison herds! Your guide knows where they are
  • Wildlife Loop Road (paved)
  • Private interior dirt off-roads, as needed & weather permitting that are reserved only for our Buffalo Safari Tours
  • Brief photo stops are encouraged
  • Check-in at Creekside Lodge no later than 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.

What to expect

Mild-to-moderate terrain in a custom stretch open-air Jeep. All seats are sold based on availability. Each booking of up to 7 guests will be sat on the same jeep. (For all parties of 6 or less, expect passengers from other parties in the jeep with you. If a private experience is important to you, please consider the Private Buffalo Safari Tour, instead). These tours are sold up to (7) seats at a time. For more than (7) passengers, please make an additional online booking.

Requirements

Bring sunscreen if desired and dress accordingly. Blankets available. Standard seatbelts available; any required car seats must be brought with you. Drivers will lend a hand loading and unloading, but guests must be physically able to take steps into and out of the Jeep. No pets.

A note about weather

Please be prepared! Jeeps have a canvas top and will still depart if raining. Lighting will force a tour to be rescheduled or delayed. Private interior dirt roads will be taken as long as road conditions permit.

Adventure Tips

Bring Binoculars for Better Wildlife Viewing

Enhance your chance to spot distant bison and other animals by packing a pair of quality binoculars.

Dress in Layers

Temperatures can vary, so wear layers to stay comfortable throughout your tour.

Stay Seated and Follow Guide Instructions

For your safety and the animals', remain seated in the jeep and listen carefully to the guide at all times.

Bring a Camera with a Zoom Lens

Capture stunning wildlife and landscapes with a zoom lens to easily photograph animals from a distance.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • American Bison
  • Pronghorn Antelope

History

Custer State Park was established in 1912 and is renowned for its preservation of bison herds and the legacy of pioneer ranching.

Conservation

The park actively manages its bison population through sustainable practices and promotes responsible wildlife viewing to minimize impact.

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Adventure Hotspots in Rapid City

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Binoculars

Essential

Helps you spot wildlife clearly from a distance during the tour.

Layered Clothing

Essential

Adjust your outfit to changing temperatures and weather conditions.

Camera with Zoom Lens

Essential

Capture detailed photos of animals without disturbing them.

Sun Protection (Hat & Sunscreen)

Essential

Essential for protecting skin during sunny summer days on the open Jeep.

summer specific