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

Private Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour in Custer, SD

Custereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels as the tour involves mostly seated time with occasional short stops for photos.

Overview

Discover Custer State Park’s wildlife up close on a private Jeep safari. From majestic buffalo to scenic landscapes, this tour offers a unique, personalized outdoor adventure.

Custer, South Dakota

Private Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour

Up to 8 guests • 1.5 - 2 Hours

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable guided safari in a private open-air Jeep Wrangler, exploring the stunning Wildlife Loop of Custer State Park. With exclusive access to interior roads, you'll enjoy educational insights, custom requests, and the thrill of spotting free-roaming wildlife, including elusive elk and majestic buffalo, in their natural habitat.

Top Selling Attraction!

Our private 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 private driver & guide will share historical and educational facts about the park and wildlife—and help you spot the critters.

Whether you are a single traveler or a small group, this tour books the entire jeep privately. Our custom stretch Jeeps can seat up to 7 Adults, or 8 if one is a small child (taking the middle of a bench seat).

Where you'll go

  • To the bison herds! Your guide knows where they are
  • Wildlife Loop Road (paved)
  • Private interior dirt off-roads that are reserved only for the 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 your custom stretch open-air Jeep. Hoping for more exciting terrain? Tell your driver! Custom routes available on request.

Duration

Each tour lasts between 1.5 - 2 hours

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

Wear Layers for Changing Weather

Mountain weather can shift quickly; layering helps you stay comfortable throughout your tour.

Bring a Binocular

Binoculars enhance wildlife spotting, especially for elk and distant buffalo herds.

Prepare for Dusty Roads

The open-air Jeep may expose you to dust, so a bandana or face covering can be helpful.

Follow Guide Instructions Carefully

Respect wildlife and stay seated to ensure safety during close animal encounters.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bison (buffalo)
  • Elk

History

Custer State Park was established in 1912 and preserves large herds of bison as a tribute to the region’s natural heritage and pioneer history.

Conservation

The park follows sustainable practices to protect habitats and limit human impact, including restricting vehicle access to preserve wildlife corridors.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Rapid City

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Camera with Zoom Lens

Essential

Captures detailed shots of distant wildlife and the stunning landscapes.

Sunglasses

Essential

Protects your eyes from glare during midday sun in the open Jeep.

summer specific

Water Bottle

Essential

Stays hydrated during the tour, particularly in warm weather.

Windbreaker Jacket

Essential

Helps shield against cool breezes and dust while riding in the open vehicle.

spring specific