1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands in Private Custom Tour

Exploring the Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands in a Private Custom Tour — A Practical Look

If you’re considering a day trip from Calgary to explore the fascinating world of dinosaurs and the breathtaking landscape of Alberta’s badlands, this private tour might catch your eye. With a high rating of 5.0 based on 11 reviews and a reputation for personalized service, it promises an immersive experience with plenty of memorable sights. From dinosaur fossils to rugged canyon views, it covers many highlights in a manageable, well-organized day.

One thing we really appreciate is the flexibility and personalized touch—since it’s a private tour, the itinerary can be adjusted to your interests. Plus, the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide and private transportation makes the day smooth and comfortable, perfect if you prefer avoiding large group tours. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the cost of admission fees not included in the base price, which means some extras are on you. But overall, this tour seems well-suited for those wanting a deep dive into Alberta’s iconic landscapes with expert guidance.

It’s especially ideal for travelers who value customized experiences and are eager to see key sites like the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Hoodoos, and Horseshoe Canyon. If you’re a dinosaur enthusiast, history buff, or just love dramatic scenery, this trip offers a rich package to satisfy those interests. It’s also good for anyone comfortable spending a full day on the road, as this tour spans roughly 8 to 10 hours.

Key Points

• Private tour for a more personalized experience
• Includes a knowledgeable guide and private transportation
• Flexible itinerary that can be adjusted on the fly
• Entry fees for some attractions are extra
• Ideal for those interested in dinosaurs and stunning landscapes
• Comfortable and spacious vehicle for all-day touring

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

When we looked into this 1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands Private Tour, it quickly became clear that it offers a thorough and engaging way to explore some of Alberta’s most iconic sights. The price point of around $88.86 per person actually offers solid value considering the variety of stops and private setup—it’s not just a quick drive-by, but a full-day exploration.

Starting Point: The Royal Tyrrell Museum

Your day kicks off with a visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which is often called one of the world’s best paleontological museums. It’s a must-see for dinosaur fans thanks to its over 130,000 fossils and detailed exhibits. While admission ($21 CAD) is extra, the tour includes a roughly two-hour stop to explore the fossils and learn about evolution. The reviews praise the museum’s quality and the guide’s insights, with one reviewer mentioning how the site “brings prehistoric eras to life.”

The Little Church and the Scenic Drive

After the museum, you’ll make a quick 10-minute visit to the World’s Largest Little Church—a quirky, fun stop. It’s small but fascinating, and the fact that it can hold six people at once makes it a charming photo-op.

The drive through Wayne, crossing 11 single-lane bridges, transports you into a frontier-style setting. This part of the tour highlights the rugged, nostalgic history of the area. One reviewer called it “a drive through history,” and the stop at Last Chance Saloon offers a glimpse into old Western tales and frontier memorabilia. It’s a perfect example of how the tour weaves history and scenery seamlessly.

Natural Wonders: Hoodoos, Suspension Bridge, and Canyons

Next, you’ll encounter the Willowcreek Hoodoos, towering rock formations shaped by millions of years of erosion. The 20-minute interpretive walk among these natural sculptures is often highlighted as a highlight. One guest described the formations as “otherworldly,” which really captures the surreal beauty of these structures.

A quick walk across Rosedale Suspension Bridge offers stunning views of the Red Deer River valley. Crossing a historic swinging bridge adds a bit of adventure and perspective to your day.

Horseshoe Canyon is another standout. With about 45 minutes allocated, you’ll descend into the canyon or view it from viewpoints. The canyon’s stripped, layered formations give you a close-up look at the geological history of the Badlands.

Iconic Landmarks and Photo Stops

While the World’s Largest Dinosaur is closed for September 2025, the climb inside a T-Rex is a popular feature when open. It provides a unique vantage point with panoramic views over the valley, which visitors rave about. The tour also includes stops at Jurassic Corner, where dinosaur figures and themed decor make for fun photos, and the Atlas Coal Mine, a historic site of Alberta’s last coal mine that offers optional paid tours.

Horseshoe Canyon remains a favorite for many, with a full 45-minute exploration that allows you to walk along trails and marvel at the layered geology.

Additional Scenic Stops

Other highlights include the Bleriot Ferry crossing the Red Deer River, offering a relaxing moment on the water, and Orkney Viewpoint for a broader picture of the badlands. The Badlands Amphitheatre offers a brief behind-the-scenes look at this unique outdoor theater, though it’s an optional stop that adds a cultural flair.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides bottled water, snacks, and an audio guide, which help make the day more comfortable. However, meals and some attraction entry fees are extra. For example, the admission to the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the Dinosaur climb are paid separately, so budgeting for these is wise.

How the Tour Works in Practice

Being a private tour, it offers the advantage of personalized pacing. Several reviews mention the guide’s knowledge and flexibility, with one traveler noting how their guide “adjusted the itinerary to suit our interests and pace.” This means if you’re particularly excited about fossils or photography, your guide can help tailor the stops accordingly.

The timing is well-managed, with most stops lasting anywhere from 10 minutes at the Little Church to 2 hours at the Tyrrell Museum. The whole experience lasts around 8–10 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

What We Loved About the Experience

Based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, the guide’s knowledge really seems to make a difference. Several guests praised the guide’s friendliness, flexibility, and depth of information, which enriches every stop. The stunning views from viewpoints and the hoodoos are consistently mentioned as unforgettable, giving you a true taste of Alberta’s rugged beauty.

The private setup means fewer crowds and more tailored attention—ideal if you want a relaxed, intimate experience. Plus, the vehicle is described as comfortable and spacious, which is always a plus on a long day on the road.

Where It Could Be Better

While most reviews are glowing, the additional costs for entrance fees might be a surprise for some. Budgeting extra for the museum and the Dinosaur climb (if available) is essential. Also, if you’re hoping to visit the World’s Largest Dinosaur—be aware it’s closed for September 2025, so plan accordingly.

Plus, some might find the full-day format a bit long if they prefer shorter excursions, but if you’re genuinely interested in seeing a wide array of sites, this is a strong point.

Who This Tour Best Suits

This private tour is ideal for travelers who value flexibility and personal attention. If you love dinosaurs, enjoy scenic drives, or want to explore Alberta’s badlands at your own pace, it offers excellent value. It’s perfect for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and willing to handle some extra entrance costs.

It’s also well-suited for friends, couples, or small groups seeking a curated experience—families with older children might find it engaging, especially if they’re interested in history and outdoor scenery.

FAQs

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour where only your group participates, giving you personalized attention and flexibility.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, covering many stops along the way.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You should plan to bring your own or buy food during the day.

Do I need to pay additional entrance fees?
Yes, entrance fees for places like the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the World’s Largest Dinosaur are extra. The museum costs about CA$21 per person, and the Dinosaur climb is CA$5.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is flexible, and your guide can adjust stops within the duration to suit your interests.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, older children and teenagers interested in dinosaurs and outdoor scenery should enjoy it.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, water, and a camera for capturing the stunning vistas.

To sum it up, this private Drumheller tour offers a well-rounded, flexible way to see Alberta’s signature sights—especially if you’re keen on personalized attention and don’t mind the extra costs for entry tickets. It’s a great choice for curious travelers eager to learn, photograph, and experience the wild beauty of the Badlands and its fossils. Just plan ahead for some optional expenses, and you’ll likely come away with a day full of memorable moments and stunning views.