Private Tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Custer State Park

If you’re thinking about visiting South Dakota and want to make the most out of your trip without the hassle of planning every detail, this private tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park might just hit the spot. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed info paint a pretty appealing picture for travelers who value expert guidance, personalized experiences, and a relaxed day exploring iconic sights.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it takes care of the logistical side—no need to rent a car or worry about navigating. Plus, the tour is flexible, allowing plenty of time to stop for photos or linger at your favorite spots. On the flip side, at about $400 per person, it’s a bit on the higher end, but considering all the included entry fees, snacks, and transportation, many find it worth every penny. This tour is well-suited for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see these landmarks, especially if you prefer not to handle the details yourself.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Transportation, entry fees, snacks, and water are covered, making it simple and straightforward.
• Personalized Flexibility: Stops can be tailored to your interests, with plenty of time for photos or extra exploration.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides bring history and stories to life, enriching your visit.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off mean no worries about transportation logistics.
• Family-Friendly & Suitable for Most: Most travelers can participate, and the tour can accommodate small or large groups.
• Good Value: While the price might seem steep, the all-in nature and expert guidance make it a worthy investment for many.

This private Black Hills tour is designed to give you a personalized, immersive experience without the stress of planning. You start your day with a convenient hotel pickup around 9 am, and then settle into a comfortable vehicle with your guide. Since this is a private tour, it’s just your group, which means you can move at your own pace and spend more time at spots that fascinate you most.

The tour naturally covers three of South Dakota’s most celebrated landmarks: Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park. Each stop has its unique appeal, and your guide will provide historical context, fun facts, and local insights that you might not get on your own.

Mount Rushmore: A Personal Exploration

Your first stop is the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the Shrine of Democracy. This is more than just taking selfies; your guide takes you through key areas like the Sculptor’s Studio, the Presidential Trail, and the Visitor Center. With a 1 hour 30 minutes slot, you’ll have plenty of time to appreciate the mountain sculptures, learn about their history, and snap photos.

Reviewers love the way guides include interesting tidbits—like the fact that the tunnel offers a perfect framing shot for Mount Rushmore. One reviewer mentioned, “Seeing Mount Rushmore in person!! Pictures you see in books doesn’t show the actual beauty of it,” which sums up the impact of witnessing this monument firsthand.

Crazy Horse: An Understated Wonder

Next, your guide takes you to the Crazy Horse Memorial, taller than Mount Rushmore and still under construction. Here, you’ll get a personalized tour that explores both the story of Crazy Horse and the ongoing efforts to complete this immense sculpture. With another 1 hour 30 minutes allocated, there’s ample time to explore the pavilion, learn about the history, and absorb the significance of this tribute to Native Americans.

Many reviews highlight the storytelling aspect of the guides, with one mentioning, “The story and monument of Crazy Horse was impressive,” emphasizing how the tour makes a potentially overlooked site into a meaningful experience. Keep in mind, to see the full sculpture up close, a different tour would be needed; this experience focuses on the pavilion and viewing points.

Custer State Park: Scenic Drives & Wildlife

The final leg takes you into the sprawling Custer State Park, covering 71,000 acres. Here, you’ll drive through renowned routes like Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road, and the Wildlife Loop Road, all known for jaw-dropping vistas and abundant wildlife.

This part of the tour is the longest, at about three hours, offering plenty of flexibility. You can stop when you want, take short hikes, or visit lodges and visitor centers. One reviewer mentions, “Drive through the 71,000-acre park making frequent stops at the sites of your choosing,” highlighting how this part of the tour balances scenic beauty with personalized exploration.

Expect to see bison herds, pronghorn antelope, wild donkeys, and white-tailed deer—wildlife encounters that truly bring the landscape to life. The guide’s expertise in navigating the best viewpoints shines through, ensuring you see the highlights without feeling rushed.

The Little Details That Enhance the Experience

What truly sets this tour apart is the thoughtful inclusions. Snacks, bottled water, and apple juice keep you refreshed throughout the day, so you won’t need to worry about packing your own. The hotel pickup and drop-off mean you’re not scrambling to find meeting points, especially helpful if you’re new to the area or short on time.

Guides like John, Chris, Cindy, and others, are praised consistently for their extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling. They’re family members, which adds a layer of trust and familiarity, and reviews show they pay close attention to safety and health protocols—important in today’s travel landscape.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of self-driving and prefer a more relaxed, customized experience. It’s perfect if you’re visiting with friends, family, or small groups that appreciate expert insights and the flexibility to spend more time at places that fascinate you. It’s also well-suited for those who want a comprehensive Black Hills experience, including wildlife, scenic drives, and iconic landmarks, all in one day.

On the downside, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer to explore independently at your own pace, this tour might feel a bit pricey. But for many, the convenience, comfort, and depth of information make it a worthwhile splurge.

This private tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park offers a well-rounded, immersive experience for those eager to explore South Dakota’s most celebrated sights without the stress of planning or navigating. The guides’ extensive knowledge brings history alive, while the flexible schedule means you can tailor the day to your interests. The all-inclusive pricing, with transportation, entry fees, and snacks, simplifies the day and provides good value overall.

If you’re someone who appreciates expert storytelling, scenic drives, and the option to customize your visit, this tour makes a strong case. It suits travelers who want a memorable, in-depth experience, especially if you’re traveling with companions who enjoy a laid-back day with plenty of photo opportunities and wildlife encounters.

That said, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer DIY adventures, you might find this experience a bit costly. Still, for many, the ease of having everything organized and guided makes it a standout choice.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is private, which can be accommodating for families. However, consider the length (8-9 hours) and the amount of walking or standing involved.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, all entry fees to the three landmarks, snacks, bottled water, and apple juice are included, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.

Can I customize the stops or pace?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, your guide can adjust the schedule or focus on areas you’re most interested in.

How long is the total tour?
About 8 to 9 hours, starting with hotel pickup around 9 am.

Is there a lunch break?
The itinerary has time budgeted for a meal, and you’re responsible for lunch expenses. Cooler options for boxed lunches or picnics are available.

Are entry fees included?
Yes, all admission tickets for Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park are covered.

What transportation is used?
A comfortable vehicle suitable for small or large groups, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Do guides follow safety protocols?
Yes, guides constantly monitor each other’s health, and the tour is limited to your group, ensuring safety and comfort.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book approximately 65 days in advance, indicating strong interest and limited spots.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, flexible, and insightful way to see some of South Dakota’s most iconic sights, this private tour checks many boxes. It balances expert guiding, scenic beauty, and comfort—ideal for those who prefer their sightseeing with a side of ease.