Buffalo Jeep Safari & Mammoth Site Tour

If you’re planning a trip to South Dakota and want a mix of wildlife, history, and outdoor adventure, the Buffalo Jeep Safari & Mammoth Site Tour could be just what you’re after. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve seen enough to tell you it offers a genuine, well-rounded experience that’s especially appealing for those wanting to get a little off the beaten path without sacrificing comfort or insight.

One of the things I love about this tour is how it combines different elements—you’re not just sightseeing, but actively engaging with nature and history. Plus, the private group setup means a more personalized experience, which can make all the difference if you’re traveling with a small party or a loved one.

A potential consideration is the tour’s price point—$700 might seem steep for some, but when you factor in the all-inclusive nature—transportation, lunch, snacks, and entrance fees—it can be quite reasonable for a full-day, curated adventure.

This experience is perfect if you enjoy wildlife encounters and paleontology, and it suits travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor activity and educational content. If you’re traveling with kids or anyone with mobility issues, keep in mind the physical requirements and accessibility details.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private group tours mean fewer crowds and more tailored attention.
• Diverse Highlights: Combines wildlife viewing with a VIP tour of the Mammoth Site.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, meals, snacks, and park fees, making it a comprehensive package.
• Interactive Learning: The Mammoth Site offers fossils and geological walks that are both fun and educational.
• Wildlife Encounters: Close-up views of bison, deer, and wild donkeys create memorable moments.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Jamie make the tour engaging and informative.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Experience

Exploring Custer State Park in an Open-Air Jeep

The journey begins with a roar of the engine as you hop into an open-air Jeep, which is perfect for feeling the breeze and getting unobstructed views of the surroundings. The Black Hills landscapes are stunning, and the chance to see wildlife like bison, deer, and even feeding wild donkeys makes this part of the trip quite lively.

We loved the way the guide (Jamie, in one review) brought the area to life with stories and insights. You’ll get to observe animals up close, often from just a few feet away, which adds a real sense of connection to the land. Don’t forget to bring healthy snacks for the donkeys—they’re quite accustomed to visitors feeding them, and the experience of hand-feeding wild donkeys is surprisingly charming. Just be aware that bringing snacks is recommended if you want to participate; otherwise, you’ll be an observer.

The Jeep safari is not just about wildlife; it’s also about soaking in the stunning scenery of the Black Hills—the rolling hills, rocky formations, and open plains. The duration is around several hours, enough to feel immersed without it dragging.

The VIP Mammoth Site Tour in Hot Springs

After your outdoor adventure, the journey continues to Hot Springs for a VIP behind-the-scenes tour of the Mammoth Site. This part of the day is quite different but equally compelling. You won’t just see fossils behind glass—you get close to the active paleontological dig, which makes the experience more tangible.

The Mammoth Site is famous for fossils from the Ice Age, and during the tour, you’ll see these ancient bones in their natural setting. The site also features an interactive botanical and geological walkway, which adds context to the fossils and helps you understand the environment these creatures once roamed.

Guests have praised the knowledgeable guides for making complex science accessible and engaging. One reviewer specifically appreciated the personalized attention and clear explanations, which made the visit both educational and fun. It’s a good stop for anyone with a curiosity for prehistoric life, and the VIP aspect means fewer crowds and more direct interaction with experts.

How the Tour Is Structured

The full day is about 9 hours, which sounds like a long outing but flies by when you’re engaged with these diverse activities. The tour begins with pickup, and all transportation is handled, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

More Great Tours Nearby

Wildlife Viewing in Custer State Park

The first part of the day is dedicated to exploring Custer State Park in an open-air Jeep. Your guide will drive you through scenic routes, stopping for wildlife sightings and photo opportunities. The close encounters—like feeding wild donkeys or watching bison graze—stand out as highlights.

We loved how the guide shared informative commentary about the animals and the landscape, making each stop more meaningful. The experience is very much about observing animals in their natural habitat, which creates a sense of authenticity.

Lunch and Snacks

A lunch is included—a practical addition that saves you from hunting for food on your own—while light snacks and bottled water keep you refreshed during the day. Bringing extra snacks for the donkeys is encouraged if you want to participate in feeding.

Exploring the Mammoth Site

After a few hours in the park, the group heads to Hot Springs. The VIP tour of the Mammoth Site is scheduled in the afternoon, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at ongoing excavations. This part involves walking around the dig and viewing fossils in situ. The interactive aspects—like the botanical and geological walkways—bring additional context.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Bring

This tour is quite comprehensive, especially considering the price. It covers transportation, lunch, light snacks, bottled water, park entrance fees, and a guide at the Mammoth Site. That means you won’t have to worry about extra costs or logistics, just enjoy the day.

In terms of what to bring, pack comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for outdoor activity, along with camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent. The open-air Jeep exposes you to the elements, so dress accordingly.

Accessibility and Suitability

One thing to note is that this tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the activities involve some walking and uneven terrain.

Price and Value Analysis

At $700 per group (up to 2 people), the tour is priced on the higher side but justifiable given the inclusions. The private setup ensures personalization, and the combined nature of wildlife viewing plus the paleontological experience makes it a well-rounded full-day outing.

When considering value, think about the expert guides, the all-inclusive meals, and the unique experience of feeding wild donkeys and exploring an active dig site. For travelers who prioritize a curated experience with educational value, this tour offers good bang for your buck.

What the Reviews Say

Both reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery. One traveler from the US raved about how their guide, Jamie, was “extremely knowledgeable and friendly,” making the whole experience fun and informative. They also appreciated the lunch, describing it as “great,” which adds to the overall value.

Another reviewer from Austria called it a “special excursion,” noting the guide’s translation help and the stunning nature of the park. They emphasized how the tour showcases “the most beautiful nature,” confirming that the scenery and wildlife are major draws.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and families or couples looking for a full-day adventure in the South Dakota Black Hills. It’s especially suited for those who want a personalized, intimate tour with expert guides leading the way.

If you’re interested in wildlife encounters, like feeding donkeys and spotting bison, combined with a behind-the-scenes fossil experience, this tour hits all those marks. It’s also a good choice for travelers who enjoy educational outings but prefer to stay active and outdoors.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or have mobility concerns, it might be worth considering other options or checking if accessible alternatives are available. That said, for those wanting a comprehensive, engaging, and well-organized day, this tour offers a memorable way to explore the Black Hills.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it can be enjoyed by children who are comfortable with outdoor activities and walking. Keep in mind that the tour involves some walking and uneven terrain, and it’s a private group, so you can discuss any specific needs with the provider.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Since the Jeep is open-air, dressing in layers is recommended to stay comfortable in varying weather.

Does the tour include all costs?
Yes, the fee covers transportation, lunch, snacks, bottled water, park entrance fees, and the guide at the Mammoth Site. You won’t need to pay extra for these during the trip.

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

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, providing a full and immersive day of activity.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the nature of the activities.

What makes the Mammoth Site special?
It’s an active paleontological dig site with fossils from the Ice Age, offering a rare chance to see fossils in situ and learn about prehistoric life through an interactive and guided experience.

Is this experience good value?
Considering what’s included—transport, meals, guide, park fees—the tour offers a comprehensive and personalized adventure, which many travelers find worth the investment for a full day of exploration.

If you’re after a day of wildlife, history, and stunning scenery in South Dakota, the Buffalo Jeep Safari & Mammoth Site Tour is a solid choice to get a well-rounded look at this fascinating region.

You can check availability for your dates here: