From Calgary: Drumheller Private Tour, Full day sightseeing

If you’re considering a day trip from Calgary to Alberta’s famous Badlands, this private Drumheller tour offers a tailored way to experience the region’s geological and paleontological wonders. While we haven’t been on this specific tour ourselves, reviewing the details and feedback from other travelers paints a clear picture of what you can expect.

What really appeals to us about this tour is its flexibility — you can visit up to 8 sites in a day or spend more time at a few favorites. Plus, with a private guide and transportation, you avoid the crowds and can customize your experience. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the additional costs for museum and coal mine tickets, which means your all-in price could go up if you choose to explore inside these attractions.

This tour is well-suited for those who love outdoors, geology, and a bit of paleontology without the hassle of self-driving or sticking to a rigid schedule. It also seems ideal for travelers wanting a comfortable, personalized day in the Badlands — but it may not be perfect if you’re after a very budget-friendly option or traveling with very young children or mobility challenges.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with a dedicated guide and driver.
• Visit six to eight sites including museums, Hoodoos, and scenic canyons.
• All transportation and parking fees included, plus free water bottles.
• Additional admission costs for the museum and coal mine are not included.
• Flexible pickup from Calgary and a full 8-hour itinerary.
• Suitable for those who appreciate a relaxed day with the ability to spend more time at favored spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Alberta’s Badlands and Dinosaur Heritage

This tour offers a full-day dive into some of Alberta’s most striking natural formations and fascinating history. Starting from Calgary, it’s a chance to explore the region’s unique landscape, dotted with formations called Hoodoos, and to learn about its coal mining past. The tour’s appeal lies in the balance of outdoor scenery and cultural sites, making it engaging for a variety of interests.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Day

One of the biggest perks of this tour is its customizable nature. You’ll be picked up from your Calgary accommodation — the details about pickup locations are straightforward, with clear info provided ahead of time. Once on the road, your private guide/driver takes the wheel, allowing you to relax and focus on the sights.

Royal Tyrrell Museum

The trip kicks off with a visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, renowned for its extensive dinosaur fossils and exhibits. It’s a highlight for many visitors, especially those with any interest in paleontology or just marveling at the prehistoric giants. The museum is well-curated and offers a compelling overview of the region’s dinosaur history, with impressive displays that appeal to both adults and kids alike.

Some reviews praise the museum as “very worth it,” and note that the separate entrance helps skip long lines. Keep in mind, however, that admission isn’t included in the tour price, so budget accordingly.

Hoodoos

Next, your guide will take you to the Hoodoos, those iconic, weathered rock formations. You’ll get a chance for a short hike and some terrific photo ops — a perfect spot to appreciate Alberta’s geologic quirks. The scenery here is striking, and many travelers comment on how photogenic and unusual these formations are, especially when framed against a wide blue sky.

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Horseshoe Canyon

Horseshoe Canyon is another outdoor gem on the route, offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and soak in the natural beauty of the landscape. The canyon’s sweeping vistas appeal to those who love nature photography and tranquil scenery.

Atlas Coal Mine

History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site. Here, you can learn about Drumheller’s coal mining past through guided tours of the preserved mine. It’s an intriguing stop that adds context to the region’s industrial past. However, note that admission to this site isn’t included, so plan for extra costs if you wish to explore inside.

Dinosaur Trail & T Rex

Driving along the Dinosaur Trail, you’ll come across various dinosaur-themed attractions, including the famous T Rex statue in downtown Drumheller. This part of the tour combines scenic driving with fun photo opportunities and a touch of kitsch that’s part of the region’s charm.

Starmine Suspension Bridge

If open, the Starmine Suspension Bridge offers an exciting crossing with spectacular views. It’s a highlight for those comfortable with heights, offering a sense of adventure amid the rugged landscape. Due to weather or maintenance, it’s wise to check ahead if this attraction is open during your visit.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Budget For

The tour covers transportation, parking fees, and water bottles, making it a stress-free way to see the Badlands. The private aspect means you set the pace — whether you want to spend longer at the Tyrrell Museum or linger in Horseshoe Canyon.

However, museum and coal mine admission tickets are extra, so it’s wise to budget around CAD$10-$20 per site unless you decide to forgo exploring inside. Meals and drinks aren’t included, but there’s plenty of local options in Drumheller if you want to grab lunch.

The price per group — $424 for up to four people — offers good value considering the exclusive, flexible experience and the number of sites covered. For travelers who appreciate personalized service and don’t want to navigate alone, this can be a worthwhile investment.

How Travelers Feel About It

Reviews consistently highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the guide is, with particular praise for Hiten, who is described as “friendly and helpful,” and “very punctual.” Travelers mention that the guide answered questions well and made the day enjoyable overall.

Multiple reviews praise the scenery and the Tyrrell Museum, with one traveler saying it was “very worth it!” The flexibility to see six or more sites in a day allows for a comprehensive experience that can be tailored to your interests.

Some noted that certain attractions, like the mines, might be closed during their visit, which is always a good reminder to check ahead if specific sites are a must-see for you.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for geology and dinosaur enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, or anyone who wants to explore the Badlands without the hassle of self-driving or strict schedules. The private setup is a huge plus if you prefer a more relaxed, personalized experience. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy learning about regional history, as the coal mine and museum visits add depth to the landscape.

However, if you’re on a tight budget, the extra costs for entrance tickets might be a consideration. Also, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those afraid of heights, given some outdoor walking and bridge crossings.

Final Thoughts

In all, this private Drumheller tour offers a well-rounded way to explore Alberta’s iconic landscapes and prehistoric past. The flexibility and personalized service mean you can craft a day that suits your pace and interests. The scenery is stunning, the guide is knowledgeable, and the sites are genuinely fascinating.

For those seeking a comfortable, curated experience of the Badlands, this trip looks like an excellent choice — especially if you value expert guidance and the chance to see multiple highlights in one day. Just be prepared for some additional costs if you want full access to the museums and mines.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups of up to 4 people, making it intimate and flexible.

What is the price per person?
The total cost is $424 per group, which makes it a good deal for a private day trip with multiple stops.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there are options in Drumheller if you want to grab lunch.

What sites are included in the tour?
Key sites include the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Hoodoos, Horseshoe Canyon, Atlas Coal Mine, Dinosaur Trail, and possibly the Starmine Suspension Bridge.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is private and customizable, so you can spend more or less time at certain sites.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Given the information, it’s likely not suitable for those with mobility impairments or who are afraid of heights.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and a change of clothes for outdoor activities.

Are there any age restrictions?
Not suitable for children under 2 or travelers over 70, especially considering outdoor hiking and heights.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve ahead with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours beforehand.

This private Drumheller tour offers a fantastic way to see Alberta’s famed Badlands with the benefits of a personalized touch. Whether you’re into dinosaurs, scenic vistas, or regional history, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

You can check availability for your dates here: