From Rapid City: Custer State Park Private Safari and Hiking – A Detailed Look

If you’re dreaming of getting close to South Dakota’s incredible wildlife and soaking in some truly scenic views, this private safari and hiking tour in Custer State Park might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve read plenty of reviews and research about it, and it sounds like a well-rounded way to experience one of America’s most beloved parks without the hassle of large tour groups.

What really catches the eye is the private nature of the experience — perfect if you’re looking for something tailored to your group’s pace and interests. Plus, the combination of a wildlife safari and hiking offers a good mix of active adventure and relaxing exploration. On the downside, the tour is quite detailed and involves a fair amount of time outdoors, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity and variable weather.

This trip tends to appeal most to travelers who want a personalized, immersive day in Custer State Park — especially if you love wildlife, scenic drives, and outdoor walking. If you’re traveling as a couple, with a friend, or even small family, it provides a flexible way to see the park’s highlights with some guidance along the way.

Key Points

Private Group Experience: Perfect for personalized attention and flexibility.
Wildlife Close-Ups: See bison, deer, mountain goats, and more up close.
Open-Air Safari Vehicle: Offers unbeatable views and photo opportunities.
Scenic Hiking: Moderate trails of about 3-4 hours to enjoy the park’s beauty.
Includes Lunch & Entrance Fees: Simplifies planning, with food and park access covered.
Weather-Ready Activity: Tour takes place rain or shine, so come prepared.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Tour

This private tour from Rapid City offers a chance to explore Custer State Park with a focus on wildlife viewing and scenic hiking. It’s a flexible option that caters to those who want a more intimate experience — away from crowded group tours — with the added benefit of a tailored itinerary.

Two things we really like about this experience are the open-air safari vehicle, which provides panoramic views and fantastic photo opportunities, and the private group setting that makes it feel more personal and relaxed. You get to spend quality time with your travel companions, with the guide focusing on your interests and pace.

One consideration is the duration; at about 8 hours, it’s a full day, so you’ll want to be prepared for a fair bit of outdoor activity, including some moderate hiking. Also, since the tour runs rain or shine, packing appropriate gear is a good idea. This experience suits travelers who want a curated, nature-focused day in one of America’s top wildlife destinations.

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What You Can Expect

Pickup and Departure

The tour begins with hotel pickup from Rapid City, Hill City, or Custer, making the day seamless and stress-free. Once you’re on the way, the drive to Custer State Park takes about an hour, giving you a chance to get excited about the wildlife and landscapes ahead.

The Safari Experience

Once inside the park, you’ll hop into an open-air jeep — a real highlight of this tour. These vehicles are designed for optimal visibility, so you get a clear, close-up view of the park’s famous residents. Expect to see bison herds roaming freely, along with antelope, mule deer, white-tailed deer, mountain goats, coyotes, elk, and bighorn sheep. Because the vehicle is open, taking photos is effortless, and you’ll be able to truly appreciate the sweeping scenery around you.

Reviews often mention how impressive it is to get so close to wildlife — “We loved the way the safari allowed us to see animals without feeling like we were just looking from afar,” one traveler shared. Feeding the burros adds a fun, interactive element, especially if you’re traveling with those who enjoy animal encounters.

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Lunch Break

Midday, everyone gathers at the historic Custer State Game Lodge or another location of your choosing for lunch. The lodge itself is charming and provides a chance to relax and discuss the morning’s sights. Lunch is included in the tour price, which simplifies the day, though some reviews mention that additional food and drinks aren’t included if you want more variety.

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Afternoon Hiking

In the afternoon, you’ll hit some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the park. The hikes are described as moderate difficulty and last about 3-4 hours, so comfortable shoes and water are essential. The trails offer a great chance to see the park from a different perspective — on foot, immersed in nature.

Travelers mention that the hikes provide stunning views and a peaceful way to connect with the landscape. Given the diversity of terrain, expect some elevation changes and rocky paths, but nothing too strenuous for most average hikers. It’s a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air, listen to the sounds of nature, and perhaps spot wildlife that’s more elusive from the vehicle.

Return and Drop-Off

After a full day of wildlife, hiking, and scenic views, the tour wraps up with return transportation to your hotel. The whole experience runs about 8 hours, making it a comprehensive option for a day trip.

The Value of the Experience

At $758 for a group of up to 2 people, the cost might seem high at first glance. However, considering that park entrance fees, lunch, pickup, snacks, and water are all included, it’s a fairly streamlined way to spend a day in Custer without worrying about additional costs popping up. The private setting means you’re not sharing the vehicle or experience with strangers, which many travelers find adds to the enjoyment.

The flexibility of the itinerary — combining wildlife viewing, a sit-down lunch, and active hiking — offers good value for those who want an all-in-one day in the park. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a more tailored, less crowded experience compared to larger group tours.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who appreciate a personal touch. It suits those who enjoy moderate outdoor activity and want to explore both by vehicle and on foot. If you’re traveling with someone who prefers a slower pace or has a keen interest in animals, this tour will meet those needs.

It’s also a good fit if you’re limited on time but still want to see many highlights of Custer State Park in one day. Keep in mind, though, that it’s a full-day commitment and involves some physical activity, so it’s better for travelers who are comfortable with moderate hikes and outdoor weather.

Final Thoughts

This private safari and hiking trip from Rapid City offers a thoughtful way to experience some of South Dakota’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife. The open-air jeep really seems to bring travelers close to the animals, creating memorable moments and fantastic photo opportunities, while the scenic hikes provide a peaceful, immersive way to enjoy the natural beauty of Custer State Park.

While the price isn’t the cheapest, the inclusion of park fees, lunch, and private attention makes it a solid value for those seeking a personalized, active day in the Black Hills. If you’re someone who loves wildlife sightings, stunning vistas, and moderate outdoor activities, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less active day or are traveling solo, you might want to consider other options or smaller group tours for a lower cost. But for a well-organized, private adventure that hits the main sights and lets you really connect with nature, it’s a solid choice.

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From Rapid City: Custer State Park Private Safari and Hiking

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the active and outdoor nature of the tour means older children or teenagers who enjoy hiking and wildlife would likely enjoy it. Always consider the hikes’ moderate difficulty and the full-day schedule.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, along with sunglasses, a camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Since the tour takes place rain or shine, packing weather-appropriate gear is wise.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, so check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

How long is the hiking part?
The hikes last approximately 3-4 hours and are of moderate difficulty, so be prepared for some elevation and rocky paths.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see bison, antelope, mule deer, white-tailed deer, mountain goats, coyotes, elk, and bighorn sheep.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch is included and is served at the historic Custer State Game Lodge or another location of your choice.

Can I book the tour now and pay later?
Yes, there is a “reserve now & pay later” option, allowing you to secure your spot without immediate payment.

How big are the groups?
This is a private group tour, so your experience will be tailored and exclusive to your party.

What’s the duration of the whole trip?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

If you’re craving a day of wildlife, gorgeous scenery, and active adventure in Custer State Park, this private safari and hiking tour offers a personalized and memorable way to enjoy South Dakota’s Black Hills. Just be sure to pack your sense of adventure and a good pair of walking shoes!