cool shore excursions®
Top activities
Top landmarks
Trip ideas
Nearby places
  • Tours by category
  • Tours by accessibility
  • Tours by feature
  • Tours by time
  • Tours by the numbers
  • Top attractions
  • Rapid City travel guides
  • Rapid City travel calendar
  • Tours in nearby places
  • Explore USA tours
Language $Currency
Port schedule
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Wallet
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Cool Rewards Rewards
Gift cards
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates
You booked this experience
You're departing on
Google Calendar
Apple Calendar
Microsoft Outlook
Make your trip unforgettable

Wildlife Biologist’s Guide to the Black Hills: Private Tour

5 Reviews 4.20 out of 5 stars Based on 5 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor | Rapid City, USA
Book online or call us

from $549 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Wildlife Biologist’s Guide to the Black Hills: Private Tour Image 1
Wildlife Biologist’s Guide to the Black Hills: Private Tour Image 2
Pasque Flower along the trail.
Prairie Dogs, a keystone species abound and folic out on the plains.
A male bighorn sheep still shedding his winter coat and enjoying the grassland.
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 23 (0) days in advance.
7 to 8 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Overview

This isn’t just a tour—it’s a deeply personal exploration of the natural world, guided by a professional wildlife biologist who brings every moment to life. Designed exclusively for your group, the experience is entirely private and tailored to your interests, pace, and curiosity.

What sets it apart is the focus on nature in its purest form—no monuments, no crowds, just the living heartbeat of the Black Hills. You’ll explore vast prairies, winding byways, underground caves, and wildlife-rich habitats with a guide who reads the landscape like a storybook.

Rather than simply pointing out animals or naming plants, your guide offers insight into the complex relationships that tie geology, ecology, and wildlife together. You’ll walk away with not only stunning photos but a meaningful connection to the land itself.

Unhurried, immersive, and rich with discovery—this tour invites you to slow down, look deeper, and experience South Dakota as few ever do.

What's Included

  • Lunch A picnic lunch will be included and enjoyed along the tour.
  • Snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Gratuities
See 2 moreSee 1 more

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

Your wildlife biologist will pick you up in one of our vehicles, which features the logo on the side, including a Passenger Van, Tahoe, or Yukon. If you have any questions or would like to customize your tour, please contact My XO Adventures directly.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Wind Cave National Park

Beneath the surface, Wind Cave is one of the oldest and most complex cave systems in the world. Known for its rare boxwork formations—thin, honeycomb-like calcite structures found in few other places—this underground labyrinth is a geological marvel. As you descend into the cave with your guide, you’ll uncover the science and mystery behind its formation, unique airflow, and Lakota cultural significance.Above ground, a completely different story unfolds. Here, mixed-grass prairie stretches across rolling hills, dotted with ponderosa pine forests and home to bison, elk, coyotes, prairie dogs, and endangered black-footed ferrets. It’s one of the last remaining intact prairies in North America.With a wildlife biologist as your guide, this stop offers not just sightseeing—but insight. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of the delicate balance that exists between geology, biology, and ecology in this extraordinary place.
Read more

2 hours Admission Ticket Included

Wildlife Loop Road

Wildlife Loop Road offers a front-row seat to the untamed beauty of Custer State Park. This scenic 18-mile route winds through open grasslands and rolling hills, where bison herds roam freely and prairie dogs pop in and out of their burrows. Keep watch for pronghorn, wild burros, white-tailed deer, and even the occasional coyote or elk.With a wildlife biologist as your guide, you won’t just spot animals—you’ll understand their behaviors, habitats, and the intricate web of life that defines this ecosystem. The journey is slow-paced and deliberate, allowing for spontaneous encounters, in-depth interpretation, and remarkable photo opportunities.This isn’t a drive-through attraction—it’s a living, breathing landscape where every curve in the road could lead to a once-in-a-lifetime moment with nature.
Read more

2 hours Admission Ticket Included

Custer State Park

Custer State Park is a sanctuary of South Dakota’s wildest wonders. Spanning over 71,000 acres, this living landscape is home to one of the largest free-roaming bison herds in the country—often seen thundering across open prairies or calmly grazing near the road. Beyond bison, the park’s rich biodiversity includes pronghorn, elk, bighorn sheep, wild burros, coyotes, prairie dogs, and over 200 species of birds.Your private guide—an expert wildlife biologist—helps you read the land like a living storybook. Explore alpine meadows, ponderosa pine forests, granite spires, and aspen groves while learning how every plant and animal plays a role in this ecosystem.From the winding curves of Wildlife Loop Road to quiet trails known only to locals, this part of your tour is immersive, educational, and unforgettable. It’s not about checking sights off a list—it’s about seeing nature through new eyes and feeling deeply connected to the land around you.
Read more

2 hours Admission Ticket Included

Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway

The Needles Highway is more than a road—it’s a winding journey through one of the most visually arresting landscapes in the Black Hills. As part of the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, this 14-mile stretch weaves through towering granite spires, narrow tunnels carved by hand, and thick forests of pine and spruce.The cathedral spires, shaped by eons of erosion, create a dramatic backdrop for wildlife sightings and quiet moments of awe. Mountain goats, deer, wild turkeys, and marmots are often seen navigating the same terrain—and with a wildlife biologist at your side, every stop becomes a lesson in geology, habitat, and natural adaptation.You’ll drive through iconic one-lane tunnels like the Needle’s Eye Tunnel and pause at scenic overlooks where rock, sky, and silence converge. This part of the tour isn't rushed. It’s designed to let you breathe in the alpine air, spot wildlife in unlikely places, and learn how nature shaped this rugged masterpiece.
Read more

1 hour Admission Ticket Included

Show 3 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Wildlife Biologist’s Guide to the Black Hills: Private Tour?

A: This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-166604P10

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.20
5 reviews

Average 4.20 out of 5 stars based on 5 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
4
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
1
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 23 (0) days in advance.
Rapid City Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

Northern Black Hills - Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish Canyon Tour
4.9 (23)

Northern Black Hills - Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish Canyon Tour

This Northern Black Hills Shared Tour is unique because it combines breathtaking scenery with a fascinating glimpse into the Wild West history that shaped the...

7 to 8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.9 (23)
from
$301
Private Half Day Mt Rushmore & Black Hills Tour
5.0 (45)

Private Half Day Mt Rushmore & Black Hills Tour

Take in the best of the Black Hills on this half-day tour. We visit the must-see's of Mt Rushmore, Needles Hwy, Sylvan Lake and Iron...

4 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (45)
from
$215
Private Badlands & Minuteman Missile Tour w/ Former Park Ranger
5.0 (1)

Private Badlands & Minuteman Missile Tour w/ Former Park Ranger

Experience Badlands National Park privately, intentionally, and at a relaxed pace with a former national park ranger as your guide. After Rapid City pickup, travel...

8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (1)
from
$264
Private Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park Monument Tour
5.0 (159)

Private Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park Monument Tour

Discover the most iconic landmarks of South Dakota on this full-day guided tour through the stunning Black Hills. Explore the legacy of Mount Rushmore, the...

8 hours Hotel pickup offered
5.0 (159)
from
$345
Northern Black Hills - Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish Canyon Tour

This Northern Black Hills Shared Tour is unique because it combines breathtaking scenery with a fascinating glimpse into the Wild West history that shaped the …More

4.9 (23)

Northern Black Hills - Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish Canyon Tour

4.9 (23)

This Northern Black Hills Shared Tour is unique because it combines breathtaking scenery with a fascinating glimpse into the Wild West history that shaped the...

7 to 8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.9 (23)
from
$301
Private Half Day Mt Rushmore & Black Hills Tour

Take in the best of the Black Hills on this half-day tour. We visit the must-see's of Mt Rushmore, Needles Hwy, Sylvan Lake and Iron …More

5.0 (45)

Private Half Day Mt Rushmore & Black Hills Tour

5.0 (45)

Take in the best of the Black Hills on this half-day tour. We visit the must-see's of Mt Rushmore, Needles Hwy, Sylvan Lake and Iron...

4 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (45)
from
$215
Private Badlands & Minuteman Missile Tour w/ Former Park Ranger

Experience Badlands National Park privately, intentionally, and at a relaxed pace with a former national park ranger as your guide. After Rapid City pickup, travel …More

5.0 (1)

Private Badlands & Minuteman Missile Tour w/ Former Park Ranger

5.0 (1)

Experience Badlands National Park privately, intentionally, and at a relaxed pace with a former national park ranger as your guide. After Rapid City pickup, travel...

8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (1)
from
$264
Private Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park Monument Tour

Discover the most iconic landmarks of South Dakota on this full-day guided tour through the stunning Black Hills. Explore the legacy of Mount Rushmore, the …More

5.0 (159)

Private Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park Monument Tour

5.0 (159)

Discover the most iconic landmarks of South Dakota on this full-day guided tour through the stunning Black Hills. Explore the legacy of Mount Rushmore, the...

8 hours Hotel pickup offered
5.0 (159)
from
$345

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Tour with Two Meals and a Music Variety Show
4.8 (1,062)

Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Tour with Two Meals and a Music Variety Show

Join us on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. This all-inclusive tour offers an immersive...

9 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (1,062)
from
$164
Bus Tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills
4.8 (447)

Bus Tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills

Join us on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. Our Sightseeing Bus Tour Only package...

9 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (447)
from
$133
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Black Hills and Mt Rushmore
4.6 (177)

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Black Hills and Mt Rushmore

Download GuideAlong's Black Hills, Badlands, Mount Rushmore, & Custer State Park audio tour to explore a surprising mix of big-name icons and wild landscapes, crowned...

4 to 12 hours Free Cancellation
4.6 (177)
from
$30
Private Tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Custer State Park
5.0 (223)

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

Mount Rushmore is more than just the carvings. They have secrets that are not easily revealed. GeoFunTrek's guides are local experts with decades of experience....

8 to 9 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (223)
from
$300
Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Tour with Two Meals and a Music Variety Show

Join us on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. This all-inclusive tour offers an immersive …More

4.8 (1,062)

Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Tour with Two Meals and a Music Variety Show

4.8 (1,062)

Join us on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. This all-inclusive tour offers an immersive...

9 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (1,062)
from
$164
Bus Tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills

Join us on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. Our Sightseeing Bus Tour Only package …More

4.8 (447)

Bus Tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills

4.8 (447)

Join us on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. Our Sightseeing Bus Tour Only package...

9 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (447)
from
$133
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Black Hills and Mt Rushmore

Download GuideAlong's Black Hills, Badlands, Mount Rushmore, & Custer State Park audio tour to explore a surprising mix of big-name icons and wild landscapes, crowned …More

4.6 (177)

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Black Hills and Mt Rushmore

4.6 (177)

Download GuideAlong's Black Hills, Badlands, Mount Rushmore, & Custer State Park audio tour to explore a surprising mix of big-name icons and wild landscapes, crowned...

4 to 12 hours Free Cancellation
4.6 (177)
from
$30
Private Tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Custer State Park

Mount Rushmore is more than just the carvings. They have secrets that are not easily revealed. GeoFunTrek's guides are local experts with decades of experience. …More

5.0 (223)

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

5.0 (223)

Mount Rushmore is more than just the carvings. They have secrets that are not easily revealed. GeoFunTrek's guides are local experts with decades of experience....

8 to 9 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (223)
from
$300

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Wildlife Biologist’s Guide to the Black Hills: Private Tour?
A:
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Lunch. A picnic lunch will be included and enjoyed along the tour.
  • Snacks.
  • Bottled water.
  • Private transportation.
  • Air-conditioned vehicle.
The following is NOT included:
  • Gratuities.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

The minimum age to participate is 18. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Wildlife Biologist’s Guide to the Black Hills: Private Tour is as follows:

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Wildlife Biologist’s Guide to the Black Hills: Private Tour will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • LunchA picnic lunch will be included and enjoyed along the tour.
  • Snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Private transportation
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Gratuities

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Report Product Issue

Activity name