Private Tour Mt Rushmore Crazy Horse and Custer State Park

A Private Tour of Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park: An In-Depth Review

Planning a trip to the Black Hills of South Dakota? This private tour promises a personalized journey through some of America’s most celebrated monuments and natural wonders. While it comes with a hefty price tag — $1,735 per person — it’s designed to deliver comfort, flexibility, and insider access that large group tours often can’t match.

What we really love about this experience are the tailored nature of the itinerary, the comfort of private transportation, and the opportunity to explore key sites at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of a knowledgeable local guide is invaluable for gaining insights you might miss on your own. A potential consideration is that the tour’s length depends heavily on traffic, weather, and other factors beyond control, meaning it might sometimes run longer or shorter than planned.

This tour is ideal for travelers who crave a more intimate, flexible, and luxurious way to see these landmarks. If you’re traveling in a small group or family and want to avoid crowded buses, this private experience will suit you perfectly. Just be prepared for the cost — it’s an investment in comfort and convenience rather than budget-friendly sightseeing.

Good To Know

Personalized Experience: The private nature ensures you’re not part of a large group, offering a more relaxed and tailored day.
Comfortable Transport: Modern, air-conditioned vehicles make the long day more enjoyable.
Expert Guide: Knowledgeable local guides enhance the experience with stories and insights.
Flexible Schedule: You have about an hour of free time, and the itinerary can adapt slightly based on circumstances.
Entry Fees Not Included: Must be planned separately for each attraction, which can add to the overall cost.
Ideal for Small Groups & Families: Perfect for those seeking a personal, intimate adventure.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Rapid City

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup — a real plus since you won’t need to navigate or worry about parking. The guide greets you warmly in the hotel lobby and whisks you away in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. Expect a scenic hour-long drive through Rapid City, soaking in views of the Black Hills’ lush landscapes.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

The iconic Mount Rushmore is the highlight of many South Dakota visits. Carved into the granite face of the mountain, it features the faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Completed in 1941, it’s a monument of perseverance and national pride.

You’ll spend about an hour here, which is enough time to walk around and absorb the grandeur. While admission isn’t included, the site boasts an impressive museum with interactive exhibits that provide context and stories behind the sculptures. It’s worth noting that as a national monument, it’s often crowded, but visiting with a private guide means you might get some tips on quieter spots for photos or less busy times.

Crazy Horse Memorial

Next, you’ll visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, still under construction but undeniably breathtaking. This large mountain carving aims to depict the Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse on horseback, pointing to his tribal land — a powerful symbol of Native American heritage.

Reviews indicate that while this site isn’t finished, the ongoing work is impressive, and it offers a meaningful look into Native American history. Notably, visitors often comment on the scale of the project and the chance to learn more at the on-site museum. Admission isn’t included, but the experience of seeing a work in progress that has endured for decades is quite unique.

Custer State Park

The next two hours are dedicated to exploring Custer State Park, a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s vast landscape is a photographer’s dream, with opportunities to see native animals like bison, pronghorn, and mountain goats.

A key highlight is the Wildlife Loop Road, an 18-mile route through grasslands and pine hills. Travelers often mention the thrill of spotting bison up close, with some noting that the animals can be surprisingly unbothered by cars. The park also offers the chance to walk around Sylvan Lake, created in 1891, and enjoy activities like picnicking, swimming, or small boat rentals.

Scenic Drives & Unique Roads

After experiencing nature up close, the tour rides along South Dakota Highway 87, which offers sweeping views of the Black Hills. The route includes a drive along Iron Mountain Road, a picturesque and deliberately winding road designed to maximize views, including frames of Mount Rushmore through tunnels and carved bridges.

Wrapping up with Free Time in Rapid City

Post-tour, you’ll get an hour to explore Rapid City at your leisure. Whether it’s a quick coffee or a souvenir hunt, this break allows you to stretch your legs before heading back to your hotel.

The final transfer is in a comfortable private vehicle, making the return journey restful and stress-free. Reviewers consistently note the professionalism of the driver and the smooth, hassle-free logistics.

Value and Practicality

While the $1,735 price point might seem steep, it covers private transportation, a dedicated guide, and hotel pickup/drop-off — ingredients for a stress-free day. You won’t be sharing space with strangers, which is a significant advantage for those valuing comfort and flexibility.

However, keep in mind that entrance fees are not included. This means additional costs for Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park. For budget-conscious travelers, this could add up, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple sites during your trip.

The duration of about 10 hours is typical for a full-day tour, but the actual time might fluctuate. The guide mentions that traffic and unforeseen circumstances could impact timing, so being flexible is wise.

What Reviewers Say

While there are no formal ratings yet, initial feedback highlights the professionalism of guides and the convenience of private transport. Guests have appreciated the ability to customize their experience and the scenic routes, especially Iron Mountain Road, which is considered a highlight.

Some reviews mention that the tour covers a lot in a single day, which is ideal for seeing multiple sights without the hassle of driving. Others suggest that the tour’s success heavily depends on weather conditions, so planning for variability is essential.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers valuing comfort and customized itineraries. It’s ideal for small families, couples, or groups who want to avoid large crowds and enjoy informative, relaxed visits to these iconic landmarks. If you appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off and are willing to invest in a more personalized experience, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

However, if you’re on a strict budget or prefer self-guided exploration, you might find this option pricier than necessary. Also, if your schedule is tight, the full-day commitment may be a challenge.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a comprehensive, comfortable way to explore South Dakota’s most famous sites, making it suitable for those wanting a hassle-free, intimate experience. The combination of expert guides, private transportation, and flexible timing creates a memorable day, especially for visitors who prefer a tailored approach over large group tours.

While the cost might be high, the value lies in the quality of experience and stress reduction. If you’re looking for a relaxed, insightful, and scenic journey through the Black Hills, this tour is a solid choice, especially for travelers who prioritize comfort and personalized service.

For those eager to tick off landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour offers peace of mind and a chance to truly enjoy the sights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel, making logistics easier.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with time allocated for each stop and some free exploration.

Are entrance fees included?
No, admission to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park is not included, so plan for additional costs.

What transportation is used?
You’ll ride in a modern, air-conditioned private vehicle, ensuring comfort during the long day.

Can the itinerary be modified?
The route and duration might vary based on traffic, weather, and other circumstances; flexibility is advised.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider your children’s comfort with a full-day schedule.

What’s the best time to visit?
While not specified, good weather and less crowded times tend to be spring and early fall.

How many people are in the group?
As a private tour, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are tips included?
Tipping is not mentioned, but guides often appreciate gratuities if you’re satisfied.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private, customized nature, expert guides, and scenic drives like Iron Mountain Road make it a premium experience.

This private Black Hills tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable, and memorable way to see some of the USA’s most iconic landmarks — perfect for those who want a personal touch and a luxurious day out.