Private Tour Mt Rushmore Crazy Horse and Custer State Park

Exploring South Dakota’s Most Iconic Landmarks on a Private Tour

Our review focuses on a private tour experience that promises a personalized and in-depth visit to some of South Dakota’s top attractions: Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary, reviews, and features point to a well-organized, immersive day that captures the essence of the Black Hills region.

What stands out immediately are three aspects that make this tour appealing: the comfort of private transportation, the flexibility to spend ample time at each site, and the expert local guide who can bring the stories and history to life. We also appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, which takes away the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads.

However, a potential consideration is the price point of over $1,700 per person. For some travelers, this might seem steep, especially since admission fees to key sites aren’t included. Still, for those wanting a tailored, stress-free way to explore these places without rushing or worrying about logistics, the investment can be well worth it.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience with a focus on iconic landmarks, ideally those who prefer comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance over self-driving or group tours. It’s especially good for visitors with limited time who want to maximize their sightseeing in one day.

Good To Know

• Private and customizable experience allows you to visit at your own pace.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics.
• Expert local guide helps deepen your understanding of each site.
• Longer stops at major landmarks provide more meaningful visits than typical group tours.
• Includes free time for a quick walk or personal exploration.
• Price reflects exclusivity and comfort, but entrance fees are not included.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Hotel Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your day begins with a friendly guide meeting you at your hotel in Rapid City. The private vehicle promises a comfortable, climate-controlled environment—ideal for relaxing while soaking in views of the Black Hills during the roughly 60-minute drive. This setup sets the tone for a luxurious, personalized experience, avoiding the crowds and fixed schedules of larger tour groups.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Arguably the most famous of all, Mount Rushmore is a must-see. The sculpture features the carved faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln, each around 60 feet high. In just an hour, you’ll have enough time to appreciate the monument from multiple vantage points, learn about its history, and explore the museum with interactive exhibits.

Though admission isn’t included in the tour price, the site offers a wealth of information and photo opportunities. One reviewer mentions that, “the views are breathtaking, and having the guide explain the symbolism behind the monument really adds to the experience.”

The Majestic Crazy Horse Memorial

Next up is the Crazy Horse Memorial, still under construction but impressive in scope. It depicts the Lakota leader Crazy Horse riding a horse and pointing towards his tribal lands. The fact that the monument is on privately held land and still in progress lends a sense of ongoing history, making it unique among national landmarks.

Expect around an hour here—enough to take in the scale and learn about the Native American perspective on this monument. Since admission isn’t included, visitors might find the on-site museum and visitor center offering valuable context. An insight shared by a reviewer is that “watching the progress on the mountain while hearing the story from the guide makes it more meaningful.”

Custer State Park and Wildlife Loop Road

A highlight of this tour is the two-hour visit to Custer State Park, South Dakota’s first and largest state park. The park is renowned for its expansive grasslands, rugged hills, and abundant wildlife. The tour includes a scenic drive along Wildlife Loop Road, where you’ll keep an eye out for bison, pronghorn, and other native animals—perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.

Traveling through these open spaces, you’ll get a real sense of the natural beauty that defines South Dakota. A review notes, “the wildlife viewing was fantastic; we saw a herd of bison just grazing as we drove by.”

South Dakota Highway 87 and Iron Mountain Road

The journey continues along South Dakota Highway 87, a picturesque route through the Black Hills, and culminates with a drive along Iron Mountain Road, designed with curves and viewpoints to showcase the region’s stunning scenery and the iconic Mt Rushmore.

These drives are not just transportation—they’re part of the experience, offering spectacular vistas and unique perspectives on the landscape. One traveler commented that “the roads are fun and scenic, making the drive as much a part of the adventure as the stops.”

Sylvan Lake and Personal Free Time

A quick stop at Sylvan Lake offers a chance for some relaxation. The lake, created in 1891, is perfect for photos, a quick stroll, or simply soaking in the views. With around 30 minutes here, you can breathe in the fresh mountain air, snap some pictures, or even dip your toes in the water if the weather allows.

Following this, you get an hour of free time—an opportunity to revisit favorites or explore a bit on your own, adding a personal touch to the day.

Return to Rapid City

After a full day of sightseeing, your guide will drop you off at a convenient location in Rapid City, giving you some extra time to explore or relax. The return journey is about an hour, concluding a well-paced, comfortably private experience.

Analyzing the Value and Experience

This tour offers a luxurious, private alternative to group excursions, allowing you to set the pace and spend more time at each site. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off is a significant convenience, especially in a region where public transportation isn’t available.

The cost of $1,735.23 per person is on the higher side, but it reflects the exclusivity of a private guide, private vehicle, and the tailored itinerary. Since entrance fees are not included, you’ll want to factor in additional costs, but the flexibility to skip or linger at sites can make the experience more satisfying.

The length of the tour—around 10 hours—means you get a full day immersed in the Black Hills, without feeling rushed. The stops at major landmarks are substantial, giving you a genuine feel for each site rather than quick photo ops.

Transportation and Comfort

The private vehicle is modern and air-conditioned, making long drives comfortable, especially during hot summer months. The vehicle capacity is likely tailored to your group size, ensuring a relaxed experience without the crowding typical of larger tours.

Guide Expertise and Personalization

While the guide’s name isn’t specified, reviews suggest that having an experienced local guide makes a difference. They can provide context, answer questions, and tailor explanations to your interests, enriching the visit beyond just sightseeing.

Flexibility and Free Time

Adding an hour of free time allows for spontaneous exploration or a quick rest. This is particularly valuable in a packed itinerary, giving you control over how to spend your final moments in Rapid City.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious, private day of sightseeing in the Black Hills. If you value comfort, personalized attention, and the ability to customize your focus, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a relaxed pace.

However, those on a tighter budget or with less time might prefer a more economical or shorter option. Plus, if entrance fees are a concern, be prepared for extra costs and plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to explore the major sights of South Dakota’s Black Hills. From the iconic faces of Mt Rushmore to the ongoing story of Crazy Horse and the expansive wildlife of Custer State Park, you’ll experience the region’s highlights with ease and added insight.

The combination of private transportation, expert guidance, and flexible stops makes it especially suited for travelers who want a stress-free, personalized adventure. While the price might be steep for some, the quality, comfort, and immersive nature of this tour can make it a worthwhile investment for those eager to make the most of their visit.

Ultimately, this tour delivers a meaningful, scenic, and memorable day—perfect for those who prefer to travel with comfort and focus on the sights that matter most.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Rapid City, making logistics straightforward.

Are entrance fees to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park included?
No, the tour price does not include entrance fees. Visitors should plan for additional costs at these sites.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the stops or duration at each site?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can tailor the experience within the scheduled stops, but significant route changes are not specified.

What is the experience like during travel?
The vehicle is modern and air-conditioned, providing a comfortable environment for the roughly one-hour drives between sites and scenic routes.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, you get about an hour of free time after the main sightseeing, allowing for personal exploration or rest.

Would this tour suit families or couples?
Absolutely, the private nature and flexible schedule make it suitable for couples, families, or small groups.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, camera, maybe some snacks for the road, and extra cash for entrance fees or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While the tour offers a private vehicle and easy access to some sites, specific accessibility details aren’t provided. Check with the provider if mobility is a concern.

This private tour stands out for its convenience, personalized experience, and in-depth coverage of the region’s highlights. Whether you’re marveling at the grandeur of Mt Rushmore or soaking in the wild beauty of Custer State Park, it promises a memorable day in South Dakota.