Yellowstone Full-Day Safari from Cody — Old Faithful, Grand Canyon & Wildlife
Spend a single, expertly guided day driving Yellowstone’s highlights from Cody — from Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic to the roar of Lower Falls and the wildlife-rich Hayden Valley. This full-day safari pairs geology and wildlife viewing with practical guidance for timing, gear, and photography.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures vary with elevation and steam; pack a warm mid-layer you can remove at overlooks.
Bring a refillable water bottle
Hydration matters at 6,000–8,000 ft; guides provide beverages but having your own reduces stops.
Keep distance from wildlife
Bison, elk and bears can be unpredictable — stay on board or behind posted barriers and follow your guide’s instructions.
Plan for a long day
Expect 6–8 hours with several short walks; bring snacks, sunscreen and a small daypack for comfort.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Shoshone Canyon overlooks along the Buffalo Bill route — quieter views with dramatic river cuts
- •Hayden Valley dawn pullouts — early light and fewer vehicles make for better wildlife viewing
Wildlife
- •American bison
- •Elk (and occasional grizzly or wolf sightings)
Conservation Note
Stay on boardwalks and marked trails — fragile microbial mats and thermal features are easily damaged; follow Leave No Trace principles to protect habitats.
Yellowstone was the first U.S. national park (1872); 19th-century expeditions and artists helped publicize its geothermal wonders and dramatic canyons.
Photographer's Notes
- • Artist Point for Lower Falls compositions
- • Grand Prismatic overlook (or Fairy Falls trail viewpoint) for color and scale
- • Hayden Valley pullouts for wildlife silhouettes
What to Bring
Warm, packable jacketEssential
Cool mornings and thermal steam create temperature swings—pack insulation you can stow.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Comfortable shoes with good traction for boardwalks and uneven overlook paths.
Refillable water bottleEssential
High-elevation dehydration is real; bring at least 1–2 liters and refill as needed.
Telephoto or zoom lens / binoculars
Wildlife often appears at a distance; optics improve viewing and photography.
Common Questions
Are park entrance fees included?
No — park entrance fees and any personal purchases are not included in the tour price.
How long is the tour and what is the pace?
The tour lasts approximately 6–8 hours and is vehicle-based with multiple short stops and boardwalk walks.
Can children join the tour?
Yes — children 8 and older may participate; car seats must be provided by the family if required.
Will we see Old Faithful erupt on every tour?
Guides time visits near predicted eruptions when possible, but geyser schedules and routing can change; Old Faithful is common but not guaranteed.
What wildlife might we see and how close can we get?
Expect bison, elk, waterfowl and possibly bears or wolves; maintain safe distances and follow guide instructions for viewing.
Is food provided?
Yes — a picnic lunch, snacks, and coffee/tea are provided; the picnic uses recyclable and compostable packaging.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–8 hours
Location
Cody, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal hiking but expect standing and short boardwalk walks throughout the day.
Ready to Explore Cody?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now