Half-Day Grand Teton Wildlife Safari — Private Morning or Afternoon Photo Tour from Jackson
Spend four hours chasing wildlife sightings and photo ops along the Elk Refuge and Grand Teton’s southern roads. This private half‑day safari offers close looks at bison, moose, elk, trumpeter swans and more, guided by experienced naturalists who tailor stops to light and animal activity.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book an AM slot for the best light
Morning departures (approximately 6:30am May–Sept) often yield the most animal activity and soft, directional light for photography.
Keep distance and follow the guide
Wildlife can be unpredictable—stay in or near the vehicle unless your guide says otherwise and never approach animals to get a shot.
Dress in layers and bring rain protection
Temperatures can swing quickly in the valley; a waterproof outer layer and a warm mid-layer mean you’ll stay comfortable during early starts or wind.
Battery, memory and lens prep
Bring a charged spare battery and extra SD cards—stops can be long and you don’t want to miss a brief bear or wolf sighting.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Deadman’s Bar overlook for late‑day light and waterfowl concentrations
- •Small roadside pullouts near Mormon Row for unobstructed Teton silhouettes and historical barns
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Moose
Conservation Note
Grand Teton and the National Elk Refuge manage habitats to support migratory birds and ungulate migrations—stay on roads and follow guide instructions to minimize disturbance.
The valley was seasonal territory for Shoshone peoples and later a ranching landscape; many park roads follow historic travel and patrol routes.
Photographer's Notes
- • Sage Flats pullouts along Moose-Wilson Road
- • Mormon Row barns for Tetons plus wildlife in the foreground
- • Wetland overlooks near the National Elk Refuge for waterfowl and reflection shots
What to Bring
Binoculars (8–10x)Essential
A mid-range bino lets you spot animals across the valley before the vehicle pulls over.
Telephoto lens (200–600mm) or zoomEssential
Long lenses bring distant subjects into frame while respecting safe distances.
Layered outerwearEssential
Morning chill and valley winds make breathable, insulating layers a must.
Spare camera battery and SD cards
Cold shortens battery life and sightings can be sudden—carry backups.
Common Questions
Are park entrance fees included?
No—National Park entrance fees are not included in the tour price; plan to pay or show a valid park pass at entry.
What time are pickups?
Pickup is arranged from Jackson and Teton Village. Morning private safaris typically pick up at 6:30am (May–Sept); times vary seasonally—confirm at booking.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes—private safaris have no age minimum and are family-friendly, though infants should be secured and supervised during roadside stops.
How close will we get to animals?
Guides maintain safe viewing distances; you’ll observe primarily from the vehicle or approved pullouts to minimize disturbance and risk.
Can we request specific wildlife to focus on?
Guides tailor the route to current conditions and your interests, but sightings depend on season, weather, and animal behavior—guides will prioritize probable habitats for your targets.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled or adjusted for severe weather; cancelation and refund policies apply—contact the operator for the status of a scheduled departure.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Jackson, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly vehicle-based with short, flat stop-outs for viewing.
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