Private Yellowstone Wildlife Safari from Cody — Full-Day Guided Wildlife Viewing in Lamar Valley
Spend a full day with a professional naturalist exploring Lamar Valley, Slough Creek, and other wildlife-rich corners of Yellowstone. This private safari from Cody focuses on patient observation, optics, and local insight to maximize sightings and deepen your understanding of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for rapid weather shifts
Pack a windproof outer layer and insulating mid-layer—the temperature can drop sharply at higher elevations even on summer afternoons.
Bring your own optics
Guides provide binoculars and scopes, but personal binoculars or a spotting scope let you seize fleeting moments without passing gear around.
Carry snacks and water
Even with a provided picnic, bring extra water and high-calorie snacks to maintain energy on long stops and slow-moving viewing sessions.
Respect wildlife distances
Stay in the vehicle when instructed and keep a safe distance during roadside wildlife stops—animals can be unpredictable and park rules protect both you and the animals.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning pullouts along the Yellowstone River for trout activity and low-angle light
- •Quiet side roads off the main loops near Slough Creek where pronghorn and foxes are frequently seen
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Wolf (in Lamar Valley)
Conservation Note
Guides practice Leave No Trace and use recyclable picnic materials; visitors are asked to respect closures and maintain distance to reduce stress on wildlife and preserve habitat.
The park’s landscape sits atop a volcanic caldera and has long been central to Indigenous peoples; modern conservation began here with the park’s 1872 establishment as the world’s first national park.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lamar Valley pullouts
- • Slough Creek river bends
- • Yellowstone River overlooks
What to Bring
Warm, windproof jacketEssential
Protects against cold gusts during early morning and at higher elevations.
Binoculars or spotting scopeEssential
Improves distant wildlife viewing—bring optics if you prefer your own setup to the loaner gear.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Comfortable shoes for short, uneven strolls at pullouts and viewing sites.
Camera with telephoto lens
Helps capture distant wildlife; a monopod or tripod stabilizes long lenses at roadside stops.
Common Questions
Do park entrance fees and gratuities come with the tour?
Park entrance fees and guide gratuities are not included—expect to pay the park fee on arrival or have it charged separately; gratuities are customary for private guides.
Where does pickup occur?
Pickup is provided from lodging in Cody, WY; exact pickup time is confirmed after booking and may vary by season.
Are binoculars and scopes provided?
Yes—guides bring binoculars and spotting scopes for shared use, though many guests prefer to bring their personal optics.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible; contact the operator in advance for any specific accessibility accommodations or to arrange a vehicle that meets your needs.
Can we request specific wildlife sightings?
Guides tailor the route to your interests but cannot guarantee sightings—wildlife follows its own patterns, though guides position the group to maximize likelihood of encounters.
What should children bring?
Bring appropriate clothing for temperature swings, snacks, and a booster seat if needed—the operator requests you bring any child car seats required.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–12 hours
Location
Cody, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels—most time is spent in a vehicle with short, easy walks for viewing.
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