Yellowstone in a Day: Private Full-Day Safari from Cody to Old Faithful & the Canyon
Leave Cody before dawn and spend 10–12 hours chasing geysers, waterfalls and wildlife. This private full-day safari hits Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Hayden Valley, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone with a naturalist guide and UHD optics.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early — pickup is pre-dawn
Morning light and wildlife activity favor early departures; expect a 6:00 AM Cody pickup seasonally and allow an extra 5–10 minutes for delays.
Stay on boardwalks and marked trails
Thermal ground can be thin and dangerously hot; follow your guide and posted signs at all times.
Hydrate and snack often
A long day at altitude and dry air requires regular water intake; bring a refillable bottle even though snacks and lunch are provided.
Bring optics and patience
Your guide provides UHD binoculars and scopes, but a compact camera and patience at viewing stops increase your wildlife and geothermal payoff.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Black Sand Basin — smaller, colorful thermal features with fewer crowds than Old Faithful
- •Sylvan Pass overlooks — early-morning pullouts offer mountain light and solitude on the eastern approach
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk
Conservation Note
Stay on boardwalks and avoid approaching wildlife; park fees and responsible tour practices fund habitat protection and visitor education.
Yellowstone became the world’s first national park in 1872 after explorers and the Hayden Expedition documented its geysers and canyons; Indigenous peoples had long known and traveled these places.
Photographer's Notes
- • Grand Prismatic overlook (access via Fairy Falls trail viewpoint)
- • Artist Point on the south rim for Lower Falls
- • Old Faithful boardwalk for eruption framing
What to Bring
Layered clothing (base, insulating, shell)Essential
Mountain weather shifts quickly; layers let you adapt from cold mornings to warm afternoons.
Waterproof, breathable jacketEssential
Spring storms and geothermal spray make a light waterproof essential for comfort.
Sturdy walking shoes or trail runnersEssential
Closed-toe, grippy shoes protect on boardwalks, viewing decks and short trails near features.
Compact binoculars or telephoto camera lens
Although optics are provided, personal binoculars speed up wildlife spotting and photography opportunities.
Common Questions
Are park entrance fees included?
No — park entrance fees are not included in the tour price; your guide will advise payment methods and exact amounts for the day.
How long is the tour and what time does it start?
The tour runs approximately 10–12 hours; pickup times vary seasonally but commonly begin around 6:00 AM from Cody hotels.
Will we see wildlife guaranteed?
No sightings are guaranteed, but guides choose vantage points and timing to maximize chances in Hayden Valley and along river corridors.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes — the operator lists wheelchair accessibility for vehicle transport, though some boardwalks and viewpoints have uneven surfaces; contact the supplier for specifics.
Are meals provided?
Yes — a picnic lunch and snacks are provided, sourced locally when possible and packaged with recyclable materials.
Are gratuities included?
No — gratuities for the guide are not included and are appreciated for exceptional service.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–12 hours
Location
Cody, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels — short walks and boardwalks with long periods seated in vehicle.
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