The Best Safaris in North America
Looking for the best wildlife safari tour in North America? We've got all of the best options listed here because we have analyzed an wide range of safari tours from highly esteemed and top-rated tour companies to find the absolute best safaris available. So, you can embark on an unforgettable safari adventure with one of these highly rated handpicked tours. Witness the wonders of wildlife and immerse yourself in captivating landscapes during these exhilarating safaris in North America. Get ready for close encounters, thrilling game drives, and cultural experiences that will leave you in awe.
The Best Safaris through North America
Including guided tours, organized tours, holiday packages, all-inclusive vacations, and guided itineraries.
All tour prices are listed in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically. While we do our best to evaluate all tours to maintain accuracy, always confirm the details directly with TourRadar or the tour company before booking. The information provided on this website is sourced directly from TourRadar and may change at any time.
Why does North America appeal to travelers on safari?
North America is synonymous with iconic safari experiences, offering unparalleled wildlife encounters. Additionally, North America's national parks, like Grand Canyon, Glacier National Park, and Sequoia National Park, offer well-maintained trails and diverse ecosystems, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts alike. North America's expert-guided tours and various accommodation options enhance the safari adventure, making it a top choice for wildlife lovers.
How much do safaris in North America cost?
The average daily price of Safaris in North America is $480 per day. Prices can vary widely due to the included amenities, length of the trip, number of guests on the tour, and many other factors. If you want more information about prices, we have put together a complete analysis of the costs of Safaris in North America here.
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Which Tour Companies Offer Safaris?
A number of fantastic tour companies offer safaris in North America. These are a few of the best, because they offer the highest rated service, provide the best overall quality, and have the most five-star guest reviews to prove it.
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a large international travel company offering tours all over the world. Some of their most popular destinations include Australia, Thailand, Tanzania, and Italy. Many of the tours fall into the mid-range price category. The company's adventures often highlight activities such as camping, wine tasting, snorkelling, kayaking, cooking classes, island hopping, white water rafting, surfing, horse riding, whale watching, and bird watching.
See All Tours from Intrepid Travel
Collette
Collette is a large international travel company offering tours all over the world. Some of their most popular destinations include the U.S., Italy, Great Britain, and France. The company appeals to travelers of all ages, with many tours focusing on families with children. Many of the tours fall into the mid-range price category. The company's adventures often highlight activities such as wine tasting, island hopping, and camping.
Tours of Distinction
Tours of Distinction is a large multi-national travel company which offers tours to destinations around the world. Many of their tours visit North America and Europe. Some of their most popular destinations include the U.S., Canada, France, and Great Britain. A large number of their tours fall within in the mid-range price category.
See All Tours from Tours of Distinction
Safari Destinations in North America
Wondering where safari tours visit in North America? With a variety of stops and destinations along the way, there's something for everyone.
Rapid City
Rapid City is in western South Dakota and it makes a great base for exploring the many national parks, state parks, and other landmarks in the area. The city offers convenient access to Mount Rushmore, but you'll also find Badlands National Park and Custer State Park nearby. Within town there are many museums and activities that highlight the region's unique geology and wildlife.
Cody
Cody, Wyoming is a historical tourist town that's not far from Yellowstone National Park. It's named for Buffalo Bill and it has a historic downtown that is filled with shops and restaurants that highlight the area's Wild West past. There are museums and live reenactments that make the town a fun place to spend a day or two.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a large and diverse national park in the state of Wyoming (with parts also touching Montana and Idaho). The park is filled with diverse landscapes and unique geysers including the most famous "Old Faithful". Visitors may see a number of wildlife species such as bison, elk, and bears. Within the park there are camping and lodges where visitors can stay (if they plan well in advance as places fill up).
Anchorage
Anchorage is Alaska's largest city. It is a cultural city that offers access to stunning landscapes and dramatic beauty. There are many parks and natural areas to explore nearby including Chugach State Park and the Flattop Mountain Trail. Many people arrive or depart from their Alaskan adventure through Anchorage, and the city offers a great overview to the region's culture and natural beauty.
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Other popular destinations for safari tours through North America include Deadwood, Badlands National Park, West Yellowstone, Wall, and Oglala.
Safaris vs. Independent Travel: Pros and Cons
When choosing between booking an organized tour or planning your own trip, consider the key factors of each travel style.
Organized Tours
- Guided safaris provide expert wildlife trackers and guides who enhance the experience.
- Professional guides know the best times and places to spot animals.
- Safari vehicles are specially equipped for wildlife viewing and photography.
- Guided tours handle permits and park fees, simplifying logistics.
- Knowledgeable guides offer detailed insights into animal behavior and habitats.
- Accommodations are often located in prime spots for wildlife viewing.
- You can join a group, making the experience more social and shared.
- Guided tours offer increased safety, especially in remote or dangerous areas.
- Pre-planned itineraries ensure you maximize time in key wildlife hotspots.
- Guides can adapt the tour to improve your chances of seeing specific animals.
- Fixed itineraries might not align with your specific preferences.
- Larger group sizes can make it harder to enjoy quiet wildlife moments.
- Departure times and schedules are not always flexible.
- The tour may focus on popular attractions, missing hidden or less-visited gems.
Independent Travel
- You have complete flexibility in choosing destinations and timing.
- Independent trips allow you to prioritize animals or parks you want to visit most.
- Planning your own trip allows for more privacy and solitude.
- You can create a personalized itinerary based on your interests.
- Some parks and wildlife areas require guides for safety purposes
- Researching and organizing the trip can be time-consuming and complex.
- Navigating unfamiliar terrains without a guide can be challenging.
- Spotting animals without expert knowledge can be difficult.
- You need to arrange permits, park fees, and accommodations on your own.
- Safety concerns, such as wild animals or remote locations, can be stressful.
- Missing key details, like optimal viewing times, can limit the experience.
- Without local expertise, you might overlook prime wildlife areas.
Which is cheaper?
Is independent travel less expensive than booking guided safaris? The answer varies. Organized tours package essential services like accommodations, transport, meals, entrance fees, and activities into a single price, while independent travel involves booking each aspect separately. To assess which is more economical, compare the tour price with what you'd spend arranging everything yourself. If you prioritize budget options or premium experiences, the cost comparison could swing either way. Always review the details of what's included in the tour package to decide.
Also, before booking a tour, make sure you know exactly what is included as tour companies sometimes change their itineraries or included amenities to keep them updated with seasonal changes and customer interests.
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