The Safari Tour was our "day of rest" following hiking in the Grand Tetons. From our 6:30 am pickup to 6:30 pm drop-off, our guide Dwayne was courteous, informative, and well attuned to the people-free places in Yellowstone.
Despite the crowds in July's peak season, he escorted us to scenic views, a secluded picnic spot overlooking a river, and a sagebrush prairie to spot grazing bison. Our van of six people (plus the guide) got along well as we listened to Dwayne's stories about the history of the area, wildlife, flora, and fascinating geothermal features.
For most of the day, we rode in the van but got out for short walks (1/2 mile in and out) to see smoking pools, Yellowstone's Grand Canyon, and rushing waterfalls. We felt especially lucky for door-to-door service to the front of Old Faithful Inn. Dwayne had timed the visit perfectly with Old Faithful geyser's spouting and pick-up immediately following—no crowds to fight, no parking to find!
If you enjoy hearing stories of Yellowstone and the Wild West, want to bypass the crowds, and share the experience with fun new folks, we recommend this tour. Of course, wildlife sightings are always a gamble, but we came home with memories of sandhill cranes, bison, bald eagle, osprey, and elk... no bears, but that's okay!