What to Expect on a Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari

One of the most memorable experiences while visiting Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park is a wildlife tour. We recommend wildlife safaris because guests will learn so much more about the national park’s history, wildlife, and the area than if they had driven through on their own. 

When in Jackson Hole, we highly recommend exploring Grand Teton National Park. And one of the most memory making ways is to do a wildlife safari. These guided tours give guests a wonderful way to learn about the natural history of the park along with sightings of its wild residents.

What to Expect on a Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari

Plan for at least 3-4 hours minimum touring time as well as travel time from the departure location for partial day tours. These tips will help you know what to expect of this wildlife encounter.

Choose What Time of Day Works Best for You (Usually Dawn or Dusk).

If morning people, go with a dawn tour; if not, stick with one at dusk. And have a camera at the ready all the way through to the very end of the tour. Animals are especially active at dawn and at dusk.

Dress for the Outdoors.

Check the company website to see what is recommended for clothing. Most encourage that guests wear long pants, closed toed shoes, and bring a jacket. Shorts or capris are appropriate for summer months.

Most companies use open air vehicles and pair up groups. For private tours or more personalized service, private vans are available. So dress accordingly as temperatures fluctuate. Layers are key!

Expect to See Some Wildlife…But No Guarantees.

While safari goers will most likely see wildlife, keep in mind it IS wild animals, not animatronics.  There are no guarantees on what species will be seen. Actually, that’s part of what makes the experience so exciting! Guides do communicate via radio with one another on sightings, so that helps everyone to share in the wildlife spotting.

Some of the potential animals include elk, moose, mule deer, pronghorn, bison, bighorn sheep, grizzly and black bear, and wolves can all be seen within the park boundaries.

Be prepared to use the tools of the trade.

Binoculars and spotting scope are tools of the tour during a wildlife safari. It may just mean glimpses of animals like wolves or bears, but still exhilarating! 

Know What’s Included and What’s NOT.

Read the fine print to see what’s part of the tour and what costs extra. Most tours include snacks and refreshments; some dawn tours include breakfast and all day tours usually include meals. However, many do not include the park entry fee. The park entry fee is $20.00 per adult (16 and up), good for seven days. Guests who have a “Golden Age Pass” or an “Interagency Park Pass” can use these passes on the tour. Park passes can be purchased at the park entrance during the tour.

Recommended guide gratuity is also not included and roughly 10-15% of the tour price.