Full Day Guided Wildlife Photography Tour In Yellowstone
Active
8h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour offers unique insights into the park’s ecosystems while enhancing your photography skills. Explore renowned wildlife hotspots such as Lamar Valley, Tower Junction, and other pristine areas, all carefully selected for their photographic potential. Whether you're a budding photographer or an experienced professional, this tour provides the perfect setting to elevate your craft.
Skills You'll Learn
Wildlife Tracking Techniques: Learn how to spot and predict wildlife movement for optimal photo opportunities.
Mastering Long-Lens Photography: Capture detailed and impactful portraits of animals in their natural habitat.
Compositional Excellence: Create balanced and captivating wildlife images using framing and lighting techniques.
Ethical Wildlife Photography Practices: Understand how to photograph wildlife responsibly to minimize disturbance.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of camera settings.
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens (400mm or longer preferred).
Available options
Full Day Guided Wildlife Photography Tour In Yellowstone
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Weather and resource app assistance
Access to prime wildlife viewing locations
A full itinerary and daily schedule of events
Hands-on wildlife photography guidance
A one-on-one post-processing experience via Discord
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Expect stunning landscapes featuring expansive meadows, winding rivers, and rugged mountains. We'll have opportunities to capture wildlife such as bison, wolves, elk, and bears in their natural habitat. The area is renowned for its scenic beauty and abundant opportunities for dramatic, nature-filled shots.
Lamar Valley, often referred to as America's Serengeti, offers photographers a unique chance to capture the essence of Yellowstone's wilderness. Early morning and late afternoon light provide ideal conditions for breathtaking photographs of the valley's diverse wildlife and picturesque vistas. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting species like bald eagles, osprey, and sandhill cranes. The changing seasons bring varied photographic opportunities, from the lush greenery of spring and summer to the golden hues of fall and the stark, snow-covered landscapes of winter.
What's not included
National Park Entrance Fee
Meals
Lodging
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Gardiner
Gardiner, Montana, is a charming gateway town to Yellowstone National Park. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich wildlife, and historic charm, Gardiner offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and small-town hospitality. It's the northern entrance to Yellowstone, providing easy access to some of the park's most iconic sights and activities.
Top Attractions
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first national park in the world. It is known for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots, as well as its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Nature
Multiple days recommended
Entry fee: $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
Yellowstone River
The Yellowstone River flows through Gardiner and offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, rafting, and wildlife viewing. The river is home to a diverse range of fish species, making it a popular destination for anglers.
Nature
Half day to full day
Varies by activity and tour operator
Sacajawea Statue
The Sacajawea Statue is a tribute to the Shoshone woman who accompanied the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The statue is located in a small park in downtown Gardiner and offers a glimpse into the region's rich history.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Absaroka Mountain Range
The Absaroka Mountain Range is a stunning backdrop to Gardiner, offering a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The range is known for its rugged peaks, dense forests, and diverse wildlife.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (unless using a tour operator)
Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary
The Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of native wildlife. The sanctuary offers educational programs and guided tours, providing visitors with an up-close look at the region's diverse wildlife.
Nature
1-2 hours
$10-$20 per person
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bison Burger
A classic American burger made with locally sourced bison meat, often topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, and huckleberry sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat, can be made gluten-free upon request
Huckleberry Pie
A sweet and tangy pie made with wild huckleberries, a local favorite in Montana.
Dessert
Contains gluten, can be made with gluten-free crust upon request
Trout Almondine
A delicate dish featuring fresh trout fillets cooked in butter and topped with toasted almonds and lemon.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and dairy, can be made gluten-free upon request
Popular Activities
Hiking
Biking
Whitewater rafting
Horseback riding
Wildlife viewing
Fishing
Picnicking
Scenic drives
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Gardiner, offering the best weather for outdoor activities and easy access to Yellowstone National Park. The town is bustling with visitors, and all attractions and facilities are fully operational.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations
Gardiner is a generally safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. However, visitors should exercise caution when exploring the great outdoors, as wildlife encounters and natural hazards can pose a risk. Additionally, visitors should be aware of potential scams and pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when exploring the great outdoors, and be aware of wildlife and natural hazards
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas
- • Research and choose reputable tour operators and guides
Getting there
By air
- Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport • 90 km (56 miles)
- Billings Logan International Airport • 320 km (200 miles)
By train
Gardiner Amtrak Station
By bus
Gardiner Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Shuttle services are available for visitors without private transportation, offering scheduled trips to popular attractions and nearby locations.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Local taxi companies do not operate via apps; phone booking is required
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Gardiner
Yellowstone Gateway
Absaroka Foothills
Day trips
Livingston
50 km (31 miles) • Half day to full day
Livingston is a charming town located along the Yellowstone River, offering a variety of historical sites, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Bozeman
90 km (56 miles) • Full day
Bozeman is a vibrant college town located in the heart of Montana, offering a variety of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.
Big Sky
100 km (62 miles) • Full day
Big Sky is a popular resort destination located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, offering a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities and luxury accommodations.
Festivals
Gardiner Music Festival • July
Yellowstone Wildlife Festival • May
Montana Folk Festival • July
Pro tips
- Visit Yellowstone National Park early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and see wildlife at its most active
- Pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day
- Bring bear spray and know how to use it when hiking or exploring the great outdoors in bear country
- Book accommodations and popular tours well in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out quickly
- Explore the town's historic downtown and support local businesses by shopping and dining locally
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
