1. How physical are these safaris?
Most groups, on average, want some measure of "away from roads" time, but do not want a strenuous hike. It is not necessary to exert your self strenuously to experience the wonderful values of the Yellowstone landscape.

Trips can be as strenuous as you like. We can hike all day, or not at all. If you have reserved a Full Day Private Safari, since it is private, we can be as flexible as you like and extend or shorten any hiking time.

2. What is included in your safaris?
Each half-, full-, and multi-day safari is provided a professional wildlife guide, custom transportation, binocular and spotting scope use for each participant, snacks, beverages, lunch, and the opportunity for lifetime memories. Half-day tours do not include lunch unless requested.

Snowshoes equipment is provided for all snowshoe safaris.

Our "Personal Guide Service" provides the same guide service, but not the transportation and other amenities. The guide will bring a spotting scope and pair of binoculars for group use.

3. What about restroom facilities?
On single day events in developed areas we will provide every consideration for your comfort. In some areas of Yellowstone only pit toilets are available, in others, plumbing and toilet facilities are common. Certainly one of the most called upon levels of "special knowledge" provided by your guide, is to know efficient toilet locations!

On backcountry trips toilet facilities can be more primitive, but the landscape view generally gets better, the overall environmental awareness increases, and a routine activity becomes an adventure!

4. What if we don't see wildlife?
Yellowstone Safari Company guarantees wildlife diversity. We do not guarantee any particular species, though many of the most dramatic (wolf and bear) are seen at a very high success rate, particularly during certain seasons and in certain localities.

5. What if the weather is bad?
Generally the weather doesn't affect us in a negative way. Keep in mind this is a dry climate and the sun shines many more days than it doesn't, and the weather is generally excellent. If we simply have rain or snow, you will probably be much better with the day reserved with us, since we are best able and equipped to deal with the vagaries of mountain weather.

However, mountain weather can change suddenly and our intent is to provide an outdoor experience. We will not cancel unless it is for safety reasons. For example, a severe blizzard would make driving unsafe and may necessitate cancellation. This has not happened in our 12-year history, but it is possible. If we do cancel for these reasons you will receive a full refund of all payments.

6. Is Yellowstone really crowded?
In summer, Yellowstone can be crowded in the vicinity of major site features such as Old Faithful Geyser. Traffic jams can also occur due to the presence of wildlife (gridlock can occur when a bison crosses the road, or a moose forages roadside). But in general Yellowstone is not crowded. Note that few people go beyond the developed areas, so a short hike can quickly take you in to a "wilderness" experience. (See also the response to On Safari #7). Yellowstone is definitely not crowded during fall, winter and spring seasons.

7. We want to be away from people. What can you provide?
We can guide you to little visited areas and rare experiences in Yellowstone and the surrounding area. If you truly would like a wilderness experience, we facilitate that too (see our multi- day trips or consider an all day hike or river trip).
However, if you are visiting Yellowstone and you have a limited amount of time, keep in mind that some of the most dramatic and impressive features, such as Old Faithful Geyser and the Lower falls of the Grand Canyon, are near roads, parking areas, and boardwalk trails to facilitate public access. These areas are the most "crowded". While these areas are easy to access and find, visiting them with us can help you understand the natural history of the features and facilitate an efficient experience.

For example, there are many different views and places to go to see of the Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. We can guide you to the best views in the most efficient manner. We may go on a cross-country hike to view the canyon away from other people. In general, Yellowstone is not nearly as crowded as the media would have us believe. It really is crowded only at key site locations and features, and we can best help you maneuver efficiently through these areas.

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