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2026 Spotlight on South Dakota

Mount Rushmore & The Badlands

7 Days - 8/19/26 - 8/25/26

Price: $2,799

For bookings after 2/19/26, call for pricing

Hold Your Spot for only $698

Optional Excursions & Extensions:

Optional Excursions:

Not Available


Pre & Post Tour:

Not Available

Trip Overview

South Dakota featuring Mount Rushmore & the Badlands

INCLUDED:

  • Double Occupancy – $2,799
  • Single Occupancy – $3,599
  • Triple Occupancy –  $2,769
  • Air -$800
  • Hotels
  • Hotel Transfers
  • Transfer to/from New Orleans Airport
  • 9 Meals
    • 6 Breakfasts
    • 3 Dinners


NOT INCLUDED:  

 

EXCURSION HIGHLIGHTS

  • Enjoy time to explore at the lofty Devils Tower.

  • Explore Deadwood, a National Historic Landmark that pays tribute to the ways of the Wild West.

  • Learn about the history of the Sioux Nation at the Oglala Lakota Living History Village.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • Mount Rushmore
  • Badlands National Park
  • Wall Drug
  • Deadwood
  • Off-Road Jeep Safari at Custer State Park
  • Crazy Horse Memorial
  • Devils Tower National Monument

Tour Destinations Map

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • HIGHLIGHTS… Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, Wall Drug, Deadwood, Off-Road Jeep Safari at Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Devils Tower National Monument
  • Enjoy time to explore at the lofty Devils Tower.

  • Explore Deadwood, a National Historic Landmark that pays tribute to the ways of the Wild West.

  • Learn about the history of the Sioux Nation at the Oglala Lakota Living History Village.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Experience the untamed beauty and rich history of the American West on our Spotlight on South Dakota journey.

From sweeping prairies to rugged Badlands, every stop brings the stories of the frontier to life.

Explore iconic landmarks and uncover the legends that shaped this remarkable region.

Rapid City serves as your perfect base for adventure and discovery.

Join Two Travel Gurus and immerse yourself in the true spirit of South Dakota.

man wearing headdress

Day 1: Wednesday Aug 19, 2026
Rapid City, South Dakota – Tour Begins

Welcome to the heart of the American West — Rapid City, South Dakota, your gateway to the breathtaking Black Hills. As you arrive, take a moment to soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes, where rugged hills and open skies capture the true spirit of the frontier.

Spend the day exploring at your own pace — stroll through charming downtown Rapid City, discover local art and culture, or simply relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a warm welcome dinner that sets the tone for your journey.

Tonight’s experience features a Native American chronicler, whose captivating stories bring to life the traditions, legends, and enduring spirit of the Lakota and Sioux people. It’s an inspiring start to a journey filled with history, culture, and the wild beauty of South Dakota.

Dinner is included.

Day 2: Thursday Aug 20, 2026
­Rapid City – Mt. Rushmore – Rapid City

Today, your adventure begins with a visit to the Chapel in the Hills, a stunning replica of a 12th-century Norwegian stave church that tells the story of faith and craftsmanship in the American West.

Then, journey to one of America’s most iconic landmarks — Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Gaze in awe at the majestic faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln, carved into the granite cliffs as symbols of freedom and vision. Stroll along the Presidential Trail for an up-close perspective of this monumental masterpiece and the beauty of the Black Hills surrounding it.

As evening falls, return to Mount Rushmore to witness the enchanting nighttime lighting ceremony, a moving tribute to the nation’s history and ideals. It’s an unforgettable day celebrating both America’s past and its enduring spirit.

Breakfast is included.

Mount Rushmore Monument
badlands south dakota

Day 3: Friday Aug 21, 2026
Rapid City – Badlands – Wall – Rapid City

Begin your day with a powerful cultural experience at the Oglala Lakota Living History Village, where members of the Great Sioux Nation share their stories, traditions, and deep connection to the land in their own voices. Gain a new appreciation for the resilience and spirit of the Lakota people before setting out to explore the untamed beauty of Badlands National Park.

Marvel at the park’s dramatic landscapes — layered rock formations, colorful cliffs, and sweeping prairies shaped by centuries of wind and water. At the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, immerse yourself in fascinating exhibits and films that bring this otherworldly region to life.

Journey along the Badlands Loop Road, where each turn reveals breathtaking views and striking geological wonders. Later, stop at the legendary Wall Drug, an American roadside icon since 1936. Browse its quirky shops, enjoy a seat at the classic soda fountain, and savor a slice of Americana before returning to Rapid City for the evening.

Breakfast is included.

Day 4: Saturday Aug 22, 2026
Rapid City – Deadwood – Rapid City

Step back in time to the wild frontier of Deadwood, where tales of gold, gambling, and gunfights still echo through the streets.

This morning, it’s your choice — explore the Adams Museum and uncover the legends of Deadwood’s most infamous outlaws and pioneers, OR visit Kevin Costner’s Tatanka: Story of the Bison, where stunning sculptures and storytelling celebrate the deep connection between the Lakota people and the mighty bison.

This afternoon, wander through this National Historic Landmark, a town that feels frozen in the days of the Old West. Your local guide will bring history to life as you visit the final resting places of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane.

As the day winds down, gather for a hearty Western-style dinner and show at the High Plains Heritage Center, where cowboy spirit, music, and storytelling create an evening full of fun and frontier charm.

Breakfast & Dinner are included.

deadwood, south dakota
crazy horse memorial, South Dakota

Day 5: Sunday Aug 23, 2026
Rapid City – Custer – Crazy Horse – Rapid City

Start your day at the breathtaking Custer State Park, where rolling hills, rugged rock formations, and wide-open plains set the stage for an unforgettable wildlife adventure. Keep your eyes open for bighorn sheep, elk, and other native animals as you drive through South Dakota’s first state park.

Then, gear up for an exhilarating Buffalo Safari, venturing deep into the park in an open-air jeep to witness herds of majestic buffalo roaming freely across the landscape.

In the afternoon, experience the awe-inspiring Crazy Horse Memorial, the world’s largest mountain sculpture still in progress. Explore the Indian Museum of North America, the Native American Cultural Center, the sculptor’s studio, orientation center, and theaters to gain a deeper understanding of Native American history, art, and culture. It’s a day that perfectly blends nature, adventure, and heritage for a truly memorable South Dakota experience.

Breakfast is included.

Day 6: Monday Aug 24, 2026
Rapid City – Devils Tower National Monument, Wyoming – Rapid City

Begin the day at the Geographic Center of the Nation, a unique landmark marking the heart of the United States and a fun photo opportunity.

Then, cross into Wyoming to behold Devils Tower, America’s first national monument and an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Marvel at the towering monolith, explore the 1.3-mile Tower Trail around its base, and take in the breathtaking views that have inspired visitors for generations. Known to many as the iconic backdrop of Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Devils Tower is also a sacred site for several local Native American tribes, adding depth and meaning to your visit.

As the day winds down, gather with your fellow travelers for a celebratory dinner, reflecting on the memories, landscapes, and adventures of your incredible South Dakota journey.

Breakfast & Dinner are included.

devil's tower, South Dakota
buffalo South Dakota

Day 7: Tuesday Aug 25, 2026
Rapid City – Tour Ends

Today marks the end of your unforgettable journey as you say goodbye to Rapid City.

Remember the thrilling adventures, like the Buffalo Safari at Custer State Park and the awe-inspiring Crazy Horse Memorial, that brought the spirit of South Dakota to life.

Share a last laugh and reminisce with your fellow travelers about the unique experiences that made this trip so special. As you depart, carry the memories of this adventure with you and the inspiration of the American West, leaving Rapid City with a heart full of stories to share.

Breakfast is included.

Travel Tips

Thank you for choosing to travel with us and allowing us to guide you along this adventure! From the moment you step out your door, we strive to provide a comprehensive, stress-free, and unforgettable travel experience. To that end, the following features are included with your tour: motor coach transportation, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (porterage), select meals, admission to attractions as outlined in your itinerary, and gratuities for servers of included meals as outlined in your itinerary, bellmen, and door attendants.

If you chose to purchase a land-only tour package, you have opted to purchase your own airline tickets to and from home. In this case, we ask that you keep a few important factors in mind when booking your round-trip flights:

1) Please make sure your round-trip flights work with your tour itinerary. There may be scheduled activities on these days.

2) You must provide us with your flight schedules for the entire tour upon final payment. This ensures that we can arrange any other services you may have purchased from us, including hotel transfers, and that your Tour Manager will know when to expect your arrival. This also allows us to maintain contact with you in case of an emergency.

If you have chosen our air-inclusive tour package, you have opted that we take care of all your air travels from your home to the destination and back. This also includes any inter-flights from city to city within the tour package if applicable. We ask that you keep the following in mind:

1) In order to comply with Homeland Security’s “Secure Flight” mandate, you must provide full name (including middle name or middle initial, if applicable), as it appears on your valid, non-expired, government issued photo ID that you will show at the airport. The name on your airline ticket must be an exact match to this ID, or you may be prevented from boarding the aircraft.

2) If you are a member of a participating frequent flyer program, make sure to provide the number when you book your trip and retain the copy of your ticket and boarding pass so you will receive proper credit for your mileage. Please note that some air tickets are not eligible for mileage accrual.

3) Whenever possible, we will add charges for air departure taxes to your invoice. Some international arrival and departure fees are not included in your air ticket and must be paid by you during the tour in the local currency.

Our planet affords us so many awe-inspiring natural wonders. To ensure that stunning natural beauty can be enjoyed for generations to come, we’ve been making several changes to the ways we live, work and travel. In our offices and on our tours, we are committed to reducing single-use plastics. On our USA tours, bottles of water are not distributed or sold on our motorcoaches. However, we encourage you to bring your own reusable water bottle and your Tour Manager will provide details on where you can fill it up each day!

Your comfort is important to us. With that in mind, we charter coaches that are temperature-controlled.

While some coaches may have a toilet facility, it is for emergency use since local laws require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons. Rest assured that frequent stops will be made along the touring route for your comfort and convenience.

Please note, outlets for charging devices may not be available on the coach. Therefore, if you anticipate using electronic devices, we recommend bringing portable power banks.

Change your seat, change your view! At least once a day, the Tour Manager will ask all travelers to change seats. This ensures that every traveler has an opportunity to enjoy a variety of views as they travel and a chance to get to know each other better. Depending on availability, single travelers may be seated next to another traveler. In fairness to all, there will be no exceptions to this policy.

At the time of booking, you will be asked what type of room you would like.

A double room has either one large bed or two smaller ones. Double rooms are perfect for couples or if you’re travelling with a companion and wish to share a room. There are plenty of double rooms available on our tours.

A single or solo room has only one bed and may be smaller in size. These rooms are first come, first-served, as most properties have only a certain amount of these available.

A triple room usually consists of a standard double room with two beds. A cot or fold-up bed may be added, but it depends on the room size and local fire codes. Triples are first come, first-served, as they are also very limited. If you booked a triple and only a double and single room is available at a hotel, appropriate charges for the single and double accommodations will be assessed.

We will forward your request to the hotel and do our best to accommodate your needs; however, please know that we cannot make any guarantees. On every tour, we look to provide the highest quality accommodation in the best location. If you’re visiting a city, we want you in the heart of it.

In certain countries, the hotel rooms may not be as large as standard hotel rooms in North America.

Here are a few details to keep in mind:

Check-in times are set by individual hotels and can vary, but most hotels offer afternoon check-ins. Depending on your arrival time, you may have to wait before you can get into your room. Some hotels may be willing to store your luggage in a secure location until your room is ready. In these instances, the hotel will not be responsible for lost or stolen items and there may be a charge for this service.

Please observe check out times at all properties. Hotels designate these as well.

Some hotels require a credit card imprint or your passport information upon check in in order to activate telephones in the rooms and for potential incidental charges. Most hotels charge an access fee for using phones in hotel rooms. Please check with the front desk personnel at each hotel for specific policies. You will be responsible for all incidental fees occurred during your stay, and these must be paid at time of check out.

Hotel membership programs are not applicable.

While in Deadwood, you have the choice between two activities.

Your first choice is travel back in time on a guided tour of the Adams Museum, dedicated to preserving Deadwood’s history.

The Activity Level of this choice is level 1.

This is a guided tour that lasts 35 to 45 minutes. First floor is handicapped accessible.

Your second choice is hear the story of the 60 million bison that once roamed the great plains of North America and what happened to them at Tatanka: Story of the Bison, an interpretive center, founded by Kevin Costner. An impressive bronze sculpture featuring 14 bison pursued by 3 Native American riders is the centerpiece of this site.

The Activity Level of this choice is level 1.

Presentation lasts approximately 1 hour.

One of the ways we encourage you to make your journey your own is with Choice on Tour, letting you decide how to experience a destination or site based on your unique interests.

It’s your choice! Included in your itinerary, there may be a day, or days, featuring a choice of two (or more) activities during a designated time. You may have selected your preferred option(s) when booking your tour. In most cases, your selection may be made upon arriving on tour and discussing it with your Tour Manager. If no selection is made during the booking process, the default option is assumed.

Peace of mind for our travelers is our number one priority. When you’re on tour with us, your only thoughts should be to immerse yourself in creating lifelong memories. Your Tour Manager is a destination expert on the people, places, history, and culture and ensures that you will have the best experience with us. Please utilize your Tour Manager’s expertise for any concerns or questions you may have while on tour.

Wi-Fi access has improved, with free or cheap internet available in many public spaces. Some restaurants, cafes, and hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi, though at times it may not reach rooms in hotels. Wi-Fi may not be available onboard motorcoaches or other modes of transportation used during your tour.

The natural wonders of our planet are awe-inspiring. To ensure their beauty can be enjoyed for generations, we are committed to reducing single-use plastics on our tours and in our offices. On tours in this region, where the tap water is safe to drink, we encourage you to bring a reusable filter water bottle. Your Tour Manager will direct you to bottle refill stations throughout each day. By bringing your own bottle, you will reduce plastic waste and help to preserve the environment.

Thank you for helping us make the world a better place through travel and supporting sustainability!

You’re in for a treat as you sample the flavors of South Dakota! Food in the Mount Rushmore state tends to be stick-to-your-ribs American fare, influenced by Native American traditions and the culinary styles of later European and American settlers. In addition to typical American offerings, restaurants serve local game, whether it’s venison, elk, wild turkey, trout, walleye or numerous buffalo dishes. Dining is very casual with an Old West flavor.

The food people eat is a window into their history, traditions, and values, and sharing food brings people together. One of the many wonderful aspects of travel is to experience as much of the regional cuisine as possible. Your tour includes many meals as outlined on your itinerary. Our team has carefully chosen restaurants that feature local ingredients and offer regional flavors.

For meals that are not included in your itinerary, your Tour Manager will be happy to recommend eateries and local businesses that best fit your taste and needs.

The average price for meals in this region ranges from 5 to 10 US Dollars for lunch and 10 to 25 US Dollars for dinner.

Please let your Tour Manager know of any food allergies or dietary needs you may have at the beginning or your tour.

One of the best parts of traveling is coming back home with souvenirs that really reflect the place you’ve just been.

As you make your way through South Dakota, you’ll find an array of hand-made crafts and Native American souvenirs that make for truly wonderful keepsakes.

The turquoise jewelry in this area is very beautiful and a great souvenir.

Keep an eye out for unique artwork as well as Black Hills gold.

Americans value punctuality, so being on time is important. If you are running late, letting the other party know is respectful.

For non-included meals, leaving a tip of 15% for your server is customary.

Americans usually shake hands when they first meet. A hello, handshake, and smile are all appreciated when being introduced to someone.

Maintaining appropriate eye contact and respecting personal space while speaking to someone is considered important for respectful communication.

Americans value their privacy. Avoid personal topics such as salary, weight, religion, politics, and other sensitive topics.

Staying to the right on sidewalks, escalators, and while walking in cities is the norm in America.

South Dakota is immersed in Native American culture. Be respectful and willing to learn about Indigenous ways of life in this part of the U.S.

Respect nature. National Parks have a “leave it as you found it” policy. Do not approach the wildlife and observe from a distance.

Due to varied flight schedules and arrival times of our travelers, there are no scheduled activities prior to dinner on arrival day. Should your flight schedule allow for an early arrival, enjoy this opportunity for some independent exploration.

If you are staying post tour, your Tour Manager will be available to offer suggestions for your additional time in the area.

Should you have some extra time to explore Rapid City before your trip begins, you’ll find plenty to do! Make time to experience downtown Rapid City’s unique shops, dining and attractions like Art Alley and The City of Presidents, where visitors can view and walk among life-sized bronze statues of past U.S. presidents. Stop at Main Street Square and enjoy the interactive fountains at this outdoor entertainment venue. Experience these attractions and more when taking a ride on the City View Trolley.

Our tours are non-smoking throughout. If you require a smoking room, please let your Client Care agent know when you book your tour. Please note, we cannot guarantee your request as many hotels prohibit smoking in rooms and on the property.

Please be mindful of other locations where smoking is not allowed. These include the motor coach, at dining venues, and any other restricted areas on tour. Travelers are responsible for any fines they incur for failing to comply with smoking regulations.

Included in your tour documents bundle is your personalized name tag. We ask that you put this on before your first gathered event and wear it throughout your tour. This helps your fellow travelers get to know you and for your Tour Manager to better identify you in large groups.

Please Note
Book Now rates valid until Feb 19, 2026, valid on air inclusive packages only.

Economy air rate and schedule are applicable for groups of 10 or more traveling on the same flights and dates.

The overall activity level of this tour is a level 2. This means you like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. Expect some full days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet. While this level is appropriate for travelers that require mobility assistance devices, there could be times when you may have to sit out on some of the included
activities.
Travel with an average of 37 people (maximum of 44).
If you require any special assistance while on tour, please make us aware at
time of reservation so the necessary request form can be sent to your attention.
*Mount Rushmore Lighting Ceremony is available May 22 – September 25,
2026.
When reserving a triple room, please note it will have two double beds.
Due to fire safety regulations, a rollaway bed cannot be brought into the room.

Single accommodations are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Single rate subject to change based on availability.

To complete your tour, we include round-trip airport-to-hotel transfers when purchasing our airfare with your tour. If you have arranged for your own air, we are pleased to provide you the option of purchasing these transfers. Please note that all transfers will leave at pre-scheduled times.
For air-inclusive reservations, the name provided at time of booking must match your government-issued ID that will be used during travel. Name changes are subject to penalties.
Please be advised, many airlines do not provide advance seat assignments until check-in at the airport. Advance seating will be subject to the airline’s terms and conditions.
Economy air rate and schedule are applicable for groups of 10 or more traveling on the same flights and dates.
Travel Requirements:
IDENTIFICATION
Travel within USA
A Real ID compliant form of identification must be presented both at the
time of booking air travel with Collette and upon checking in at the airport
to board any flight. State-issued driver’s licenses and IDs that are not REAL
ID compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Any fees associated with changing a reservation resulting from a non-compliant identification will be the responsibility of the traveler. For more information on Real ID, please visit the Department of Homeland Security website: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id

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