Travel guide
As the world leader in travel experiences since 1947, we connect you to the real South Dakota in a way like no other.
We’ll take you on a journey to ‘the middle of the map’, where vast golden prairies give way to an explosion of nature. From the granite spires and pine forests of the Black Hills, to the mesmerising buttes and canyons of the Badlands, South Dakota is utterly enchanting. But the wonders don’t stop at Mother Nature. When you travel South Dakota with Trafalgar, we’ll take you to the icons, like Mount Rushmore with its four legendary faces etched into the granite peak, and the Crazy Horse Memorial, another mountain carved masterpiece of the revered Lakota war chief. Our South Dakota trips take you to the soul of the state, and you’ll have the chance to learn about Native American culture from tribesmen Stephen Yellowhawk, witness a traditional Black Hills Pow Wow, watch the magical Mount Rushmore lighting ceremony, and even swing by Wall Drug, the country’s most famous roadside stop.
Travel with us and unlock the infinite possibilities thanks to our exclusive Trafalgar Highlights.
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At a Glance
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South Dakota has it all, from the enchanting buttes and canyons of the Badlands, to the legendary monuments like Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial. Your expert Trafalgar Travel Director will take you from the icons to the soul of the state, as you witness a traditional Pow Wow, meet a local Lakota tribesman, and wander the ancient granite spires of the Black Hills.
Currency
US dollar
Capital City
Washington D.C.
Winter avg
-5°C
Language
English
Summer avg
30°C
Good morning
Good morning
Time Zone
GMT-6
Good evening
Good evening
"Many people come to South Dakota for the icons like Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial, but they stay for the soul-stirring moments, like the magical mesas of the Badlands and the traditional Native American culture."
Whether you’re roaming the Badlands National Park or wandering through the Black Hills, you’ll need a reliable pair of walking shoes for your South Dakota trip.
South Dakota serves up the most extraordinary sights, from the magical spires of the Badlands to iconic Mount Rushmore, so be sure to bring backup memory cards.
The weather can change quickly in South Dakota, even in summer, so bring some warm layers and to stay cosy and comfortable throughout your trip.
You can’t miss stopping at the famous Wall Drug in the Badlands, famed for offering free ice water to travellers since the 1930s. Bring your bottle and fill up at this iconic roadside stop!
From sunscreen and snacks to water bottles and jackets, a day bag is perfect for carrying all the essentials while keeping your hands free on your South Dakota adventures.
Depending on your nationality, you'll need a valid passport and may also need visas to enter. Please check this well in advance of your trip departure date here. Some countries also require passports to have 3-6 months left on them before the given expiry date, so be sure to double check this before booking your travels.
Selected Region
United Kingdom
Selected Region
United Kingdom
