National Parks and Native Trails of the Dakotas with Black Hills Pow Wow
National Parks and Native Trails of the Dakotas with Black Hills Pow Wow
$3632
National Parks and Native Trails of the Dakotas with Black Hills Pow Wow
9 Days Starting in Rapid City, United States and ending in Bismarck, United States
Visiting: Rapid City, Badlands National Park, Mount Rushmore, Rosebud Reservation, Chamberlain, Pierre, Bismarck, Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Tour operator:
Tour code:
DMTPM26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a culturally enriching journey through the Dakotas with the "National Parks and Native Trails of the Dakotas with Black Hills Pow Wow" tour. This immersive experience takes you through the heart of North and South Dakota, exploring the rich heritage of the Tribal Nations. Witness iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial, and delve into the history and traditions of the Lakota people at the Oglala Lakota Living History Village. Attend the vibrant Black Hills Pow Wow, and connect with local communities at the Rosebud and Pine Ridge Reservations. Discover the stunning landscapes of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and enjoy unique cultural experiences, including traditional storytelling and authentic Lakota cuisine. With expert guidance and comfortable accommodations, this tour offers a profound understanding of the region's history and culture, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Rapid City
Location: Rapid City
Accommodation Name: The Rushmore Hotel & Suites
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Rapid City where we begin our exploration of the Tribal Nations of North and South Dakota on this culturally enriching adventure that leads with authenticity. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers this evening at dinner as you ready for an unforgettable journey.
Day 2: Exploring The Badlands National Park And Oglala Sioux Tribe Make Travel Matter
Location: Badlands National Park
Accommodation Name: The Rushmore Hotel & Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Discover how deeply the Lakota people are connected to their land, customs and ancestors as you enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Oglala Lakota Living History Village. Take in the sights along the iconic Badlands Loop Road, arriving at Pine Ridge Indian Reservation where you’ll meet talented Native artists. Later, visit Wounded Knee Memorial, site of the 1890 Massacre, told in vivid detail by a local storyteller who’ll share personal stories passed down through generations as you look upon the historic lands where it unfolded.
Day 3: Visit Mount Rushmore And Attend The Black Hill's Pow Wow Make Travel Matter
Location: Mount Rushmore
Accommodation Name: The Rushmore Hotel & Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head to one of America's most iconic sites, and learn of its complicated past as you stand face to face with history at Mount Rushmore, before heading to the Crazy Horse Memorial, depicting the famous and moving Oglala Lakota warrior. While there we take a locally guided walk to the base of the mountain. Then for the highlight of the day; attend the Black Hills Pow Wow, also known as He Sapa Wacipi, with Stephen Yellowhawk of the the Lakota tribe. A sacred social gathering held by many North American indigenous communities that includes singing, dancing, drum groups, art, athletic competitions, and a variety of other events, all to celebrate and honor their beautiful culture that you get to witness.
Day 4: Spend The Day With The Rosebud Sioux Tribe Make Travel Matter Connect With Locals
Location: Rosebud Reservation
Accommodation Name: Arrowwood Cedar Shore Resort & Conference Center
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Get an insider’s view from a Local Specialist at the Rosebud Indian Reservation, home to the Sicangu Lakota Oyate Nation, for a deeply meaningful MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. You'll learn the history and cultural heritage of the Rosebud Reservation, in addition to understanding the socio-economic issues impacting the Lakota in today’s modern world. Later, sample delicious and authentic Lakota food over lunch at Sinte Gleska University. Founded in 1971, the university's mission is to provide higher education opportunities while preserving and promoting the Lakota culture and traditions. The university aims to integrate Lakota perspectives and values into its academic programs and foster a sense of identity and pride among its students. After lunch, you will meet Lakota elder Victor Douville for a Star Knowledge Presentation.
Day 5: Day Trip To Lakota Youth Development Connect With Locals
Location: Chamberlain
Accommodation Name: Arrowwood Cedar Shore Resort & Conference Center
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The future of the Lakota Oyate (Lakota Nation) takes center stage as you meet Marla C. Bull Bear, Executive Director of Lakota Youth Development, a non-profit organization whose mission is to reclaim Lakota language, culture, and spirituality by promoting healthy lifestyle education for Lakota youth through culturally based strategies. Listen to Indigenous storytelling, enjoy a performance put on by tribal youth, and appreciate an Indigenous plant walk all before sharing a meal with tribal members of the Rosebud Reservation. We continue to Chamberlain where you'll witness to awe-inspiring Statue of Dignity, a soaring sculpture of a Native woman standing high on a bluff above the Missouri River.
Day 6: Sitting Bull & Standing Rock Indian Reservation Connect With Locals
Location: Pierre
Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel Bismarck
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel along the Native American Scenic Byway stopping in South Dakota’s capital, Pierre, for a tour of the town and the State Capitol. Next up, visit Sakakawea Monument & Sitting Bull Monument, believed to be the final resting place of Native American spiritual and social leader, Sitting Bull. Unlock more of the life and story behind Sitting Bull’s grave at Fort Yates Military Cemetery, where Sitting Bull was originally buried. Learn how the US Army abandoned Fort Yates in 1903 and had all the graves moved except for Sitting Bull’s. In the 1950s a group of businesspeople from Mobridge, South Dakota received permission through the Bureau of Indian Affairs to move Sitting Bull’s remains from the neglected grave in Fort Yates to Mobridge in an effort to attract tourists to their town.
Day 7: The Mandan, Hidatsa And Arikara Nation Make Travel Matter
Location: Bismarck
Accommodation Name: Teddy's Residential Suites New Town
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Visit Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center before Earth Lodge Village where you'll experience traditional archery and parfleche painting. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the MHA Nation Interpretive Centre where Native artifacts are on display.
Day 8: Theodore Roosevelt National Park Sightseeing Stays With Stories
Location: Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Accommodation Name: Rough Riders
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Stop at Crows Flies High for views of Lake Sakakawea and the Four Bears Bridge. Take the scenic route to the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park that climbs through the canyon to must-sees like the Oxbow Overlook. Arrive in Medora for a free afternoon. Your Stays with Stories is the historic Rough Riders Hotel filled with western charm and 1880s nostalgia. Enjoy a last dinner reflecting on the countless impactful moments.
Day 9: Farewell In Bismarck
Location: Bismarck
Meals Included: Breakfast
End your tour with a drive through a portion of the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Say your final goodbyes before arriving at Bismarck airport.
What's Included
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Expert Travel Director and Professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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Cherry-picked Hotels
Stay in cherry-picked hotels that are all tried and trusted.
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Porterage and Restaurant Gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.
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Hotel Tips, Charges, and Local Taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered.
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Must-see Sightseeing and Surprise Extras
The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.
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Audio Headsets
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
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Luxury Air-conditioned Coach
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Optional Experiences and Free Time
Optional experiences and free time are part of the tour.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses are not included in the tour.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Flights
Flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and connected journey as you explore the scenic landscapes and cultural sites of the Dakotas.
Accommodation
Stay at the Rushmore Hotel & Suites, Arrowwood Cedar Shore Resort & Conference Center, Radisson Hotel Bismarck, and Rough Riders Hotel, offering a blend of modern comfort and historical charm throughout your journey.
Dining Summary
2 Dinner (D)8 Breakfast (B)4 Lunch (L)
Dive Into Culture
Pine Ridge Reservation: Learn the History of Wounded Knee as told by Warren Yellow Hair as you look upon where it happened. Listening to stories told from generation to generation will give you a perspective that cannot be gained from a history book but rather an authentic and emotional experience.New Town: Enjoy a guided tour of the Earth Lodge Village and see how the MHA people used to live. You will also try your hand at archery and parfleche painting to gain a deeper understanding of the culture of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 10 & 11: Reduced Inequalities & Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes several unique cultural experiences such as attending the Black Hills Pow Wow, a sacred social gathering with singing, dancing, and art. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the Lakota culture at the Oglala Lakota Living History Village and participate in a Star Knowledge Presentation by a Lakota elder at Sinte Gleska University.
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How does the tour support local communities?
The tour supports local communities by engaging with Indigenous communities and promoting cultural understanding. It includes experiences that advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, such as visiting the Rosebud Indian Reservation and the MHA Nation Interpretive Centre, which contribute to reduced inequalities and sustainable communities.
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What historical sites will be visited during the tour?
The tour visits several historical sites including Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial, the Wounded Knee Memorial, and the Sitting Bull and Sakakawea Monuments. These sites offer insights into the history and heritage of the Native American tribes in the region.
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What kind of accommodations can be expected on this tour?
Accommodations on the tour include cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted, such as The Rushmore Hotel & Suites, Arrowwood Cedar Shore Resort & Conference Center, and the historic Rough Riders Hotel, which offers a Stay With Stories experience filled with western charm and 1880s nostalgia.
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What is the significance of the Black Hills Pow Wow in the tour?
The Black Hills Pow Wow is a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to witness a premier American Indian cultural event. It includes singing, dancing, and various competitions, providing an opportunity to celebrate and honor the beautiful culture of the Native American communities.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Friday - Saturday
Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 17, 2026Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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