Yellowstone National Park

The world's first national park, famous for its geothermal features like Old Faithful, and abundant wildlife including bison, grizzly bears, wolves, and...

Yellowstone National Park at a Glance

Location
Rocky Mountains & Northern Plains, United States, North America
Coordinates
44.598200, -110.547200
Area
8983 km²
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Safari Activities in Yellowstone National Park

  • Wildlife viewing
  • Exploring geothermal areas
  • Viewing geologic wonders
  • Camping

Getting to Yellowstone National Park

Nearest airport: Yellowstone Airport (WYS), 46 km away.

Nearest international airport: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), 140 km away.

Weather & Climate in Yellowstone National Park

The warmest temperatures in Yellowstone National Park occur in July, averaging 14.9°C (up to 22.6°C). The coolest conditions are in February at -10.2°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 28.6mm. Average humidity: 52.1%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: -10.1°C (rainfall: 45.6mm)
  • February: -10.2°C (rainfall: 63.0mm)
  • March: -6.4°C (rainfall: 67.0mm)
  • April: -3.3°C (rainfall: 61.3mm)
  • May: 2.2°C (rainfall: 66.0mm)
  • June: 8.8°C (rainfall: 60.7mm)
  • July: 14.9°C (rainfall: 28.6mm)
  • August: 14.2°C (rainfall: 54.8mm)
  • September: 9.9°C (rainfall: 44.6mm)
  • October: 2.3°C (rainfall: 57.2mm)
  • November: -6.0°C (rainfall: 44.5mm)
  • December: -8.7°C (rainfall: 56.6mm)

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park

The best months to visit Yellowstone National Park are July, March, April, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature -10.05°C, rainfall 45.6mm, sunshine 5.3 hrs, humidity 79.5%
  • February: Poor, temperature -10.24°C, rainfall 63mm, sunshine 6.2 hrs, humidity 75.2%
  • March: Good, temperature -6.39°C, rainfall 67mm, sunshine 8.2 hrs, humidity 71.9%
  • April: Good, temperature -3.25°C, rainfall 61.3mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 67.6%
  • May: Good, temperature 2.21°C, rainfall 66mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 68.7%
  • June: Good, temperature 8.84°C, rainfall 60.7mm, sunshine 12.6 hrs, humidity 61.8%
  • July: Great, temperature 14.92°C, rainfall 28.6mm, sunshine 14.1 hrs, humidity 52.1%
  • August: Good, temperature 14.16°C, rainfall 54.8mm, sunshine 12 hrs, humidity 57.5%
  • September: Good, temperature 9.91°C, rainfall 44.6mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 58.8%
  • October: Good, temperature 2.27°C, rainfall 57.2mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 68.3%
  • November: Good, temperature -6°C, rainfall 44.5mm, sunshine 6.1 hrs, humidity 76.8%
  • December: Poor, temperature -8.72°C, rainfall 56.6mm, sunshine 4.3 hrs, humidity 79.8%

Wildlife in Yellowstone National Park

Home to 25 recorded species including 8 birds of prey, 5 waterbirds, 4 big herbivores, 3 predators, 3 iconic birds, 2 small mammals.

Recommended Packing List for Yellowstone National Park

Based on average temperature of 0.6°C, typical conditions, humidity 68%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 1°C require warm insulation
  • Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Yellowstone National Park

10 safari lodges available.

luxury

Other

mid-range

Similar Parks in Rocky Mountains & Northern Plains

Visitor Tips - Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is a place where the Earth truly feels alive, a raw, powerful landscape where steaming geysers erupt alongside herds of bison and grazing elk. We love the sheer scale of its geologic wonders combined with the thrill of spotting a wolf or bear in its natural habitat. It's an experience that feels both ancient and utterly vital, reminding us of the planet's incredible, untamed beauty.

Gate Times

Yellowstone's entrances operate on varying seasonal schedules, with the North Entrance near Gardiner, Montana, being the only one open to wheeled vehicles year-round. Other entrances and interior roads typically open from late April or early May, closing again in late October or early November, depending on snow conditions. Winter access is often limited to snowmobiles and snowcoaches. We always recommend checking the official National Park Service website for the most current road status and gate times before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly. A park entrance fee or an America the Beautiful pass is required for entry, but no additional permits or advance bookings are generally needed for day use.

Tipping

Tipping customs in Yellowstone differ significantly from traditional African safaris. National Park Service rangers are federal employees and do not accept tips for their services. If you opt for a private guided tour, we recommend tipping your guide 15-20% of the tour cost, reflecting standard US hospitality practices for excellent service. For lodge or hotel staff, a small gratuity for exceptional service, such as bellhops or housekeepers, is customary and appreciated.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for United States

Travel advisory for United States

Yellowstone National Park FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Yellowstone National Park to experience its unique geothermal features and abundant wildlife without the largest crowds?

For a balance of wildlife viewing, active geothermal features, and fewer visitors, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of late April to early June or September to early October. During these times, you can witness bison calves and bear cubs in spring, or elk bugling in fall, alongside the park's iconic geysers and hot springs.

What are the best strategies for safely viewing Yellowstone's iconic megafauna, such as grizzly bears and wolves, and what should I expect regarding sightings?

To maximize your chances of seeing wildlife like bears and wolves, focus on dawn and dusk in areas like Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley, often with binoculars or a spotting scope. Always maintain a safe distance (at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other animals) and carry bear spray, as these are wild, unpredictable animals in their natural habitat.

Beyond the famous Old Faithful, what other unique geothermal features should I prioritize exploring in Yellowstone, and what safety precautions are crucial in these areas?

Definitely explore the Grand Prismatic Spring in Midway Geyser Basin for its vibrant colors, and the constantly changing terraced formations of Mammoth Hot Springs. Always stay on marked boardwalks and trails, as the ground can be thin and the scalding hot water and steam are extremely dangerous.

What are the typical costs associated with a Yellowstone trip, including park entry and accommodation, and how far in advance should I plan?

A 7-day private vehicle entrance pass costs $35, but annual passes are also available for frequent visitors. Accommodation, ranging from campgrounds to historic lodges, can be expensive and books up extremely fast, often 6-12 months in advance for peak summer dates, so early planning is essential.

How does the 'safari' experience in Yellowstone National Park differ from traditional African safaris, particularly regarding guided tours and wildlife encounters?

Unlike traditional African safaris with dedicated game drives, Yellowstone offers a largely self-guided experience where you drive your own vehicle through the park, stopping at overlooks and trails. While guided tours are available, wildlife encounters are entirely natural and unpredictable, focusing on observing animals in their vast, wild North American ecosystem rather than in fenced reserves.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.