Spend a day in Native American country

Immerse yourself in the rich and interesting culture of the Native American Nations of the Great Plains. Hear traditional stories in the Black Hills of South Dakota, experience the tribal story of Wounded Knee as you make your way to the massacre site or search for the wild mustangs that are integral to the Cheyenne and Crow Nations in Wyoming.

Around the American states of Montana, South Dakota and Wyoming, there are still heavy influences of the Plains Tribes of Native Americans. You'll probably recognise some of the names like Cheyenne and Lakota and will get to learn about tribes you may not have heard of like the Nez Perce. The history of the area, not truly explored by the US government until the 1800s, is completely intertwined and influenced by these Nations that have inhabited the land for about 11,000 years. Sure, it can be a sad history with things like Wounded Knee, the Trail of Tears and the fact that the Native Americans were forced onto reservations, which still exist today. These are issues you will be able to debate with your tribal tour leaders and chances are you'll hear a different perspective of these historic events you'd otherwise never know about. Still, what you'll take away from your day of Native American culture are proud traditions, creativity in stories and art and a commitment to the land and all living things against the backdrop of mountains, streams, lush green forests and clean mountain air you'll really appreciate!

These day tours are entirely flexible, although there are some suggested itineraries which you may choose to follow. Your guide will join you in your car for the day, meaning that you can travel at your own pace. Here are a few things you may see depending on which day tour you decide to book:

If you choose to visit the sacred Black Hills of the Lakota Nation you'll walk amongst the amazing rock formations and ancient caves where the Lakota say humans emerged from underground.

You could visit the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation to learn about the Oglala Lakota tribe. This is a great way to experience the Native Americans today as you'll tour the Heritage Center at the Red Cloud School and learn about how tribal governance works, a truly unique side to America, completely removed from the usual destinations like New York City or Orlando, Florida.

Or get the best history lesson you've ever had at the site of the Battle of Little Bighorn where Crazy Horse confronted General Custer. You will hear about Custer's Last Stand from the perspective of the Lakota and Cheyenne while standing in the middle of the most beautiful landscape of rolling plains, criss-crossing trails and a deep blue sky that stretches for miles.

This would be a perfect option for someone who is interested in spending some time on the plains, learning about various Native American cultures, but who doesn't want that to be the entire focus of their holiday. With these day tours, you can follow an itinerary or you have the option of making a whole new itinerary so you can effectively craft your own tour, which is a wonderful option for people who hate traditional tours.

This is also a great choice for families as you can take the day at your own pace and can be matched with child-friendly guides who, as they put it, "edutain". Mostly, this option is so flexible that as long as you have some interest in Native American culture, American history or just want to spend some time outside in a gorgeous part of the world you'll be happy on one of these tours.