Native American Tipi Village Experience

Stay awhile with the Lakota people of South Dakota in a reconstruction of a traditional tipi village. Set amidst the beautiful scenery of South Dakota.

Living in the tipi and joining in with some of the daily tasks, such as cooking, tipi repairs, dream catcher and arrow making, will give you an experience that will be a never forgotten highpoint of your life. In the evenings the drumming and songs will make you want to stay awake all night. But then there are the stars to watch - brilliantly clear as there is no urban light pollution for many miles around us.

The tips are extremely spacious inside, some are as large as 18 ft, and allow you to have your own small fire in the middle, to cook, or keep the chill out. Client feedback

As in the old days, the tipis form a protective circle, in a carefully chosen place.  Close to water and sheltered from the wind, the location is a very beautiful area, typical of the South Dakota prairie. The site has some basic amenities, and is close to a small monastery, very remote, peaceful and boasts abundant flora and fauna.

For hygiene purposes, you will be sleeping on air beds, in sleeping bags. You can either bring your own sleeping bag, or we can supply them at a small extra charge.

The stay at the Tipi Village is all inclusive, and food will be prepared, sometimes in the traditional way, three times per day. You will have the opportunity to taste many of the traditional Lakota dishes, and help with the preparation will always be appreciated. Remember, the Tipi village was traditionally a close knit community, where everyone had their jobs to do, to keep life running smoothly.  

Workshops
There will be a number of workshops at various times, for those interested in dance, drumming, history, traditions, culture, craftwork and moccasin making, traditional foods and also Lakota ceremonies.

Horse Riding Options
Riding and taking care of their ponies, was an important part of the life of the Lakota. You will be having the pleasure of meeting and riding the original Indian pony, the Spanish Mustang. We can offer you any length of ride - a gentle hour or so to multi day rides. A very popular trail leads into the Black Hills and finishes at Slim Butte.

Your Hosts
The Lakota people are very friendly, open and welcoming, but please note they live by a strict moral code. Please treat them and all other visitors to the tipi village with the utmost respect. No alcohol is allowed in the Tipi Village.

Dates: From May to September. We ask you to stay at least one week, but shorter or longer stays are possible.

Price per person GB£ / US$ - 2005: GB£700 / US$1300 per week at the Tipi Village - All Inclusive.

Single supplement: Nil                     Email for current price & availability

What is included
Camping in a traditional tipi.  All meals whilst at the tipi village. Airport arrival /departure transfers - Rapid City / Tipi Village. An English speaking Lakota guide throughout your stay. Access to all the workshops and the horse riding facilities.

What is not included
The price allows for joining at Rapid City, South Dakota and does not include international airfare and departure taxes. Meals other than at normal times whilst at the tipi village. Personal insurance, visa fees, vaccination costs. Personal clothing and equipment, tips, all items of a personal nature.

Travel Insurance (for UK clients only)
We only recommend the policies of the British Mountaineering Council for activities in remote places. Details at www.thebmc.co.uk