Beppus Best: African Safari and Beppu Hells Private Tour

If you’re planning a quick stop in Beppu and want to turn your visit into an adventure filled with animals, stunning landscapes, and local hot springs, this private tour might just be what you need. While I haven’t personally taken the journey, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-rounded experience that offers both excitement and serenity.

What grabs our attention first? The up-close safari experience, the breathtaking views from Yukemuri Observatory, and the personalized touch of a local guide. These elements promise a blend of wildlife excitement, scenic wonder, and authentic local insight.

However, a potential consideration is the duration—with about 5 to 6 hours total, you’ll want to plan your day carefully, especially if you have other activities in mind. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a snapshot of Beppu’s diverse attractions without the hassle of organizing multiple visits themselves.

Who will love this experience? Families, wildlife enthusiasts, cruise travelers, and anyone craving a mix of nature, culture, and fun. If you’re after a memorable day that combines a safari with scenic views and hot springs, this tour ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The tour is private, giving your group exclusive attention.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for travelers of most ages, with activities like animal interaction.
• Flexible & Customizable: The guide adapts to your interests, whether it’s hot springs, crafts, or scenic stops.
• Value for Price: For $231, you get transportation, a guide, and entry to the safari, making it a comprehensive package.
• Authentic Local Guides: The reviews highlight guides like Gin, who add warmth and local knowledge.
• Stunning Views & Wildlife: Expect breathtaking landscapes and memorable encounters with animals roaming freely.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Yukemuri Observatory
Your journey kicks off with a visit to this vantage point, which offers a sweeping view of Beppu’s famous hot springs. Here, steam rises dramatically from the geothermal activity below—a sight that’s both visually fascinating and uniquely Beppu. The unobstructed view of the town and its mountains sets the tone for a day that balances natural beauty with adventure. The best part? It’s a quick 15-minute stop, and the admission is free, so it’s more about capturing photos and soaking in the atmosphere than spending time waiting.

Stop 2: African Safari in Oita
This is where the tour really shines. Driving through the safari zone in your own car gives you a feeling of close proximity to lions, giraffes, zebras, and elephants—animals that typically seem so distant in conventional zoos. The safari is scheduled for about 4 hours, giving ample time for slow, relaxed viewing. You’re not just watching from afar; the spacious enclosures aim to mimic natural habitats, which is a significant plus for animal welfare and viewing experience.

Reviewers like Brad found Gin, the guide, “an excellent guide, one of the best I’ve ever had,” which adds comfort knowing you’ll be in knowledgeable hands. The safari also includes interaction with small animals in the petting zone and a chance to purchase souvenirs, making it a well-rounded experience.

What You Get and What You Don’t

The package includes transportation, a guide, bottled water, WiFi on board, and the African Safari admission fee. This setup offers conveniences that make the outing comfortable and stress-free. The tour excludes lunch and Beppu Hells admission, which costs ¥500 per person, so you might want to plan accordingly—perhaps grabbing a quick bite beforehand or after.

Authenticity and Flexibility

The tour’s emphasis on local connection is notable. The guide isn’t just a dispatcher but a local friend, making the experience more personal and friendly. Plus, the flexibility to customize your day means you can request visits to hot springs, local crafts, or other scenic spots along the route. If you have specific interests or needs, simply communicate beforehand to tailor your day.

The Value of the Experience

At $231 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package. The price covers transportation, guiding, entry to the safari, and bottled water, making it a good deal considering the inclusions. Since most travelers book a week in advance, it shows demand for a curated, hassle-free experience that consolidates multiple highlights into one manageable outing.

The safari in particular is a highlight, especially for those who love seeing animals in a more natural setting. The reviews indicate that guides like Gin are knowledgeable and passionate, which greatly enhances the experience. And the scenic stops, like Yukemuri Observatory, add a peaceful contrast to the lively safari.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for families, offering a safe and engaging wildlife encounter. It’s also perfect for cruise travelers arriving at Beppu International Port, as it maximizes a short stay with a memorable trip. Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to see animals roaming freely, while those interested in local culture will enjoy the scenic vistas and the chance to ask guides about Beppu’s geothermal history.

If you’re after a flexible, friendly, and educational day that combines animal encounters with stunning views and local insights, this tour delivers on all fronts.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Make sure to book well in advance, as most travelers reserve about a week ahead.
• Bring your camera and binoculars if you have them—animal sightings can be best enjoyed with a good zoom.
• Consider packing a light snack or lunch, especially if you plan to spend several hours at the safari.
• Confirm your pickup details upfront, as the tour offers pickup—saving you from navigating public transport.
• Keep in mind the timing—the total duration is around 5 to 6 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• If you want to visit the Beppu Hells, set aside extra time and budget for the ¥500 entry fee per person.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided as part of the package, which helps make the day smooth and hassle-free.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible, and you can request to include other attractions or activities, such as hot springs or craft visits.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially with the animal interactions and scenic stops that appeal to all ages.

How long is the safari experience?
The safari zone lasts approximately 4 hours, giving plenty of time for viewing animals and taking photos.

What is the cost of admission to Beppu Hells?
The Beppu Hells cost ¥500 per person, but this is not included in the main tour price and would need to be paid separately.

What language do guides speak?
While not explicitly stated, reviews praise guides like Gin for their friendliness and knowledge, suggesting a high level of professionalism, likely in English and Japanese.

How do I book this tour?
You can book at least a week in advance through the provider, Beppu Guide, ensuring availability and personalized service.

This private tour offers a compelling mix of wildlife viewing, scenic vistas, and local culture—perfect for those short on time but eager for a rewarding experience. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide ensures you gain insight and comfort, making the adventure not just fun but informative.

Travelers seeking an engaging, flexible, and family-friendly outing will likely find this tour an excellent choice. It balances the excitement of a safari with the serenity of panoramic views, all wrapped into a well-priced package that highlights Beppu’s best features.

If you’re after a day that combines nature, animals, and local flavor, this tour is certainly worth considering for your trip in Gifu Prefecture’s nearby Kyushu region.

Note: Always check current availability and confirm details with the tour provider before booking, as offerings can change.