Catalina Island Bison Tour: The Ultimate Wildlife Adventure in Avalon
From the Author: I went from LA to Catalina this past October. I tried to book tickets on the Catalina Express 3 weeks in advance, and all the good times slots were booked. Please book in advance.
If you’re dreaming of spotting bison roaming wild across dramatic canyons and coastal cliffs, a Catalina Island bison tour is the must-do experience on your California itinerary. Catalina Island—just a short ferry ride from Los Angeles—is home to breathtaking scenery, untouched wilderness, and yes, real-life buffalo that freely wander the island’s rugged interior.
The best way to see them? Book the Avalon, Catalina Island: 2-Hour Inside Adventure Tour, a guided eco-tour in a custom open-air vehicle that takes you deep into the heart of Catalina’s interior. From bison to bald eagles, this tour delivers the kind of wild, unforgettable experience that makes Catalina a standout destination.
Why Bison Roam Catalina Island
You might be surprised to learn that Catalina Island’s bison aren’t native to the island. They were brought over in the 1920s for a Hollywood film shoot—and left behind. Over the decades, these majestic animals became a permanent fixture of the island’s ecosystem. Today, they’re managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy to maintain ecological balance while allowing visitors a rare chance to witness bison in the wild.
The Best Way to See Bison: Inside Adventure Tour Overview
Tour Name: Avalon, Catalina Island: 2-Hour Inside Adventure Tour
Booking Platform: GetYourGuide – Book Here
Duration: 2 Hours
Guide: Naturalist expert
Tour Vehicle: Open-air custom safari vehicle
Departure Point: Cabrillo Mole, Avalon Ferry Dock
Operated by: Catalina Adventure Tours
What to Expect on the Catalina Island Bison Tour
This isn’t just a drive—it’s a rugged expedition through Catalina’s unspoiled countryside, with panoramic views and wildlife spotting at every turn. Here’s a breakdown of what makes this tour so special:
🌄 Scenic Canyon & Coastal Views
Your journey begins at sea level and winds through Catalina’s interior with sweeping views of the Pacific coastline, dramatic cliffs, and rolling green hills.
🦬 Bison Spotting & Wildlife Encounters
Keep your eyes peeled for Catalina Island’s iconic bison, as well as deer, bald eagles, ravens, and even the elusive Catalina Island fox. Binoculars are available for rent if you want to get a closer look.
🏛 Stop at the Airport-in-the-Sky & Nature Center
At this elevated vantage point, you’ll visit the Nature Center at the Airport-in-the-Sky, where you can learn about the island’s Native American heritage and ongoing conservation efforts. It’s also a great place to stretch, snap photos, and soak up the view.
🌱 Support Island Preservation
A portion of your tour fee is donated directly to the Catalina Island Conservancy, which helps protect endangered species and supports rewilding efforts across the island.
Read our Ultimate Catalina Island Travel Guide: How to Plan the Perfect Trip
Compare Catalina Island Bison Tours
| Tour Name | Duration | Vehicle Type | Bison Sightings | Booking Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inside Adventure Tour (GetYourGuide) | 2 hours | Open-air safari | ✅ Very likely | Book Here |
| Bison Expedition (VisitCatalinaIsland) | 1.5 hours | Open-air | ✅ Moderate | visitcatalinaisland.com |
| Catalina Eco Tour (Catalina Conservancy) | 2.5 hours | SUV | ✅ Rare | catalinaconservancy.org |
| Private Jeep Tour (Via Hotel Package) | Custom | Jeep | ✅ Limited | hotel packages only |
Note: The Inside Adventure Tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for a wildlife-rich experience without splurging on a private tour.
Why Book Through GetYourGuide?
Booking through GetYourGuide offers several perks:
- ✅ Free cancellation & flexible scheduling
- ✅ Reserve now & pay later
- ✅ Secure mobile tickets
- ✅ Trusted reviews from real travelers
- ✅ Partnership with local guides who know the island inside and out
What to Bring & Know Before You Go
- Dress in layers – It can be cool in the interior, even on sunny days.
- Closed-toe shoes – You’ll be stepping on and off the safari vehicle.
- No littering or feeding animals – Help protect Catalina’s fragile ecosystem.
- Binoculars – Rent on-site for just $6 or bring your own.
- Ferry not included – Be sure to book your round-trip ferry to Avalon separately.
To get to Catalina Island, take the Express.
Book the Catalina Express here! ⛴️
Where to Eat in Avalon After Your Tour
You’re going to work up an appetite. Here are some great places to grab a bite after your adventure:
- The Lobster Trap – Local seafood favorite with casual island vibes.
- Bluewater Grill – Waterfront views and fresh halibut or ahi tacos.
- Original Antonio’s Pizza – Quick slices and cold beer on the patio.
- Café Metropole – Healthy options, smoothies, and plant-based eats.
- Luau Larry’s – Tropical cocktails and live music in a fun tiki bar setting.
Read our Ultimate Catalina Island Travel Guide: How to Plan the Perfect Trip
Below Are My Top Five Hotel Picks in Catalina:
FAQs: Catalina Island Bison Tour
Are there really wild bison on Catalina Island?
Yes! Bison were introduced to the island in the 1920s and now roam freely. They’re managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy.
Is the bison tour safe for children and seniors?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly. However, it’s not recommended for those with severe altitude sensitivity or mobility issues, as the terrain can be bumpy.
Do I need to book my ferry separately?
Yes. The Inside Adventure Tour departs from Avalon and does not include transportation to the island, so you’ll need to book a ferry via Catalina Express.
What time of day is best to spot bison?
Morning and early afternoon are ideal for bison sightings, especially when it’s cooler. Tours are scheduled accordingly for the best viewing opportunities.
Can I see other animals besides bison?
Absolutely! Keep an eye out for Catalina Island foxes, bald eagles, mule deer, and numerous bird species unique to the island.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss This Bison Tour on Catalina Island
For wildlife lovers, photographers, and adventurers alike, this Catalina Island bison tour offers a one-of-a-kind chance to see majestic animals in a natural setting, with the bonus of stunning canyon and ocean views. Whether you’re day-tripping from LA or spending a weekend on the island, this tour is a memory-maker.
Pro tip: Reserve your spot in advance, especially during summer and weekends, when tours fill up fast.
Read More of My Tips About Visiting Catalina Island
- Cheapest Way to Get to Catalina Island
- Wrigley Botanical Garden & Memorial on Catalina Island
- Renting a Golf Cart on Catalina Island & What You Need to Know
- Is There a Bridge to Catalina Island
- Is Catalina Island Worth Visiting
California Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for California?
100% YES! – With basic coverage averaging $1.50 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from SafetyWing, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
💦 Can you drink the water in California?
Yes — But I wouldn’t. It doesn’t taste very good and there are contaminants in it. You’ll want to buy a Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters drinking water while on the go (traveling) and helps keep you hydrated.
🚙 Is it safe to rent a car in California?
Yes — Renting a car in California is one of the best ways to explore this vast, awesome state, and kind of a must! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local California companies, so you get the best rates. (read more)
🏨 What’s the best way to book my California accommodations?
For California hotels, Booking is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering a California Airbnb, don’t forget also to check VRBO, which has better rates than Airbnb.
🧳 What do I pack for California?
Head to the Ultimate California Packing List to get all the information you need about packing for a trip to California.
🛫 What’s the best site to buy airfare to California?
For finding cheap California flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
