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THE 10 BEST Minnesota Nature & Wildlife Tours

Nature & wildlife tours in minnesota.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Kerfoot Canopy Tour

2. Stone Arch Bridge

3. Way To Go Canoe Outfitters

4. Border Lakes Tour Company

5. White Wilderness Sled Dog Adventures

6. Points Unknown

7. Mississippi River Day Trips by Wilderness Inquiry

8. Next Bend Birding & Photography

9. BentRiver Outfitter

10. Eagle Hang Gliding

11. Sunset Glow Guide Service

12. Endurance Kennels LLC

13. Wintergreen Dogsled Day Trips

14. Bunker Park Stable

15. Gunflint Wilderness Guide Service

16. Outdoors with Jonny P

17. White Wolf Dog Sled Trips

18. e-Bike Duluth | Rentals | Tours | Sales

19. Voyageurs National Park Tours, Rainy Lake Guiding

20. Wilderness Outfitters

21. Duluth Folk School

22. Minnesota Reds Whites and Brews Inc

23. Kiwatchi Adventures

24. Odyssey Guided Experience Program

25. Maplewood Nature Center

26. Fantasium Expeditions

27. Voyageur Tour Boat Grand Tour

28. Midwest Mountaineering

29. Magnum Tours

30. Odyssey Guided Experience Program

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Minnesota Travel Guide

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Though MINNESOTA is more than a thousand miles from either coast, it’s virtually a seaboard state, thanks to Lake Superior, connected to the Atlantic via the St Lawrence Seaway. The glaciers that, millions of years ago, flattened all but its southeast corner also gouged out more than fifteen thousand lakes, and major rivers run along the eastern and western borders. Ninety-five percent of the population lives within ten minutes of a body of water, and the very name Minnesota is a Sioux word meaning “land of sky-tinted water”.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Minneapolis and st paul.

French explorers in the sixteenth century encountered prairies to the south and, in the north, dense forests whose abundant waterways were an ideal breeding ground for beavers and muskrats. Admitted to the Union in 1858, the new state of Minnesota was at first settled by Germans and Scandinavians, who farmed in the west and south. Other ethnic groups followed, many drawn by the massive iron ore deposits of north central Minnesota, which are expected to hold out for two more centuries.

More than half of all Minnesotans live in the southeast, around the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St Paul. Together these two cities function as the Midwest’s great civic double act for their combined cultural, recreational and business opportunities. Smaller cities include the northern shipping port of Duluth, the gateway to the Scenic Hwy-61 lakeshore drive.

Just beyond Cascade River State Park, the Highway 61 dips into the somnolent little port of GRAND MARAIS, where a walk around the photogenic Circular Harbor will soon cure car-stiff legs. The visitor centre here has lists of outfitters for those heading west into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a paradise for canoeing, backpacking and fishing. It’s one of the most heavily used wilderness areas in the country; overland trails, or “portages”, link more than a thousand lakes and in winter you can ski and dogsled cross-country.

Commonly known as the Twin Cities, MINNEAPOLIS (a hybrid Sioux/Greek word meaning “water city”) and ST PAUL are competitive yet complementary. Fraternally rather than identically twinned, they may be even better places to live than they are to visit, thanks to their cleanliness, cultural activity, social awareness and relatively low crime rates.

Only a twenty-minute expressway ride separates the respective downtowns, but each has its own character, style and strengths. St Paul, the state capital – originally called Pig’s Eye, after a scurrilous French-Canadian fur trader who sold whiskey at a Mississippi River landing in the 1840s – is the staid, slightly older sibling, careful to preserve its buildings and traditions. The https://www.ro...t-lakes/ohio/ compact but stately downtown is built, like Rome, on seven hills: the Capitol and the Cathedral occupy one each, both august monuments that keep the city mindful of its responsibilities.

Minneapolis, founded on money generated by the Mississippi’s hundreds of flour-and sawmills, is livelier, artier and more modern, with up-to-date architecture and an upbeat attitude. The residents are spread over wider ground than in St Paul, and dozens of lakes and parks underscore the city’s appeal.

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Minnesota Bucket List | 13 Absolute Best Things To Do There!

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If you’re looking to explore the U.S. state of Minnesota, our Minnesota Bucket List will guide you to the top 13 absolute best things to do here!

With water being the primary draw to this upper Midwest state, Minnesota is aptly known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” though it actually has 11,842 lakes (Wow!) .

Having been born and raised in Minnesota, and now currently raising my own family here, the experiences mentioned here are near and dear to my heart and have helped shape who I am as a person today.

This perfectly crafted Minnesota Bucket List is divided by activities found in the Northern and Southern halves of the state in order to best guide you in your travels.

Though there are so many more amazing places and attractions to visit in Minnesota, here is a look at 13 hand-picked gems!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.   For more info, see disclosure.

Table of Contents

Minnesota Bucket List: Northern Minnesota

Northern Minnesota is characterized by wild beauty, panoramic lake views, scenic rivers, and dramatic woodlands – as well as pleasant summers and frigidly cold winters!

The essence and splendor of Northern Minnesota’s rugged landscapes and glistening freshwater lakes are any outdoor enthusiast’s dream.

Fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and canoeing are king in summer, spring, and fall.

Winters consist of ice hockey, ice skating, ice fishing, skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

Here are the Minnesota bucket-list-worthy experiences and attractions found in the Northernmost half of the state of Minnesota.

1. Discover Voyageur’s National Park

One of the best places to visit in Minnesota that tops our Minnesota bucket list is Voyageur’s National Park !

This solely water-based National Park is so different than its more popular counterparts (Yellowstone, Arches, Acadia, etc.) in that you absolutely must get out of your car to experience it. 

You see, Voyageurs consists of 500 islands, 655 miles of shoreline, and more than 200,000 acres of land and water, most of which are only accessible by boat.

Popular summer activities here include front and back-country camping, walleye fishing, hiking, and boating.

Winter activities in Voyageurs National Park include snowmobiling, ice fishing, winter camping, and cross-country skiing.

Voyageur’s National Park lodging options include anything from rustic resorts and cabins to distinguished hotels , gigantic houseboats, or secluded campsites.

2. Explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Accessible primarily by canoe, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) in Northern Minnesota is one of America’s most beautiful and remote adventures making it a Minnesota bucket list highlight!

BWCA is a backpacker’s paradise in that it is home to over 2,000 lakes connected by rivers and portages that are only accessible to paddlers.

In fact, one of the hardest things about planning your first  Boundary Waters trip is deciding where to go within the vast preserve’s 1,200 miles of canoe routes, 11 hiking trails, and approximately 2,000 designated campsites.

While there, Up North experiences include paddling, portaging, and cooking over an open fire.

Likewise, visitors can expect to spot moose, black bears, loons, and bald eagles, as well as experience the Superior National Forest.

Keep in mind that outfitters in getaway towns such as Ely, Crane Lake, Grand Marias, and Tofte, Minnesota can provide able guides and supplies to orchestrate your trip and help fulfill your camping checklist .

3. Visit Duluth & Canal Park

Visiting the Northeast port city of Duluth, MN is another one of the absolute best things to do in Minnesota!

Duluth sits on the north shore of Lake Superior, which is the largest of the 4 Great Lakes of North America.

Its lakeshore location offers a nautical vibe complete with plenty of activities for those seeing outdoor lakeside leisure.

Considered one of the “Best Outdoor Cities in America,” and “The Craft Beer Capital of Minnesota”, the perfect Duluth itinerary consists of experiences and attractions that appeal to a wide variety of ages and interests.

As an active port city, our favorite activity in Duluth is watching ships from around the world transporting grain, coal, and iron ore into Duluth’s harbor via the canal.

Other free things to do in Duluth include exploring Duluth’s world-famous Canal Park, the Lighthouse Pier, Lakefront Trail, and Duluth’s Aerial Life Bridge.

For these reasons and more, Duluth’s Great Lake attractions are Minnesota Bucket List must-dos!

We love visiting our home state of Minnesota so much, that we’ve written several other guides to help you plan a trip there!

• Complete 3-Day Duluth, MN Itinerary
• A Complete List of Duluth, MN Attractions
• Minnesota Wineries: 15 Must-Try Locations!
• The Best Zoos in Minnesota for Fun Animal Encounters
• The Best Indoor Waterparks in Minnesota!

4. Travel the North Shore Scenic Drive

The North Shore Scenic Drive is a 154-mile scenic “All American Roadway” that extends from Duluth to Two Harbors, MN (on Co. Rd. 61), and from Two Harbors to Grand Portage, MN (on Hwy. 61).

What makes the North Shore Scenic Driver so special is that it includes 7 state parks, as well as breathtaking views of Lake Superior and its surrounding cliffs, forests, and waterfalls.

The must-see stops on the Minnesota North Shore include Gooseberry Falls State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse, Palisade Head, and Tettegouche State Park.

The quaint towns and lakeside villages on the North Shore provide picturesque views of the pine trees, rock formations, and lakeside beauty.

In addition, be sure to discover the unforgettable things to do in Grand Marais , as this is a town that will leave a lasting impression on your heart!

The North Shore Scenic Drive is a family getaway that you simply won’t forget.

Additional planning tip: Heading up the North Shore in the winter? Be sure to stop and experience the best skiing in Minnesota at Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort located in Lutsen, MN.

*Read about our best family road trip tips in order to cruise this American roadways with ease.

5. Spend a Summer Vacation in the Brainerd Lakes Area

The Brainerd Lakes Area offers a small-town Minnesota charm set alongside the most popular lakes and resorts in Minnesota.

Located just 125 miles north of Minneapolis/St. Paul, there are dozens of things to do in Brainerd, along with its rivers and lakes that offer wildlife and recreational fun.

The Gull Lake and Whitefish chain of lakes are bustling with dining and lodging options whereas the Crow Wing or Pine Rivers offers a slower pace and more natural landscapes.

Favorite Brainerd Lakes Region resorts include Grand View Lodge, Breezy Point Resort, and Madden’s on Gull Lake.

This area is also home to a few of Minnesota’s best indoor waterparks which is definitely a draw here for families with kids!

With deluxe accommodations, watersports, kids’ activities, golf & spa options, and specialty dining experiences, add a summer vacation to the Brainder Lakes Area to your Minnesota bucket list!

Minnesota Bucket List: Southern Minnesota

Southern Minnesota is home to dozens of charming small towns with historic main streets, as well as the big cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Rochester, Minnesota.

In addition, most of the state’s cultural centers and historic architecture can be found throughout Southern Minnesota, along with wooded bluffs and winding rivers and streams.

And finally, you’ll find our favorite Minnesota zoos , and several Minnesota wineries that you absolutely don’t want to miss if you’re looking for the best things to do in Minnesota!

Here are the Minnesota bucket-list-worthy experiences and attractions found in the Southern half of the state of Minnesota.

6. Visit the Minnesota State Capitol

The free or self-guided tours offered at the Minnesota State Capitol building in St. Paul, MN are a definite ‘must’ on any Minnesota bucket list.

The Capitol recently underwent a 3-year, $310 million restoration project which brought the already stunning building back to life.

Among its most impressive features are the golden horses on the exterior of the building that can be seen from even miles away (referred to as the quadriga).

While inside, visitors have a chance to see the legislature in action in the restored House and Senate chambers via the public gallery that is located on the third floor.

Other favorite activities here include admiring the gigantic first-floor rotunda and paintings of scenes from Minnesota’s involvement in the Civil War that can be found in the Governor’s Reception Room.

Guided tours lasting 45 minutes leave at the top of each hour from the Capitol Information and Tour Center.

7. Spend a Day at the Mall of America

Your Minnesota bucket list should most definitely include spending a day or more at Bloomington, Minnesota’s  Mall of America , the largest shopping mall in the United States.

Boasting over 40 million visitors a year, you can literally spend an entire weekend here taking it all in!

Not only is Mall of America the nation’s largest retail shopping center, but it is also a mecca of dining, entertainment, and dozens of family-friendly attractions .

For families with children, the crown jewel of the Mall of America is the indoor Nickelodeon Universe theme park found in the center of the mall!

With classic theme-park rides such as rollercoasters, the Log Chute, a Ferris Wheel, and bumper cars, Nickelodeon Universe tops the list of the best things to do in Minnesota with kids!

If visiting the Mall of America ends up on your bucket list, perhaps you’d like to stay there too?

Featuring both luxury and convenience, the  Radisson Blu  and  JW Marriott Minneapolis  are attached to the mall itself. With direct access to the Mall of America, you never have to step foot outside during your visit.

*While there, be sure to experience the other top things to do in Bloomington, MN found here!

8. Stay at Great Wolf Lodge

Located adjacent to the Mall of America is another Minnesota bucket-list favorite, Great Wolf Lodge .

With over 19 locations (and counting!) in the U.S. and Canada, the Great Wolf Lodge resort brand has become a family favorite of many!

What started as a small indoor water park hotel in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, Great Wolf Lodge now features a line of family resorts each complete with a water park, restaurants, arcades, spas, and children’s activities.

Part of Great Wolf’s appeal is that it offers a weatherproof getaway where visitors can swim and wear bathing suits regardless of the time of year. For this reason, this resort is hugely popular as a destination during the cold Minnesota winters.

We love Great Wolf Lodge for its rustic-themed rooms and family-friendly atmosphere.

*Read our entire review of Bloomington’s Great Wolf Lodge here!

9. Visit Minnehaha Regional Park

Overlooking the Mississippi River, Minnehaha Regional Park is one of Minneapolis Minnesota’s oldest and most popular parks – an ultimate bucket list idea for sure!

It attracts over 850,000 visitors annually.

A visit to Minnehaha Falls Regional Park , which is home to the enormous Minnehaha Falls, is a must-do recommendation on our Minnesota bucket list.

The 53-foot-tall majestic Minnehaha Falls is one of the greatest urban waterfalls in the United States.

The park also features scenic river overlooks and limestone bluffs.

Be prepared to stand in awestruck wonder at the beautiful Minnehaha Falls located in the middle of Minnesota’s biggest industrial city!

Minnehaha Park is located at the intersection of Hiawatha Avenue and Minnehaha Parkway in a 193-acre wooded setting. 

Additional planning tip: Make it a point to visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and see the famous Spoon Bridge and Cherry sculpture that is a convenient 6 miles from Minnehaha Falls!

10. Cheer On the Home Team

Minneapolis, Minnesota happens to be home to four professional sports teams and associated sports complexes that draw enormous crowds during their prospective seasons.

The Minnesota home teams include:

• MLB’s Minnesota Twins at Target Field
• NFL’s Minnesota Vikings at the U.S. Bank Stadium
• NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves and WNBA’s Lynx at the Target Center
• NHL’s Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center

In the winter, hockey is king in Minnesota.

Attending a Minnesota Wild hockey game is by far one of the best things to do in Minneapolis !

The Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, MN becomes a haven to over 18,000  Minnesota Wild  spectators each and every time the puck is dropped on home ice.

Not a current fan?

There is no doubt that the activities, enthusiasm, and exciting atmosphere at Xcel Energy will get you into the game.

Likewise, there is literally not a bad seat in the house.

You will always feel at the heart of the action when attending a game here!

12. Visit Rochester and the Mayo Clinic

The historic and world-famous Mayo Clinic is located in Rochester, Minnesota, which is 75 miles south of the Twin Cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul.

Rochester has long been rated as one of the best places to live in the United States by multiple publications such as  Money Magazine .

This is due in part to the presence of its world-class medical facility, Mayo Clinic.

On August 21st, 1883,  The Great Tornado  demolished much of Rochester and there was no medical facility in the immediate area at the time.

Local doctors Will and Charlie Mayo worked together to care for the wounded as well as pioneered several lifesaving medical techniques.

The Mayo practice grew tremendously and is now one of the largest and most well-respected medical facilities in the world.

Many notable people from around the world, including several former U.S. Presidents, have visited Rochester as patients of the Mayo Clinic. International patients include King Hussein of Jordan.

Along with multiple other memorable things to do in Rochester, MN , visiting or admiring the grounds of the Mayo Clinic is one of them!

Mayo Clinic offers free guided art, audio, and historical tours for patients and their guests while they are at Mayo.

The general public can tour Mayowood, Assissi Heights, the Plummer House, and W.W Mayo House, all of which are important landmarks in the history of the Mayo Clinic.

11. Visit Forestville and Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park

Forestville and Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park is located in Preston, MN which is located 37 miles south of Rochester, MN.

Historic Forestville is a restored 1800s village operated by the Minnesota Historical Society. They offer guided tours that allow visitors to connect with historical figures and experience what life was like at the turn of the 20th century.

Tours begin at the Forestville visitor center and travel through the garden, kitchen, Meighen family house and offices, and general store filled with original 19th-century artifacts and merchandise.

Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park  surrounds Historic Forestville. This park features tours of Mystery Cave, tent and camper cabin camping, horseback riding and a horse camp, hiking trails, and trout fishing.

As Minnesota’s longest and most popular cave, Mystery Cave tours are complete with views of stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, beautiful underground pools, and a maze of interconnecting passages.

Parks naturalists lead your tour through various portions of the cave and explain its history, its features, and how it was formed. Modern lighting and walkways enhance accessible tours.

Due to its uniqueness, beauty, and overall appeal, we have included Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park on this Minnesota Bucket List! Plus, who knew that Minnesota has caves?

13. Wheel through Winona

Another one of the best places to visit in Minnesota is the city of Winona!

Located in Southeast Minnesota, Winona is nestled in the scenic bluff country located along the Mississippi River.

Known for its picturesque vistas, multiple parks, and historic sites, the city is highlighted by an extraordinary history.

Winona’s downtown features 11 monumental blocks devoted to its architectural distinction from stone and stained glass masterpieces to remarkable basilica structures.

Some of the best things to do Winona are driving, hiking, or biking to the top of Gavin Heights overlook, walking or biking around Lake Park, and hiking on the trails up the front side of Sugar Loaf bluff.

If you happen to be in the area, I also recommend visiting Wabasha, MN which is located 30 miles north of Winona.

Wabasha is a beautiful lakside community on the Mississippi River and is home to the world-famous National Eagle Center.

This concludes our Minnesota Bucket List! What is one place from this list that you are intrigued to visit? Jen

Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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12 Comments

I didn’t know there was so much to do in Minnesota! Everything looks so fun and Minnesota isn’t far from me at all.

It is a fantastic state to explore! I hope that you’re able to do some of the things on this list 🙂

I grew up in Minnesota and return annually to visit family. There were some new-to-me things on this list that I’ll have to give a try. I’ve gone camping at BWCS a few times and that’s REAL camping!

You’re so right! BWCA is backwoods camping at its finest! So cool to find out that you grew up in Minnesota!!

Split Rock is on my list of places to visit! Minnehaha Falls too! I visited Forestville when I was little and want to go back! Great post!

We love Split Rock too! One of these days I’d like to drive the entire North Shore with our kids. There are so many amazing things to see up there!

We are hoping to go to Voyageurs this summer. We love National Parks and since we also live in the Midwest, Voyageurs is high on our wishlist.

That’s awesome! Look into renting a houseboat if you can! It is an experience like no other!

I’ve actually never been to Minnesota (even though I grew up in the Midwest – Iowa). All of these are certainly reminding how much I’m missing out on exploring a new state. I’ll add these to my list!

Where did you grow up in Iowa? My husband is from Sioux Center, IA and went to college in Sioux City, IA 🙂

One of my best friend lives in Minneapolis, so I Have been to Minnesota several times. They. have a family cabin up in Mille Laccs (not sure if that is spelled right) I bet some of these outdoor venues would be a good escape during our current social distancing. MN is such a huge state, so diverse. I should write a post about my state (NY) because we have alot of stuff to do and such different areas!

Yes! I never thoughts it’d be so fun to write about my home state, being that ‘traveling’ usually finds up leaving the state. Reflecting back however, we have done a loved so much here! I’d love to hear about your home state!!

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Explore Minnesota's Hidden Gems This Summer with State park Tours open now

If you’re looking to spice up your summer plans, Minnesota’s state parks have got you covered with some seriously awesome tours.

From descending into historic mines to roaming through vast prairies and exploring mind-blowing cave systems, these guided adventures are sure to leave you with memories that’ll last a lifetime. Let’s dive in!

Into the Underground Mines

First up, we’ve got the Soudan Underground Mine tours at Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park. Imagine this – you’ll be boarding an actual mining cage and descending nearly half a mile underground to explore the state’s first iron ore mine. How cool is that?

After undergoing some major renovations, the mine is reopening this summer with brand-new exhibits at the visitor center.

I’m super excited as we’ve done this tour and it hasn’t been open since Covid!

The guides will take you on a journey through time, sharing stories of the hard-working miners who toiled away in these depths. You’ll get a firsthand look at the working conditions and learn what made this mine one of the safest on the Iron Range.

Prairies and Bison Galore

Next, let’s head over to Blue Mounds State Park in southwestern Minnesota. Here, you can hop on a bus tour that’ll take you deep into the heart of a vast prairie. Keep your eyes peeled because you might just spot the park’s massive bison herd roaming freely!

Because the bison’s roaming area is so large, this is one of the best ways to get up close to them.

Even if the bison decide to play hide-and-seek, you’ll still get to marvel at the diverse flora and fauna that call this prairie home.

The naturalist guides will share fascinating insights into the resilience of this ecosystem and how it’s so much more than just grass.

Caving Adventures Await

Last but not least, we’ve got the ultimate underground escapade – the Mystery Cave tours at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park . Spanning a whopping 13 miles, this is Minnesota’s longest cave system , and trust me, it’s a maze of wonders.

You can opt for the lantern tour for a spooky yet enchanting experience, or go all-out with the wild caving tour (if you’re feeling extra adventurous).

Whichever route you choose, you’ll be treated to stunning rock formations, crystal-clear cave pools, and maybe even some rare cave-dwelling critters.

This tour is hard to snag. We’ve attempted it a few times and come up short.

“ Mystery Cave State Park, Minnesota ” by  MN Photos  is licensed under  CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 .

Book Your Spot Today

Spots for these epic tours are filling up fast, so don’t sleep on reserving your spot. They just opened up for the season. Head over to the Minnesota State Parks website to check out the tour schedules and book your adventure today. Oh, and don’t forget to grab your state park vehicle permit if you’re planning to visit Blue Mounds or Forestville/Mystery Cave!

So, what are you waiting for? This summer, trade in your couch for some serious Minnesota exploration. These state park tours are calling your name!

The post Explore Minnesota’s Hidden Gems This Summer with State park Tours open now appeared first on DayTripper .

DNR to reopen Soudan Underground Mine for tours this summer

This is the first time in two years that underground mine tours will be offered to the public after an extensive restoration project.

SOUDAN — The state park system is now taking reservations for summer tours, including at Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine.

This is the first time in two years that underground mine tours will be offered to the public after an extensive restoration project. New interpretive exhibits will also be on display at the visitor center.

The Soudan Mine was Minnesota’s first iron ore mine, opened in 1882 and operating for 80 years.

During the tours, visitors travel nearly a half-mile underground by cage and then board a train to ride almost a mile more to the deepest area. Guides share true stories of the miners and working conditions that made it the safest underground iron ore mine at the time.

The tours are fully accessible and run from Memorial Day weekend through the end of September, with weekend tours offered in October.

The DNR will also offer tours at Blue Mounds and Forestville/Mystery Cave state parks this summer. Visit mndnr.gov/tours for more information.

Charging elephant kills an American woman in Zambia

A charging elephant killed an American woman when it flipped over the car she was traveling in at a national park in Zambia .

The “aggressive” creature buffeted the vehicle carrying six tourists and a guide, tour operator Wilderness said in a statement Tuesday. It added that the 79-year-old victim died after Saturday's incident on a game drive at the Kafue National Park in western Zambia.

A video circulating on social media apparently showing the incident shows a large elephant running toward a car, which slows down as the animal approaches its left side. The elephant then flips the vehicle over and the passengers can be heard gasping as the car rolls over.

NBC News does not know the condition or identity of the person who filmed the video.

Photos shared online of the car, which is emblazoned with the logo of the tour operator, show it tipped onto its side after the incident, with a deep dent in two of its side doors.

Wilderness, which describes itself as a “leading conservation and hospitality company” operating in eight African countries, including Zambia, did not respond to NBC News when asked to confirm the authenticity of the video and the photos.

But the tour operator’s CEO, Keith Vincent, said in the statement that the company’s “guides are all extremely well trained and experienced.”

"Sadly in this instance the terrain and vegetation was such that the guide’s route became blocked and he could not move the vehicle out of harm’s way quickly enough,” he added.

The company did not name the victim but Rona Wells, her daughter, identified her as Gail Mattson in a post on Facebook. She said her mother died in a “tragic accident while on her dream adventure.”

NBC News has reached out to the family for further comment.

“It's extremely rare to see an elephant that irate,” Marlon du Toit, a wildlife photographer and safari guide, told the "TODAY" show Thursday. “Across Africa, there are thousands and thousands of guests on safari on a daily basis with no negative consequences.”

Another woman was also injured in the incident and taken to a medical facility in South Africa, the Wilderness statement said, adding that four others were treated for minor injuries.

The exact cause of Mattson’s death was unclear, but the company said her body would be repatriated to her family in the United States with the support of local Zambian authorities and the U.S. Embassy in the capital, Lusaka.

“This is a tragic event and we extend our deepest condolences to the family of the guest who died,” the statement added.

Kafue National Park is Zambia’s largest and oldest national park, according to its website, and spans an area of more than 8,000 square miles. Vast regions of the park remain unexplored and the website says it is home to a variety of untamed wildlife.

Yuliya Talmazan is a reporter for NBC News Digital, based in London.