Best of Alaska: Landscapes & Wildlife
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to discover the breathtaking beauty and extraordinary wildlife of Alaska, North America's final frontier. Traverse the rugged terrain by land, cruise the pristine waters by sea, and soar above the majestic landscapes by air to uncover both the iconic landmarks and the hidden gems of this untamed wilderness.
Encounter up-close the magnificent creatures that call this land home, from the gentle humpback whales to the mighty Kodiak bears, along with a myriad of migratory birds and other fascinating species that thrive in this unique environment. Every moment in Alaska promises a new and exhilarating experience that will etch memories in your heart forever.
Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the splendor of Alaska, where every corner holds a new wonder waiting to be explored.
Day 1 - Arrival Day
As you arrive in Sitka, you'll be greeted by the stunning natural beauty of this Alaskan town. Surrounded by mountains and water, Sitka offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure, and is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Day 2 - Sitka
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Whale Watching and Wildlife Tour. Get ready to spot a variety of marine animals such as seals sea lions, otters, whales, porpoises eagles, puffins, and murres. You might even catch a glimpse of Minke and Gray whales. Take in the stunning scenery of Tongass National Forest and visit Sitka's Bald Eagle Rescue Center, Sitka National Historical Park, and the Fortress of the Bears, where you can observe Alaska's brown bears in their natural habitat.
Day 3 - Mendenhall Glacier
Embark on Juneau's premier whale watching tour to catch a glimpse humpback whales and orcas, and witness the stunning Mendenhall Glacier. Trek through a vast temperate rainforest, where you'll encounter waterfalls, wildlife, and breathtaking views. Your guide will take you to off-the-beaten-path photo spots, ensuring you capture authentic wilderness shots without other tourists getting in the way.
Day 4 - Scenic Train Ride & Kenai Fjords National Park
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Alaska's rugged coastline and backcountry wilderness on a scenic train ride from Anchorage Seward. Marvel at the stunning views of glaciers, steep river canyons, and waterfalls along the way. After arriving in Seward, hop on a wildlife and glacier cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park, where you'll witness an abundance of wildlife sightings, including whales, sea lions, and birds.
Day 5 - Driving Tour to Anchorage
Embark on a scenic driving tour to Anchorage and witness breathtaking natural wonders along the way. Visit must-see destinations such as Exit Glacier, a 3,000-year-old natural wonder; the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center; Beluga Point for panoramic views and possible whale sightings; Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary; and Earthquake Park, a memorial park that commemorates the 1964 earthquake.
Day 6 - Kodiak Island
Kodiak Island is a true gem of Alaska, with its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. The Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see destination, where you can witness Kodiak brown bears feasting on salmon, and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and fjords. The island is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with a variety of species to discover in different habitats.
Day 7 - Katmai National Park
Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to witness the beauty of Alaskan brown bears in their natural habitat. Here, you can witness the iconic image of the bears waiting on the edge of a waterfall, ready to catch an airborne salmon attempting to ascend the falls.
Day 8 - Denali National Park
Experience the Alaskan wilderness like the pioneers did, with a horse-drawn covered wagon tour led by a knowledgeable guide who will share the history, culture, and environmental features of the area. Enjoy a family-style picnic lunch in the backcountry then explore the pristine Denali taiga on a guided hike led by an expert park naturalist. Learn about the captivating narrative of Denali's extraordinary past and the resilient plant life, wildlife, fungi, and lichens that thrive in this rugged climate.
Day 9 - Arctic Circle
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the Arctic Circle and witness the Earth's northernmost circle of latitude. Travel along the renowned Dalton Highway in Alaska's interior and catch a glimpse of the sub-arctic wildlife while crossing the Yukon River. Enjoy sweeping views of mountains and valleys, and witness the impressive Trans-Alaskan Pipeline System (TAPS). When you arrive at the Arctic Circle, one of the five markers of latitude, take a photo with the official sign and cherish the moment forever.
Day 10 - Flight Home
As your Alaskan adventure comes to an end, it's time to bid farewell to the breathtaking landscape and the wonderful people you've met along the way. Although you may be leaving, the memories you've made will stay with you forever. Safe travels on your journey home!
Optional Aurora Quest Excursion
Late in the evening (10pm) one night, we will drive out away from artificial light pollution to look for the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). Our Aurora Quest adventure will be in a warm van while we travel to one or more locations that, depending on weather, will be best for Aurora viewing. Note: The main Aurora season starts August 21st and Auroras are natural phenomena so viewings cannot be guaranteed. If the weather or viewing conditions are poor or the auroras are not active yet, this excursion will be rescheduled for the next evening or refunded.