Embark on an unforgettable journey to Alaska, where majestic mountains, pristine glaciers, and untamed wilderness await. Experience the thrill of exploring vast landscapes teeming with wildlife, from grizzly bears roaming rugged terrain to breaching humpback whales in icy fjords. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of indigenous communities, learning from their traditions and stories passed down through generations. Whether you're trekking through Denali National Park, cruising along the Inside Passage, or marveling at the Northern Lights dancing across the sky, Alaska offers unparalleled adventures for the intrepid traveler. Discover the last frontier and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Alaska is a non-contiguous U.S. state on the northwest extremity of North America. It borders the Canadian province of British Columbia and the Yukon territory to the east; it shares a western maritime border in the Bering Strait with Russia's Chukotka Autonomous Okrug. There's no denying it: Alaska is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, with endless opportunities for play year-round. When it comes to wildlife, Alaska is famous for salmon, moose, caribou, bears, whales, bison, puffins, and jellyfish. When it comes to scenery, Alaska is famous for glaciers, fjords, mountains, lakes, rivers, and waterways. The best time to visit Alaska is during the summer between May 10 and September 15. You'll experience temperatures in the 60's to low 70's, 16–24 hours of daylight, leaves, and flowers in bloom, rushing rivers, and the best wildlife viewing. Fed by nearly 40 glaciers flowing from the Harding Icefield, the Kenai Fjords National Park tops the list of many Alaskan itineraries. The beauty of Alaska at all times of the year is bucket list worthy. Alaska has so much to see and do, you could never do it in one trip. Some of the most eye-catching moments can be found in Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Glacier Bay National Park. But, Alaska has so much more. Culinary tradition in Alaska is deeply connected to seafood. Fresh salmon, flaky halibut, and monster king crab draw a lot of attention, and rightly so. Whether steamed, seared or as sushi, this is as fresh as it gets. Alaska Native traditional foods include locally hunted, harvested, fished, and gathered items such as game meat (moose, caribou, etc.), marine mammals (seal, whale, etc.), wild birds and their eggs, berries, greens, and seafood. Many activities can be found in Alaska From ATVs to ziplines and everything in between, Alaska has the adventure for you. Experience Alaska’s diverse wildlife, from bear viewing to birding. Explore the vast landscapes on guided and self-guided hiking, backcountry camping, glacier trekking, skiing, and biking trips. Experience Alaska’s coastline, rivers, and lakes in vessels of all shapes and sizes, from stand up paddleboards to jet boats to private cruises. Land a trophy salmon or halibut on a fishing charter and then sample Alaska’s local seafood, produce, and brews on a culinary tour. Alaska has many accommodations to choose from. Some of our partner recommendations are Wingate by Wyndham Anchorage Downtown/Ship Creek, Hyatt House Anchorage, Northern Sky Lodge-Fairbanks, Hotel Seward, Kenai River Lodge, or Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge. If a resort on land does not meet your expectations, I really recommend cruising with Princess Cruise Line. Princess Cruise Line does it right and is best at all things Alaska. What might that be you ask? From Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge, Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge, Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge, Direct-to-the-Wilderness Rail Service, Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, and many ports of call, you will experience Alaska like you have never saw before. Are you dreaming of a vacation to Alaska? I am an Alaska Destination Expert and would love to help you plan and get ready for the experience of a lifetime. Contact me and start packing those bags, you’re going to Alaska!
Greetings! I'm Marian, a certified Travel Agent specializing in Alaska destinations. It's funny how life sometimes steers us towards our true calling, and for me, that's certainly the case. Through rigorous training with Princess Cruise Line, I achieved the esteemed Commodore level certificate, with a focus on Alaska Cruise Tours. Initially, I anticipated assisting clients with diverse travel options, but surprisingly, Alaska became the focal point. Little did I know, this majestic land would captivate my heart. My affinity for Siberian Huskies likely played a role in deepening my love for Alaska. One excursion that particularly resonated with me is the Husky Homestead Tour in Denali Park, AK, offered by Princess Cruise Line. There, you can engage with adorable Husky puppies, meet seasoned dog mushers, and, if timed right, even experience a thrilling dogsled ride with a professional racing team. It's an experience beyond compare! But Alaska offers so much more than just Huskies. Having trained extensively with various Alaska cruise providers, I've come to the firm conclusion that Princess Cruise Line stands out for its impeccable Alaska offerings. From the majestic Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge to the scenic Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, and from the serene Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge to the charming Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge, every aspect of your journey is meticulously crafted. With Direct-to-the-Wilderness Rail Service, breathtaking sights like Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay, and numerous captivating ports of call, your Alaskan adventure promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. If you're dreaming of an Alaska Cruise Tour, I'd be thrilled to assist you in planning and preparing for the journey of a lifetime. Reach out to me, and let's start packing those bags – Alaska awaits!
Marian Laughland is a distinguished Certified Alaska Travel Expert renowned for her unparalleled expertise in guiding travelers through the breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences of the Last Frontier. With experience in Alaska's tourism industry and a passion for sharing its wonders, Marian has garnered a reputation for crafting unforgettable journeys tailored to each traveler's preferences. Her deep knowledge of Alaska's diverse regions, wildlife, and cultural heritage ensures that every adventure under her guidance is not only immersive but also enriched with authentic encounters. Marian's dedication to excellence and personalized service makes her a trusted authority for anyone seeking to explore the unparalleled beauty of Alaska.
Anchorage, AK
Discover the Hotel Captain Cook, a historic gem nestled in Downtown Anchorage. Unwind in style with our array of amenities, including a grocery/convenience store, on-site shopping, and a cozy coffee shop/cafe. For the adventurous souls, dive into fitness classes and Pilates sessions. Seek serenity in our sauna or steam room, and pamper yourself with a massage, body treatment, or facial. Indulge your palate with breakfast, lunch, or dinner while soaking in breathtaking ocean views at one of our four restaurants. Elevate your well-being with rejuvenating yoga classes in our health club, amidst the lush garden backdrop. Families will delight in our playground, while guests can also enjoy the convenience of a hair salon. Stay connected with complimentary in-room WiFi, and enjoy added comforts like dry cleaning/laundry services and a welcoming fireplace in the lobby.
Denali National Park, AK
Discover the charm of Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, nestled near the Denali National Park Visitors Center. Immerse yourself in a range of activities including on-site golfing, convenient shopping, and cozy gatherings around the firepit. Delight your taste buds at any of the lodge's four restaurants offering a variety of options from breakfast to dinner, including light fare and delectable pizzas. Stay connected with complimentary WiFi available in public areas, and take advantage of additional amenities such as two coffee shops/cafes and convenient laundry facilities.
Fairbanks, AK
Discover the charm of the Bridgewater Hotel, part of the prestigious Trademark Collection by Wyndham, conveniently situated near the Fairbanks Ice Museum. Our prime location places you within easy reach of attractions like the Fairbanks Community Museum and Growden Memorial Park. Enjoy the convenience of our laundry facilities and stay productive with access to our 24-hour business center. Plus, stay connected throughout your stay with complimentary in-room WiFi.
Seward, AK
Experience the serenity of the mountains with a stay at Hotel Edgewater. Unwind and enjoy amenities such as convenient laundry facilities, a fully equipped business center, and a tempting snack bar/deli. Connect seamlessly with complimentary in-room WiFi during your stay.
Anchorage, AK
Experience the convenience and comfort of Sheraton Anchorage Hotel, ideally situated near Anchorage Museum. Just moments away from Anchorage 5th Avenue Mall and Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, our hotel offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay. Take advantage of our grocery/convenience store, unwind at the on-site hair salon, or utilize our convenient dry cleaning/laundry services. Indulge in delicious meals at Jade Restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Stay connected with complimentary in-room WiFi, and enjoy additional features like a cozy fireplace in the lobby and a stylish bar.
Trapper Creek, AK
Discover the allure of the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, nestled amidst majestic mountains. Immerse yourself in luxury with amenities like a scenic terrace, cozy firepit, and convenient laundry facilities. Savor delectable meals at any of the lodge's three exquisite restaurants, offering options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests can also unwind at one of the lodge's two bars while staying connected with complimentary WiFi in public areas.
Juneau, Alaska
The Mendenhall Glacier is one of Juneau’s most impressive natural wonders, stretching over 13 miles (21 kilometers). On this half-day tour, enjoy spectacular views of the glacier from the viewing platforms and walkways, and learn more about the mighty glacier at the Visitor Center. Then, set sail on a thrilling whale-watching cruise along the coast and look out for humpback whales, as well as other wildlife such as bald eagles and blue heron. Magnificent views of the Mendenhall Glacier See humpback whales in their natural environment Hassle-free round-trip transfers from Juneau Choice of departure times throughout the day.
Anchorage, Alaska
Experience the natural wonder of Alaska's Matanuska Glacier with our full-day guided tour. Beginning with a convenient pickup from downtown Anchorage, you'll embark on a scenic two-hour journey, driving through landscapes of towering mountains. Along the way, we'll stop at local eateries, offering you the chance to purchase lunch. Upon reaching the glacier, a seasoned guide will equip you with crampons, making glacier navigation safe and manageable. Then, an all-terrain vehicle will transport you to the glacier's base. Here, you'll set off on foot to explore the glacier's icy expanse, discovering fascinating ice formations and gaining insight into the glacier's natural history from your knowledgeable guide. After this unforgettable experience, we'll journey back to Anchorage, ensuring a comfortable drop-off in downtown. This tour is a perfect blend of adventure, education, and scenic beauty, offering an in-depth encounter with one of Alaska's most impressive glaciers.
Sitka, Alaska
Explore Sitka without the hassle of navigating on your own on a half–day tour to the city’s top landmarks, including the Fortress of Bears, National Historic Park, and Raptor Center. No need to plan logistics: Entrance fees are included for all stops on the itinerary. In addition to round–trip transportation from the Sitka cruise port, your guide provides live commentary about landmarks passed along the way.
Skagway, Alaska
Make the most of your time on land with this shore excursion of Canada’s Yukon Territory. Go through White Pass to the Carcross Desert, Emerald Lake, and Caribou Crossing, visit a dog mushing camp, and look for wildlife such as bear, moose, and caribou. Includes lunch
Talkeetna, Alaska
View Denali from the air on this small-group flight over the Alaskan wilderness. Soar over rivers, valleys, and glaciers, and experience landing and walking on a glacier, with the optional glacier landing. Pickup, drop-off, headset, and live commentary are all included.
Alaska Spotlight
View all of the Viator Excursions in Alaska
Harpazo World Travel offers a diverse range of compelling reasons to choose them for your next adventure. Here are some categories highlighting why travelers opt for their services:
Our team comprises of travel experts who possess in-depth knowledge of Alaska. They excel in tailoring itineraries to suit diverse preferences, ensuring each journey is uniquely personalized.
Whether it's embarking on a luxury cruise, exploring cultural landmarks, or indulging in adrenaline-pumping adventures, Harpazo World Travel curates experiences that leave a lasting impression, creating memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Prioritizing traveler safety and comfort, Harpazo World Travel meticulously plans every aspect of the journey, from secure accommodations to reliable transportation, offering peace of mind throughout the trip.
With a commitment to sustainable travel practices, Harpazo endeavors to minimize environmental impact and support local communities, ensuring that each travel experience contributes positively to the destinations visited.
From the initial inquiry to the journey's conclusion, Harpazo World Travel provides unparalleled customer service, offering prompt assistance, personalized recommendations, and attentive support, ensuring a seamless and stress-free travel experience.
The best time to visit Alaska largely depends on your interests and the experiences you seek. Here's a breakdown of the seasons and what they offer:
Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Alaska. The weather is generally the warmest during these months, with longer daylight hours allowing for more outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and cruising. This is also the best time for witnessing iconic events like the midnight sun and the annual migration of salmon.
Shoulder Seasons (May and September): May offers a transition from winter to summer, with fewer crowds and lower prices. It's an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as animals emerge from hibernation and spring blooms appear. September sees the onset of autumn, with colorful foliage and fewer tourists. It's a great time for hiking, experiencing fall festivals, and potentially catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights towards the end of the month.
Winter (October to April): Winter in Alaska offers unique experiences like dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and viewing the Northern Lights. While temperatures can be cold, particularly in interior regions, this is an ideal time for winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter, more serene Alaskan experience.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Alaska depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and the level of crowds you're comfortable with. Each season offers its own charm and opportunities for exploration in the Last Frontier.
"Anchorage: Where Adventure Meets Urban Comfort"
Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, nestled between the Chugach Mountains and the Cook Inlet, boasts a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Originally home to indigenous peoples, Anchorage grew rapidly during the Klondike Gold Rush and later became a strategic hub for transportation and commerce. Today, it's a vibrant urban center offering a unique blend of wilderness adventure and modern amenities. With its thriving arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities, Anchorage captures the spirit of Alaska's wild frontier while embracing the comforts of city life.
"Discover Denali: Where Wilderness Reigns Supreme"
Denali National Park, located in the heart of Alaska, is a vast wilderness preserve encompassing six million acres of untamed land. Established in 1917 as Mount McKinley National Park, it was later renamed Denali, meaning "the high one" in the Athabaskan language, to honor the indigenous heritage of the region and the towering peak at its center.
The park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, dominated by the majestic Denali, North America's tallest peak, standing at 20,310 feet. Its diverse ecosystems range from low-elevation taiga forests to high alpine tundra, providing habitats for a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, moose, and Dall sheep.
Visitors to Denali National Park can explore its pristine wilderness through a network of hiking trails, scenic drives, and ranger-led programs. The iconic Denali Park Road winds through the park, offering unparalleled views of the mountain and opportunities for wildlife sightings.
In addition to its natural wonders, Denali National Park holds cultural significance as the ancestral homeland of Alaska Native peoples, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. Their traditions and stories enrich the park's heritage and deepen visitors' appreciation for its timeless beauty and wilderness spirit.
"Fairbanks: Where Adventure Meets the Midnight Sun"
Fairbanks, nestled in the heart of Alaska's interior, is a vibrant city steeped in frontier spirit and natural beauty. Established during the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 19th century, Fairbanks quickly grew into a thriving hub for prospectors, traders, and pioneers drawn by the promise of wealth and adventure.
Today, Fairbanks is known for its rugged wilderness, unique culture, and rich history. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, including the vast boreal forests and the mighty Tanana River, the city offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking and fishing to dog mushing and northern lights viewing.
Fairbanks also boasts a thriving arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and museums showcasing the talents of local artists and celebrating the region's diverse heritage. Visitors can explore the city's past at landmarks like the University of Alaska Museum of the North and Pioneer Park, which preserves the history of Alaska's pioneers and native peoples.
Despite its remote location, Fairbanks is a modern city with all the amenities of urban life. Its friendly residents, known for their warmth and hospitality, welcome visitors with open arms, inviting them to experience the magic of the Last Frontier in one of Alaska's most captivating destinations.
"Seward: Where the Mountains Meet the Sea"
Seward, located on the shores of Resurrection Bay in Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, is a picturesque coastal town with a rich maritime history and stunning natural beauty. Named after William H. Seward, the U.S. Secretary of State who negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867, the town was established as a transportation hub for the region's gold rush and later became an important port for shipping goods and passengers.
Today, Seward is known for its vibrant waterfront, bustling harbor, and proximity to Kenai Fjords National Park. Visitors flock to the town to embark on wildlife cruises, glacier tours, and outdoor adventures in the surrounding wilderness. The Alaska SeaLife Center, an aquarium and marine research facility, offers insight into the region's marine ecosystems and provides educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
Seward also hosts annual events such as the Mount Marathon Race, one of the oldest and most challenging mountain races in the United States, drawing athletes and spectators from around the world. With its charming downtown area, friendly community, and breathtaking scenery, Seward captures the essence of Alaska's rugged beauty and adventurous spirit.
"Talkeetna: Gateway to Denali's Majesty"
Talkeetna, situated at the confluence of three rivers in the heart of the Alaska Range, is a small but vibrant town with a rich history and breathtaking scenery. Founded in the early 20th century as a mining and trapping outpost, Talkeetna later became a supply center for gold miners and settlers during the Alaska gold rush.
Today, Talkeetna is renowned for its charming downtown area, where colorful buildings house local shops, art galleries, and eateries serving up delicious Alaskan fare. The town's rustic frontier atmosphere and friendly residents make it a popular destination for visitors seeking an authentic Alaskan experience.
Talkeetna is also famous as a base camp for climbers attempting to summit Denali, North America's tallest peak. The town serves as a launching point for guided expeditions into the surrounding wilderness and offers stunning views of the mountain on clear days.
In addition to its outdoor recreational opportunities, Talkeetna hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Talkeetna Bluegrass Festival and the Moose Dropping Festival, celebrating the town's quirky sense of humor and unique Alaskan spirit.
With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, Talkeetna embodies the timeless allure of the Alaskan frontier.
"Juneau: Where Adventure Meets Glacial Grandeur"
Nestled amid the breathtaking landscapes of Southeast Alaska, Juneau is a vibrant city with a rich history and unparalleled natural beauty. Established during the gold rush of the late 19th century, Juneau quickly became the capital of Alaska in 1906, a position it holds to this day.
Surrounded by towering mountains, lush rainforests, and icy fjords, Juneau offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, from hiking and whale watching to glacier trekking and kayaking. The Mendenhall Glacier, just a short drive from downtown, is a must-see attraction, offering stunning views and opportunities for exploration.
Despite its remote location, Juneau is a cosmopolitan city with a thriving arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and vibrant cultural events. Visitors can explore the city's rich heritage at landmarks like the Alaska State Capitol, the Alaska State Museum, and the historic downtown district, which is filled with charming shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Juneau is also a gateway to the vast wilderness of Southeast Alaska, including the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in the world, and the Inside Passage, a scenic waterway dotted with islands, fjords, and wildlife sanctuaries.
With its stunning natural surroundings, fascinating history, and warm hospitality, Juneau offers visitors a truly unforgettable Alaskan experience.
English is the most commonly spoken language in Alaska. However, due to its diverse population and cultural heritage, you may also hear other languages spoken, including Indigenous languages such as Iñupiaq, Yup'ik, and Aleut, among others. Additionally, Alaska is home to immigrants from various parts of the world, so you may encounter individuals who speak languages such as Spanish, Tagalog, Korean, or Russian, reflecting the state's multicultural fabric.
Alaska, as part of the United States, uses the United States dollar (USD) as its official currency. The dollar is the accepted currency for all transactions throughout the state, including purchases, services, and financial transactions.
Alaska's culture is as diverse and rich as its landscapes. Rooted in the traditions of Indigenous peoples who have inhabited the region for thousands of years, Alaska's cultural tapestry is woven with influences from various ethnic groups, including Russian, European, Asian, and American settlers. Indigenous cultures, such as the Iñupiat, Yup'ik, Aleut, and Athabaskan, continue to thrive, preserving their languages, traditions, and subsistence lifestyles. Alaska's cultural events, such as potlatches, Native dance performances, and traditional festivals, offer glimpses into these vibrant heritage practices. Additionally, Alaska's frontier spirit fosters a sense of resilience, self-reliance, and community among its residents, shaping a unique cultural identity that celebrates both the rugged individualism of the wilderness and the interconnectedness of its people.
Alaska's weather is incredibly diverse and can vary greatly depending on the region and time of year. Generally, Alaska experiences a subarctic or arctic climate, characterized by long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Along the coastlines, particularly in the southeast, the climate is influenced by oceanic conditions, resulting in milder temperatures and more precipitation. Interior regions tend to have more extreme temperature fluctuations, with colder winters and warmer summers. The state also experiences unique weather phenomena such as the midnight sun in summer and the aurora borealis (Northern Lights) in winter. Overall, Alaska's weather is dynamic and can present challenges and opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking and wildlife viewing in summer.
The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs oversees travel-related matters for U.S. citizens, both domestically and internationally. It provides essential services and resources to ensure the safety and security of American travelers abroad. Through its consular services, the Department of State assists with passport issuance and renewal, offers travel advisories and alerts, and provides consular assistance to citizens in distress overseas. Additionally, the Department of State plays a pivotal role in diplomatic relations, working to foster international cooperation and promote U.S. interests around the globe. It collaborates with foreign governments to facilitate travel and promote cultural exchange while ensuring the protection of U.S. citizens traveling abroad.