Anchorage (Alaska) | Denali National Park (Alaska) | Homer (Alaska) | Seward (Alaska)
The following are Journeys: Discover Alaska tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
There is at least one departure that the vendor is advising is Not Available for the selected year. Click here if you would like such tours to be included below.
Arrive at any time.
Please keep in mind, a lot of what there is to see and do in Alaska is weather-dependent. We give our Expedition Leaders the opportunity to adjust the schedule as needed based on weather.
The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you're back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your Expedition Leader will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
Travel along the stunning coast of the Kenai Peninsula, where glaciers tumble down from mountains towards the ocean. As we drive along the Turnagain Arm, keep an eye out for beluga whales playing out at sea, or catch a glimpse of volcanoes across the Cook Inlet. Upon arrival in Homer, opt to stretch your legs on a short hike outside of town.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Enjoy a free day in Homer. Stroll the quaint streets and check out the restaurants and art galleries along the Homer Spit, a 4.5-mile-long finger of land protruding into Kachemak Bay. Discover stories of life on the bay at the natural history museum or satisfy your adventurous side exploring Kachemak Bay by water taxi, kayak, on a self-guided hike, or perhaps trying your hand at the local sport of halibut fishing.
Enjoy a full day to explore the great outdoors.
Leave Homer and travel the Kenai Penninsula to Kenai Fjords National Park, where the Ice Age still lingers. After lunch on your own, hit the trail to view the impressive Exit Glacier and to witness the size of this natural phenomenon in person. Black bears frequent the area and are a common sight as well.
Enjoy the rest of the afternoon free to explore the coastal town of Seward nestled in the majestic fjord of Resurrection Bay. Known for its abundance of sea life, often sea otters and harbor seals are spotted directly from the shore.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Head out on an amazing hike to view Exit Glacier. The Glacier Overlook Trail is a well maintained trail which provides views of Exit Glacier. Follow this moderately strenuous 2.2 mile loop trail to the Exit Glacier Overlook and view the glacier in its own glacially carved valley.
Today, visit the world-renowned Alaska Sea Life Center, an aquarium that collaborates with National Geographic on wildlife initiatives. We'll also set out by catamaran to cruise the glacial waters of Kenai Fjords National Park. Enjoy narration by a knowledgeable park ranger while scanning the sea for puffins, sea lions, colonies of seabirds, and whales (including, if we're lucky, orcas). See three types of glaciers and watch and listen for ice calving off the tidewater glacier. Spend the evening at your leisure; opt to go hiking or explore the town.
On the shores of the scenic town of Seward sits the renowned Alaska SeaLife Center, Alaska's premier public aquarium. This esteemed marine science facility offers a combined focus on research, wildlife rehabilitation, and educating the public. Enjoy a visit to the centre, which frequently collaborates with the National Geographic Society on various wildlife initiatives such as critter cams, expeditions, and the important Photo Ark project, which aims to create portraits of the world's species before they disappear to extinction.
Cruise through the glacial waters of Kenai Fjords National Park on a large catamaran hosted and narrated by a National Park Ranger. See three different kinds of glaciers, including a piedmont glacier, several cirque glaciers and an active calving tidewater glacier. Take time to look for wildlife in the sky and surrounding waters as you learn about the region. Keep an eye out for Humpback Whales, Orcas, Dall's Porpoise, Harbor Seals, puffins, sea otters, sea lions, and more.
Enjoy some time to explore this coastal town.
Keep your camera close during a scenic drive to Denali National Park, named for the highest mountain in North America-formerly known as Mount McKinley, at a dizzying 20,310 feet high. Beginning in the early 20th century, National Geographic has funded several exploratory expeditions and research initiatives in Denali National Park, from early aerial photographs and mapping expeditions, to research pertaining to the volcanic craters here and the behaviour of wolf packs. Upon arrival take time to settle into your rustic lodgings in the Denali wilderness before the group will meet with an instructor from the Denali Education Center. The instructor will share a presentation focusing on Indigenous history in Alaska. They will discuss the global and hyperlocal effects of the modern age on generations of Indigenous cultures while standing on the very land that five different native groups lived on and called home for thousands of years.
Please remember that due to the remoteness of the Denali area, the accommodation is simple, but allows you access to one of the most stunning wildlife areas in Alaska.
For thousands of years the traditional lands of five different indigenous groups intersected at Denali on the land that is currently part of Denali National Park. The Ahtna, Dena'ina, Koyukon, Upper Kuskokwim, and Tanana peoples each have their own language and traditions. During the presentation at the Denali Education Center our instructor will use an indigenous worldview as a framework to discuss human migration theory, colonization, its effects on Alaska, federal legislation, land rights, and the plight of sovereign Indigenous tribes today. The 1-hour program is an introduction to Indigenous history in Alaska and focuses on the global and hyperlocal effects of the modern age on generations of Indigenous cultures.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Depart early and catch the shuttle into the heart of Denali National Park. As you make your way to the East Fork Bridge at (Mile 43) take in breathtaking views of the Alaska Range and snap pictures of wildlife such as caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep, moose, and wolves in their natural habitat.
Private vehicles cannot drive into the National park. The excursion today is a guided tour operated by the park and other travellers may also be on the excursion.
Hop on a national park transit bus to travel into the heart of Denali National Park. Make multiple stops en route to watch wildlife in its natural habitat.
Spend the day exploring Denali National Park. The area is well-known for its diversity of wildlife and the highest peak in North America, Mount McKinley, also known as Denali. There are 39 species of mammals, 167 species of birds, 10 species of fish, and one species of amphibian known in Denali. Summer is a time for raising the young and preparing for migration, hibernation, or survival during the winter and, with a little luck, we witness it all. Discover the dynamic glaciated landscape providing large rivers, countless lakes and ponds, and unique landforms which form the foundation of the ecosystems that thrive in Denali National Park.
Depart early to explore Denali National Park. Take the shuttle bus to the East Fork Bridge at (Mile 43) and back, getting deeper into the heart of the park. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and shows off the stunning wilderness of Denali.
Learn about the extreme conditions that shape life in Denali National Park and its subarctic ecosystem, hearing stories of the resilient First Nations people who have survived here for generations. Head out on a guided hike with a naturalist and take in the rugged beauty of the Denali wilderness. Enjoy a free afternoon to relax and explore on your own. Opt to observe a dog-sledding talk and demonstration.
Rejoin the Denali Education Center for an interactive introduction to the park and its subarctic ecosystem. Learn about National Geographic's legacy with American national parks, as well as other projects National Geographic has supported in Denali NP and across Alaska. Listen to stories about the park's history and culture, as well as characteristics of its subarctic ecosystem. Learn about the complex geology here and how First Nations people have survived for generations in one of the most formidable climates on the planet. Then head out on a hike with a naturalist guide to take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Denali wilderness.
Spend the day exploring Denali National Park - with so much to see and do, your options are endless!
Enjoy the scenic drive back to Anchorage, following the Alaska Range southward along the picturesque Susitna River. Opt for a final dinner with your fellow travelers this evening, and reflect on your epic journey into the wild.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Depart at any time.
Not ready to leave? Your Expedition Leader can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Journeys: Discover Alaska tour:
Denali National Park and Preserve, Mile, 231.1 Parks Hwy Denali Park
Alaska, United States-99755
1115 4th Ave, Seward, AK , United States
Alaska, United States-99664
401 E 6th Ave
Anchorage, United States
91 Sterling Highway, Homer, Alaska 99603
Homer, United States-99603
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Journeys: Discover Alaska tour:
Max 12, avg 10.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Denali Immersion: An Indigenous History of Alaska Presentation, Denali National Park and PreserveYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Denali Immersion: Welcome to the Subarctic, Denali. Alaska SeaLife Center visit, Seward. Kenai Fjords National Park wildlife cruise. National Park Service excursion to East Fork Bridge (Mile 43) in Denali National Park. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Search for beluga whales out at sea on a National Park Ranger narrated Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise, Explore the renowned Alaska SeaLife Center, Enjoy breathtaking views of the Alaska Range, Hike in the Denali area with a naturalist guide
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Homer- Hiking (Free)Kachemak Bay- Halibut Fishing (200-300USD per person)- Kachemak Bay Exploration (75-85USD per person)Denali National Park and Preserve- Denali Visitor Center & Dog Sled Demonstration- Denali Hiking- Rafting trip on the Nenan River (95-135USD per person)
For this trip we use 15-passenger vans for up to 12 people plus the Expedition Leader/Driver. For groups of 8 and more travellers, we also use a trailer to carry luggage. These durable vehicles allow us to drive on most types of roads in North America.Each van has a front passenger seat and 4 benches that will accommodate 3 people each with mandatory seat belts to keep us secure and safe. No standing is permitted in these vehicles. This is not a physically demanding journey, but with limited space in the van, long drive days can be difficult. Please take note of the travel times and distances in the above itinerary. There is air conditioning to cool things down on warm days to keep everyone more comfortable. Despite some of the long days, most travellers feel that the diversity of the North American landscape, culture, and wildlife are all well worth the experience!
Hotels - 6 nts, cabins - 3 nts.
9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner
Some meals on this tour are included in the tour price. When a meal is not included, this is because there are often many options available and we believe you should have the opportunity to explore a bit and taste the local cuisine yourself. In these cases, your Expedition Leader will be able to suggest some good local restaurants or options for you to choose from.
National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout, local guides.
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a National Geographic Expedition Leader. The Expedition Leader will be the group manager, leader and driver - this person is experienced in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the Expedition Leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Private vehicle, boat, hiking, walking, national park shuttle.
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Clothing:o A sun shirt with hoodo Camp shoes and sandalso Comfortable camp clothingo Comfortable sleepwear (that layers for temperature fluctuations)o Fleece jacket or warm layero Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes ((gore tex or water resistant))o Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)o Long-sleeved shirtso Shortso Short sleeve t-shirt, light-weight, moisture-wickingo Sun hat/bandanao Swimwearo Synthetic hiking shirts (long and short sleeved.)o Synthetic Hiking Sockso Thermal base layero Warm gloveso Warm hatDocuments:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Locks for bagso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottle (for travel days)o Sunglasseso Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)o Watch and alarm clockHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the Expedition Leader, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle.It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a light jacket. For days in the outdoors, layering is key. We recommend the use of lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics made of wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton is not recommended for days to spend hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.NOTE: Mountains in the Canadian Rockies and Alaska could have unpredictable weather with snow and heavy rain even in Summer time. Spring time could be snowy (until end of June) and fall season could start as soon as mid-August. Make sure you have equipment and clothing for all conditions!
Your Expedition Leader will advise you along the trip where you will be able to do your laundry.
Upgraded: Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.