Enchanting People, Enchanting Travels
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Itinerary Details

Day 1 – 3

Arrival in Fairbanks

Pick up your rental car from the airport

2 Nights

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is the second largest city in the state of Alaska with all the charms of small town life. It is a favored base camp with adventure-seekers and explorers en route to the Alaskan Interior or the Arctic region. An excellent year-round destination, there is plenty to keep you busy come summer or winter! Rafting and kayaking down the Chena River appeal to adventure lovers while golfing and fishing are for those who prefer a relaxed pace. Pioneer Park stands as testimony to the city’s historic past of gold mining, and art galleries are filled with exquisite displays of local handicrafts for you to browse. The onset of winter brings with it dog sledding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing expeditions. Meanwhile, the hot springs are perfect for rejuvenating with a leisurely soak after every exciting adventure. Fairbanks makes for an especially unique destination during the Fall and Winter months, with the Northern Lights shining through the darkness!

Included activities

Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center at Leisure

Experience the grandeur of Interior Alaska on a visit to the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center in Fairbanks. Located on the banks of the Chena River, it has an information facility, cultural center and museum. Its exhibition hall has world-class displays and dioramas showcasing the region’s people, landscapes and seasons, including a walk-through exhibit of an age-old fish camp. Enjoy cultural performances, participate in craft-making demonstrations conducted by native artisans, and watch films on Alaska’s history and nature. A signature emblem of the state, the Antler Arch, is constructed with more than 100 moose and caribou antlers collected from all over Interior Alaska. On the grounds, you can see a restored 100-year-old pioneer cabin. Look out of the cabin window for the northern lights. The center’s friendly and knowledgeable staff provide you with information about the area’s hiking trails, excursions and restaurants. (Duration: 1-2 hrs; Self-explore activity; No guide; No transfers; Entrance fees and meals are not included; Fitness level: easy; Available year-round; Bring along your camera, good walking shoes, hat and sunscreen)

Group Wilderness Fishing Excursion

Set out on an unforgettable, fun-filled guided fishing excursion to the freshwater rivers, lakes and streams around Fairbanks, which provide excellent opportunities for skilled anglers and beginners alike. Drift down some of interior Alaska’s most scenic slow-moving wilderness waterways, where the fish are plentiful. Enjoy an eight-hour session with either fly fishing or spin fishing gear, angling for northern pike, arctic grayling, and rainbow trout. Try your hand at a combination of float fishing and wade fishing. Your experienced in-the-know fishing guide will show you the best spots, depending on prevailing conditions, and offer instructions to sharpen your skills. A light lunch of cold cuts, cheeses, breads and beverages will be served on shore. This excursion includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel and guarantees an incomparable adventure. You are sure to walk away with amazing memories. (Duration: Full Day; Shared Activity; Included: Shared Transfers from hotel in Fairbanks, licensed fishing guide, all fishing gear, lunch and fishing license; Fitness Level: Easy; Please wear multiple layers of jackets and walking shoes. Carry a hat, gloves, rain gear, sunglasses and mosquito repellent)

Hotel options

Pike’s Waterfront Lodge – Opt 1
Room Aurora Cabin
Meals Room Only
Style Lodge
SpringHill Suites by Marriott – Opt 2
Room Double room bed Suite
Meals Room Only
Style Apartment
Day 3 – 6

Drive yourself from Fairbanks to Denali National Park in your rental car (Duration: 2.5 hrs)

3 Nights

Denali National Park

Denali National Park and Preserve, with its primeval landscape and untamed wilderness, promises a one-of-a-kind adventure. Located in the Interior Alaska region, it is home to Denali, the tallest peak in North America. This nature lover’s paradise offers an endless sequence of breathtaking vistas all around. Free-roaming moose, grizzly bears, caribou, and wolves make for excellent wildlife viewing. Hiking along marked trails or going off the beaten path top the list of activities for visitors to Denali. Bicycling and bus tours are other ways of exploring the major attractions of this sprawling reserve. Entertaining sled dog demonstrations provide a peek into the life of park rangers and their canine partners. For a rush of adrenaline, go whitewater rafting over the rapids in the many rivers across the park. Aerial tours are also available to give you a bird’s eye view of the spectacular landscape with its mountains and glaciers.

Included activities

Denali Visitor Center at Leisure

The Denali Visitor Center and its surrounding campus were built in 2005. The campus includes the Denali Visitor Center, Wilderness Access Center, Murie Science and Learning Center (MSLC) and more. Though the park is open all year round, the Denali Center, the park’s main welcome and information point, is operational only in the summer months. Here you can learn more about the park through Heartbeats of Denali, a 20-minute film. This documentary plays throughout the day, giving information on the various seasons, landscapes, and wildlife of the park. You can also speak with park rangers for more information, or take some of the ranger-led activities scheduled in or beginning at the center. In fall, winter and spring, the MSLC acts as the visitor center. (Duration: 1 hr; Self-explore activity; No guide; No transfers; Entrance fees and meals are not included; Fitness level: easy; Available May-Sept; Please bring camera, good walking shoes and jacket.)

Group Flightseeing Tour to Denali Peak

Get a unique perspective of Mount Denali, North America’s tallest peak, on this thrilling flightseeing tour. Buckle into your window seat as you take off from a private airstrip on the eastern edge of Denali National Park. Take in bird’s eye views of Wickersham Wall, a 14,000 ft sheer wall of ice, and the Great Gorge with its dramatic granite walls. Keep an eye out for the colorful Carpe and Karstens ridgelines and glaciers such as Traleika and Brooks during the 200-mile flight across the park. As you get closer to your destination, your experienced pilot weaves between snow-capped peaks such as Silverthrone, Mather, and Huntington that make up the Denali Massif. Fly at an optimal altitude to within half a mile of Mount Denali that towers over its surroundings at a height of 20,320 ft. On a clear day, your pilot will circle the mountain to let you enjoy spectacular views from different perspectives. Gain insights into the history and ecology of the region on this fully narrated tour. (Only Possible From Mid-May to Mid-September; Duration: Half Day; Shared Activity; Group Size: Min 2 Guests; No Transfers; Total flight time is about 60 to 70 minutes)

Horseshoe Lake Trail at Leisure

Take a popular and scenic hike along the Horseshoe Lake Trail in Denali National Park. The trail circles Horseshoe Lake and traces a stretch of the Nenana River, allowing you to have many scenic photo stops and the chance of encountering wildlife along the way. This is a well-maintained, moderately easy trail, with only one steep section and plenty of pretty lake views. From the trailhead, hike up a short steep hill to reach a bench overlooking the lake. Just beyond, the trail drops sharply (about 250 feet) to the level of the lake and forks in two directions, forming a loop around the lake. Along the way, there are several viewing platforms offering stunning views of the Nenana River, the development called ‘Glitter Gulch’ right outside the park, and the surrounding mountains. A beaver dam and beaver lodge can be seen within the lake. (Duration: half day; Self-explore activity; No guide; No transfers; Entrance fees and meals are not included; Fitness level: easy-moderate; Available year-round; Please bring camera, good walking shoes and jacket)

Group Tour: Denali Highway by Jeep

Traverse the Denali Highway by jeep for a unique exploration of the Alaskan wilderness. Listed second among National Geographic Traveler magazine’s picks for ‘Drive of a Lifetime’, this 135-mile gravel road runs adjacent to Denali National Park. Make yourself comfortable in a new, four-door Wrangler Jeep that can accommodate up to four adults. If you have a valid driver’s license, you could try driving the jeep during this fully guided tour. Enjoy splendid views of snow-capped peaks, icy glaciers and serene lakes as you travel down the road that once served as the gateway to the famous national park. With most rental companies prohibiting driving along this road, you can expect minimal traffic along the way. Drive for over a hundred miles, stopping for photo opportunities along the way. Make use of the CB radio in your jeep to let your guide know whenever you want to halt. On a clear day, you might be able to enjoy beautiful views of Mount Denali. Look out for wildlife such as moose crossing your path or in the foliage along the roadside. (Duration: Half Day; Timing: 7:30am or 6:30pm/5:30pm starting Aug 6; Shared Activity & Transfers from select hotels; Snacks and Drinks Included; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Please note that you need to be 25 years or older and have a valid driving license in order to drive a jeep; This tour does not travel on Denali Park Road and does not go into the national park; Binoculars are provided in the jeep; You may have to share the vehicle with other guests)

Group Canyon Whitewater Rafting Tour Down the Nenana River

Enjoy a thrilling whitewater rafting excursion on the eastern fringes of the Denali National Park. Arrive at Kingfisher Creek Confluence for a safety briefing, and then hop on to your raft to take on these glacial waters. Choose between an oar raft, which is rowed by a guide or a paddle raft, which is rowed by all rafters onboard, following the guide’s instructions. Navigate wave trains that create mostly class III and IV rapids as you head to Healy, located about 11 miles down the Nenana River. Feel the adrenaline rush on rapids such as ‘Cable Car’, ‘Coffee Grinder’ and ‘Royal Flush’. Alpine forests, the lofty Alaskan Range highlighted by Mount Healy, and the Nenana River Gorge are sights to look out for in this pristine wilderness. Learn about Alaska’s wildlife and the history of this region. (Duration: Half Day; Time: 0730 & 1500 hrs May 20-Sept 10, 1000 hrs June 5 -Sept 3, 1830 hrs May 20-Aug 23, 1730 hrs Aug 24-Sept 3; Shared Activity & Transfers; Fitness level: Moderate, for ages 12 and above; Kindly note that a Gore-Tex drysuit, neoprene booties, and a life jacket will be provided for each guest; Please wear warm clothes)

Hotel options

Denali Park Village – Opt 1
Room Village Lodge Standard Room
Meals Room Only
Style Resort
Denali Bluffs Hotel – Opt 2
Room Hillside Guest Room
Meals Room Only
Style Lodge
Day 6 – 9

Drive yourself in your rental car from Denali NP to Girdwood (Duration: 5.5 hrs)

3 Nights

Girdwood

Girdwood, tucked into a valley within the Chugach Mountains, has the distinction of being Alaska’s only resort town with plenty to offer year round. Hemmed in by seven glaciers, it offers an idyllic escape just an hour’s drive from Anchorage. Guided hikes and aerial tours allow you to discover the area’s glaciers while kayaking is ideal for enjoying the vistas from the water. The tram ride to the top of Mount Alyeska offers dramatic views of the spectacular landscape. Mountain biking, rock climbing, and paragliding await active travelers. For visitors in quest of an adrenaline rush from the ultimate Alaskan experience, dog sledding is a must! Wildlife spotting opportunities abound at the conservation center set on the outskirts of town. Watch the town come to life with music, dance, and craft displays during the annual spring and summer festivals. The onset of winter brings with it world-class opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.

Included activities

Group Summer Glacier Dog Sledding Tour

Explore pristine glaciers and mountainscapes as you go dog-sledding 3200 meters above sea level! Set off from your Girdwood hotel for a thrilling helicopter flight that takes you across over the mountains, offering stunning aerial views of the landscape below. Right after you land on the Punchbowl Glacier, meet your dog sledding guide together with the team of friendly Alaskan huskies from mushing icon Mitch Seavey’s Ididaride Kennel. Learn more about these majestic dogs, their training and the mushing way of life. Get onto your sled to kick off an invigorating ride over a 2K-to-3K loop that runs along snowy fields and icy glaciers. Use your new-found mushing skills to help drive the sled or sit back and enjoy the passing northern vistas. Finally, unwind in the company of cute little huskies before you take off for your return trip to Girdwood. (Duration: 2 hrs; Shared Activity; Transfers included; Tour includes guide & 15-minute round trip helicopter flight; Guests are requested to wear warm comfortable layered clothing, sturdy shoes and sunglasses; Fitness level: easy)

Explore Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center on Your Own

Spend a day at this sprawling wildlife sanctuary dedicated to conservation, research, animal care and wildlife rehabilitation programs. After breakfast or lunch in your hotel, drive over to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The sanctuary, hemmed in by the Placer River and the Portage River, is home to vast natural enclosures for reindeer, caribou, brown bear and wolf packs, among many other local wildlife. While you can also go cross-country skiing, biking and sledding at the center, the more popular ways of visiting the animal enclosures are by car or on foot. Catch herds of bison roaming the pastures and bears visiting the natural pools along the loop trail encircling the center. Take part in the many interactive and informative wildlife events and programs hosted by the center. (Duration: half day; Self-explore activity; No guide; No transfers; Entrance fees & meals are not included; Fitness level: easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes, ice grippers recommended in winters)

Hotel options

Alyeska Resort – Opt 1
Room Deluxe Room
Meals Room Only
Style Resort
Alyeska Resort – Opt 2
Room Deluxe Room
Meals Room Only
Style Resort
Day 9 – 11

Drive yourself from Girdwood to Seward in your rental car (Duration: 1.5 hrs)

Boat transfer from Seward to Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge on Fox Island, departing daily at 12 noon

2 Nights

Fox Island

Fox Island is close to Seward, but it’s a world away from the ordinary. The waters surrounding it are a rich blue green color, reflecting the weather and lapping upon the shore. Marine wildlife is abundant near Fox Island. Guests cruising to or from the island commonly see Steller sea lions, otters, whales, Dall’s porpoise, and an endless variety of seabirds that include eagles, puffins, cormorants, and murres. Due to its remote location, Fox Island relies on renewable energy sources to power the facilities, making it the ideal place to unplug and reconnect with nature.

Included activities

Rural Ramble by Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge

Discover the many attractions of Resurrection Bay and Fox Island while you stay at Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge. Set off at noon for an enjoyable tour of Resurrection Bay that takes you past jagged cliffs and alpine glaciers. Watch out for endemic marine species such as whales and porpoises. Spot seabirds such as cormorants and puffins as you cruise the turquoise waters. Step ashore at a remote island for a delicious gourmet meal before you sail back. You could also take your pick of water activities such as kayaking and canoeing to explore the rocky coves at your own pace. Nature walks and interpretive programs let you make the most of the rugged wilderness. (Included hotel activities)

Hotel options

Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge – Opt 1
Room Standard Cabin Room
Meals Room Only
Style Lodge
Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge – Opt 2
Room Standard Cabin Room
Meals Room Only
Style Lodge
Day 11 – 12

Kenai Fjord Tour on the way back to Seward.

1 Night

Seward

Seward is a charming port city perched at the tip of Resurrection Bay on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. Tucked between the ocean and the mountains, it offers an array of experiences to suit every taste. Picturesque trails including one that winds up to the summit of Mount Marathon lead you to stunning landscapes, each more photo-worthy than the next! From watching seals and puffins at the Alaska SeaLife Center to fishing expeditions sailing out of the harbor, the rich marine life promises hours of enjoyment. If boats are not for you, fly over the glaciers in a helicopter or a seaplane. Meanwhile, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is ideal for sightings of bear and moose. Soak in the old world charm of the historic downtown area that also boasts a vibrant food and nightlife scene. Spend an enjoyable afternoon viewing the many vibrant murals of downtown or visiting art galleries showcasing local talent. Having a good time comes easy in Seward with a host of nightspots and restaurants to choose from.

Hotel options

Harbor 360 Hotel – Opt 1
Room Standard Room
Meals Room Only
Style International
Seward Gateway Hotel – Opt 2
Room Standard Room
Meals Room Only
Style International
Day 12 – 12

Drive yourself to the Anchorage airport and drop off your rental car

Departure from Anchorage

Anchorage

Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city nestled on the shores of Cook Inlet. Sandwiched between rugged peaks and tranquil water, this urban sprawl is home to nearly half of the state’s population. Don’t be surprised to see bears and moose sauntering across private yards or public parks – it’s a way of life here! The Alaska Native Heritage Center is your one-stop source for all things cultural with its traditional craft displays and dance performances. Top it off with a trip to the local museum for your fill of the region’s history. Kayaking, canoeing, and whale watching tours let you explore the area by water, while scenic flight tours are a great way of discovering glaciers. Dog sledding remains a favorite pastime of visitors, followed closely by gold panning at the local mines. Back in town, dining experiences turn into gourmet feasts with fresh seafood and local produce dominating the culinary scene.
Discover the spectacular natural beauty of the Last Frontier on a personalized road trip! Enjoy guided fishing excursions to the freshwater rivers and lakes around Fairbanks. Then, head into the wild at Denali, where North America’s tallest peak overlooks an untouched landscape. Hike along scenic trails, enjoy guided whitewater rafting on the Nenana River and take the ‘Drive of a Lifetime’ along the Denali Highway. One of the main highlights is a 200-mile-long flightseeing tour, which offers you a unique perspective on the landscape and majestic peaks. At your next stop – Girdwood, you will get to go on a thrilling helicopter ride over the mountains and enjoy a dog sledding tour of the area’s glaciers. Afterward, take a short trip aboard the Alaskan Railroad’s Discovery Train across one of the most scenic sections of the railroad. Visit the extraordinary Fox Island, which is teeming with marine life and birds. Stay at the Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge and immerse yourself in nature, hiking and exploring the glaciers and cliffs of Resurrection Bay. Do you wish to explore more of Alaska on your vacation? Our experts are happy to suggest suitable excursions and plan your itinerary as per your interests. Get in touch!

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

From $10,190 USD / person

Option 2

From $10,390 USD / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes
  • Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
  • Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
  • Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
  • Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone
Not Included
  • Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
  • Tips and personal expenses
  • Visa and tourism fees
  • Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
  • International airfare

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