Alaska Journey

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the Denali Education Center to learn about the park’s natural and human history, and then head out on a hike with a naturalist guide.

• Cruise the stunning Kenai Fjords on a boat tour, watching for puffins, sea lions, and orcas.

• Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center, an aquarium that collaborates with National Geographic on wildlife initiatives.

• Meet with an Alaskan resident to hear about life on the northern frontier.

DAY 1 I ANCHORAGE, ALASKA Arrive at any time.

DAYS 2–3 I HOMER Trace the stunning coast of the Kenai Peninsula along the Turnagain Arm, keeping an eye out for beluga whales and volcanoes across the Cook Inlet. Once in Homer, opt to stretch your legs on a short hike. Enjoy a free day strolling the town’s quaint streets and along the 4.5-mile-long Homer Spit, lined with restaurants and galleries. Visit the natural history museum or opt to explore Kachemak Bay by water taxi, kayak, or on a self-guided hike. You may also opt to catch a floatplane for remote viewing of grizzly bears, or go halibut fishing.

DAYS 4–5 I HOMER/SEWARD Venture to the tip of the Kenai Peninsula. Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center, an aquarium that collaborates with National Geographic on wildlife initiatives. Explore the coastal town of Seward on your own, or set out on an optional hike to Exit Glacier and the Harding Icefield. The next day, cruise the glacial waters of Kenai Fjords National Park by catamaran. Scan 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 glaciers.

DAYS 6–8 I DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE Keep your camera close during a scenic drive to Denali National Park and Preserve, named for the highest mountain in North America— at a dizzying 20,310 feet high. Settle into our rustic lodgings and hear the riveting history of mountaineering here. The next day, learn about the extreme conditions that shape life in this subarctic ecosystem, hearing stories of resilient Alaska Native people. Head out on a guided hike with a naturalist, then relax and explore on your own. Opt to observe a dog-sledding demonstration or go on a flight-seeing excursion. The following morning, catch an early shuttle to the remote Eielson Visitor Center, hopping on and off the bus as you please. Marvel at the Alaska Range and watch for caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep, moose, and wolves.

DAYS 9–10 I ANCHORAGE Enjoy the scenic drive back to Anchorage, following the Alaska Range southward along the picturesque Susitna River. Opt to join a farewell dinner. On our last day, depart at any time. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional activities are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels (6 nights), cabins (3 nights)

MEALS INCLUDED 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $510–$665 per person for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private vehicle, boat

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES If you’re booked, you’re going.

10 DAYS FROM $4,299

PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: + $2,649 MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 12

DATES

2022: Departures available June–August 2023: Departures available June–August

Please visit our website for departure dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Call or visit our website for full itineraries, inclusions, and more.