Sitka’s only Private Simply Amazing Tour

Explore Sitka’s Unique Wildlife and Historic Landmarks in Just 2 Hours

The Sitka’s only Private Simply Amazing Tour offers an engaging 2-hour experience for up to 10 people, priced at $1,195 per group. This full-day private tour takes you through Sitka’s best sights, from wildlife rescue centers to historic landmarks with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. The tour’s intimate setting ensures personalized attention, and the mobile ticket format makes the process smooth from start to finish.

This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive look at Sitka’s nature and history, with stops at wildlife centers, cultural sites, and a local brewery. While it covers a good variety of sights, the 2-hour duration means the pace is lively, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a packed itinerary. The tour is highly rated, with perfect reviews pointing to its engaging guides and well-chosen stops.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience designed for groups of up to 10 people
• Duration of approximately 2 hours offers a quick yet thorough overview of Sitka
• Includes visits to Fortress of the Bear, Alaska Raptor Center, and Sitka National Historical Park
• Opportunities to see bald eagles, Sitka Black Tail deer, and possibly whales
• Concludes at a local brewery for drinks, with options for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Highly rated for knowledgeable guides and memorable wildlife encounters

The Tour Starts at Harrigan Centennial Hall in Sitka

The adventure begins at Harrigan Centennial Hall, where your full-size passenger van awaits. From this central location, the guide leads the group southward along the Sitka road system, giving a brief overview of the area’s natural beauty and landmarks.

Travelers have the chance to spot bald eagles in treetops and Sitka Black Tail deer grazing, making the drive itself interesting. Depending on the season and weather conditions, Humpback and Minke whales may be visible from Silver Bay, providing a potential wildlife highlight during the trip. The van’s comfort and scenic route make the journey enjoyable, even in a short timeframe.

Visiting the Fortress of the Bear: Close Encounters with Rescued Bears

The first major stop is The Fortress of the Bear, a non-profit rescue center established in 2007. Home to nine bears, this facility offers a safe viewing platform where visitors can see these majestic creatures up close. The bears at Fortress of the Bear have been rescued and are housed in environments designed to mimic their natural habitat.

The center’s mission is to work toward releasing rehabilitated bears back into the wild, although some may stay at the center permanently if injuries prevent survival. Visitors get to observe seven Alaskan bears from a safe distance, gaining insight into their behavior and the importance of wildlife conservation. The visit lasts about 25 minutes and is included in the tour price.

Learning About Birds of Prey at the Alaska Raptor Center

Next, the tour visits the Alaska Raptor Center, the state’s leading facility for bald eagle treatment and education. Established from a volunteer operation, this 17-acre camp now provides medical care to 100-200 injured eagles and other raptors annually.

Visitors can see rehabilitated birds and learn about their recovery process, with some eagles and owls spending their lives as Raptors-in-Residence to educate the public. The center also hosts school programs and adopt-a-raptor initiatives, serving over 36,000 visitors each year. The center’s focus on conservation and education makes it a standout stop, with a visit duration of 25 minutes included in the tour.

Discovering Sitka’s Indigenous Heritage at the National Historic Park

The tour’s cultural highlight is the Sitka National Historical Park, located on an island amid towering spruce and hemlock trees. The park preserves the site of a historic battle between Russian traders and indigenous Kiks.ádi Tlingit people.

Visitors walk along scenic coastal trails dotted with Tlingit and Haida totem poles, gaining insight into regional indigenous art and culture. The park also features the restored Russian Bishops House, which offers a glimpse of Alaska’s colonial past under Russian control. This stop provides about 25 minutes of exploration, highlighting the rich history and artistry of the area.

Russian Colonial Architecture and St. Michael’s Cathedral

Within the park, the tour includes a visit to one of the last surviving examples of Russian colonial architecture in North America. The Russian Bishops House stands as a tangible link to Alaska’s colonial era, built during Russian rule.

Plus, St. Michael’s Cathedral, situated at Lincoln and Matsoutoff Streets, is an important site. As the earliest Orthodox cathedral in the New World, it was constructed in the 19th century during Russian Alaska. Visitors can admire its historic architecture and learn about the Orthodox Christian influence in the region.

Relaxing at a Local Brewery for Refreshments

The tour concludes with a stop at a local brewery, where visitors can purchase alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. This laid-back finish offers a chance to unwind, discuss the sights seen, and enjoy a taste of Sitka’s contemporary culture. The brewery visit is optional but provides a relaxed end to the approximately 2-hour private experience.

Practicalities: Meeting Point, Transport, and Group Size

The tour departs from 330 Harbor Dr in Sitka. The private nature of this experience means only your group participates, ensuring an intimate and tailored visit. The full-size passenger van provides comfortable transportation for the day’s stops, with the total group size limited to 10 people.

Most travelers find the timing of this tour suitable, with bookings generally made 111 days in advance. The tour is suitable for most ages and mobility levels, though visitors should be comfortable with a moderate pace and outdoor walking at the stops.

Value and Booking Considerations

At $1,195 per group, this private tour offers a personalized experience with access to key wildlife and historic sites in Sitka. The inclusion of admission fees for all stops and the guide’s expertise adds to its value. Since it is non-refundable once booked, it’s best suited for travelers confident of their schedule.

Booking is straightforward with a mobile ticket, making it easy to plan around your Sitka visit. The tour’s excellent reviews underscore its popularity and the quality of guides like Missy, who has received high praise for her local knowledge and friendliness.

Final Thoughts on the Sitka Private Simply Amazing Tour

This private 2-hour experience provides a well-rounded introduction to Sitka’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The wildlife encounters with bears and birds of prey stand out as highlights, complemented by insights into the area’s indigenous and Russian history.

The tour’s personalized approach, expert guides, and selection of significant sites make it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking an in-depth overview in a short time. The only limitation is the brief duration, which means some stops are quick, but the quality of each is high.

Those interested in wildlife, history, and local culture will find this tour a reliable, engaging way to discover Sitka’s essence. It’s particularly suited for visitors who appreciate private, flexible experiences and enjoy learning from passionate guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering four key stops with some outdoor walking.

What is included in the price?
All admission fees to Fortress of the Bear, Alaska Raptor Center, and Sitka National Historic Park are included, along with guiding services. Drinks at the brewery are available for purchase.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the stops are family-friendly. However, visitors should be comfortable with moderate walking and outdoor exposure.

Can I see whales during this tour?
Whale sightings are possible in Silver Bay during the later months, but they are not guaranteed.

What makes this tour unique?
Its private setting, personalized attention from guides, and the combination of wildlife, history, and local culture set this experience apart.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings are made through Viator, with a mobile ticket provided upon confirmation. Given the popularity, booking 111 days in advance is recommended.