Anchorage to Whittier Wildlife Adventure

Experience the Scenic Anchorage to Whittier Wildlife Adventure for $79

This 3-hour tour departs from Anchorage, USA, offering an engaging journey to the Whittier Cruise Terminal. Priced at $79 per person, it includes a stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts. The tour is designed for ease, with mobile ticketing and an average booking 85 days in advance, making it accessible for those planning ahead.

Traveling along the scenic Seward Highway and through Portage Pass, this tour combines beautiful views with educational stops. The guide offers insights into the area’s rich history, from the indigenous peoples and European explorers to the gold rush era and the founding of Whittier. The approximate duration of 3 hours makes it an ideal addition to any Alaskan itinerary, especially before a cruise departure.

While accessible for most, travelers should consider the 1.5-mile wildlife center loop and moderate walking or biking if they choose to explore more. The tour’s strength lies in its balance of scenic drives, wildlife observation, and cultural storytelling, making it a worthwhile experience for those seeking a well-rounded taste of Alaska.

Key Points

• Price: $79 per person with included wildlife center admission
• Duration: 3 hours from start to finish
• Stops: Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and scenic drives through Portage Pass and Turnagain Arm
• Transport: Travel on a comfortable coach with a knowledgeable guide
• Booking: Usually booked 85 days in advance, with options for mobile tickets
• Recommended for: Wildlife lovers, history buffs, and cruise port travelers

Departure and Pick-Up Locations in Anchorage

This tour starts with convenient pick-up points in Downtown Anchorage at the Hotel Captain Cook at 12:00 PM, and at the Anchorage Airport outside door #1 at Baggage Claim level, at 12:00 PM. The meeting points ensure easy access whether arriving by hotel or plane, and the tour ends at the Whittier Cruise Terminal at 11:00 AM, just in time for cruise boarding.

Exploring the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a key stop on this tour. It features a scenic 1.5-mile loop that visitors can explore on foot, bike, or by car. The center’s spacious 200-acre habitats house over 200 animals, including brown bears, moose, wood bison, muskox, and wolves. Each habitat has interpretive signs, making it an educational experience as well as a chance to see animals behaving naturally.

The center rehabilitates injured and orphaned animals, providing permanent homes and serving as an ambassador for their species. Visitors should bring walking shoes and a camera to better enjoy and document the wildlife encounters. The experience is educational, interactive, and offers a glimpse into Alaska’s native animals.

Scenic Drive Through Seward Highway and Portage Pass

The route features impressive scenic views of Alaska’s wilderness, starting with the drive along the Seward Highway. The highway offers sweeping vistas of mountains, forests, and water bodies that define the landscape of southern Alaska.

The journey includes a passage through Portage Pass, a notable mountain pass with breathtaking vistas and a historical route used by indigenous peoples and explorers. The guide explains the area’s history, landscape, and significance as you travel through this rugged terrain. The drive delivers photo opportunities and a sense of the raw beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

The Cultural and Historical Insights of the Guide

Throughout the tour, the guide provides commentary on the history of the Turnagain Arm, which was first inhabited by Indigenous peoples. The narrative covers European exploration, the gold rush, and how the town of Whittier was established.

Guests appreciate guides who are friendly, knowledgeable, and thorough, making the information accessible and engaging. The storytelling enhances the scenic experience, transforming a simple drive into an educational exploration of Alaska’s past.

The Drive Through Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley

The Turnagain Arm, known for its dramatic tides and stunning scenery, is a highlight of the drive. The guide explains its significance, and visitors get opportunities for photo stops.

Portage Valley is another scenic area, with awe-inspiring views of mountains and glaciers. This part of the journey provides a sense of remote wilderness, with opportunities to witness Alaska’s untouched natural beauty. The drive through these waterways and valleys leaves a lasting impression.

The End at Whittier Cruise Terminal

The tour concludes at the Whittier Cruise Terminal, located on W Camp Rd. This setup facilitates seamless transfer for cruise travelers, with the timing aligned to allow for boarding. The terminal is a small but busy port, well-equipped for cruise ships, making it an efficient endpoint for this wildlife and scenic tour.

The return to the cruise terminal is smooth, and the experience allows travelers to enjoy the scenic drive and wildlife viewing without needing to worry about logistics, as the tour handles transportation and timing.

Customer Satisfaction and Reviews

This tour maintains a perfect 5.0 rating based on 10 reviews, with all reviewers recommending it. The most praised aspects include the knowledgeable guides, spectacular views, and great value for money. Guides like Daniel and Frank are noted for their friendliness and thorough narration.

Visitors highlight the low-key and informative nature of the trip, ideal for those seeking a relaxed and educational experience. The wildlife center stop receives particular praise, with many describing it as enlightening and fun. The drive through Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley is described as spectacular, offering a true taste of Alaskan wilderness.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Booking this tour is flexible, with a free cancellation policy available up to 24 hours in advance. This feature allows for peace of mind when planning, especially given the variable nature of travel schedules. The tour is operated by Pacific Alaska Tours, a reputable provider known for their professional service.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This Wildlife Adventure suits those who appreciate nature, wildlife, and scenic drives. It’s especially suited for cruise port travelers looking to explore outside the typical city sights, as it ends right at the Whittier Cruise Terminal. The tour’s moderate pace and family-friendly activities make it an excellent choice for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and history buffs alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including the wildlife center stop and scenic drives.

What is included in the price?
The admission ticket to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is included in the $79 price.

Where does the tour start?
It begins with pick-up options in Downtown Anchorage at the Hotel Captain Cook or at the Anchorage Airport outside door #1, both at 12:00 PM.

What are the main highlights?
Key highlights include the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, drive through Turnagain Arm and Portage Pass, and the historical narration about Whittier.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s moderate walking and wildlife viewing are suitable for most ages, especially those interested in animals and scenic landscapes.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What guides will I have?
Guides are described as friendly, informative, and thorough, adding value through their storytelling and local knowledge.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation on a comfortable coach is part of the experience, with stops along the scenic route.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done online in advance through the provider, Pacific Alaska Tours.

Is the tour accessible for most travelers?
While accessible for most, travelers should consider the 1.5-mile wildlife center loop and the moderate walking involved.

This Anchorage to Whittier Wildlife Adventure offers a well-balanced mix of scenic vistas, wildlife encounters, and cultural storytelling, making it an excellent addition to an Alaskan itinerary. The premium reviews, value for money, and expert guides ensure a memorable experience for those looking to explore Alaska’s wilderness outside of the city.