Glacier & Wildlife Discovery Tour

Discover Anchorage’s Glaciers and Wildlife on a Full-Day Adventure

The Glacier & Wildlife Discovery Tour in Anchorage, USA offers an immersive experience for those eager to see Alaska’s iconic landscapes and animals. Priced at $249 per person, this 6 to 7-hour tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 11 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from knowledgeable guides. Highly rated with a 5.0 out of 5 stars from 129 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour stands out for its well-paced itinerary, scenic stops, and engaging wildlife encounters.

This tour covers the best of the Portage Glacier area, including a boat cruise within 300 yards of the glacier, stops at Beluga Point and the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge, plus a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. While weather can influence certain activities, most guests find this full-day adventure offers a perfect blend of nature, scenery, and education suitable for all fitness levels.

Key Points

• Full-day experience exploring glaciers, wildlife, and scenic viewpoints near Anchorage
• Boat cruise takes you within 300 yards of Portage Glacier with heated and open-air options
• Stops at Beluga Point, Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge, and Chugach Mountains offer excellent photo opportunities
• Wildlife conservation visit provides insights into local animals like moose, bears, bison, and eagles
• Guides are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging storytelling
• Weather may impact the glacier cruise, but the overall experience remains rewarding

Starting Point and Tour Duration in Anchorage

The tour departs at 9:00 am from the William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center in downtown Anchorage. With a total duration of around 6 to 7 hours, it suits travelers looking for a full but comfortably paced day. The small group size, capped at 11, allows for more personalized attention and flexibility during stops.

Guests are picked up directly from their Anchorage hotel, although private residences or B&Bs may require arrangements for the nearest pickup location. The tour’s easy activity level involves walking short distances over varied terrain, making it accessible to most visitors.

Scenic Drive along the Seward Highway

The journey begins with a 2-hour drive along the renowned Seward Highway, known as one of the most scenic routes in the United States. Travelers pass dramatic shoreline views of Turnagain Arm and towering peaks of the Chugach Mountains. This stretch provides ample opportunities for photos and to appreciate Alaska’s rugged landscape.

The guide narrates interesting details about the area’s geology and history, enhancing the travel experience. These panoramic vistas set the stage for the day’s exploration, making the drive itself a highlight.

Beluga Point: Photo Stop with Geology and Wildlife Insights

One of the first stops is Beluga Point, where visitors have approximately 15 minutes for photos. The guide provides narration about the area’s geology and history, enriching the visitors’ understanding of this popular viewpoint. Watching for wildlife, especially beluga whales and native birds, is common here, though wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

This stop offers a quick but informative introduction to the region’s natural features, with time to capture scenic views of Turnagain Arm against the backdrop of surrounding mountains.

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: Close-Up Encounters with Wild Animals

The tour includes a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a 200-acre preserve dedicated to rehabilitating injured and orphaned animals. Here, visitors observe moose, elk, deer, caribou, bison, bears, musk ox, and birds of prey. The center’s mission is to support conservation, research, and education about Alaskan wildlife.

Guests can enjoy approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring the center, learning about animal behavior, and viewing species that cannot be released into the wild. The center’s large enclosures and naturalistic settings make for engaging and educational encounters, even for those unfamiliar with local wildlife.

Portage Glacier: Up Close on a Cruise to the Ice Face

One of the tour’s highlights is the Portage Glacier cruise, approximately 1 hour from Anchorage. Passengers board the MV Ptarmigan, a comfortable vessel with both heated indoor cabins and open-air decks. A narrated expedition takes visitors within 300 feet of the glacier’s face, where they observe icebergs and listen for the distinctive calving sounds of breaking ice.

The cruise operates on weather-dependent conditions, but most excursions include an opportunity to witness the glacier’s grandeur firsthand. During the cruise, visitors can take photos of the glacier and nearby mountains, seeing the icy landscape that has long symbolized Alaska’s wilderness.

Girdwood and Mt. Alyeska: A Lunch and Mountain Views Break

After the glacier cruise, the tour stops in Girdwood, a small town near Mt. Alyeska. Here, provided light snacks and water are available, and travelers have time to enjoy the mountain scenery. This stop offers a chance to relax, take in panoramic Chugach Mountain views, and capture photos of the stunning landscape.

While lunch is not included in the ticket price, many guests appreciate the opportunity to stretch their legs and appreciate the mountain vistas after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Turnagain Arm and Chugach Mountains: Final Scenic Overlook

The tour concludes with a scenic drive into the Chugach Mountains, where visitors enjoy a 30-minute panoramic overlook. This vantage point provides sweeping views of Turnagain Arm and the surrounding wilderness, perfect for photos or simply soaking in the natural beauty.

This stop caps off the tour by offering a sweeping perspective of the landscape, making it an ideal photo opportunity and a fitting close to a day full of nature discoveries.

Practical Details, Weather Considerations, and Accessibility

The Glacier & Wildlife Discovery Tour is rated as easy activity, requiring only short walks over varied terrains, including paved and natural surfaces. While most travelers can participate, those with mobility challenges should plan accordingly, as assistance may not be available during vehicle transfers.

Weather conditions can influence certain activities, especially the boat cruise. The tour provider offers a full refund or rescheduling if activities are canceled due to poor weather. Guests are advised to dress in layers, bring waterproof clothing, and prepare for variable conditions.

Final Thoughts on the Glacier & Wildlife Discovery Tour

This tour offers an excellent balance of scenery, wildlife, and glacier viewing, all within a manageable full-day schedule. Travelers benefit from expert guides, comfortable transportation, and multiple photo stops, making it suitable for first-time visitors and seasoned explorers alike.

While weather can impact specific activities, most guests find the overall experience captivating and worthwhile. The small-group setting enhances the personal touch, and the combination of boat cruise, wildlife center, and scenic viewpoints delivers comprehensive Alaska highlights.

This tour appeals most to those eager to see glaciers up close, learn about Alaskan wildlife, and enjoy scenic drives through iconic landscapes. It delivers good value for the price, especially considering the inclusive stops and the expertise of guides praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the glacier cruise included in the tour price?
Yes, the boat cruise on Portage Lake is part of the tour and included in the $249 price.

What should I wear for this tour?
Guests should dress in layers suitable for variable weather, including waterproof clothing, as conditions on the boat and outdoor stops can change quickly.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
The activity involves walking on uneven terrain and getting in and out of vehicles with minimal assistance. It is rated as easy activity, but guests with mobility issues should evaluate their ability to walk short distances.

What animals might I see at the Wildlife Conservation Center?
Visitors often observe moose, elk, deer, caribou, bison, bears, musk ox, and birds of prey during the visit.

How flexible is the schedule in case of bad weather?
The glacier cruise is weather-dependent. The provider offers a full refund or rescheduling if activities are canceled due to weather conditions.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 11 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but light snacks and water are provided during the Girdwood stop.

How far in advance should I book this tour?
Most bookings are made about 60 days in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is operated by Planet Earth Adventures, LLC, known for its knowledgeable guides and well-organized excursions.

This Glacier & Wildlife Discovery Tour offers a rich taste of Alaska’s natural beauty in a manageable and well-organized package, perfect for those wanting an authentic, scenic experience with wildlife and glacier encounters.