When and how do I make my reservations?
You should make your reservations as soon as you know your dates of travel. Prime dates sell out quickly so early booking is recommended!
If you are in the United States, please call 800-580-3494 to speak to one of our Tour Coordinators.
If you are located outside the United States, please call 907-373-3494 to speak with one of our Tour Coordinators.
We are available Monday through Saturday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Alaska time. This is 4 hours earlier than East Coast time.
When and where do we need to arrive for Bear Viewing?
Our primary Bear Viewing operator will provide shuttle service from your Anchorage hotel to their office for check-in. Please contact the operator the night before to re-confirm shuttle pick up. Bear Viewing tour times vary, ask your Tour Coordinator for your tour specifics.
How long is our travel day?
Because Alaska sits near the top of the globe, the sun can shine for as many as 20 hours a day during peak season! Bear Viewing tour times vary, ask your Tour Coordinator for your tour specifics.Lake Clark National Park – Silver Salmon Creek: 8 AM TO 3 PM OR 11 AM TO 6 PM
Katmai National Park – Brooks Falls: 8 AM TO 6 TO 8 PM
All times subject to change, for general planning purposes only, ask you Tour Coordinator for details.
How early do I need to show up for my flight?
If you are driving yourself or utilizing your hotel’s shuttle service, please arrive at the office for check-in no later than 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
What additional costs may not be included in my tour package?
Gratuities: In addition to standard tipping practices (ex: waiters and waitresses, housekeeping staff, taxi/shuttle drivers, and baggage handlers). Tipping others who provide personalized services is common in Alaska. Drivers who offer a particularly informative trip generally receive a tip from passengers at the end of the tour. Industry standard is $15 per person, per day. Fishing & rafting guides are commonly tipped by their clients. Gratuities may also be given to pilots following a particularly good flightseeing or bear-viewing trip. Tips are appreciated, never expected; use your discretion.
Upgrades: Any additional activities, tours or hotel nights are not included in the tour package price.
What should I wear for Bear Viewing?
The biggest factor to consider is Alaska’s weather, of course. But activities may also require some special packing. Dressing in layers is the way to go when you’re exploring the Alaskan wilderness. Start with a waterproof shell, long pants, and good walking shoes with closed toes.
Is there anything special I should bring for my Alaska day trip?
Make sure to bring your camera (extra film or digital cards and batteries) along for the day, a water bottle and an extra layer.We want to show you the “Hands-on” Alaska we have come to know and love. Luggage limits are strictly enforced to one carry on per person.
Your luggage can be stored at the flight operator’s office or at your Anchorage hotel at no charge.
Do you accept reservations for just 2 passengers?
Yes we do! Departures are guaranteed with 2 confirmed passengers. If you are a single traveler, we suggest calling to check availability as other guests may be looking for similar dates that could be combined to make a group departure.
Is it a guarantee I will see bears on my bear viewing trip?
It is never a guarantee to see bears, they are wild animals, but we have about a 95% sighting rate, and have had sightings of 20 bears in one sighting.
ALASKA FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Alaska’s weather in the summer season?
It’s a good idea to plan for four types of weather – warm, cool, cold, and (occasionally) wet. Alaska’s vast size, varied topography, and geographical location can result in a wide range of conditions.
During the summer months, high temperatures in the inland town of Fairbanks near Denali National Park, can reach 90°F. Walking among the glaciers generally means cooler temps (with more breezes blowing). Further along the coast in Anchorage, the weather is normally pleasant and sunny but slightly cooler. Average temperatures across the state hover in the high-60s during peak season and the mid-50s in the spring and fall.
When can I travel to Alaska?
Most guests travel to Alaska from mid May to early September to take advantage of the long summer days and warmer temperatures. Vendors are in full operation during this time frame. Early May is still very brown with nighttime temperature in the 30s and snow is falling in higher elevations by September 15th. While winter tours are available, tour options are severely limited.
Can I see the Northern Lights in the Summer?
You cannot usually see Northern Lights in the summer months (May, June & July) because of the daylight. In order see the Northern Lights it needs to be dark and clear out. The best time to see them is during the winter between November – March. However guests on our Denali Fall Colors tour in September have seen lights in some years.
Does Alaska take US Currency?
Alaska is the 49th state in the US . We take US Currency, we also take personal checks for deposits and final payments on tour packages as well as two major credit cards – Visa and Master card.ATM machines are available in most places along your adventure to obtain cash in the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in resort restaurants and in many restaurants in major towns like Anchorage. Many small towns have only one or two eateries; some establishments may not take credit cards.
Are the mosquitoes as bad as they say?
Often jokingly referred to as Alaska’s “state bird”, 25 species of them can be found in the state. They are present from April to September, but none carry disease. In Alaska, they are most often found on coastal flats and in forested valleys. The worst occurrences are in areas of slow moving or standing water. The insects are most active at dusk and dawn, but low temperatures and high winds will decrease their activity. It is always wise to wear protective clothing, like long sleeves, and use good insect repellent. Each of our vehicles have repellent in them, as well as mosquito zappers. Most of your activities offer a slight breeze or open areas, minimizing any effects.
