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PLANNING 101
Planning your trip to Alaska

Planning an Alaska vacation is fun. You could thrill to white thunder in Glacier Bay, marvel at sunlight at midnight and close-ups of whales, eagles and caribou. Delight in Mt. McKinley's majesty and meadows carpeted with wildflowers. Amid unsurpassed grandeur and serenity, the true wilderness of Denali is calling. Catch sight of a humpback whale or wolf pups frolicking in the snow. Alaska is as rustic and romantic as one could ever imagine. Whales, Wonders and Wilderness  

When it comes to Alaska, what do you want to see and do? Do you want to see majestic mountains or a picturesque coastline? Do you want to see bears or whales or both? Do you want experience interior Alaska, such as Denali National Park?   Are you interested in riding the Alaska Railroad, taking in the sights from glass-domed rail cars? Do you want to  reel in a king salmon?  Paddle a kayak on a remote lake. Or gaze at calving glaciers or breaching whales?  Perhaps see a snowy landscape capped by northern lights? Do you want to go dog sledding?

As you research things like rail tours,  bear and moose viewing, national parks or fishing, you may also find Alaska land and shore excursion specialists that offer private or small-group package tours with itineraries that match your cruise itinerary abd are designed to combine some of Alaska's most iconic attractions.

If a cruise from Whittier ( Anchorage ) Vancouver, Seattle or San Francisco  is not on your list this year, there are many other ways to get to and/or around Alaska. Most major airlines offer nonstop flights into major cities like Anchorage, Fairbanks and Juneau. Then, If Denali is a must on your list, you'll be arriving by Alaska Railroad from either Anchorage or Fairbanks.

We've discovered it's best to let your original trip inspiration lead you and not try to pack too much into one trip. To get started, order an Alaska Vacation Planner to help guide you, and don't miss these travel tips.

Tips to help you plan your trip to Alaska, here's some tips from Travel Alaska The official State of Alaska website.

Covid 19 Information
The Alaska Travel Industry Association and its partners understand travelers' concerns related to COVID-19. It is our priority...
Interesting Alaska Facts
Alaska is big. Our 586,412 square miles are bigger than Texas, California, and Montana combined
Where are the best places to see bears?
Bears top of the list of Alaska's "top 5" wildlife viewing experiences. And because bears tend to visit the same locations in search of...
Do I need a Passport to visit Alaska?
As the 49th State, U.S. residents don't need a passport to go to Alaska, but as of October 1, 2020, you will need a...
How long should I plan for a trip to Alaska?
If you have a week you have enough time for a thrilling, memorable Alaskan vacation. Almost any itinerary...
Is Alaska affordable?
A common misconception is that a trip to Alaska is expensive. This idea is likely a holdover from the boom-days when...
Is Alaska accessible for people with mobility challenges?
Alaska is big, but it doesn't have to be intimidating for people with developmental or mobility challenges. Whether you're....
What can I buy in Alaska?
Wherever you go the Great Land, you'll find unique, authentic Alaskan products and crafts. These can include...
What is the best month to visit Alaska?
We think every month is the best month to visit Alaska! February and March are great for watching dogsled races and winter...
What should I pack for a visit to Alaska?
When your packing for your Alaska vacation, it's best to plan for a little of everything. Weather can vary dramatically by region and season. Alaska's summer season is May...
Where is the Iditarod Trail?
Dog mushing is Alaska's official sport, and the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race held every...
Where is the most beautiful place in Alaska?
Alaska has so many beautiful places and different ways to experience our amazing landscapes, it's...
Why should I vissit Alaska?
Still dreaming about a trip to Alaska? Here are the top ten reasons why you should take an Alaska vacation.
 

Related Resources

Sightseeing in Alaska
What should I see in Alaska
There are so many things to see and do in Alaska, it's hard to pick just one or two! Exploring Alaska's sights by the....

Getting Started

Where To Start Planning?

The first thing to know is you don't have to do it alone! Alaska Travel Advisors specialize in Alaska and can make recommendations customized to your requests.