Anchorage: Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise

Discover the wonders of Alaskan wilderness on the Anchorage: Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise. This captivating excursion takes you up close to the magnificent Portage Glacier, where you’ll witness the awe-inspiring process of calving. Afterward, explore the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and learn about the dedicated efforts to protect the region’s native species. With seamless transportation and expert guidance, this adventure promises an unforgettable glimpse into the natural beauty that defines Alaska.

Key Points

• A 5-hour excursion from Anchorage to Portage Glacier and Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, priced from $239 per person with a group size of 14.
• The tour includes a guided visit to Portage Glacier, a wildlife cruise, and a self-guided tour of the conservation center, with transportation and an English-speaking guide provided.
• The itinerary features a 70-minute van ride to Portage Glacier, a 1-hour guided tour, a 20-minute van ride to the conservation center, and a 1-hour self-guided tour.
• The glacier cruise takes visitors within 300 feet of Portage Glacier, offering the opportunity to witness glacier calving and learn about the glacier from the guide.
• The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a 140-acre facility focused on the rehabilitation and education of Alaska’s wildlife, with the chance to see animals up close.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This 5-hour excursion from Anchorage offers a scenic journey to Portage Glacier and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Priced from $239 per person, the small-group tour (limited to 14 participants) includes a guided visit to Portage Glacier, a wildlife cruise, and a self-guided tour of the conservation center.

Priced from $239, the small-group tour offers a guided visit to Portage Glacier, a wildlife cruise, and a self-guided tour of the conservation center.

Transportation and an English-speaking guide are provided. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The tour’s duration is 5 hours, and it departs from downtown Anchorage, providing a comprehensive Alaskan experience.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a 70-minute van ride from downtown Anchorage to Portage Glacier.

Upon arrival, guests embark on a guided tour of the glacier, lasting for 1 hour.

The next stop is the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, which is a 20-minute van ride away.

At the conservation center, guests have 1 hour to explore the 140-acre facility and view orphaned, injured, and ill animals.

The tour concludes with a 1-hour van ride back to the starting point in downtown Anchorage.

The itinerary includes:

1. 70-minute van ride to Portage Glacier

2. 1-hour guided tour of Portage Glacier

3. 1-hour self-guided tour of Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Glacier Cruise Experience

After exploring the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, guests board a boat for the glacier cruise portion of the tour.

The cruise takes them within 300 feet of the impressive Portage Glacier. As they approach, the group listens for the thunderous sound of the glacier calving, witnessing massive ice blocks crashing into the lake.

The guide provides insightful commentary, helping guests appreciate the awe-inspiring power and beauty of this natural wonder.

This up-close encounter with Portage Glacier is a highlight of the tour, offering a unique perspective on one of Alaska’s most iconic glaciers.

Wildlife Conservation Center

After exploring the impressive Portage Glacier, the tour takes guests to the nearby Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

This 140-acre facility is home to orphaned, injured, and ill animals that can’t survive in the wild. Visitors can enjoy a one-hour self-guided stroll to view these animals up close.

The tour is timed to coincide with bear feeding opportunities whenever possible, allowing guests to witness these magnificent creatures in action.

The Conservation Center’s efforts focus on rehabilitation and education, providing a unique opportunity to learn about Alaska’s diverse wildlife.

• View orphaned, injured, and ill animals

• Witness bear feeding demonstrations

• Learn about wildlife rehabilitation and conservation

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Inclusions and Meeting Point

This tour includes downtown Anchorage pickup and drop-off, entry to the Wildlife Conservation Center, glacier cruise tickets on Portage Lake, as well as transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

Food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included. The meeting point is near the Anchorage Log Cabin Visitor Center on 3rd Ave, where you’ll find the gray Ford Transit vans identifiable by a bear photo on the back.

This small-group tour is limited to 14 participants and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The reserve now and pay later option is also available.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts for 5 hours and is limited to a small group of 14 participants. This intimate group setting allows for a more personalized experience and ensures each guest receives attentive guidance from the live tour guide.

Some key details about the duration and group size:

1. The tour’s compact 5-hour duration makes it an ideal choice for travelers with limited time in Anchorage.

2. The small group of 14 participants maximizes opportunities for interactive learning and connecting with the guide and fellow adventurers.

3. This curated group size enhances the overall experience, providing a more immersive and exclusive exploration of Portage Glacier and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Cancellation Policy

Flexibility is key when planning a trip, and this tour offers guests the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This policy allows travelers to adjust their plans without penalty, providing peace of mind. Plus, a reserve now and pay later option is available, making it easy to secure a spot.

Whether unexpected schedule changes or simply a change of heart, the flexible cancellation terms on this Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise ensure a stress-free booking experience.

The flexible cancellation terms on this Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise ensure a stress-free booking experience, whether plans change or not.

Guests can explore Alaskan wonders with the assurance of being able to cancel if needed.

Reserve Now and Pay Later Option

Offering travelers further convenience, this tour provides a reserve now and pay later option.

This flexible payment method allows you to:

1. Secure your spot on the tour immediately without needing to pay in full upfront.

2. Pay the remaining balance closer to your travel date, providing more time to budget and plan.

3. Enjoy the peace of mind of having your tour reserved while managing your finances on your own timeline.

This reserve now and pay later option makes it easier to book your Anchorage adventure and explore Portage Glacier and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Ask Away

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The tour typically experiences cool, moderate temperatures. As it’s located in Alaska, visitors should expect chilly conditions, especially on the glacier cruise, and dress in warm, layered clothing to stay comfortable throughout the 5-hour excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Visitors can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but they’re not included in the price. The tour provides transportation, guided experiences, and entrance fees, but any personal snacks or beverages are the responsibility of the participants.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. Participants can use the restrooms at the Portage Glacier visitor center and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center along the way.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. The van transportation and both the Portage Glacier and Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center locations offer accessible facilities and pathways for guests using wheelchairs.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Glacier Cruise?

The duration of the glacier cruise cannot be extended. The tour itinerary is fixed at 1 hour on Portage Lake, though guests can explore the glacier area on their own after the guided portion concludes.

Final Words

The Anchorage: Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise is an unforgettable adventure that combines the stunning beauty of Alaska’s glaciers with the opportunity to observe native wildlife. Travelers will be captivated by the awe-inspiring views of Portage Glacier and gain insight into local conservation efforts at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. This comprehensive excursion offers a seamless and informative experience for nature enthusiasts.

You can check availability for your dates here: