From Anchorage: Portage Glacier and Wildlife Full-Day Tour

Exploring the wonders of Alaska’s natural landscapes is a must-do for any visitor to Anchorage. The Portage Glacier and Wildlife Full-Day Tour provides an exceptional opportunity to take in the region’s stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. From the Seward Highway’s breathtaking vistas to an up-close encounter with Alaska’s indigenous creatures, this small-group adventure promises an unforgettable experience. What’s in store for those who embark on this expedition? Let’s dive in and find out.

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Key Points

Full-day tour from Anchorage to Portage Glacier and Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, lasting 8 hours and costing $229 per person.
Tour includes a scenic drive along Seward Highway and Turnagain Arm, a 2-hour stop at the wildlife center, and a 1-hour boat cruise on Portage Glacier.
Pickup and drop-off available at select Anchorage hotels, with a minimum of 2 participants required for the tour to operate.
Tour led by knowledgeable Alaskan guides providing live commentary and an immersive experience through Alaska’s natural landscapes.
Participants should be prepared for uneven terrain and bring weather-appropriate clothing, as the itinerary may change due to weather or other factors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The full-day tour from Anchorage to Portage Glacier and Wildlife costs from $229.00 per person and lasts 8 hours.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes a scenic drive along the Seward Highway and Turnagain Arm, a 2-hour visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a 1-hour boat cruise on Portage Glacier with a National Park Service Ranger, and an optional side trip into the Chugach Mountains for panoramic views, weather permitting.

The tour features a scenic drive, a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a Portage Glacier boat cruise, and optional mountain views.

Pickup and drop-off are available at select Anchorage hotels.

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Itinerary Highlights

Scenic drive along Seward Highway and Turnagain Arm, known for its breathtaking views, kicks off the tour.

Next, visitors explore the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a 2-hour stop to see various Alaskan species.

The centerpiece is a 1-hour cruise to Portage Glacier, accompanied by a National Park Service Ranger. Participants may spot Dall sheep, Beluga whales, and salmon runs during the tour.

Weather permitting, there’s a side trip into the Chugach Mountains for panoramic vistas, including Mt. McKinley.

The small-group tour with expert Alaskan guides provides an immersive experience in the scenic Anchorage wilderness.

Pickup and Drop-off Information

Participants are picked up from 24 specific hotel locations throughout Anchorage. However, pickup from Airbnbs or residential addresses isn’t included.

Guests must contact the local partner 48 hours in advance to arrange alternative pickup. After the tour, passengers are dropped off at the same locations as pickup.

There’s no flexibility in the pickup and drop-off points. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the designated meeting spots.

This tour isn’t suitable for those requiring wheelchair accessibility. A minimum of 2 participants is required for the tour to operate.

Guided Experience

Knowledgeable Alaskan guides lead the tour, providing live commentary in English and sharing their local expertise and stories with the small group of up to 12 participants.

The expert guides offer:

In-depth knowledge of Alaska’s wildlife, geology, and history
Engaging storytelling to bring the tour to life
Personalized attention and responsiveness to the group’s interests

This guided experience ensures an immersive and enlightening journey through the stunning landscapes surrounding Portage Glacier and the Chugach Mountains.

Participants can expect an intimate, informative, and unforgettable day exploring the region’s natural wonders.

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What to Bring and Important Information

To ensure a comfortable and prepared experience, visitors are recommended to bring along comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a jacket, hat, sunglasses, sun protection, insect repellent, and a camera.

Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, jacket, hat, sunglasses, sun protection, insect repellent, and a camera are recommended for a prepared experience.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so participants should be able to navigate uneven terrain. A minimum of two participants is required for the tour to proceed.

Visitors should be aware that there may be unexpected changes in the itinerary due to weather or other factors beyond the tour operator’s control.

The tour promises an unforgettable journey through Alaska’s stunning natural landscapes.

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Exploring the Scenic Seward Highway and Turnagain Arm

As the tour departs Anchorage, travelers are treated to a scenic drive along the Seward Highway and Turnagain Arm. This region is renowned for its breathtaking vistas, with the highway hugging the coastline and offering panoramic views of the Cook Inlet and Chugach Mountains.

Along the way, guests may spot:

Dall sheep grazing on the rugged cliffs
Beluga whales breaching the waters of Turnagain Arm
Salmon runs during the appropriate seasons

The drive itself is a highlight, setting the stage for the adventure to come at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Portage Glacier.

Encounter With Alaska Wildlife at the Conservation Center

After exploring the scenic Seward Highway and Turnagain Arm, the tour now heads to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

This 200-acre facility provides a home for orphaned and injured Alaskan wildlife. Visitors can view bears, moose, caribou, and other native species in large, natural enclosures.

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center provides a 200-acre home for orphaned and injured Alaskan wildlife, allowing visitors to view bears, moose, caribou, and other species in natural enclosures.

The tour allows ample time to observe the animals and learn about their habitats and behaviors from the knowledgeable guides. Guests may even spot Dall sheep, Beluga whales, or salmon runs nearby during the stop.

The conservation center visit offers a unique opportunity to get close to Alaska’s iconic wildlife in a responsible and educational setting.

Cruising Portage Glacier With a National Park Ranger

Next, the tour cruises Portage Glacier aboard the MV Ptarmigan, with a National Park Service Ranger providing commentary.

The 1-hour boat trip offers an up-close view of the majestic glacier. The Ranger highlights:

The glacier’s formation and retreat over time
The unique wildlife that inhabits the surrounding area
The importance of glaciers in Alaska’s ecosystem

This intimate experience allows visitors to appreciate the raw power and beauty of Portage Glacier.

It’s a highlight of the tour, providing a deeper understanding of this natural wonder.

Ask Away

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour operator offers a private tour option for those who prefer a more personalized experience. Private tours are available for an additional cost and can accommodate groups of any size.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there are no facilities to store or heat any outside items, so it’s recommended to pack a small, non-perishable lunch and snacks.

Do I Need to Purchase Tickets for the Glacier Cruise Separately?

No, the glacier cruise is included in the tour price. The 1-hour boat trip on the MV Ptarmigan with a National Park Service Ranger is part of the full-day Portage Glacier and Wildlife tour package from Anchorage.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for seniors (65+) and children (3-12). Seniors receive a 10% discount, while children get a 15% reduction in the base price of $229 per person.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Activity During the Tour?

The tour allots around 2 hours for the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, 1 hour for the Portage Glacier cruise, and allows time for the scenic drive and side trips to take in the panoramic views, weather permitting.

Final Words

This full-day tour from Anchorage to Portage Glacier and Wildlife offers an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. Guests will enjoy a scenic drive, encounter diverse wildlife, and cruise alongside Portage Glacier with a National Park Ranger. Led by expert guides, this small-group experience promises engaging storytelling and personalized attention, making it a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Alaska’s stunning natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: