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Aurora season is an incredible time to visit Alaska, whether in the cities or the snow-covered backcountry—and on this itinerary, you’ll experience both. Travel along the scenic Turnagain Arm for breathtaking views, spot local wildlife, hike across a glacier, try dogsledding or snowmachining, and take a spectacular flightseeing tour across the Arctic Circle, then sit back and watch the Northern Lights dance across the vast night sky. From cosy accommodation to stunning snowy landscapes, it’s the winter of your imagination brought to life on this unforgettable northern adventure.
Inclusions
Meals
2 Breakfasts
2 Lunches
Accommodation
7 nights hotel accommodation
2 nights Igloo/Dome accommodation
Transportation
Alaska Railroad from Anchorage to Fairbanks
Borealis Basecamp shared return transfers
Itinerary
Day 1: Anchorage
Welcome to Anchorage, the gateway to your Alaskan adventure. The city combines the state’s famously wild beauty with urban comforts, captivating arts and culture. Here, you’ll find sparkling glaciers, vast parks and trails, abundant wildlife and stunning mountain ranges all within easy reach.
For a fantastic introduction, begin your trip by boarding a small aircraft with an Alaskan bush pilot for a flightseeing adventure to Denali, North America’s highest peak.
Day 2: Anchorage – Matanuska Glacier – Anchorage
Alaska’s largest road-accessible glacier is just two hours north of Anchorage. Thousands of years old, the massive Matanuska Glacier exists at the head of the scenic Matanuska Valley, offering sweeping views. With expert local guides leading the way, strap on some micro spikes, grab a hiking pole and spend some time trekking on a frozen river of ancient ice. Afterwards, warm up with a hearty lunch at a local lodge.
Day 3: Anchorage – Girdwood – Anchorage
Today, join a small group tour to travel along the scenic Turnagain Arm, one of the most scenic drives in the country. Your guide will tell you all about this area and share personal knowledge of Alaska on the way to Mount. Alyeska. Take in the spectacular views as you ride an aerial tram to the top of the mountain.
Afterwards, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where your guide will introduce you to Alaskan animals including moose, elk, muskox, caribou, owls and more. As you travel back to Anchorage, keep your eyes open for Dall sheep and bald eagles.
Day 4: Anchorage – Fairbanks
Depart Anchorage this morning for the scenic rail journey north to Fairbanks.
While the Aurora Winter Train travels the same stretch of tracks as the summer Denali Star Train, the views are strikingly distinct; the vibrant colours of Alaska’s summer landscape give way to the quiet serenity of pristine snow. Passengers may enjoy the winter wonderland of Alaska’s backcountry from the comfort of a warm railcar, complete with comfortable seats, large picture windows and onboard dining. On a clear day, a spectacular view of Denali rises into view above the Susitna River. And anywhere along the tracks, a watchful eye may be rewarded with the sight of a moose in the wild.
Day 5: Fairbanks
Today, you’ll explore Fairbanks and surrounds on a locally guided tour. Highlights include a visit to Santa Claus House in the charming village of North Pole and learning about the engineering marvel of the Trans Alaska Pipeline. Visits to the Morris Thompson Cultural Center for cultural programs and interpretive galleries, and the Museum of the North for fascinating exhibits will make for an immersive end to the afternoon.
Day 6: Fairbanks – Arctic Circle – Fairbanks
Today you’ll take to the skies to see Alaska from above. Marvel at vast and remote landscapes as you cross the Arctic Circle on a flightseeing adventure. You'll fly over sections of the remarkable Trans Alaska Pipeline, symbolising the immense changes brought to Alaska's Arctic by the discovery of oil, witness remnants of the gold mining that continues nearly 100 years after the yellow metal first brought newcomers rushing north, and in contrast you'll also fly over the expansive Yukon River Valley, home of traditional peoples that sustain their lifestyle and culture as they have for thousands of years.
A ceremonious Arctic Circle landing at a wilderness community on the Middle Fork Koyukuk River is sure to be a highlight of the day, and you'll receive an official Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate to commemorate the occasion.
Day 7: Fairbanks – Borealis Basecamp
The next few days are sure to leave lasting memories. First, you’ll transfer about 40 kilometres outside of Fairbanks to the pristine boreal forest where you’ll discover Borealis Basecamp immersed within the Alaskan wilderness. Far from the light pollution of the city, this is where the spectacular aurora borealis truly shines.
Your home for the next two nights, borealis Basecamp offers a unique opportunity to snuggle in for a night of star gazing and aurora viewing from the comfort of your fiberglass igloo.
Day 8: Borealis Basecamp
Today offers a choice of adventures. Depending on the season, opt for an ATV tour or dog carting with a team of canine athletes; when there’s sufficient snow, choose a snowmachine tour or an authentic dogsledding experience.
Later, head to a scenic forest viewpoint to enjoy a glass of bubbles as the sun sets over the wintry landscape.
This evening, settle in for another chance to watch the Northern Lights dance across the dark canvas of the night sky.
Day 9: Borealis Basecamp – Fairbanks
After a final breakfast, return to civilisation with a transfer back to Fairbanks for your last night. The afternoon and evening are at leisure, perfect for exploring, shopping, or simply resting after late nights spent watching the aurora.
Day 10: Fairbanks
Your Alaskan Aurora Adventure ends today.
Booking terms and conditions apply.
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Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
