Wildlife Viewing

Alaska’s vast landscapes - spanning more than 365 million acres of public and protected land - and its diverse ecosystems make it one of the most extraordinary places in the world for wildlife viewing. From the dense boreal forests and Arctic tundra to glacial fjords and coastal rainforest, you’ll encounter iconic species like brown and black bears, moose, caribou, bald eagles, humpback whales, orcas, and more. 

While you can see wildlife anywhere in Alaska, you can improve your chances of viewing wildlife by joining guided tours including bear viewing, whale watching, and birding. The state is also home to a variety of zoos, aquariums, and conservation centers dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating Alaska wildlife, giving you up-close views and educational opportunities. 

Some of Alaska's best wildlife sights are seasonal: every spring, day cruises seek out gray whales migrating to their Arctic feeding grounds, and birders flock to tidal flats and wetlands to view thousands of birds on their annual spring migrations. If you travel to the state's northern reaches, you might witness caribou herds migrating across the tundra. Bears are active in summer and fall, and humpback whales spend the long summer days feeding in Alaska’s nutrient-rich waters. 

Alaska Wildlife Population Highlights:

• Moose: 200,000
• Brown Bears: 30,000
• Black Bears: 100,000
• Caribou: 750,000
• Bald Eagles: 30,000
• Humpback Whales: 6,000 (seasonal)

Wildlife Safety

When viewing wildlife in Alaska, it's always important to practice safe wildlife viewing. Never approach or feed wildlife, and always practice Leave No Trace principles. Learn more about bear safety and moose safety in Alaska.