Alaska’s Wildlife Wonders
Alaska is renowned for its pristine landscapes and untamed wilderness, a haven for diverse wildlife. From marine animals coasting through crystal clear waters to grizzly bears prowling its rivers for fish, Alaska offers unparalleled opportunities to spot a variety of creatures in their natural habitats.
Sponsored by: Gondwana Ecotours
Marine Wildlife
Due to its nutrient-rich waters, Alaska hosts a dynamic marine ecosystem. With 33,000 miles of coastline, explorers have ample access to fjords, bays, glaciers, and tranquil beaches where you can spot marine wildlife while enjoying exciting water activities. During Gondwana Ecotours' Glaciers & Grizzlies Adventure, we embark on a boating excursion where we often see humpback whales breaching or pods of porpoises amongst the waves. Glide through crystal waters in a kayak and marvel at playful sea lions or harbor seals. Each visit to Alaska’s coastal waters during this adventure promises exhilarating encounters with its lively marine life.
Birds
With plentiful food, vast horizons, and long daylight hours in the summer, Alaska attracts birds from all parts of the world for migration, breeding, nesting, and rearing their young. In fact, one-third of the world’s shorebirds have been recorded here—including species like the bristle-thighed curlew, black turnstone, western sandpiper, dunlin, short-billed dowitcher, and more.
During your visit, watch bald eagles soar over rugged mountains or spot puffins diving into the ocean in search of food. Take your birdwatching to the next level by visiting known birding hot spots like Gull Island, a rookery home to thousands of perched and nesting shorebirds. On our Denali Discovery Adventure, we hike through Alaska’s lush old-growth forests, where we often encounter different songbirds and woodpeckers including the spruce grouse or the varied thrush.
Inland Animals
Alaska’s ‘Big Five’ inland animals—bears, moose, Dall sheep, caribou, and wolves—are the ultimate sightings for wildlife enthusiasts visiting the state. These animals are famous for their size and strength and each displays incredible resilience and adaptability to navigate Alaska’s seasons and terrains. The vast wilderness and conservation efforts of national parks ensure these incredible species thrive undisturbed.
While some are more elusive than others due to their migratory patterns or aversion to humans, these animals are often seen year-round (except for bears during hibernation), guaranteeing a rich wildlife experience no matter what season you visit Alaska. Moose sightings are a highlight on all our Alaska tours, including the Northern Lights Adventure. Whether you see them while hiking through forests or snowshoeing through remote trails, every chance encounter with the ‘Big Five’ is unique and remarkable.
Grizzly Bears
Perhaps the most famous of Alaska’s ‘Big Five’ is the grizzly bear. Alaska is a prime location to spot the famous grizzlies, also known as brown bears, as the state is home to around 30,000 of these powerful creatures. Brown bears are particularly abundant near coastal areas where they have access to fresh salmon and within parks like Katmai National Park, Lake Clark National Park, and Denali National Park.
Joining a guided bear-viewing tour like the Glaciers & Grizzlies Adventure is a great way to safely observe grizzly bears in their natural habitats. Witnessing grizzly bears in action, whether roaming the tundra or gorging on salmon, is an awe-inspiring moment especially when led by our professional guides who can enrich the experience with their bear knowledge.
Responsible Wildlife Viewing
Responsible and sustainable tourism practices are key to exploring Alaska’s rich ecosystems, helping to preserve its landscapes and protect its wildlife.
As travelers venture through the natural habitats of marine mammals, birds, and inland dwellers, it’s crucial to prioritize ethical wildlife viewing during any outing. Good practices include maintaining a safe distance from wild animals, protecting habitats by staying on marked trails and viewing platforms, keeping all trash with you, and leaving natural areas as you found them.
When you travel with Gondwana Ecotours, you support our animal welfare policy and sustainability commitments, both of which contribute to our mission of supporting travel in a way that is positive for the environment, wildlife, and communities of the destinations we visit.
To make the most of your wildlife sightings in Alaska, consider joining our Alaska itineraries which operate year-round. While any visit to the state promises an exciting wildlife experience, our local and accomplished guides bring you to wildlife hot spots that you otherwise might miss. They will share their expert knowledge of these fascinating creatures, ensuring you understand and appreciate every animal we encounter.
From spotting moose and greeting husky dogs during the Northern Lights season, to waving to caribou while floating down Nenana River, to flying to a remote park and watching grizzlies roam the wilderness, our adventures are designed to immerse you in the natural wonder of this extraordinary wildlife paradise.
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