Aurora Season | 7-Day Alaska Anchorage & Fairbanks Twin-City Tour | Matanuska Glacier / Aurora Winter Train / 3 Nights of Aurora Viewing

United States-Anchorage, AK (ANC-Ted Stevens Anchorage Intl.) , Fairbanks, AK (FAI-Fairbanks Intl.) , Alaska

Booking confirmation: within 2 days before the departure

Duration:7 day(s)

Guided language: Mandarin

Free cancellation up to 18 day(s) in advance

Please present the e-voucher on-site

Includes 3 aurora viewing opportunities with diverse observation methods to maximize your chances
Ride the Alaska Aurora Winter Train (ticket included) through the heart of the frontier, enjoy the magnificent scenery along the way, and travel alongside North America's highest peak
Visit the Matanuska Glacier, the largest glacier in Alaska accessible by car, step onto the ice, and listen to the ancient call from thousands of years ago
Experience local featured activities: century-old Chena Hot Springs, dog sledding, ice fishing, blue ice cave exploration, and checking in at the Arctic Circle landmark, etc.

[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK

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Day 1

Arrive in Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and rest (hotel check-in in Alaska is generally available after 16:00).

Day 3

Meet at the hotel in the morning and depart for Matanuska Glacier. We will stop at a large supermarket along the way, where you can freely purchase and prepare your lunch for the day.

Upon arrival at the glacier, enjoy a guided glacier hiking experience (approx. 2 hours) led by a professional guide.

Warm Tips:

1) It is recommended to wear warm down jackets, fleece jackets, hats, scarves, non-slip snow boots, sunglasses, etc. Please pay attention to your footing for safety.

2) Please follow the guide's instructions during the hike, and you will be required to sign a liability waiver as requested by the park management.

3) Hiking equipment such as helmets and non-slip shoe chains are provided free of charge.

Day 3

Depart from the hotel in the morning and take the Alaska Aurora Winter Train* north to Fairbanks, the second-largest city in Alaska (08:30-20:00). **There is no tour guide on the train.**

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and rest. During this time, you can prepare your equipment for the evening's aurora viewing.

As night falls, to avoid urban light pollution, we plan to depart at 22:00 for our carefully selected aurora viewing cabin*. The location is excellent, increasing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Our professional aurora guide will introduce you to knowledge about the Northern Lights, camera settings, and photography techniques to help you capture stunning aurora photos. The cabin provides free hot drinks, coffee, and an aurora monitoring screen, allowing you to wait for the Northern Lights in warmth (1st aurora viewing, cost included). Expected to return to the hotel for rest at 02:00 the next morning.

Day 4

Free time in the morning.

Departure is expected at 13:00 in the afternoon for the famous North Pole, also known as the 'Santa Claus House'. To create a strong Christmas atmosphere in Santa's hometown, a 16-meter-tall giant Santa Claus statue, 2-meter-tall polar bear and reindeer statues have been built here. Many surrounding public facilities also feature Christmas motifs, making you feel as if you are in a fairy tale world.

Afterward, you will follow your guide to the Museum of the North* located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus. This is the best place for visitors to explore the mysterious Arctic world and the real lives of early local people. The museum's exterior features white lines and curves, mimicking the scene of the Arctic region covered in snow all year round. Under the sunlight, it reflects a dazzling glow, making it one of the landmarks of Fairbanks. The museum is divided into different exhibition halls, which not only provide a detailed introduction to the geographical changes and historical evolution of the Arctic region but also display precious Arctic animal specimens that we can only see in books (Blue Babe, mammoth, brown bear nearly 3 meters tall, etc.), which are particularly attractive to visitors. You will then be dropped off at your hotel to rest. (If the Museum of the North is closed, you will be arranged to visit the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, and the USD$15 admission fee for the Museum of the North will be refunded on-site.)

Around 22:00, head to the cabin for the second night of aurora viewing. Expected to return to the hotel for rest at 02:00 the next morning.

Day 5

Free time during the day.

Around 22:00, take a vehicle to the areas surrounding Fairbanks. Based on the day's weather, the direction of the aurora, and their rich experience in chasing the lights, our professional aurora guide will take you to the most favorable area to track the aurora. During this time, we will also introduce you to knowledge about the Northern Lights, camera settings, and photography techniques to help you capture stunning aurora photos (3rd aurora viewing, cost included).

Day 6

Free time.

Day 7

No itinerary scheduled.

- Hotel Information -

Reference hotels in Anchorage: Fairfield Inn & Suites Anchorage or Wyndham Garden Anchorage Airport (or equivalent).

Reference hotels in Fairbanks: Hyatt Place Fairbanks or Westmark Fairbanks Hotel or Bridgewater Hotel (or equivalent).

During your stay in Fairbanks, you have the option to upgrade at your own expense to the hilltop aurora glass cabin, The Overlook at Cleary Summit. Located northeast of Fairbanks, it is in the most popular local aurora viewing area—the top of Cleary Summit. With an excellent location, the aurora glass cabins are all detached designs with no obstructions in front, offering a completely open view. You can enjoy the vast beauty of Alaska through the 180-degree panoramic glass windows! Each glass cabin is equipped with: a double bed with massage function, heating, a flush toilet, a private shower room, and a hairdryer. Each glass cabin can accommodate up to 2 people, and availability is limited. If you need to upgrade, please contact us for secondary confirmation. Reference price: Single occupancy: US$550/person/night; Double occupancy: US$275/person/night.

- Airport Pickup Information -

One free airport pickup service is provided per order on the day of arrival at Anchorage Airport. Please book when placing your order. If not explicitly booked or if flight information is not provided, we will be unable to provide the pickup service.

Pickup location: Anchorage International Airport, outside Door 3 of the Arrival area.

The Information Center next to the baggage claim at Anchorage Airport provides a free direct hotel phone. Upon arrival, you can contact the hotel to reserve the shuttle bus. The hotel only accepts reservations from guests who have arrived at Anchorage Airport and cannot accept advance bookings. When booking the hotel shuttle, please provide your personal information to the hotel staff to complete the reservation: name (pinyin), number of people, etc. After the reservation is completed, the hotel shuttle will take approximately 30 minutes to reach the airport.

Guests with similar flight arrival times will take the same shuttle bus, which may cause a short wait at the airport. We appreciate your understanding.

- Airport Drop-off Information -

The standard check-out time for local hotels in Alaska is 12:00 noon. Please refer to the hotel's actual requirements.

For domestic flights within the United States, please arrive at the airport at least 2 hours in advance.

To avoid the risk of missing your flight, please arrange for a flight departing after 07:00 on the last day of your itinerary.

One free airport drop-off service to Fairbanks Airport is provided per order. Please book when placing your order. If not explicitly booked or if flight information is not provided, we will be unable to provide the drop-off service.

- Local Featured Activities -

Chena Hot Springs Tour (approx. 7 hours round trip).

Denali National Park Hiking Tour (approx. 7-8 hours round trip).

Castner Glacier Ice Cave Exploration (approx. 8 hours round trip)

Important Notes:

A. Due to the highly unpredictable weather in the blue ice cave area, this activity is only available for booking on-site after arrival.

B. There are no meteorological facilities in the blue ice cave area, making it impossible to forecast local weather in advance. If the ice cave entrance cannot be reached due to weather conditions after arrival, no refunds will be provided.

C. If road conditions are deemed unsafe for travel upon departure from Fairbanks, the tour for that day will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued via the original payment method.

D. The blue ice cave is a natural formation and carries inherent risks. Please follow the professional guide's instructions at all times!

Dog Sledding / Dog Carting Experience (approx. 2 hours round trip) **Dog carting will be provided if there is insufficient snow**

Snowmobile Experience (30 minutes of riding, approx. 2-4 hours round trip). Limited to participants aged 10 and above. Available dates: Mid-late November to late March. Specific start and end dates are subject to change based on snowfall.

Ice Fishing and Grilled Fish Experience (approx. 4 hours round trip). Available dates: Late November to late March. Adults aged 16 and over must purchase a fishing license for US$15/person. Specific start and end dates are subject to change based on temperature.

Arctic Circle Overland Adventure (Round trip by vehicle, approx. 16 hours total)

Purchase Notice

1. This trip requires you to have a valid photo ID, such as: your passport with a U.S. visa, U.S. ID card, or U.S. driver's license.

2. Minors or children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult to participate in the tour. Minors or children traveling alone are not allowed to participate.

3. For the safety of pregnant women, pregnant women must be no more than 24 weeks pregnant at the end of the tour to participate.

4. The hotel offers different room types, such as a king/queen size room or a double size room with two twin beds. While the number of rooms available is guaranteed, the specific room type and location are not guaranteed. Specific bed types cannot be requested; availability is subject to change.

5. The itinerary does not accept or will not assist with sharing rooms with strangers. Room types and numbers must be booked according to the actual number of travelers.

6. Each hotel has different methods for collecting and refunding deposits (mostly via credit card). Tour participants will need to cooperate according to the specific regulations.

7. The Northern Lights are a unique natural phenomenon in the polar regions. Under clear weather conditions, there is a very high chance of seeing them. However, due to weather conditions or other natural factors, the Northern Lights may be weak and unseen. No refunds will be given if you do not see them or the experience is unsatisfactory.

8. During aurora viewing, please do not use the flash function of your photography equipment to avoid affecting others' observation and photography.

9. The order of the itinerary for this product will be readjusted based on the tourists' arrival date, local weather, etc. The content of the tour will remain the same, and the displayed itinerary order is for reference only. Optional activities will be coordinated and arranged based on factors such as registration and weather conditions. The recommendations in the itinerary are for reference only and do not represent the actual dates of the activities. If you have any activities not included in the itinerary, please confirm in advance to avoid itinerary conflicts.

10. Winter temperatures in Alaska are low, so please prepare warm clothing according to your own needs, such as: down jackets, fleece jackets, hats, scarves, snow boots, sunglasses, etc.

11. Smoking is prohibited on the tour bus. Most hotel rooms also prohibit smoking; hotel cleaning staff are professionally trained, and security personnel will professionally record evidence. If caught smoking, the cleaning fee will be borne by the guest. If you need to smoke, please go to the designated smoking area.

12. Each order only provides one free airport pick-up service within the specified time frame. If pick-up cannot be arranged due to weather, flight delays, or other reasons, the customer is responsible for their own transportation costs.

13. If you are unable to participate in the tour or withdraw from any part of the tour due to personal reasons (lack of travel documents, flight delays, lateness, illness, accidents, etc.), the tour fee and accommodation fee already paid will not be refunded, and no other compensation will be provided.

14. If there is a discrepancy between the times indicated in the itinerary and the times announced by the tour guide on-site, please refer to the times announced by the tour guide.

15. Depending on the daily itinerary, you may be served by a different guide.

Reminders

A minimum of 2 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 2 day(s) before the departure date
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: Pregnant women, High blood pressure, Heart disease
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time

FAQs

1. What is the general safety situation in Anchorage, Alaska?

Anchorage is generally considered safe for tourists, especially in popular areas. Like any major city, it's advisable to remain aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. Stick to well-lit and frequented areas. It's always good practice to secure valuables and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or isolated locations. Staying informed about local conditions can enhance your safety during your visit.

2. Where is Anchorage, Alaska located?

Anchorage is the largest city in the U.S. state of Alaska. It is located in the south-central part of Alaska, on the coast of Cook Inlet, nestled between the Chugach Mountains and the sea. This position provides stunning natural scenery and serves as a gateway to many Alaskan adventures.

3. When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks?

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks is typically from late August to late April, when the nights are long and dark. Fairbanks is situated within the "aurora oval," a prime zone for aurora activity, which significantly increases viewing chances. Clear, dark skies away from city lights are ideal for the most spectacular displays.

4. What activities are available at Matanuska Glacier during the Alaska tour?

At Matanuska Glacier, a prominent highlight of the Alaska tour, visitors can experience walking directly on the ice. This offers a unique opportunity to witness the vastness and ancient beauty of Alaska's largest accessible glacier up close. You can explore the ice formations, listen to the glacier's natural sounds, and take memorable photographs within this impressive natural landscape.

5. What is the experience like on the Alaska Aurora Train journey?

The Alaska Aurora Train journey offers a scenic ride through Alaska's interior, providing breathtaking views of the wilderness. You'll travel alongside North America's highest peak, Denali, and witness expansive landscapes. It’s a comfortable way to immerse yourself in the frontier's beauty, with large windows for optimal viewing and a chance to relax while surrounded by majestic scenery.

6. Beyond aurora viewing, what other unique winter activities can be experienced in Fairbanks or Anchorage?

In addition to aurora viewing, visitors to Fairbanks and Anchorage can enjoy various unique winter activities. These include relaxing at the historic Chena Hot Springs, experiencing the thrill of dog sledding, trying ice fishing on frozen lakes, exploring mesmerizing blue ice caves, and crossing the Arctic Circle to receive a commemorative certificate. These options enhance the Alaskan winter adventure.

7. When is the ideal season to visit Anchorage and Fairbanks for aurora viewing?

The ideal season for a trip to Anchorage and Fairbanks with aurora viewing as a key focus is generally from late August through April. During these months, the nights are long and dark, creating optimal conditions for spotting the Northern Lights. This period also offers a full range of winter activities and experiences in both cities.

8. What essential items should I pack for a winter trip to Anchorage and Fairbanks?

For a winter trip to Anchorage and Fairbanks, essential packing includes warm, layered clothing. Think thermal base layers, fleece mid-layers, and a waterproof, insulated outer jacket and pants. Don't forget insulated waterproof boots, warm hats, gloves or mittens, and thick wool socks. Hand warmers can also be very useful for outdoor activities and aurora viewing sessions.

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