Alaska Kenai & Denali Adventure - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of the Alaska Kenai & Denali Adventure?

  The main highlights include hiking among glaciers and icefields, discovering the history of dog sledding, marveling at the scenery in Denali National Park, and looking for bears in their natural habitat.

• What is the minimum and maximum age for participants on this tour?

  The minimum age for participants is 12 years, and the maximum age is 100 years.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  You will stay in hotels/motels for 5 nights and cabins with private bathrooms for 2 nights. Please note that hotels in Alaska may be more rustic or dated, and Denali accommodation may have shared or exterior bathroom facilities.

• How many meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches. For other meals, your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can suggest local restaurants.

• What is the physical rating for this tour, and what level of fitness is required?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3 (Average). Travelers must be able to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage. A medical questionnaire is required for pre-existing medical conditions.

• What transportation methods are used during the tour?

  Transportation will be primarily via air-conditioned 15-passenger private vehicles (vans), national park shuttle buses, and hiking. For groups of 8 or more, a trailer is used for luggage.

• Will I have a group leader throughout the trip?

  Yes, a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you throughout the trip. The CEO acts as the group manager, leader, and driver, providing general knowledge of the visited countries and offering suggestions. Local guides are also used for specific knowledge where beneficial.

• What are some of the optional activities available during the tour?

  Optional activities include a scenic boat cruise through the Kenai fjords, visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center, sea kayaking, scenic flights over Denali, rafting on the Nenana River, wilderness jet boat tours, and a farewell dinner.

• What is the typical group size for this adventure?

  The maximum group size is 13 people, with an average of 9 travelers.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have a minimum coverage of USD200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

• What should I know about money and currency exchange in Alaska?

  The currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's recommended to carry a combination of cash (preferably smaller bills) and credit cards. Currency exchange is often difficult to find in the USA, so it's best to obtain it before travel or at the airport. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 is also recommended.

• Is tipping customary in North America, and what are the guidelines?

  Yes, tipping service providers (waiters, bartenders, taxi drivers) at approximately 18-20% is customary. For local guides, $2-8 USD per activity is recommended. A guideline of $10-15 USD per person, per day is suggested for your Chief Experience Officer (CEO).

• What is the legal drinking age in the United States?

  The legal drinking age in the United States is 21 years old. Many bars and clubs strictly enforce this with ID checks, which may limit participation in certain optional nighttime activities for underage travelers.

• What is the policy for solo travelers regarding accommodation?

  Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, and there is no single supplement for group trips. A "My Own Room" option is available for those who prefer a private room.

• Will I be able to do laundry during the trip?

  Yes, laundry can be done at least once during the tour. Your CEO will advise you on locations for coin-operated laundromats.

• What are the main highlights of this Alaska adventure?

  This eight-day journey showcases Alaska's greatest highlights including the imposing Harding Icefield, the enchanting Kenai Fjords, the jaw-dropping Denali National Park, and the charming town of Talkeetna. You'll hike among glaciers, discover the history of dog sledding, marvel at stunning scenery, and have opportunities to look for bears in their natural habitat.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  Accommodation typically includes hotels/motels for 5 nights and cabins with private bathrooms for 2 nights. Please be aware that hotels in Alaska may be more rustic or dated, and some Denali accommodations might have shared or exterior bathroom facilities. Properties with only two stories may not have elevators.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour price includes 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches. For other meals, there are often many options available, and your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be able to suggest good local restaurants or other choices.

• What modes of transportation will be used on this trip?

  Transportation will be by air-conditioned private 15-passenger vans for up to 13 people plus the CEO/Driver. For groups of 8 or more, a trailer will be used for luggage. National park shuttle buses and hiking are also integral parts of the transportation during the tour.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 13 travelers, with an average group size of 9.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  This group trip is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO acts as the group manager, leader, and driver, is experienced in the routes, organizes and leads meal preparations, and has a broad general knowledge of the countries visited. Local guides are also utilized where specific knowledge enhances the experience.

• Are there any age restrictions for joining this trip?

  You must be 18 years old to travel unaccompanied on this tour. For minors traveling with a guardian aged 21 or older, the minimum age is 12.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group without evidence of travel insurance. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation is required.

• What is the legal drinking age during the tour?

  The legal drinking age in the United States is 21. Many bars and clubs strictly enforce this by asking for ID. Underage travelers may not be able to participate in certain optional nighttime activities.

• What are some of the optional activities available during the trip?

  Optional activities include a scenic boat cruise through the Kenai fjords or a visit to the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward. In Talkeetna, you can opt for a scenic flight over the area or a jet boat tour on the Talkeetna River. In Denali National Park, you can choose to hike extensively or go rafting on the Nenana River.

• How much emergency money should I bring for unexpected situations?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used if circumstances outside our control, like a natural disaster, require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted. It is recommended to bring a combination of US Dollars in cash (preferably smaller bills), traveler’s cheques, and credit cards. Currency exchange is very difficult to find in the USA, so it's best to obtain it prior to travel or at the airport.

• Is there an extra cost for traveling solo on this trip?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. If you book the "My Own Room" option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What safety and security information should I be aware of?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice and using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. When traveling in cities at night, it is recommended to stay in small groups and take taxis. Water-based activities should only be participated in when accompanied by a guide.

• When can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry can be done at least once while on tour. Most cities have laundromats with coin-operated machines, and your CEO will advise you on locations.