Alaska in Winter: Northern Lights & Dog Sledding Adventure - 8 Days

From £2,789You save £310(10%)

Trip Snapshot

Age range

12 - 100

Start / End

  • Anchorage
  • Fairbanks

Physical rating

2/5

Group size

1 - 13

Meals included

7

Highlights

  • Experience the thrill of dog sledding and learn to mush with champion Iditarod dogs, an authentic Alaskan winter activity that connects you to the spirit of the Last Frontier.
  • Embark on thrilling nighttime expeditions deep into the Alaskan wilderness for a chance to witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights painting the inky black sky.
  • Discover the breathtaking beauty of the mighty Matanuska Glacier with an unforgettable guided walk across its shimmering, ancient icy blue surface.
  • Glide through Alaska's stunning snow-covered tundra aboard the iconic Aurora Winter Train, offering unparalleled views of the frozen landscapes and remote wilderness.
  • Unwind and rejuvenate with a blissful soak in the steamy, natural hot springs of Chena, enveloped by a serene winter wonderland and starry skies.
  • Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant traditions of Alaska's Indigenous peoples with a fascinating visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage.
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Everything you need to picture the adventure and pack with confidence — in one free PDF.

What's inside the PDF

  • Day-by-day itinerary
    Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.
  • Packing & kit list
    Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.
  • What's included
    Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
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Summary

Winter in Alaska — a remote, snow-covered wonderland — might seem intimidating, but this 8-day adventure will win over even the most dedicated sun worshipper. Kick things off in Anchorage, where you’ll explore cultural landmarks and dive into the stories of Alaska’s Indigenous peoples at the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Then, it’s time for some serious fun: go dog sledding with Iditarod champion pups and learn to mush like a pro. Hop aboard the Aurora Winter Train and glide through the frozen tundra to Fairbanks. Walk across the shimmering surface of Matanuska Glacier, visit the festive town of North Pole, and chase the Northern Lights on a thrilling nighttime expedition. Top it all off with a soak in the steamy Chena Hot Springs, and you’ve got a winter adventure you’ll never forget.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Anchorage

    Arrive at any time. Attend a welcome meeting in the evening and afterwards choose to have an optional dinner together as a group.

  • Day 2

    Anchorage

    In the morning visit the tranquil beauty of the Eagle River Nature Centre for a hike along one of the many trails located in the mountainous landscape of Chugach State Park. Return to Anchorage for lunch on your own, before a private afternoon visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Centre for a more in-depth look into Alaska’s Indigenous history. Following the tour, the group will spend free time at the museum before a winter evening to explore Anchorage and have dinner on your own.

  • Day 3

    Anchorage/Talkeetna

    After breakfast the group will head further north to the mighty Matanuska Glacier for an unforgettable walk on the icy blue surface with a local guide. Then head onwards to Talkeetna where there will be free time in this outdoorsy, mountaineering town. The days might be short, but tonight there could be an opportunity to see The Northern Lights, and a great view of Mt. Denali.

  • Day 4

    Talkeetna

    Start the morning with a walk around Talkeetna and soak in the snowy scenery. Then, get ready for an epic Alaskan winter activity this morning with an incredible dog sledding experience where you’ll learn to mush with the most successful Iditarod dogs of all time. The Alaskan Iditarod race is an annual 1,000-mile sled dog race from Anchorage to Nome. It’s known for testing the unique bond between mushers and their canines. See the pups for yourself and feel the adrenaline rush of sledding. The remainder of the afternoon is free for optional activities in the area like a flight sightseeing tour, nordic ski rentals, or a fat bike activity.

  • Day 5

    Talkeetna/Fairbanks

    Today is every traveller’s winter Alaska dream! Have breakfast at the hotel, then board the Aurora Winter Train through the gorgeous snowy landscape of Alaska’s tundra en route to Fairbanks. Along the hundreds of miles of track, the group will pass by the state’s most spectacular landscapes, chugging through spruce forests white with frost and along wide rivers completely frozen beneath layers of ice. Meals can be purchased on board. Arrive to Fairbanks later in the evening and transfer to the hotel.

  • Day 6

    Fairbanks/Chena Hot Springs

    Leave Fairbanks behind today and travel to the Chena Hot Springs, located on a property in the Chena River State Recreation Area surrounded by forest. The resort offers plenty of winter oriented activities to choose from and of course some steamy hot springs to soak in while surrounded by snow. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to experience the many amenities and outdoor activities on offer. This evening after dinner on your own, the group will reconvene and depart on an included Aurora Viewing tour to try and catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, if the weather allows.

  • Day 7

    Chena Hot Springs/Fairbanks

    Enjoy a relaxing morning at the resort to perhaps go for a walk on the property, or soak in the steaming waters one last time. Then, travel to North Pole, Alaska where this small city has fully embraced its year-round commitment to all things Christmas and Santa Claus. Explore the town and have lunch at your leisure before travelling back to Fairbanks. This evening, there will be an optional group farewell dinner at a local spot.

  • Day 8

    Fairbanks

    Depart at any time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Hotels (7 nts)

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 7, Lunches: 0, Dinners: 0

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Guided

    This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.

  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • Feb 2027

    from £2,789
  • Mar 2027

    from £2,864

February 2027

2 departures
  • Tuesday 16 Feb 2027to Tuesday 23 Feb 2027
    6+ spaces of 13 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £3,099
    Pay Monthly
    Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
    Private Room from +£1,279
  • Save 10%
    Friday 26 Feb 2027to Friday 5 Mar 2027
    6+ spaces of 13 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £3,099£2,789
    Pay MonthlyBest offer
    Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
    Private Room from +£1,279
private departures available

Make this tour private

Every departure on this trip can be booked just for your own group — your dates, your people, the same expert local guides.

What changes when you go private

  • Travel with just your own group
    No other travellers on the trip — just the people you choose to bring
  • Travel on your schedule
    Pick your exact start date—no fixed group departures or rigid timetables.
  • Exclusively for your party
    Enjoy this handcrafted itinerary with a dedicated private guide just for you.
No obligation — we'll come back to you with a quote

Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • What are the main activities and experiences on this tour?

    This adventure includes exploring cultural landmarks and the stories of Alaska’s Indigenous peoples at the Alaska Native Heritage Center, experiencing dog sledding with Iditarod champion pups, walking on the icy blue surface of the Matanuska Glacier, riding the Aurora Winter Train through the frozen tundra, visiting the festive town of North Pole, chasing the Northern Lights on a thrilling nighttime expedition, and soaking in the steamy Chena Hot Springs.
  • What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

    The tour includes 7 nights in comfortable 3-star hotels/lodges and a hot spring resort, all well located. Rooms are typically double occupancy with a private bathroom. Please note that hotels in Alaska may be a bit more rustic or dated compared to those at the same accommodation level in other parts of the United States.
  • What meals are included in the tour price?

    The tour includes 7 breakfasts. Lunches and dinners are not generally included, though meals can be purchased on board the Aurora Winter Train.
  • What is the typical group size for this tour?

    The tour accommodates a minimum of 1 person and a maximum of 13 people.
  • What is the minimum age requirement to join this tour?

    The minimum age for participants on this tour is 12 years old.
  • How do we travel between destinations on this tour?

    Transportation between destinations is primarily by private 15-passenger vans (for up to 13 people plus the CEO/Driver) and by the Aurora Winter Train.
  • Who will be leading the tour group?

    The group will be led by a dedicated Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the trip.
  • 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. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is strongly recommended.
  • What should I know about currency and money in Alaska?

    The currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but foreign transaction fees may apply. ATMs are commonly available, and it's recommended to carry a combination of US Dollars in cash (preferably smaller bills) and credit cards. Currency exchange is difficult to find in the USA, so it's best obtained prior to travel or at the airport.
  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    On Day 4 in Talkeetna, there will be free time for optional activities such as a flight sightseeing tour, nordic ski rentals, or a fat bike activity.
  • Is there an extra cost if I am travelling solo?

    Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms 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 is the physical rating of this tour?

    The tour has a physical rating of 2, indicating a moderate level of activity, such as walking on trails and glaciers.
  • What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?

    It is customary in North America to tip service providers (waiters, taxi drivers) at approximately 18-20%. For local guides, $2-8 USD per activity is recommended. For your Chief Experience Officer (CEO), a guideline of $10-15 USD per person per day is appreciated if they provide outstanding service.
  • What emergency funds should I have access to on this trip?

    You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances that might require a change to the planned route.
  • What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations?

    The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and safety information, which includes tools like Equaldex to help with travel decisions.
  • Can I do laundry during the trip?

    Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will advise you along the trip where you will be able to do your laundry.
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