arctic circle tours alaska

Arctic Circle Tours

Cross the Arctic Circle and experience the starkly beautiful, remote region with an experienced guide.

• Things to Do
• Arctic Circle Tours Alaska

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• Arctic Ocean Adventure
• Arctic Circle Flightseeing
• Arctic Circle Driving Tour
• Arctic Circle Fly / Drive
• Arctic Circle Fall Aurora
• Northern Lights Tours

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Surprisingly beautiful and yet undeniably wild, the Arctic is a reminder that much of Alaska is still vast, wild, and untouched.

The Arctic Circle Drive Adventure begins on the road from Fairbanks , winding its way into the permafrost landscape. This 380-mile roundtrip tour crosses the Arctic Circle and visits the trans-Alaska pipeline, Arctic Circle Trading Post, and mighty Yukon River as well as rural outposts Livengood and Joy.

The Arctic Circle Fly/Drive Adventure dives deep into the Arctic Circle and includes the same sightseeing as the drive adventure but returns from Coldfoot by a plane. See the Yukon River from above and maybe even caribou roaming the tundra.

Touch the frigid Arctic Ocean and witness the vastness of Alaska's permafrost on the three-day Arctic Ocean Adventure . It features a one-way drive along the Haul Road and a flight to or from Fairbanks. This is a fully guided experience along the Dalton Highway to Coldfoot, over stunning Atigun Pass, and through the Arctic Coastal Plain. Long days lead to unforgettable scenery and activities centered around life in the Far North. This package is for the truly curious and adventurous guest.

Visiting Alaska in early fall? This is the perfect time to spot the Aurora Borealis, or northern lights, on the fall Arctic Circle Aurora Fly/Drive Adventure . Start with a flight to tiny Coldfoot, then embark upon a ground tour back to Fairbanks in a comfortable van, hopefully catching the aurora flicker overhead as darkness arrives. This 15-hour trip is suitable for those eager to spot the lights and see the Arctic in person. Similar northern lights tours run through the winter as well.

The city of Fairbanks is the best base camp for Arctic exploring. Stay a few days in this Interior Alaska community before or after your Arctic Circle adventure. Fairbanks has several options for accommodations , and Alaska Tour & Travel can help arrange transportation via train or rental car .

Arctic Circle Air Adventure

Spend two hours flightseeing and three hours on the ground exploring the extreme environment above the Arctic Circle on this guided tour out of Fairbanks. Learn More >

Arctic Circle Aurora Fly / Drive Adventure

Fly far above the Arctic Circle and travel back via van through the polar night for a chance to see Alaska's mesmerizing northern lights. Learn More >

Arctic Circle Drive Adventure

Travel deep within Alaska's vast interior and into the Arctic Circle on this full-day guided ground tour out of Fairbanks. Learn More >

Arctic Circle Midnight Sun Fly / Drive Adventure

Fly into the Arctic Circle and then return to civilization on the infamous "Haul Road" on this guided day trip out of Fairbanks. Learn More >

Arctic Ocean Adventure Northbound

Experience the vast landscapes and utter remoteness of Alaska's Arctic wilderness on this three-day, two-night adventure north along the Dalton Highway. Learn More >

Arctic Ocean Adventure Southbound

Travel to the top of the world, or close to it, on this three-day, two-night flying and driving excursion from Fairbanks to Deadhorse and back. Learn More >

Homestead Aurora Adventure

Head into the wintery wilds 60 miles north of Fairbanks for a guided aurora watching tour based at the cozy Arctic Circle Trading Post. Learn More >

10 Best Arctic Circle Tours from Fairbanks, Alaska (2024)

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Table of Contents

Are you thinking about making a trip to cross the Arctic Circle in Alaska?

I’ve done it, and I’m here to tell you that you can too! Not many people in life get to say they’ve had this experience, so I encourage you to go for it.

If you’re on the hunt for the creme de la creme, the very best Arctic Circle tours from Fairbanks, Alaska, you’ve come to the right place. Fairbanks is like the mothership for some of the most jaw-dropping Arctic Circle tours.

Having resided in Fairbanks for a significant period of my life, I was fortunate to experience driving to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks on “the Haul Road” (the Dalton Highway), with my husband, exploring and camping near the Brooks Range.

We were able to make stops in the remote towns along the route where we met locals and got a sense of what life is like in the frozen north.

The drive is incredible, but very long, keep that in mind. But, you won’t regret it.

😎 Travel the Dalton Highway as seen on TV show Ice Road Truckers

📍 Stop at the Arctic Circle sign and take a photo 🏔 View vast distinctive scenery you haven’t experienced before 🦉 See wildlife in its natural element

My husband, Matt, was willing to pose for me when we reached the Arctic Circle sign.

➡️ Disclaimer: Arctic Circle Tours and Seasonal Availability Please note that the information provided in this blog post is specific to Arctic Circle tours and their availability. Some tours are seasonal and only operate from September through April, focusing on winter-based activities or the Aurora Borealis. Be aware that the tour links provided in this blog post may currently be temporarily down for the summer season or the winter season . During this time, tour operators may suspend their services or modify their itineraries due to the different conditions in the Arctic Circle.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Original Arctic Circle Drive from Fairbanks ✔️ Small Group Tour ✔️ Visit Arctic Circle Trading Post

Arctic Circle Expedition ✔️ Winter tours available ✔️ Private Tours that are small and intimate ✔️ Reliable Local Host

Winter Drive to Arctic Circle (seasonal) ✔️ Visit Arctic Circle Trading Post ✔️ Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate

Some of the more extended tours to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks offer travelers the opportunity to fully submerge themselves in the Arctic environment, allowing them to discover places they may not have had the chance to explore otherwise.

No matter what type of outdoor adventure or cultural exploration experience you have, these tours will provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. So let’s get started!

🏔 Best Arctic Circle Tours from Fairbanks

Touring with a local guide is the perfect way to experience this incredible region. Drives on challenging gravel roads in Alaska can be dangerous for travelers from out of state with little to no experience on remote roads.

Tours help visitors enjoy the landscape of Alaska without sacrificing the safety of their group or the quality of their experience.

1 . Original Arctic Circle Drive from Fairbanks

⭐️ 5/5 stars , more than 100 reviews, ⌛️ Tour Length: 16 hours , ➡️ BOOK NOW 📍 Pick up is at 6:30 am at the meeting point.

This 16-hour tour takes you along the famous Dalton Highway, which has amazing views of the Arctic tundra, and pristine rivers, and offers a glimpse of life in rural Alaska.

Led by knowledgeable local guides who provide commentary throughout your journey , this small-group tour is sure to be an experience you won’t ever forget!

You will also make stops at scenic spots like the mighty Yukon River and the Arctic Circle Trading Post (located in Joy, Alaska) for photo opportunities. Along the way, your guide will share stories about life in rural Alaska and what it’s like living off the grid so far from civilization.

At the end of your trip, you will have officially made it to one of the most northern points on Earth – something not many people can say they’ve done!

⛔️ It is essential the weather is good for this tour to operate. However, if it’s canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

2. Arctic Circle Expedition from Fairbanks

⭐️ 5/5 stars , ⌛️ Tour Length: 10-12 hours , ➡️ BOOK NOW 🍴 Food: Snacks are included📍 Pick-up available at most Fairbanks area hotels

With a local guide available to provide insight into the region’s unique culture and history, Arctic Circle Tours from Fairbanks makes it easy for anyone to enjoy a memorable journey here.

This smaller more private tour offers 10 to 12 hours of exploration and discovery in the Arctic wilderness.

While we went in the middle of winter, the views were still spectacular and left us wishing we could see it in the Summer as well. This tour was well worth the money and time invested in it. This area can be very dangerous and treacherous, but we felt safe and secure the whole time. -SEE MORE REVIEWS

From spotting native wildlife such as caribou or moose along the way to taking photos of breathtaking views overlooking frozen lakes – this expedition has something special for everyone.

They have flexible scheduling options between Winter 2024 – March 2025 operating Monday – Sunday so it makes it easier to make your dream Arctic excursion become a reality.

⛔️ It is essential the weather is good for this tour to operate. However, if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

3. Arctic Circle Winter Drive Adventure (seasonal)

⭐️ 5/5 stars , ⌛️ Tour Length: 16 hours , ➡️ BOOK NOW 📍 Pick up is at 9:45 am at the meeting point.

Embark on an Arctic Circle Winter Drive Adventure and explore the spectacular landscape of Alaska! On this mesmerizing tour , you will travel along the famous rugged Dalton Highway and reach the Arctic Circle surrounded by frozen tundra!

En route to the Arctic Circle, your fabulous guide will share facts and insights about the Arctic landscape’s history, environment, and culture.

Driving on the Dalton highway was an experience that you will never have in the lower 48. The scenery was just spectacular. You need to see it for yourself. On the way back we were lucky enough to see the aurora borelias. – Hannah (READ MORE REVIEWS)

You will also be able to view various arctic attractions such as the Yukon River, and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. You even receive an Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate!

Photographers will be especially excited with the views – including snow-capped mountains, wildlife, and if you are lucky – the northern lights!

4. Three-Day Arctic Circle of Alaska Northern Lights Tour From Fairbanks (seasonal)

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars , ⌛️ Tour Length: 3 Days , ➡️ BOOK NOW 📍 Pick up is at 6:30 am at the meeting point 🛩 Includes a flight on small plane.

This spectacular 3-day land and air tour takes you on an unforgettable journey through the Arctic, allowing you to explore some of Alaska’s most spectacular landscapes.

Offered by Northern Alaska Tour Company this trip stops on the banks of the massive Yukon River while also celebrating crossing over into Arctic Circle territory. Guests even earn an official Arctic Circle Certificate!

✔️ Two nights of cozy and friendly accommodations at Coldfoot Camp included!

❄️ Due to the nature of the tour and the hope to see the northern lights, it operates in cold weather conditions, sometimes well below 0 degrees, so please dress appropriately

Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take in incredible views on your flight back to Fairbanks, experiencing the majestic beauty of flying over the Brooks Mountain Range.

5. Midnight Sun Arctic Circle Drive Adventure (seasonal)

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars , ⌛️ Tour Length: 16 hours , ➡️ BOOK NOW 📍 Pick up is at 9:45 am at the meeting point.

Experience the Arctic Circle Drive Adventure from Fairbanks, Alaska, and marvel at the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun! This tour is the company that pioneered Arctic Circle touring on Alaska’s Dalton Highway.

Your journey takes you north of Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle sign located at Mile Post 115 of the Dalton Highway. Along the way, you will learn about Alaska’s Arctic history, stories, and culture.

You’ll enjoy the grandeur of the Yukon River, one of Alaska’s most famous waterways. Stop at Yukon River Camp for a meal (not included) and learn about homesteading at the trading post by early pioneers who settled in Arctic regions.

6. Arctic Circle Full-Day Adventure from Fairbanks

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars , more than 70 reviews, ⌛️ Tour Length: 15 hours , ➡️ BOOK NOW 📍 Pick up time is 6:30 am and is available at most Fairbanks area hotels.

Book this Arctic Circle Full-Day Adventure from Fairbanks with 1st Alaska Tours. On this day trip, you will have an opportunity to experience some of Alaska’s most beautiful landscapes, while learning more about its history and culture.

You’ll enjoy a stroll along the massive Yukon River. This river, which runs almost 2,000 miles through Canada and Alaska, is home to many species of mammals and birds, so keep your eyes open for sightings!

This tour will also take you up Finger Mountain. This mountain is a very cool stop and from the top, you can enjoy stunning views of the Arctic tundra.

You’ll also learn about The Trans-Alaska Pipeline during your day trip. This pipeline stretches 800 miles across Alaska and is one of the world’s largest pipelines. Your guide will provide live commentary as you explore this amazing feat of engineering.

7. Northern Lights and Arctic Circle Trip from Fairbanks

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars , ⌛️ Tour Length: 14 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW 🍴 Food: Hot drinks, Sandwiches, and Sweets 📍 Pick-up time is at 1:00 PM at most Fairbanks area accommodations.

This amazing full-day tour is sure to provide a unique Arctic experience. You’ll have your own local guide who will take you along the Dalton Highway from Fairbanks all the way up to the edge of the Arctic Circle.

On your return trip keep your eyes peeled for sightings of majestic wildlife such as moose and bears – or even better – you will hopefully catch a glimpse of one of nature’s most beautiful phenomena; The Northern Lights!

I have never experienced a better tour guide . He was very knowledgeable about all of our stops, kept up a constant narrative about what we were seeing, the history of Alaska, and was very attentive to each guest. He was also determined that we see the aurora, and we did! -SEE MORE REVIEWS

Not only will you get to explore the Yukon River and Finger Mountain but you also get a chance to see the Trans-Alaska Pipeline.

As you cross the Arctic Circle, you can even get a “Cross the Arctic Circle Certificate!” as a keepsake to remember this amazing experience for years to come.

Top it off with easy hotel pickup and drop-off from all major hotels in town, with snacks, sandwiches, and hot drinks included. This small-group tour is limited to 12 people for a more intimate Arctic experience.

8. Arctic Circle and Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars , more than 400 reviews, ⌛️ Tour Length: 14 hours , ➡️ BOOK NOW 🍴 Food: Snacks, Water, Hot Drinks, Sandwiches📍 Pick-up times begin at 2:00 pm

This popular tour takes you on a trustworthy journey into the Alaskan wilderness, allowing you to experience some of nature’s most stunning sights.

With this small-group tour being limited to 8 people it provides a more personalized experience if that is what you are looking for.

You’ll stop at Hilltop Restaurant & Marketplace (the BEST pies are found here! YUM!) where you can purchase extra drinks, snacks, and food to go.

Your driver will pull over at the Tolovana River and Wickersham Dome which are great photo opportunities.

Throughout your tour, you will make your way along the Dalton Highway from Fairbanks to the edge of the Arctic Circle. On the return trip, be sure to keep a watchful eye out for the beautiful Northern Lights.

9. Arctic Circle Aurora Driving Adventure

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, ⌛️ Tour Length: 18 hours , ➡️ BOOK NOW 📍 Pick up is at 9:45 am at meeting point. Return to Fairbanks : 3:30 – 4:30 AM.

This amazing tour allows you to explore the frozen tundra and experience life in the Arctic Circle, ending with a solid effort to view the Northern Lights!

The tour begins with a drive up the Dalton Highway, where you can witness firsthand the Trans Alaska Pipeline along the way. Stops will be made at the Yukon River bridge and the Arctic Circle sign.

On the way home you will then arrive at Joy, Alaska, and make a stop at the Arctic Circle Trading Post. Here you can enjoy complimentary hot drinks as you shop for souvenirs and learn more about Alaskan culture and history.

Next, it’s time to experience the beauty of the Arctic sky if nature cooperates! Meet your aurora guide and be awed by the colorful northern lights. As a bonus, you’ll receive an Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate to commemorate your journey.

10. Arctic Circle Day Trip from Fairbanks

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, more than 300 reviews, ⌛️ Tour Length: 12.5 hours , ➡️ BOOK NOW 🍴 Food: Free snacks + Water📍 Pick up is 7:00-8:00 am (most of Fairbanks area)

From the moment you step into Alaska Wildlife Guide’s climate-controlled vans, you will be transported to a unique Arctic experience. On board, they provide snacks and water to keep you hydrated and energized for the day ahead.

This Arctic Circle tour takes you to some incredible places including the Alyeska Pipeline Viewing Point, Hilltop Restaurant & Marketplace (with the best pies!), Finger Mountain and the BLM Arctic Circle Monument Sign.

My husband and I had the best time! We had a great guide as he was very knowledgeable and friendly. The drive is long but beautiful and well worth it. A great once in a lifetime experience! -SEE MORE REVIEWS

At Finger Mountain, guests take a leisurely walk around the short hiking path for unrivaled views of the Arctic landscape. From there, everyone heads to the Yukon River Camp and visits one of the most powerful rivers in Alaska.

Before heading home you will also have a chance to buy some more snacks or visit a one-of-a-kind store with handmade gifts and fur items not found anywhere else.

Tips for Tours from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle

Preparing for your trip and bringing along some essentials might make or break how positive your experience is!

💡 Mentally prepare for and expect a VERY LONG DAY . There is no way around it, the trip to the Arctic Circle is a long one! 💫 The Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) is a natural phenomenon and can not be guaranteed ! There is NO refund for tours if the Northern Lights can not be seen.

Below are some recommended items for your travels – of course some items depend on the time of year you travel.

✔️ Bug spray for those pesky Alaskan mosquitoes ✔️ Binoculars ✔️ Water and snacks , perhaps a bagged lunch (check tour details) ✔️ Toilet paper and sanitizing hand wipes ✔️ Extra portable battery charger for your camera or phone ✔️ Summer : bring mosquito repellent and warm clothes ✔️ Winter : bring LOTS of warm clothes

🚫 WEATHER Cancellations 🛩 The weather and conditions in Alaska, especially in the winter, can be fierce. Roads become hazardous, temperatures can reach -50 or colder, wildfires occur (in summer), and things can become downright life-threatening for travelers whether it is by road or air. It’s important for those who book trips involving flying, especially, to know that small planes can and will cancel flights due to various circumstances sometimes , leaving you no choice but to spend another few hours or even a day or two extra in Coldfoot. Consider this part of the experience and while no one, even the pilot, likes it when these delays occur, their hands are tied and everyone has to wait things out.

❄️ I also recommend checking out the Best Dog Sledding Tours in Fairbanks, Alaska ! Dog sledding is one of my favorite activities I was able to enjoy in Alaska.❄️

FAQS: The Arctic Circle and Fairbanks Alaska

Let’s be honest, this type of trip is a big deal so you may have some questions about the area you are looking at visiting!

Not everyone gets to visit the Arctic Circle in their lifetime but if you do get the chance, it’s nice to be able to answer questions that come up in conversation.

What is the Arctic Circle?

The Arctic Circle is an important circle of latitude located in the Northern Hemisphere. It marks the boundary between the Arctic and the Northern temperate zone, cutting through places like Alaska. It plays an important role because it marks our night vs. day cycle! Its exact position shifts because of Earth’s tilt and the tidal forces from our moon.

Where is the Arctic Circle in Alaska?

Starting 80 miles NW of Fairbanks and ending at the Arctic Ocean, the Arctic Circle is located at the latitude of 66° 33′ north. It marks the southernmost point where the sun remains visible above the horizon for 24 hours during summer solstice, and, it is also the northernmost point where there are 24-hour periods of darkness during winter solstice.

The Arctic Circle Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) encompasses 19 million acres of land that lie directly inside this circle. In addition , Gates of the Arctic National Park covers 3,238 square miles and sits entirely inside the Arctic Circle.

How far is Fairbanks from the Arctic Circle?

Fairbanks is located approximately 198 road miles south of the Arctic Circle, accessible via the renowned Dalton Highway . If you were to measure it in straight-line distance, it’s about 149 air miles between Fairbanks and the Arctic Circle. This journey through Alaska’s rugged terrain is an adventure in itself!

Is the road paved from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle?

The road from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle on the Dalton Highway is indeed a challenging one. While some small sections are paved, the majority of the road is gravel. The surface can vary from hard, bone-jarring rocky terrains to smoother dirt roads. It’s a road that demands attention and preparation, so it’s not for the faint of heart!

How long is the drive from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle?

The drive from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle is a very long one, taking about 6-7 hours just to reach the Arctic Circle sign. Given the challenging road conditions on the Dalton Highway, it’s no quick jaunt. If you opt for an Arctic Circle Day Tour from Fairbanks, it will take the whole day and then some.

The Wrap-Up: Arctic Circle Tours from Fairbanks

How many people can say they’ve crossed the Arctic Circle? Explore and discover one of the most remote places on Earth and have an Alaskan adventure of a lifetime!

Dare to venture into the frozen, wild frontiers of Alaska and become part of a select group: ice road truckers who brave the icy highway; pipeline workers who fearlessly maintain vital infrastructure in extreme conditions; and intrepid travelers exploring landscapes unlike any other on Earth. 

Experience a journey that only a few have ever dreamed possible. Don’t wait to make your Arctic dreams come true— start planning today !

Heather Kasvinsky is the founder and writer behind Alaska Adventurers. She lived in Fairbanks, Alaska for close to a decade and continues to visit her cabin in McCarthy, bordering Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, every couple of years. A lover of the Great Frontier, she shares her best tips and adventure ideas for Alaska travel with readers worldwide to help them plan their trips.

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• Prudhoe Bay
• Yukon River
• Gates of the Arctic National Park
• The Arctic Circle

Arctic Circle Tours

Due to its severe climate, there are few who venture north of the legendary Arctic Circle, but those with a penchant for exploration are graciously rewarded. The Arctic Circle passes through the Arctic Ocean and is a bucket-list item for many enthused explorers wishing to get their hands on their obligatory souvenir certificate of crossing this icy border.

Tours of the Arctic Circle are popular for those wanting to highlight the cool wonders of this other-worldly polar region. Many flight trips fly from Anchorage or Fairbanks and embark on an unforgettable journey through the ancient cultures, customs and natural environments of this distant territory.

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• Our Most Requested Tour!

ARCTIC CIRCLE DAY TOUR

Quick Details

• Tags Category: Summer Tours
• Hour Glass Duration: 14 hours

Bus Departure: From 7:00 am (depending on hotel location).  Return is between 7:00pm and 9:00 pm.

Coffee   Inclusions:

• Pick up/drop off from hotels within the city limits of Fairbanks or North Pole. If you are staying at an Air BnB, please contact the office on 907 712 4529 (landline) for the closest pick up location. If you are staying outside the city limits, we can pick you up at Walmart or another hotel location. Please call our office to discuss what options are available.
• Snacks and bottled water
• Certificate for crossing the Arctic Circle

Info Exclusions:

• Lunch (available for purchase at Yukon River Camp)

Join our most requested Arctic Circle tour from Fairbanks!

Enjoy Alaska’s untouched nature and its raw beauty. Step across the Arctic Circle, learn about the Trans Alaska Pipeline, look down upon the Yukon River, take a stroll around Finger Mountain (alpine tundra+++weather dependent) and spot wildlife (no guarantee). Marvel over and absorb the vastness and vistas, known as the Last Frontier.

Travel along the famous and rugged Dalton Highway (well known from the TV Show “Ice Road Truckers”) to the Arctic Circle, where the summer nights are bright and the winter dark.

Our exceptional guides, comfortable transportation, and personalized service will make this all-day adventure a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• We will provide you with snacks and bottled water. This is unique to our company and what sets us apart from all others.
• Additional stops are available to purchase lunch and dinner along the road (food not included). You may bring your own food and snacks if desired.
• Our travel itinerary is flexible to ensure our guests can take advantage of unique photo opportunities. We incorporate many stops and opportunity for viewing pleasure.
• Make sure to dress weather appropriate and we recommend to wear some sturdy shoes to be able enjoy this trip.

Arctic Circle Tour Highlights:

• Day trip to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks, Alaska
• Viewing and information about the Trans Alaska Pipeline at the Pipeline viewing point near Fox
• Opportunity to view wildlife such as moose, bears, caribou or wolves along the tour (no guarantee)
• Have your photo taken with your certificate for crossing the Arctic Circle at the world-famous signpost

What to expect

Set off from your departure point in Fairbanks and journey to the Arctic Circle in a climate-controlled van. Traverse the Dalton Highway, keeping your eyes open for wildlife as you cross the Yukon River.

Arrive at your destination, where day and night blend together, and begin to immerse yourself in the indigenous culture. Take a guided walk through the arctic landscape, stop to take photos, and then savor a delightful snack and beverage. Lunch is also available for purchase at Yukon River Camp.

Along the way, make a trip to the Hilltop Restaurant and Marketplace for an opportunity to taste delicious pies, pick up some Alaskan gifts, or simply take a break to relax.

Finally, make your way back to Fairbanks while admiring more views of the mountains and valleys.

• We require a minimum number of 4 people to operate this tour. If minimum numbers are not met you will be advised and offered either a refund or to be rescheduled.
• We will contact you the day before your tour with your exact pickup time once all hotels are known and the pickup schedule is finalized.
• We will make a stop before leaving Fairbanks at a local grocery store to purchase food, drinks and snacks for a picnic lunch, or you can bring your own.
• This tour requires being able to enter and exit our van with limited assistance.  Please contact us if you have any concerns about mobility.

Our office can be reached at +1 907 712 4529 (Landline only, no texts). Our office hours are Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm Alaskan time and Saturday from 9 am to 12 pm during the winter.

Kevin was great. Lots of information on the pipeline, arctic circle, environs. Fabulous to drive the Dalton Road that goes to Prudhoe Bay. AND be at the Arctic Circle. A long day but well worth it!

Among the Top Experiences ever. Kevin was our Tour guide. He was very knowledgeable, helpful and made sure we see Northern Lights on the way back from Arctic Circle. Highly recommended when you are in Fairbanks.

What an amazing trip! Yes, it was a long day, but it was SO worth it. If you want to see Alaska, the pipeline, lots of black spruce, a diverse landscape, and travel the Dalton Highway and cross the mighty Yukon River to the Arctic Circle, this trip is for you! Our tour guide, JJ, was so knowledgeable about the area. She told our group about her experiences living in Alaska, bringing it to life for us. I also recommend ordering lunch and supper from Yukon River Camp for the trip. The food was delicious.Super time!

Really enjoyed our road-trip to the arctic circle! Tony was extremely entertaining and had many stories relating to the trip. He made the very long day go fast. The stop for pie was great. The best blueberry pie I’ve had in a long time. The Yukon river camp was a perfectly timed stop for lunch and the use of the restroom facilities. Some weather conditions made the finger mountain stop quick. Luckily the weather had improved by the time we reached the arctic circle. The certificates are a nice touch and having them officially stamped was a plus. Overall a road-trip that happens once in a lifetime.

We had a great trip up to the Arctic Circle! Tony was super knowledgeable about the land and had great stories to tell throughout the drive. The Dalton Highway is absolutely stunning, we even saw a mama bear and her cubs right before we got up to the Circle! Crossing the Circle was really cool, as was the Yukon River and the camp stop there. We learned a lot about Northern Alaska and I want to come back for a longer trip for sure. I really enjoyed my trip and Tony was a great guide!

RELATED ACTIVITIES

• Hour Glass 5.5 hours
• Tags Summer Tours , Winter Tours

Fairbanks Heritage Tour

This tour is for anyone who is interested in the history and highlights of Fairbanks, Alaska. Tour includes a convenient pick up from your hotel (within the city limits) and a local guide to show you the sites around Fairbanks.

• Hour Glass 6 hours
• Tags Summer Tours

Table Top Mountain Hiking Tour

The Table Top Mountain Trail is a wonderful and easy day tour for all age groups. The hike is spectacular and offers beautiful views of Nome Creek valley and Beaver Creek valley.

• Hour Glass 7 hours

Wickersham Dome Hiking Tour

The Wickersham Dome Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the White Mountains, close to Fairbanks, 28 miles on the Elliott Highway.

Tours & Sightseeing Trips in Fairbanks, Denali & the Arctic Circle.

Touren & sightseeing in fairbanks, zum denali park & polarkreis ., arctic circle day trip (may 15~aug. 20).

DESCRIPTION

Cancellation & refund policy.

Tour the arctic circle Alaska from Fairbanks.

Your Alaskan Arctic Circle tour day begins right at your Fairbanks hotel (not Airbnb nor private residences), so you don’t need to plan how to get to us and you will save additional taxi costs. Free guest pickup from 7:30am to 8:30am.

Your Arctic Circle day is full of fun, information and knowledge about Alaska.

Have your picture taken on the Arctic Circle and receive a “Cross the Circle-Certificate”!

Please be aware that we cover a total of 400 miles in this 14-hour van expedition.

En-route, enjoy stunning views of interior Alaska, the Trans-Alaska-Pipeline, wildlife, the mighty Yukon River and the high plateau of Finger Mountain.

Along the way there is plenty of opportunity to take pictures view wildlife and relax at rest stops where you can purchase breakfast and dinner. (Meals are not included in tour price).

Please bring snacks and beverages for lunch.

If you are looking for the tour after August 20, please click HERE . 

• 8:00am departure from Fairbanks.
• Trans-Alaska-Pipeline – Get a close up view of the famous pipeline and learn interesting facts about the engineering and building period.
• Breakfast at Hilltop, a rustic truck stop.
• Cross the mighty Yukon River.
• Finger Mountain – A short nature hike in a beautiful high plateau above the tree line.
• Arctic Circle – Have your picture taken at the Arctic Circle and receive your Arctic Circle Certificate.
• Yukon River – Walk right to the edge of Alaska’s most famous river. It will impress you with its majesty and history.
• Dinner at Yukon Camp.
• 10:00pm arrival at your location in Fairbanks.
• Cancellations 30 days prior to the tour date are subject to a 5% banking charge.
• Cancellations within 30 days are non-refundable.

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself in the event of a medical emergency or flight delay/cancellation. 1st Alaska Tours is NOT refunding inside the 30-day cancellation policy. 

IMPORTANT : A minimum of 2 people is required for online booking. Single travelers and short notice reservations (within 7 days of tour date) always have to contact us for availability at [email protected] or 907-590-5900.

Tour Details-旅行細節

location/Lage/接送地點: Pick up from Fairbanks

Start Time/Startzeit/開始: 8am

Finish Time/Rückkehr zum Hotel/結束: 10pm

price/Preis/售價: $260

QUESTIONS? PLEASE CONTACT US - Fragen? Sprechen Sie uns an.

popular tours

Arctic Circle Northern Lights

Arctic Circle Aurora Overnight Adventures

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When will you come?

What do you want to see?

Coldfoot's far north location places it one of the world's best aurora viewing areas.

Tour Summary

The Arctic Circle Aurora Overnight Adventure departs from Fairbanks by land or air and offers optional aurora viewing, dog sledding, and Brooks Mountain Range excursions from your base camp at Coldfoot, Alaska.

• Learn the fascinating story of Alaska's Arctic from your guide. Travel through mining areas north of Fairbanks. 
• View the remarkable Trans Alaska Pipeline. 
• Travel the famed Dalton Highway. Traverse the mighty Yukon River. 
• Cross the Arctic Circle and receive an official Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate.

Coldfoot's far north location places it one of the world's best aurora viewing areas. For more information about the aurora, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions. Also, you can visit the   University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute website . 

Accommodations: Located halfway between Fairbanks and Prudhoe Bay, Coldfoot Camp provides an excellent base for travelers in Alaska's Brooks Mountain Range. Although rustic by urban standards, Coldfoot Camp is clean and each room features two twin beds and private bath facilities in each of the rooms, a luxury in the remote wilderness of Alaska's Arctic.

A round trip journey by land and air exploring Alaska's Brooks Mountain Range.

This adventure is for those who are serious about looking for the Aurora. To increase the odds of seeing them one should stay put for multiple nights in a location as close to the source of the lights as possible so that even on a quiet night the ability is there to see them. Quiet doesn't mean they are not occurring, quiet means the band they occur in is narrow and not visible miles away.

Tour Dates and Rates

August 21, 2024 - September 16, 2024

9:45 AM Departure

Days: Daily

Rate: $869 *

* Per person based on double occupancy for a 3 day / 2 night Adventure. Single Supplement $200

September 19, 2024 - October 7, 2024

November 23, 2024 - December 1, 2024

December 21, 2024 - January 5, 2025

January 29, 2025 - February 28, 2025

March 1, 2025 - March 31, 2025

Days: Sunday Friday

Rate: $1079 *

* Peak Rate based on double occupancy for a 3 day / 2 night adventure. Single Supplement $200

October 8, 2024 - November 22, 2024

December 2, 2024 - December 20, 2024

January 6, 2025 - January 28, 2025

April 1, 2025 - April 21, 2025

Rate: $929 *

* Standard Rate per person based on double occupancy for a 3 day / 2 night adventure. Single Supplement $200

• Arctic Circle
• Yukon River

TOUR SUMMARY:

• Ground tour in the personalized comfort of our ground tour vehicles. Appreciate the low light on the horizon as it shines on the windswept arctic tundra. Traverse the frozen Yukon River and enjoy the snow-sculpted forest as you make your way across the Arctic Circle.  Arrive in Coldfoot and settle in for your 3 night stay.  

DAY 2 (or more if staying more than 2 nights)

• Select from a variety of optional tours which include an excursion along the Dalton Highway, into the Brooks Mountain Range, as far north as Atigun Pass (weather permitting); a one-hour dog sledding experience with a local musher, and additional aurora viewing in Wiseman (optional tour prices are not included).

DAY 3 - or last day if staying longer!

• Depart Coldfoot by air for Fairbanks. Average time of return to Fairbanks is 4:30 PM, average flight time is 70 minutes. Departure time can vary based on number of guests and flight resources on day of travel. Most common time of departure is 3:00 PM but can range from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Departs 9:45 am by ground tour on DAY 1; Depart Coldfoot by air on your final day (average time of return to Fairbanks is 4:30 pm. Departure time can vary based on number of guests/flight resources on day of travel). Most common departure time from Coldfoot is 2:30 pm but can range from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

MEALS are not included; however, on day 1 we will make a quick stop at a grocery store for you to get food for lunch and all other meals at the Coldfoot Camp Trucker's Cafe ( Menu as of 3/23/23 ).

LUGGAGE : For your small plane flight, you are allowed to bring up to 20 pounds per person.  Your luggage should be in a carry-on size and soft-sided bag, like a backpack, duffle, or tote bag.  Nothing on wheels.  We will weigh all of your bags (overnight and day bags) at the time of check in.

All per person based on double occupancy. 

Single Supplement add $100 per night.

3 Day / 2  Night - Departs FRIDAY and SUNDAY = $929/ PEAK = $1079

4 Day / 3 Night - Departs TUESDAY = $1029/ PEAK = $1179

5 Day / 4  Night - Departs FRIDAY = $1129/ PEAK = $1279

6 Day / 5 Night - Departs TUESDAY and SUNDAY = $1229 / PEAK = $1379

PEAK DATES:

September 19 - October 7, 2024

November 23 -  December 1, 2024

December 21 - January 5, 2025

January 29 - March 31, 2025

For an Arctic Circle Aurora Overnight Adventure Tour Program click HERE .

OPTIONAL TOURS - available for purchase

We recommend you pre-book any activity you know you want to do.  Coldfoot will do their best to accommodate on site reservations; however, not always will you be able to make reservations once in Coldfoot due to space or guide availability.

Arctic Mountain Safari: Enjoy an afternoon exploring the Brooks Mountain Range on a guided ground tour north from Coldfoot on the Dalton Highway as far north as Atigun Pass (weather permitting).  Departs Coldfoot at 10:00 am and returns at 6:00 pm. Meals not included. Box lunch can be purchased at Coldfoot Camp. 

• $129/ person 

Arctic Snowshoe Outing : Enjoy a guided snowshoe outing on a trail near Clara Creek. The excursion lasts about 2 hours with about 1 hour of snowshoeing (between 1 - 2 miles) Hot drinks included. Departure times vary. 

• $39 / person

Arctic Village Aurora:  Enjoy an evening tour to historic Wiseman for a unique cabin visit and an  opportunity to enjoy the solitude of the Brooks Mountain Range as you scan the northern sky for Northern Lights. Cabin visit includes complimentary hot beverages. Departs Coldfoot at 10:00 pm and returns at 2:00 am.

• $89 / person 

Dog Sled Adventure:   Enjoy an afternoon with real Alaskan sled dogs.   Learn what it takes to have a dog team in Alaska.  Enjoy a ride, and, if you wish, drive a team of your own.  Times will vary and will be arranged by the guide in Coldfoot to fit within your schedule - experience takes approximately 1 hour. 

• $189 / person ( Only available December 15 - March 31  - booked only once at Coldfoot Camp.) 

For information on how to make a reservation, click on the link to our planning  page. 

Recommendations : For any of our adventures into Alaska's Arctic we recommend planning to arrive in Fairbanks the night prior to joining us and stay in Fairbanks the night returning with us.   If you are delayed arriving into Fairbanks and miss your tour departure that equals a non-refundable cancellation.  We will do our best to see if there is an alternate available for you; however, there is no guarantee of an equal replacement nor is the tour refundable if missed.

NOTE:   Guest safety always takes precedence over convenience.  The return on the final day is by small plane.  Small plane flying in Alaska's Arctic can be delayed or even cancelled on occasion due to weather.   If the weather requires us to alter the return method of travel from air to ground it will be done as an equal exchange of travel.

Alaska's Arctic -- premier destination to look for the Aurora -- Coldfoot is located directly under the Aurora Oval, where the aurora originate in the northern hemisphere.

Scene from Coldfoot Camp

Winter In Alaska's Arctic Dalton Highway South Of The Eyukon River

Denali Winter Drive Adventure

A One Day Guided Round Trip Journey By Land To North America's Tallest Mountain

• Χ Arctic Circle
• Χ Arctic Ocean
• Χ Polar Bear
• Χ Undiscovered Arctic
• Χ Yukon River

Denali WINTER Summit Flight (from Fairbanks)

Thrill at the excitement of witnessing firsthand Denali, North America's tallest mountain, by air from a unique perspective - eye level!

Midnight Sun! 7 places where the sun NEVER sets

Discover the marvels of perpetual daylight in our exploration of seven places where the sun never sets. From Norway's Arctic Circle to Alaska's Barrow, delve into the enchanting phenomena of continuous daylight during the summer solstice

Explore the captivating phenomenon of perpetual daylight in 7 remarkable locations worldwide, where the sun never sets during the summer solstice

Located above the Arctic Circle, Longyearbyen experiences continuous daylight for several weeks during the summer months

Another Norwegian city above the Arctic Circle where the sun doesn't set for a period during the summer solstice

Being situated at a high latitude in Alaska, Barrow experiences polar day during the summer solstice

Iceland's capital, although not within the Arctic Circle, experiences very long days during the summer months, with the sun often not setting fully

As one of Russia's largest cities north of the Arctic Circle, Murmansk experiences polar day during the summer months

Another Arctic Circle city where the sun does not set for a period during the summer solstice

Located in the northernmost part of Sweden, Kiruna experiences the phenomenon of the midnight sun during the summer months

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Holland America Line’s New 28-Day Legendary Voyage In 2025 Is An Epic Exploration Of Greenland, Iceland And The Arctic Circle 

The ‘Arctic Circle Crossing’ inspired by 10th Century explorers includes four maiden calls in Greenland, a trip to the North Cape and extensive scenic cruising 

Seattle, Wash., Aug. 22, 2023  — From trending travel destinations to seldom-visited locales, Holland America Line’s new 28-day “Arctic Circle Crossing: Greenland & Iceland” is a  Legendary Voyage  to Greenland, Iceland and Norway. Departing June 29, 2025, aboard Nieuw Statendam, the journey is inspired by the routes of Norse explorer Erik the Red who founded the first European settlement in Greenland. 

Sailing roundtrip from Rotterdam, the Netherlands, the cruise features 15 ports across five countries, passage through the Arctic Circle, an overnight in Reykjavik, Iceland, scenic cruising through Iceland and Greenland’s spellbinding fjords and four maiden calls in Greenland. Cruisers on the “Arctic Circle Crossing” will set sail on one of Holland America Line’s most intensive explorations of this region ever offered.

“Legendary Voyages give us the opportunity to create longer cruises that delve deeper into a region and include ports we don’t normally visit, like the four maiden calls in Greenland on the new Arctic Circle Crossing,” said Beth Bodensteiner, chief commercial officer of Holland America Line. "We’re taking this itinerary up to Norway’s North Cape, then heading farther north in Greenland on both coasts and adding amazing opportunities in Iceland. At 28 days, it’s the perfect length to showcase this area and give our guests an experience that goes beyond a brief introduction to the countries.”

Highlights of the ‘Arctic Circle Crossing’ Legendary Voyage

• 28 days, departing June 29, 2025, roundtrip from Rotterdam.
• 15 calls in five countries (listed in order of visit): Ålesund, Trondheim, Honningsvåg (North Cape) and Tromsø, Norway; Ittoqqortoormiit (Scoresbysund), Greenland; Akureyri and Isafjördur Iceland; Nuuk (Godthåb), Sisimiut (Holsteinsborg), Ilulissat (Jakobshavn) and Nanortalik, Greenland; Reykjavik, Iceland (overnight); Stornoway (Isle of Lewis) and Invergordon (Inverness), Scotland; and Dover (London), England.
• Maiden Calls, all in Greenland: Nuuk, Ittoqqortoormiit, Sisimiut, Ilulissat.
• Crossing the Arctic Circle at several points throughout the voyage.
• Overnight call July 20 and 21 in Reykjavik.
• Scenic cruising opportunities: North Cape (Norway); Jan Mayen Island, a Norwegian volcanic island in the Arctic Ocean; Scoresbysund (Greenland); and Eyjafjördur and Ísafjardardjúr (Iceland).

What is a ‘Legendary Voyage’?

These lengthier cruises, which range from 25 to 59 days, combine the ceremony of Holland America Line’s  Grand Voyages  while focusing on a singular region. They visit some of the most unique ports while offering guests an in-depth exploration. Shipboard programming is specially curated to share insights into the history and culture of the destinations visited.

Legendary Voyages  are offered on a variety of the line’s perfectly sized ships where guests enjoy the “best of” Grand Voyages on-board programming such as iconic theme parties, memorable sailaways and classic cruise activities to further enhance the experience.

Who is Erik the Red?

Norse explorer Erik Thorvaldsson, known as Erik the Red, was exiled from Iceland and set out to explore the land to the west, which he named Greenland. After establishing the first European settlement on an island near Qaqortoq, he returned to Iceland to bring more settlers back to Greenland. He is the father of Leif Erikson, one of the first Europeans to reach North America.

‘Have it All’ Early Booking Bonus

The “Arctic Circle Crossing” opens for booking Aug. 24, 2023. For a limited time, when guests book this cruise with the Have It All Early Booking Bonus, the standard package amenities of shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package and Surf Wi-Fi are included — plus the added perk of free prepaid Crew Appreciation, along with free upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi.

Have it All Early Booking Bonus fares for the Arctic Circle Crossing begin at $6,399, double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses are additional. 

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A shooting stuns an indigenous whaling village on Alaska’s desolate North Slope

The sun sets in the northwest Alaska village of Point Hope, on the Chukchi Sea on Feb. 21, 2024. A fatal shooting at a home in a remote Inupiat whaling village on Alaska’s northwest coast on Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024, shook the small community in Point Hope. (Ka’ainoa Ravey via AP)

The sun sets outside of the northwest Alaska village of Point Hope on the Chukchi Sea, Feb. 21, 2024. A fatal shooting at a home in a remote Inupiat whaling village on Alaska’s northwest coast on Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024, shook the small community in Point Hope. (Ka’ainoa Ravey via AP)

An aerial view of the northwest Alaska village of Point Hope, on the Chukchi Sea, on May 13, 2023. A fatal shooting at a home in a remote Inupiat whaling village on Alaska’s northwest coast on Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024, shook the small community in Point Hope. (Marc Lester/Anchorage Daily News via AP)

An aerial view shows the northwest Alaska village of Point Hope on the Chukchi Sea, on Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024. A fatal shooting at a home in a remote Inupiat whaling village on Alaska’s northwest coast on Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024, shook the small community in Point Hope. (Ka’ainoa Ravey via AP)

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ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — A shooting that killed two adults and severely wounded two others has stunned a tiny Alaska Native whaling village above the Arctic Circle, where parents were told they could keep their children home from school Tuesday to hug them.

A 16-year-old boy has been charged as an adult with two counts each of first-degree murder and attempted murder in the late Sunday shooting in Point Hope, a remote Inupiat whaling community on Alaska’s northwest coast, bordering the Chukchi Sea.

The teen, Guy Nashookpuk, made his initial court appearance by telephone Tuesday. He spoke only to say “Yes ma’am” when asked questions by Magistrate Judge Colleen Baxter.

He was assigned a public defender, who entered not guilty pleas on his behalf. Baxter set bail at $1 million and scheduled a preliminary hearing for March 8. State law allows minors 16 and older to be tried in adult court on murder charges.

North Slope Borough police found a man and woman dead and two other men wounded when officers responded to a shooting at a Point Hope home at 11:35 p.m. Sunday, charging documents said. One witness told officers she saw the teen enter the home with a handgun and begin shooting. Others said they saw him flee on a four-wheeler.

Nine minutes later, the teen’s father escorted him to the police station and reported “that his son had told him that he did it,” court documents said.

The teen was interviewed with his parents present and admitted the shooting, the documents said. No motive was detailed.

Point Hope, with a population of about 675, sits on a triangular spit of land that juts into the Chukchi Sea. It is about 700 miles (1,126 kilometers) northwest of Anchorage and 200 miles (322 kilometers) from Russia.

The community, known as Tikigaq in Inupiaq, is laid out in a treeless grid around the Tikigaq School — “Home of the Harpooners.” This weekend’s shooting prompted the closure of the the school on Monday. Attendance Tuesday was not required.

“It is totally optional if you’d rather keep your kids home to hold, hug, and explain the circumstance to them,” North Slope Borough Mayor Josiah Patkotak said in a Facebook post.

The local cemetery is surrounded by a fence made of whale bones stuck upright in the tundra, and remnants of prehistoric sod-house villages sit nearby.

A state-owned air strip provides the only year-round access. Barges arrive in the summer with food, fuel and other items for year-round use. Locals travel by skiffs, boats made of animal skins, snowmobiles and four-wheelers.

The peninsula is one of the longest continually inhabited Inupiat areas of North America, with some of its earliest residents crossing the Siberian land bridge about 2,000 years ago for bowhead whaling, the borough website said.

Residents still participate in subsistence hunts for bowhead whales, according to the Alaska Eskimo Whaling Commission. And as in most of Alaska, firearms are commonly used to hunt caribou, moose, seals, walrus and polar bears.

And shootings aren’t unheard of: Last May, a police officer shot and killed a man in Point Hope after the man opened fire on residents and buildings and refused to drop the weapon.

Patkotak said the borough fire department would fly in emergency medical services staff from the other seven communities in North Slope Borough — an area roughly the size of Wyoming — to provide on-call EMS services to cover for Point Hope staff. He said they might be traumatized by the shooting, since they’re often closely related to those they serve.

“Our small communities are intertwined in immeasurable ways dating back generations,” Patkotak said.

Maniilaq Association, a nonprofit corporation that provides health, tribal and social services to residents in northwest Alaska, sent behavioral health counselors to meet with Point Hope residents for the rest of the week. The Assembly of God church in Point Hope also offered two services Monday.

“In the days ahead, we will come together as a community to heal and support one another,” the North Slope Borough said in a statement posted to social media.

Kaʻainoa Ravey, who travels rural Alaska teaching food safety and cooking as part of a technical education program, just spent three weeks in Point Hope working with a dozen high school students. Among the dishes they tried were polar bear meat tostadas. He left Sunday morning, before the shooting.

“The community is very close and tightknit to where almost everybody is cousins,” Ravey said.

Life there feels slow, he said, and bored kids roam the streets at night.

“It almost seems like the rest of the world kind of forgets about them,” he said. “So that’s why when something like this hits, it’s just huge. It’s like a devastating blow to the community.”

Associated Press contributors include Jennifer Sinco Kelleher in Honolulu, Lisa Bauman in Seattle, Stephanie Dazio in Los Angeles and Rhonda Shafner in New York.

Greenland's Arctic Grandeur Aboard Exploris I

August 30 - September 9, 2025

Group Size: 120 travelers across all sponsors Price: Starting from $9,999 per person double occupancy, $14,999 single occupancy Co-sponsored with: The alumni associations of Colombia, Georgetown, Cornell, Dartmouth, Yale, University of Chicago, University of North Carolina, and National Trust for Historic Preservation

Trip Overview

In a landscape dotted with vividly colorful, colonial-style houses and centuries-old Danish churches, meet local residents and experts to experience local Inuit traditions and meet a dogsledding team. First, stay overnight for a brief exploration of Reykjavík, Iceland, followed by a privately chartered flight to Greenland. Bask in the lush backcountry of Nuuk, Greenland’s capital city, and visit Sisimiut, North America’s largest city above the Arctic Circle. Immerse yourself in secluded whaling settlements such as Kitsissuarsuit and Qeqertaq. At the Eqi Glacier, board Zodiacs and cruise along a fjord to observe the dramatic spectacle of “ice calving”—when pieces of a glacier break away and form icebergs. Revel in the sculpture-like icebergs created by the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord. Venture to Evighed Fjord, where you will savor the tranquil beauty of the steep, towering basalt peaks. Throughout this odyssey, sample distinctive cuisine, peruse small yet beautiful collections of Greenlandic art, and marvel at colossal ice formations.

Schedule by Day

Depart your home city for Reykjavík, Iceland, on an overnight flight.

Arrive this morning and transfer to the Courtyard Reykjavík Keflavík Airport hotel for an overnight stay. You may choose to spend the afternoon at leisure. Alternatively, join a rejuvenating excursion to the Sky Lagoon, an oceanside thermal pool that brings Iceland’s ancient bathing traditions into modernity. While enjoying a relaxing soak, savor views of the Atlantic as well as sights like Bessastaðir, known as the manor residence of Iceland’s president, and the 700,000-year-old Snæfellsjökull glacier.

As a third option, participate in an island tour, including a visit to the National Museum of Iceland, which preserves the country’s expansive heritage through its collections of thousands of objects, from medieval artifacts to 20th-century photographs. Continue to the historic center of Reykjavík, once a Viking village, and admire its charmingly colorful houses made of corrugated iron. This evening, gather for a private cocktail reception at a special venue, with dinner at leisure, perhaps to take advantage of Reykjavík’s intriguing culinary scene.

Overnight:  Courtyard Reykjavík Keflavík Airport Hotel

Meals: L, R

After checking out of the hotel this morning, transfer to the Reykjavík airport for a privately chartered flight to Greenland. Arrive in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland’s hub for air transport with little more than 500 residents. This tiny municipality sits at the end of a 110-mile-long fjord, where you will board Exploris One. After settling into your cabin, the ship will set sail along the fjord and out to sea for the rest of the evening, heading south along Greenland’s western coastline to the capital of Nuuk.

Overnight: Exploris I

Meals: B, L, D

Accessible only by sea or air, Nuuk is Greenland’s largest city, situated at the mouth of one of the world’s largest fjord systems, known for its waterfalls, humpback whales, and icebergs. Notably, Paleo-Eskimo people settled here around 2200 B.C. Walk along Nuuk’s waterfront, which is dotted with brightly colored houses in a variety of pastel shades, with the nearly 4,000-foot-tall Sermitsiaq mountain as a dramatic backdrop.

During the stop here, make your way to the Greenland National Museum & Archives, housed in one of Nuuk’s traditional colonial harbor warehouses. Admire its collections charting 4,500 years of Greenland’s history, including its Stone Age inhabitants; the Thule people who arrived here from Alaska circa the 13th century, the ancestors of the modern Inuits; and the lives of Inuit hunters and fishermen. Here, a native Greenlander will introduce you to the local culture with an informative private demonstration.

Before returning to Exploris One, you may opt to join a local guide for a visit to the Nuuk Art Museum. Peruse its collection of mostly early 20th-century paintings of Greenland and Greenlandic figurines, treasures that came from the private collection of the late Danish-born Greenlander Svend Junge and his wife Helene.

Exploris One will cross the Arctic Circle this morning as it cruises toward Sisimiut, Greenland’s second-largest town and a settlement for more than 4,000 years. Sisimiut is notable as Greenland’s northernmost port that remains ice-free during the winter. Discover this town, which is both tranquil and surprisingly vibrant as the home to many Greenlandic students and business organizations. Yet its solitude and fjordside natural beauty are captivating.

Here, traveling by dog sled has been the primary means of transportation for centuries. Join a dog sled team and its owners, who will demonstrate their unique work and explain the attributes of the strong, reliable Greenland Husky. Later, you will also privately meet local Inuits, who will share enlightening insights on their culture.

You may choose to take a privately guided tour of the Sisimiut Museum, housed in a collection of colonial buildings, some dating to as early as the 18th century. Its exhibits are devoted to the local Inuit history, shipping and trade, and archaeological artifacts documenting life dating back 4,000 years. One of the buildings of the museum is the Bethelkirken (commonly known as the “Blue Church” for its color), Greenland’s oldest intact house of worship, prefabricated in Copenhagen in 1771 and assembled here in 1775. Return to Exploris One for dinner and set forth for Kitsissuarsuit.

This morning, arrive off the coast of Kitsissuarsuit and transfer by Zodiac into town. First settled in 1830 by Dutch whalers, this small Inuit settlement of just 50 inhabitants remains self-sufficient thanks to its marine resources, and its tiny population has kept its age-old traditions alive. Explore the island on foot, enjoy some local entertainment, and sample some local delicacies, which may include musk ox, roasted ptarmigan (similar to pheasant), and suaasat, a warming robust stew. You may opt to see local Inuit traditions at a fish market, where cod, Atlantic wolffish, redfish, and Greenlandic halibut may be among the items on offer. Return to the Exploris One by Zodiac before setting sail toward the Eqi Glacier, one of nature’s great spectacles.

Transfer to Zodiacs in the company of naturalist guides and embark on a scenic cruise to the Eqi Glacier, a monumental display, standing more than 30 stories tall with a width of more than three miles. This large tidewater glacier, which flows directly into the sea, originates from the Greenland Ice Sheet, the enormous glacier that covers more than 80 percent of the island.

As you approach the Eqi Glacier, loud cracks, seemingly of thunder, break the silence as huge chunks of ice “calve,” or break off, into the bay, forming icebergs. Have your cameras ready as this epic scene unfolds, with pieces of various sizes crashing into the water. Learn more about the formation of the Eqi Glacier and how climatologists are monitoring it and similar glaciers as Earth’s temperature rises. Return to your Zodiacs for the voyage back to Exploris One, enjoying a lunchtime sail to Qeqertaq, a small settlement of 140 people. A local guide will lead you on a tour of the village, where residents primarily earn their living through halibut fishing and their own fish processing facility. Halibut is a valuable and sought-after delicacy, particularly when transformed into rækling, a wind-dried version of the fish.

Be on deck this morning to see the Northern Hemisphere’s most active glacier—Jakobshavn—often surrounded by icebergs in all shapes and sizes and in varying shades of white and turquoise.Jakobshavn comprises part of the Ilulissat Icefjord, known as “the birthplace of icebergs.” Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, Ilulissat Icefjord produces nearly 20 million tons of ice each day, all floating into Disko Bay.

Step ashore in Ilulissat, founded in 1741 and now Greenland’s third-largest settlement, with a population of 4,900. The town offers a very small yet intriguing selection of museums and art galleries for a deeper look at Greenlandic art, history, and culture. During our guided walking tour of Ilulissat, take an inside look at the Ilulissat City Museum, with its exhibits covering prehistoric life, urban history, fishing practices, and Greenlandic national clothing. You will also peruse museum’s collection of photographs by Jette Bang, a Danish photographer known for capturing Greenlandic Inuit life, as well as pictures taken by pioneering anthropologist Knud Rasmussen.

During free time to explore, you may have the opportunity to visit the Icefjord Centre, which opened in 2021. Here, art and science converge to enhance our understanding of Greenland’s vast ice sheets and their global significance. Take an inside look at art installations and a display of ice cores that document climatic and cultural changes dating back as far as 100,000 years, holding insights into forgotten events like volcanic eruptions and meteor impacts.

In Disko Bay, transfer to Zodiacs for a cruise along Disko Island and its Kuannit Coast, where huge volcanic cliffs and basalt rock columns offer refuge for numerous sea birds among the many inlets and coves. Considerably younger geologically than mainland Greenland, Disko Island boasts tall basalt mountains formed by volcanic activity dating back 25 to 65 million years. Its unique location between the low and high Arctic, along with abundant hot springs, fosters diverse flora uncommon for its latitude.

Return to Exploris One later this morning and depart for North Greenland’s former capital of Qeqertarsuaq, a small fishing town founded in 1773, set on a peninsula on Disko Island’s southern coast. With a backdrop of gleaming red basalt mountains and black-sand beaches, step ashore for a guided walk and meet a local expert to learn about Qeqertarsuaq’s history as well as some secrets of modern Arctic life. Stop at the charming, octagonal Qeqertarsuaq Church, built in the early 20th century. Then enjoy an inside look at the Qeqertarsuaq Museum, housed in the former official residence of the bailiff for North Greenland. Delve deep into the museum’s exhibitions on the town’s colonial history, its Arctic research station, and the paintings of Jakob Danielsen (1888–1938), a Danish-born artist and local hunter.

Sail into Evighed Fjord, which is aptly named “the fjord of Eternity,” as it stretches over 60 miles, seemingly endless in its beauty. The landscape transitions from glaciers to tundra, with rich flora and jagged, bird-filled cliffs. Step off a Zodiac cruise, then take a gentle hike amid the stunning glacial scenery and watch as birds such as white-tailed eagles and black-legged kittiwakes soar above. Later, return to Exploris One and gather for the captain’s festive farewell dinner this evening.

After disembarking this morning, transfer to the Kangerlussuaq airport for the charter flight back to Iceland, followed by your commercial flight back home.

Accommodations

• Once night at the Courtyard Reykjavík Keflavík Airport
• Eight nights cabin accommodations aboard Exploris One
• Optional Post-tour extension: Reykjavík (September 9-11, 2025) Details coming soon

What to Expect

Busy pacing may include multiple hotel changes plus internal flights or long drives. May involve exposure to the outdoors, full days of touring, and walking up to two hours.

Study Leader(s)

Mode of Travel

Related Trips

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