Kenai Peninsula

Day 1: Anchorage

Welcome to the USA! You can arrive at any time on Day 1 as there are no scheduled activities. You can check in after 3pm but if you arrive early you can store your luggage. You won't be meeting your leader or your group until the morning of Day 2. Located in south-central Alaska on the shores of Cook Inlet, Anchorage is a unique urban environment situated in the heart of the wilderness. Established in 1914 as the construction headquarters for the Alaskan Railroad, it's the state's largest and most sophisticated city and home to more than half of its occupants. As there's no time spent in Anchorage on this trip we recommend you arrive a few days early to see the sights. If you need help booking extra accommodation, our reservations team will be able to assist. 

Days 2-3: Homer

There will be an important welcome meeting at 8am on Day 2. Meet in the hotel reception/lobby. We'll be collecting your insurance details, kitty and next of kin information at this meeting so please ensure you have all details on hand to provide to your leader. Drive along the Turnagain Arm and the National Forest Scenic Byway on our way to Homer. Keep your eyes peeled today for a glimpse of beluga whales (380 km, approx 5.5 hrs). Set off on a sea kayaking trip to Kachemak Bay State Park. During our sea kayaking, we explore beautiful rock arches, cliffs and remote beaches. Watch for bald eagles, sea otters and puffins. The trip includes lunch, a guide, kayak equipment, instruction and water taxi transfer. 

Day 4: Hope

Drive to the town of Hope (280 km, approx 3.5 hrs). Hope is one of Alaska's first gold rush towns. In 1889, before gold was found in Dawson or Nome, it was discovered in Hope. This sparked the Alaska gold rush and buildings from that era still charm downtown Hope. Gold panning, hiking, mountain biking, and photography are popular pursuits. Several trails start nearby. Hope also offers the most exciting whitewater rafting in Alaska. 

Days 5-7: Seward

Travel to the coastal town of Seward and the surrounding Kenai Fjords National Park (125 km, approx 2.5 hrs). Kenai Fjords National Park is home to rugged mountain peaks, glaciers, deep fjords, bears, whales, puffins, and seals. Optional activities in this spectacular landscape include a boat cruise around the glaciers of the park (several tours of varying lengths are available), a short walk up to Exit Glacier, or hiking to the Harding Icefield. 

Day 8: Anchorage

Return to Anchorage via the enchanting Kenai Peninsula (315 km, approx 3.5 hrs). There will be time to explore some of this Arctic wonderland with its numerous lakes, glaciers and fascinating coastline. The area is also famous for its many anglers, who follow the salmon on their annual migration up the peninsula's many wide rivers. The arrival time at our hotel depends on each group, but we aim for a 3pm arrival. If you decide to fly out this day, please don't book a flight before 8pm which will give you enough time catch a shuttle from the hotel to the airport and be there 2 hours before departure. For those wishing to stay on in Anchorage, please speak to our reservations team who can assist in booking extra nights of accommodation.