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Land-Based Wildlife Tour

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Land-Based Tour
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No boat travel required
Brown Bear Habitat
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Chichagof Island wildlife corridor
Local Expert Guide
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Narrated wildlife identification throughout
Family Friendly
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Comfortable for guests of all ages

Description

Discover the wild side of Chichagof Island without ever boarding a boat. This land-based wildlife tour takes you by comfortable vehicle through Hoonah and into the island’s rugged forests and scenic coastline, where sightings of brown bears, bald eagles, Sitka black-tailed deer, and other native species are part of the experience.

Chichagof Island is known for having one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world, and your local guide knows the terrain well. You’ll visit proven viewing areas, along salmon streams, open clearings, and quiet shoreline stretches—where wildlife activity is most common. Many sightings happen right from the road or just steps away, making this tour a great fit for all ages and mobility levels.

As you travel, your guide shares insights into the island’s ecosystem, wildlife behavior, and the deep connection between the Hoonah community and the surrounding land. The experience isn’t rigid or pre-planned; your route shifts throughout the tour based on where animals have been spotted that day, giving you the best possible chance for real encounters.

With a total duration of three hours, you’ll spend meaningful time out in the field without the physical effort of hiking or the unpredictability of ocean conditions. It’s an ideal option for families, older travelers, or anyone who prefers a relaxed, ground-based adventure.

Round-trip transportation from the Icy Strait Point Excursion Hub is included, with plenty of time afterward to explore Hoonah or return to your ship. Pair it with a whale watching tour to experience both land and sea wildlife during your visit.


What's Included

Round-Trip Transportation
Knowledgeable Local Guide
Wildlife Viewing Stops
Narrated Tour
Guide Gratuities
Food & Beverage
Binoculars

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I see bears on this tour?
Brown bears are commonly spotted along roadsides and near streams on Chichagof Island. While sightings are frequent, they cannot be guaranteed as this is a wildlife experience.
Is this tour suitable for people who get seasick?
Yes, this is entirely land-based. You travel by vehicle with stops for wildlife viewing, so there is no boat travel involved.
Is this tour family friendly?
Yes, guests of all ages are welcome. The tour is conducted from a comfortable vehicle with brief stops for photos and wildlife viewing.
How much walking is involved?
Very little. Most viewing is done from or near the vehicle. Brief stops may involve short walks on even ground for better vantage points.

Know Before You Book

Minimum Age: 6 years old
This is a land-based tour — no boat travel required
Tour operates rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe
Comfortable for guests who prefer to stay on solid ground
Cancel up to 24 hours the tour for a refund. No refund is available if canceled within 24 hours of the tour. If for any reason your tour is canceled, or if your cruise ship's schedule changes, you will receive a refund. Refunds do not include any non-refundable fees. Contact us by phone or email to request a cancellation.

Quick Facts

City
Icy Strait Point

Duration
3h 00min

Adult Rate
$160

Child Rate
$133


Itinerary • 3h 00min • 4 activities

Check in with your guide at the Excursion Hub and board the vehicle for your wildlife tour through Hoonah and beyond.

Duration
15 minutes

Travel through the town of Hoonah with commentary on the community, its history, and the wildlife that surrounds it.

Duration
20 minutes

Cruise the roads and trails of Chichagof Island, stopping at prime locations for brown bears, eagles, deer, and other wildlife.

Duration
2 hours

Head back to the Excursion Hub with time to explore downtown Hoonah or reboard your cruise ship.

Duration
25 minutes