From floating past the bald eagles in their natural habitat to exploring the rich diversity of the local avifauna, these tours provide unique opportunities to observe Alaska's birds up close. Here’s a guide to the top bird watching tours in Alaska, perfect for those looking to combine adventure with the thrill of spotting rare and beautiful birds.
1. Exclusive Guided Tour of Bald Eagle Foundation
This tour offers an intimate encounter with one of Alaska's most iconic birds, the bald eagle. Located in southeast Alaska, the Bald Eagle Foundation not only provides a sanctuary for these magnificent birds but also educates visitors with live bird demonstrations and access to a natural history museum. It’s an ideal spot for those eager to learn more about the conservation efforts that help maintain the population of these majestic birds.
2. Birds of Hoonah Alaska Bird Watching Tour
Venture into the lush temperate rainforests and tidal waters around Hoonah for exclusive bird watching. This tour is renowned for being the only dedicated birding excursion in Alaska offered to cruise guests, focusing on the region's avian diversity. Equipped with high-quality binoculars and spotting scopes, you’ll explore various habitats looking for seabirds, ducks, gulls and the iconic bald eagles, making it a must-do for bird enthusiasts.
3. Alaska Raptor Center Bird Watching Tour
The Alaska Raptor Center in Sitka provides a sanctuary for rehabilitating birds of prey, including bald eagles, hawks and owls. Here, visitors can observe these birds regain their flight abilities and learn about the rehabilitation processes. The tour also includes cultural insights with performances by Alaskan Story Teller Dancers, offering a blend of wildlife education and local heritage.
4. Sitka National Historical Park and Alaska Raptor Center
This comprehensive tour combines wildlife, heritage and culture, starting at the Alaska Raptor Center where you engage in a bird-to-glove presentation about bald eagles. The journey continues to Sitka National Historical Park, famous for its totem poles and a rich blend of Tlingit and Russian history. The visit culminates at the Sheet’ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Tribal Community House, where Tlingit dancers perform traditional songs, making it a culturally enriching experience.
5. Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Trip & Bird Watching Tour
Experience the thrill of floating through the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, where you can see the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles. The tour includes a peaceful raft journey along the Chilkat River, offering ample opportunities to observe eagles and other wildlife in their natural environment. This tour is perfect for those who want to combine adventure with exceptional bird watching.
Each of these bird watching tours in Alaska offers a unique opportunity to observe a variety of bird species in some of the most breathtaking natural settings in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a newcomer eager to experience Alaska’s wildlife, these tours promise unforgettable encounters with the birds of the Last Frontier.
