Overview
On this thrill-filled Alaska vacation, you’ll stop by the Iditarod headquarters, visit the kennels of four-time Iditarod Champion Martin read more Buser, and attend the annual Mushers Banquet where you can meet, mingle, and even witness the draw for starting positions. Cheer on your favorite mushers at the ceremonial start of the race in Anchorage and again at the official restart in the quaint community of Willow.
Of course, the K9 athletes are not the only animals you’ll see on this tour of Alaska. Have your camera ready for moose, musk ox, and more as you enjoy visits to Anchorage’s renowned wildlife centers and the Girdwood ski resort where you can put your own paws in the snow.
Itinerary
Welcome to Anchorage!
Spend time relaxing today and getting to know this fascinating city at your leisure.
ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: in Anchorage with a dinner out in this iconic Alaskan city. Tap your GlobusGO mobile app for the best bites, brews, and things to do!
Wild & Wooly in Alaska
This morning, meet your Tour Director and travel companions at a welcome breakfast. Then, board your motorcoach and make one of the world's great drives as you travel along dramatically scenic Turnagain Arm. Marvel at the dramatic views, and keep your eyes open for Dall sheep, eagles, and other wildlife. In coastal Seward, visit the Alaska Sealife Center. Later, arrive in the ski resort community of Girdwood, where you'll spend the next two nights at the luxurious Hotel Alyeska. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CONSERVATION HEROES: Visit the Alaska Sealife Center in coastal Seward to witness the wonderful work of conservationists who help to rescue and rehabilitate injured sea life. Get an in-depth look above and below the waters of Alaska.
Alaskan Adventure
Enjoy a full day at leisure—perfect for joining in a wide variety of optional activities. Consider flightseeing, skiing, snowshoeing, or just relax at the hotel's spa. An included aerial tram ride offers breathtaking panoramas of Turnagain Arm and seven glaciers. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT: Settle into your basecamp for adventure at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood- Alaska's premier year-round destination featuring fine dining experiences, a saltwater pool, ski mountain along with the new Nordic Spa. Alyeska is the perfect base camp for endless adventure and relaxation.
A Dog's Life
Return to Anchorage and join an included tour through the historic downtown district and the Lake Hood Seaplane Airport, the world's busiest seaplane base. Next, visit the Alaska Zoo for a behind-the-scenes tour. This afternoon, there is time to explore Anchorage on your own. Tonight, enjoy Iditarod festivities and dinner at the Mushers Banquet. Enjoy Alaskan entertainment, see the mushers draw for starting positions, and meet them for photos and autographs. (B/D)
LOCAL FAVORITE - CULTURE & TRADITION: Experience Alaska's legendary sled-dog race traditions at the annual Mushers Banquet and Iditarod Festivities. Break bread with the stouthearted mushers who brave Alaska's harshest elements through a frozen gauntlet from Willow to Nome on the Iditarod Trail.
Heart & Soul on the Trail
Travel north to Big Lake and visit the home of four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser at his Happy Trails Kennels. Hear his fascinating personal stories amid the grandeur of Alaska. Then, visit the Iditarod Trail Race Headquarters to view pictures, videos, and other mementos of the Last Great Race. This evening is at leisure back in Anchorage. Maybe shop for souvenirs, try fresh seafood, or sample a locally made brew. (B)
LOCAL FAVORITE - LEGENDARY LIVES: Visit Happy Trails Kennels, home of 4-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser and family. Here, Happy Trails Kennel was established in 1982 with the express purpose of raising and training happy, fast long-distance sled dogs to race and win the Iditarod. Martin's loving care and faith in his hounds was made evident by his Iditarod wins to earn the 9-year record for the fastest Iditarod race ever.
Making Tracks
This morning, head to 4th Avenue to get a great spot for the ceremonial start of the Iditarod. Later, visit the Anchorage Museum, a large art, history, cultural, and ecology museum. After exploring the museum, enjoy a private farewell dinner onsite and a chance to reminisce your Alaska winter adventure with your fellow adventurers. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ICONIC FOOTSTEPS: Take a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the start of the Iditarod race and cheer on the amazing sled dogs and mushers. See mushers from all over the world and enjoy other Iditarod festivities.
Gold Rush & Racing Stars
Travel north today to the quaint community of Willow, which started as a mining camp when gold was discovered in 1897. Here, you'll view the Official Restart of the Iditarod. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LEGENDS OF THE TRAILS: Cheer-on your favorite musher as they head off into the Alaska wilderness on the second leg of this 1,049-mile journey to Nome and the final finish line. Be sure to have your camera ready!
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. You may choose to extend your time in Anchorage and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- We've packed everything you need for the perfect tour—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides, to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world's most iconic sites! Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach.
- Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
- Girdwood: Alyeska Resort Hotel (Superior First-Class):
Nestled in a lush valley surrounded by mountain peaks, hanging glaciers and water views, The Hotel Alyeska offers guests convenient access into the Alaskan wilderness. The hotel is situated on the Turnagain Arm only 40 miles from Anchorage International Airport. The hotel features an indoor pool, hot tub, health club, jogging trails, gift shops, business center, concierge service, restaurant, café, and sushi bar. - Anchorage: Marriott Downtown Anchorage (Moderate First-Class):
This full service, luxury hotel is situated downtown near businesses, museums & historic buildings. The hotel features one restaurant (open breakfast, lunch & dinner), a full service fitness center, indoor pool, gift shop and more. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the lobby and public areas.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- In the event the Iditarod Official Start is relocated (beyond Willow) due to weather and trail conditions, a full day of activities will be substituted in Anchorage.
Globus includes all must-see sites, with special VIP access that lets you skip to the front of the queue. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great vacation. Savour the flavours of Canada & Alaska through its regional cuisine. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of Canada & Alaska. Read more
Globus' selection of hotels in unforgettable places ensure you stay right in the heart of each destination. Read more
Globus' coaches offer one of the most comfortable, stress-free and eco-friendly ways to travel. Read more
Do as the locals do and enjoy unique experiences that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
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Globus Worldwide (2025-26)
Dates & Pricing
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Globus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
