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Alaska Arctic Igloo Retreat | TravelTides
7 days
Starting from
$1,739 per person*
Product Season: 09/17/2025–04/01/2026

7-Day Arctic Ultimate Explorer | Aurora Train Ride & Wild Chase AEX

Alaska 7-Day Aurora & Glacier Experience

  • Glacier Adventure: Witness the magic of Matanuska Glacier - a once-in-a-lifetime guided ice hike through a thousand-year-old wonder.
  • Aurora Exploration: Chase the Northern Lights up to 3 times - 1 cabin night and 2 wilderness aurora experiences.
  • Hot Springs Retreat: Relax in pure mineral hot springs surrounded by pristine Alaskan wilderness.
  • Optional Add-Ons: Add optional adventures like Denali Hiking, Arctic Circle Expedition, or Snowfield Activities.

TravelTides vs. Other Alaska Tour Go Compare →

TravelTides

Small & Smart Groups (Min. 2 People)

Enjoy a stress-free, cozy journey where every traveler is valued.

VS
Other Company

Overcrowded Tours

40+ travelers in one bus. Long waits, rushed stops, and zero flexibility.

TravelTides

Luxury Hotels & Aurora Lodges

Stay at handpicked hotels and iconic lodges like Igloo, Cube, or Diamond Air Cabin.

VS
Other Company

Average Hotels

Far from city centers, outdated interiors, and no aurora views.

TravelTides

Full Transfers, Zero Stress

From airport pick-up to your hotel door — we handle every transfer.

VS
Other Company

No Transfers

Guests must book their own rides — confusion and delays are common.

TravelTides

All Ages, All Styles

Family-friendly, senior-comfortable, or adventure-packed — define your rhythm.

VS
Other Company

One-Size-Fits-All Itinerary

No flexibility for different ages or interests.

TravelTides

10+ Optional Adventures

Dog sledding, Arctic flights, Denali hiking, hot springs — tailor your excitement freely.

VS
Other Company

Limited Activities

Few optional tours, often overpriced and poorly arranged.

Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.

TravelTides: A Journey Like No Other

Experience thoughtfully curated itineraries created by our travel experts to inspire your next adventure. Every journey can be fully customized to match your interests, budget, and personal travel style. With TravelTides, explore top destinations, immerse yourself in local cultures, and enjoy authentic experiences tailored to your schedule and the way you love to travel.

Alaska Aurora Adventure – 7-Day Itinerary

Alaska Aurora Adventure – 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7
Day 1: Arrival in Anchorage – Hotel Check-in

Arrive in Anchorage and check in to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast at your own expense; lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Accommodation: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Anchorage Airport or similar.

Day 2: Matanuska Glacier Hike

Embark on a 2–3 hour guided hike on the Matanuska Glacier. Crampons provided for safety. Explore spectacular glacier formations with a professional guide. Return to Anchorage around 5:00 PM.

Tips: Bring hiking boots, light jacket, spare socks, sunglasses. Bilingual guide service included.

Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Accommodation: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Anchorage Airport or similar.

glacier hike glacier hike
Day 3: Aurora Train – Anchorage to Fairbanks – Cabin Aurora Viewing

With Train Ticket: Depart hotel around 7:00 AM, transfer to Anchorage Train Station for the Aurora Train to Fairbanks (~12h). Transfer to hotel upon arrival. Evening shuttle to cabin for aurora viewing. Snacks and hot drinks provided; return around 2:00 AM.

Without Train Ticket: Breakfast, check out, hotel shuttle to airport, fly to Fairbanks (~1h). Transfer to hotel. Evening shuttle to cabin for aurora viewing. Snacks and hot drinks provided; return around 2:00 AM.

Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Accommodation: Bridgewater Hotel Trademark Collection by Wyndham or similar.

aurora train cabin aurora viewing
Day 4: Santa Claus House – Chena Hot Springs – Wilderness Aurora Viewing

Santa Claus House: Visit the charming North Pole attraction.

Chena Hot Springs: Relax in natural sulfur hot springs. Optional Aurora Ice Museum: US$20/person.

  • Bring swimsuit, towel, slippers, 50¢ coins for locker.
  • Aurora Ice Museum opens at 1:00 PM or 3:00 PM.
  • Avoid alcohol before soaking. Cardiovascular patients should limit soak time.
  • Outdoor hot springs: 18+ only; indoor pools for minors.
  • Meeting point: Activities Center. Lunch available at resort.
  • If unable to participate, it is considered waived; no refund.
  • Santa Claus House open at fixed times; if closed, visit North Pole town instead; no refund.

Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Accommodation: Bridgewater Hotel Trademark Collection by Wyndham or similar.

aurora viewing Chena Hot Springs
Day 5: Free Day – Wilderness Aurora Chase

Free day to explore Fairbanks or relax. Evening: aurora-chasing adventure in the wilderness.

Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Accommodation: Bridgewater Hotel Trademark Collection by Wyndham or similar.

aurora chasing aurora chasing
Day 6: Optional Adventures – Arctic Circle, Snow Activities, Denali Hiking

Customize your day with:

  • Arctic Circle Road Adventure: Long drive, bilingual guide, limited coverage. Bring snacks.
  • Fly & Drive Arctic Circle: English-only; reserve hotel shuttle night before.
  • Dog Sledding: Ride with professional mushers.
  • Snowmobiling: Driver’s license & basic English needed.
  • Ice Fishing: License required ($15/person, under 16 free).
  • Denali Hiking: Crampons & guide provided. Min 4 participants. Bring boots, jacket, socks, sunglasses.

    • Please note that optional excursions are not included in the tour price and can be added at an additional cost.

Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Accommodation: Bridgewater Hotel Trademark Collection by Wyndham or similar.

dog sledding snow mobile
Day 7: Departure – Fairbanks Airport (FAI)

Pack and check out by 11:00 AM. Complimentary shuttle to Fairbanks Airport (reserve at front desk).

  • Check-out: 11:00 AM (hotel policy applies).
  • Arrive 2h before domestic flight.
  • Recommended departure: after 7:00 AM.
  • Free hotel shuttle; reserve in advance with room number, name (Pinyin), passengers, and departure time.
  • Extend stay? Coordinate hotel extension in advance.

Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at your own expense.

alaska charter alaska charter
Glass Igloo Upgrade - Japan Winter Escape

The Glass Igloo Diamond Cabin Upgrade

No need to book months ahead in Scandinavia — enjoy the same dazzling glass igloo experience right here, available instantly.
Upgrade your city hotel to the Glass Igloo Diamond Cabin from $1,500 per night, per room.

Glass Igloo Interior Glass Igloo Exterior Glass Igloo Night View
  • Maximum 3 guests per cabin. One king-size bed (2.1m × 2m), no twin or extra beds available.
  • Upgrade fee is $1,500 per night, per room, regardless of single/double/triple occupancy.
  • Includes complimentary American buffet breakfast; à la carte meals available at the onsite restaurant.
  • Shuttle service to/from city: departure at 15:00, return at 10:00.
  • New Skyluxe cabin category opens around Thanksgiving — early inquiries welcome.

30+ days before check-in: 50% of booking fee is non-refundable.
Within 30 days of check-in: 100% of booking fee is non-refundable.

30+ days before check-in: Rebooking allowed with a USD $50 handling fee per change.
New dates must fall within Aug 25, 2025 – Apr 10, 2026, subject to availability.
Within 30 days: Rebooking not permitted; standard cancellation rules apply.

Alaska Activities FAQ

What's fun to do in Alaska?

In a warm, rustic log cabin surrounded by tranquil forest, experience the aurora far from city lights with unobstructed views of the night sky. While waiting for the Northern Lights, relax in a cozy indoor lounge and enjoy hot drinks and local snacks. (Minimum 2 people)

  • Prices include Alaska state taxes but exclude guide service fees.
  • Final itinerary may vary depending on actual departure arrangements.
  • Optional activities have limited availability — advance booking is recommended.
Aurora Viewing Cabin in Fairbanks
Aurora Viewing Experience in Alaska

Departing at 22:00, experienced guides lead you deep into the wilderness to chase and locate the aurora. Routes are adjusted nightly according to weather and aurora forecasts to maximize viewing chances. Guides provide aurora background, camera settings, and photography tips. Note: this is a wilderness chase — no restrooms or hot drinks en route. (Minimum 2 people)

  • Prices include Alaska state taxes but exclude guide service fees.
  • Final itinerary may vary depending on actual departure arrangements.
  • Optional activities have limited availability — advance booking is recommended.
Wild Aurora Chasing
Wild Aurora Chasing

Visit Alaska's "North Pole" and the Santa Claus House filled with festive gifts. Afterwards soak in Chena Hot Springs' restorative pools, explore the Ice Museum, or try the famed Appletini served in an ice glass. (Minimum 2 people)

  • Prices include Alaska state taxes but exclude guide service fees.
  • Final itinerary may vary depending on actual departure arrangements.
  • Optional activities have limited availability — advance booking is recommended.
Santa Claus House
Chena Hot Springs

Depart ~11:00 and travel the remote Dalton Highway. Pause beneath the Dalton Highway sign for photos, rest at Yukon River Camp, then proceed to the Arctic Circle marker where you'll receive an "Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate." Return includes aurora spotting stops. The trip is ~13 hours and much of the route has no mobile signal — bring snacks and prepare accordingly. (Minimum 4 people)

  • Prices include Alaska state taxes but exclude guide service fees.
  • Final itinerary may vary depending on actual departure arrangements.
  • Optional activities have limited availability — advance booking is recommended.
Arctic Circle by Land
Arctic Circle by Land

Meet at 3820 University Ave S and check in by 11:45. Fly at ~13:00 to Coldfoot Camp (≈1h10m), transfer by coach, then depart by bus at 15:45 toward the Arctic Circle. Arrive ~17:30 for the Arctic Circle marker and receive your certificate. Optional aurora watching at Arctic Circle Trading Post is available for $60/person. English guide service; much of the route lacks mobile coverage.

  • Prices include Alaska state taxes but exclude guide service fees.
  • Final itinerary may vary depending on actual departure arrangements.
  • Optional activities have limited availability — advance booking is recommended.
Fly over Arctic Circle
Fly over Arctic Circle

Hike in Denali National Park at the foot of North America's highest peak. Traverse alpine valleys and forest trails with opportunities to see grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, and eagles. Ideal for nature lovers seeking a close encounter with Alaska's wilderness. (Minimum 4 people)

  • Prices include Alaska state taxes but exclude guide service fees.
  • Final itinerary may vary depending on actual departure arrangements.
  • Optional activities have limited availability — advance booking is recommended.
Denali National Park
Denali National Park glacier hike

Ride a team of energetic Alaskan sled dogs under the guidance of professional mushers across snowy trails. Learn about dog training and enjoy stunning winter scenery. (Expected to start Nov 1, subject to snow safety)

  • Prices include Alaska state taxes but exclude guide service fees.
  • Final itinerary may vary depending on actual departure arrangements.
  • Optional activities have limited availability — advance booking is recommended.
Dog Sledding
Dog Sledding

Drive a snowmobile across frozen lakes and forest trails framed by pristine winter landscapes. Helmets and instruction provided — suitable for beginners and thrill-seekers. (Expected to start Nov 1, subject to snow safety)

  • Prices include Alaska state taxes but exclude guide service fees.
  • Final itinerary may vary depending on actual departure arrangements.
  • Optional activities have limited availability — advance booking is recommended.
Snow Mobile
Snow Mobile

Drill a hole in the frozen lake and try to catch trout or salmon. Stay warm inside a heated fishing cabin and enjoy hot drinks and Alaskan snacks — a relaxing, authentic northern experience. (Expected to start Nov 1, subject to snow safety)

  • Prices include Alaska state taxes but exclude guide service fees.
  • Final itinerary may vary depending on actual departure arrangements.
  • Optional activities have limited availability — advance booking is recommended.
Ice Lake Fishing
Ice Lake Fishing

Visit Chena's year-round Ice Museum to see exquisite ice sculptures by world-class artists. The museum is kept around −7°C (−20°F), features an ice bar, ice-formed rooms, and stunning frozen artworks. (Located at Chena Hot Springs Resort)

  • Prices include Alaska state taxes but exclude guide service fees.
  • Final itinerary may vary depending on actual departure arrangements.
  • Optional activities have limited availability — advance booking is recommended.
Ice Sculpture Museum
Ice Sculpture Museum

Enjoy a signature Appletini served in a glass carved from solid ice—an unforgettable experience at the Ice Museum. This experience includes museum admission. Must be 21+ with valid ID.

  • Prices include Alaska state taxes but exclude guide service fees.
  • Final itinerary may vary depending on actual departure arrangements.
  • Optional activities have limited availability — advance booking is recommended.

Departure Information

Departure Days: Every Thursday

Minimum: 2 persons

Product Season: 09/17/2025–04/01/2026

Seasons: Shoulder, Peak

If you do not need train tickets, the price will be reduced by $200 per person.

Room Type / Season Single Room
(Per Person)		 Double Room
(Per Person)		 Triple Room
(Per Person)		 Quad Room
(Per Person)
Shoulder Season Price $2,399$1,919$1,799$1,739
Peak Season Price $2,639$2,075$1,955$1,895
Hotel Extension - Shoulder $216 / night$108 / night$84 / night$72 / night
Hotel Extension - Peak $252 / night$126 / night$96 / night$84 / night
Hotel Upgrade - Shoulder $108 / night$54 / night$42 / night$36 / night
Hotel Upgrade - Peak $108 / night$54 / night$42 / night$36 / night

Reference Hotels & Notes

Anchorage Preferred Hotel: Laquinta Anchorage Airport or similar

Anchorage Upgrade Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott Anchorage Airport or similar

Fairbanks Preferred Hotel: Bridgewater Hotel or similar

Fairbanks Upgrade Hotel: SpringHill Suites by Marriott or similar

The above prices exclude tax and need to be calculated separately in US Dollars.

Extended stay preferential prices are only available to guests who registered when booking.

Each room accommodates a maximum of 4 adults.

This product has the same price for adults and children.

Shoulder Season Dates

09/17/2025–11/17/2025

12/01/2025–12/17/2025

01/06/2026–02/15/2026

02/23/2026–04/01/2026

Peak Season Dates

11/18/2025–11/30/2025

12/18/2025–01/05/2026

02/16/2026–02/22/2026

Communication

T-Mobile connects automatically upon arrival. AT&T and Verizon are supported. China Mobile works with international roaming. China Telecom (USA) is unavailable. Please confirm with your carrier before departure.

Dining Recommendations

Anchorage: Glacier Brewhouse (American), Jimmy Sushi (Chinese).

Fairbanks: Big Daddy Texas BBQ, Thai House, Lavelle’s Bistro (Western, at SpringHill Hotel). All within walking distance of Bridgewater and SpringHill Hotels.

Lin Jia Yuan – authentic Chinese takeout and dine-in options available.

Note: The itinerary order may vary slightly depending on your departure date. All experiences remain the same — please refer to your final tour notice for confirmed details.

Tour Inclusions & Policies
What's Included +
  • Accommodation: 6 nights in local hotels (double occupancy, either twin or single beds).
  • Meals: Daily breakfast included at the hotels (included in hotel room rate).
  • Attractions & Tickets: Matanuska Glacier entrance, one-way Aurora Train ticket (Anchorage–Fairbanks), Aurora viewing, Chena Hot Springs entrance, and all attractions listed in the itinerary.
  • Transportation: All ground transfers listed in the itinerary.
What's Not Included +
  • Optional Tours: Overland Arctic Circle Expedition, snow activities, Denali Hiking, and other optional excursions.
  • Meals: Lunches, dinners, and any meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Personal Expenses: Shopping, additional activities, or attractions outside the itinerary.
  • Extra Costs: Overtime fees caused by personal schedule changes, weather conditions, or other personal requests.
  • Tips: Gratuities for guides, drivers, hotel staff, and local service providers.
Tipping Guidelines +
Glacier Hiking: driver guide $20/person, glacier guide $20/person
Chena Hot Springs: $10/person
Arctic Circle Expedition: $20/person
Denali Hiking Tour: $20/person
Dog Sledding / Snowmobile / Ice Fishing: $5/person
Fly-Drive Arctic Circle: $10 driver, $10 pilot
Transfer & Aurora Viewing: $5–10/person
Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy +
  • Booking Changes: Changing departure dates or traveler names is considered a cancellation of the original booking and requires rebooking.
  • Cancellation Fees (including optional activities):
    • 1–5 days before departure: 100% of tour fee
    • 6–10 days before departure: 50% of tour fee
    • 11–15 days before departure: 30% of tour fee
    • 15+ days before departure: 10% of tour fee
  • Reschedule Policy: Changing departure dates or traveler names is treated as canceling the original booking and rebooking.
    Due to transport issues, equipment failure, strikes, illness, unexpected events, weather changes, or other personal reasons, if a traveler cannot join the tour on time, we will assist to minimize losses but cannot cover these costs.
    • 9+ days before departure: $50 per person rescheduling fee
    • Within 9 days: 25% of tour fee plus any confirmed optional items; remaining balance applied to the new booking.
  • Force Majeure: We are not responsible for cancellations caused by natural disasters, weather, government actions, or transport disruptions. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
  • Optional Activities: Optional activities are non-refundable once booked. Weather-related cancellations will be fully refunded.
Hotel Information +
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Anchorage Airport
3501 Minnesota Dr, Anchorage, AK 99503
Tel: (907) 276-8884 ext. 0
Bridgewater Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
7231st Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701
Tel: (907) 452-6661
Alaska Tour Info & Booking Guidelines
Northern Lights & Arrival Tips

Disclaimer: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and sightings depend on weather and solar activity. We cannot guarantee 100% viewing, but we hope every guest has the chance to witness their beauty.

Schedule: Follow the guide's on-site announcements if different from the itinerary.

Fairbanks Airport — Complimentary Pickup Service

  • Our agency provides a fixed-schedule free pickup service for guests arriving at Fairbanks International Airport within designated hours (13:00–21:00, based on actual flight arrival time).
  • Each booking is eligible for one free pickup within the specified time window. Please provide your detailed flight information when reserving this service. If flight details are not provided at least 72 hours prior to arrival, we will be unable to arrange pickup.
  • Pickup location: Fairbanks International Airport, Baggage Claim #1.
  • Guests on flights arriving at similar times may share the same shuttle, which may result in a brief wait at the airport. Thank you for your understanding.

Anchorage / Fairbanks Airports — 24-Hour Partner Hotel Shuttle Service

  • Designated partner hotels near Anchorage and Fairbanks airports offer 24-hour complimentary shuttle service.
  • After collecting your luggage, please call the hotel and press “0” to request the shuttle. Provide your personal information including name (Pinyin) and number of passengers. The shuttle typically arrives within 30 minutes.
  • Pickup locations:
    • Anchorage International Airport — Public Transportation Lane, Arrival Level
    • Fairbanks International Airport — Outside Arrival Gate #1
  • Guests with similar arrival times may share the same shuttle; a brief wait may occur. Thank you for your understanding.

Anchorage / Fairbanks Train Stations — Complimentary Transfer Service

  • Anchorage Train Station: The company provides free pickup and drop-off service to partner hotels.
  • Fairbanks Train Station: Designated partner hotels provide 24-hour complimentary shuttle service. After collecting your luggage, call the hotel to request the shuttle, providing your name (Pinyin) and number of passengers. The shuttle typically arrives within 30 minutes.
  • Pickup location: Fairbanks Train Station — outside the waiting area. Guests with similar flight arrival times may be picked up at the airport first, which may result in a short wait at the train station. Thank you for your understanding.

Fairbanks Airport Taxi Information

  • Pickup location: Outside the Arrival area at Fairbanks International Airport.
  • Taxi fare from the airport to most hotels in Fairbanks is approximately $20–$30.

Paid Airport Pickup Service

  • Guests may book our paid airport pickup service after order confirmation:
  • 10:00–22:00 — $100 per trip
  • 22:00–10:00 — $200 per trip
  • Please note: The service must be booked in advance with complete flight information. Requests without prior booking or missing flight details cannot be accommodated.
Booking & Travel Guidelines
  • Minimum 2 participants; guided by local professionals (Chinese/English).
  • This is a shared tour; you may travel with other guests.
  • Contact +1 907-600-3539 for questions.
  • Book flights only after confirmation.
  • Keep travel documents, passport, tickets, credit cards, and cash safe; carry valuables personally.
  • Misbehavior may result in removal from tour; unused services non-refundable and non-transferable.
  • Valid US visa required; ensure EVUS registration.
  • Failure to clear US customs due to personal reasons is non-refundable.
  • Optional activities limited daily; book in advance. Weather cancellations are refundable; personal cancellations are not.
  • Follow guide's schedule if different from itinerary.
  • Hotels listed are references; substitutions may occur if fully booked.
  • Force majeure or accidents may cause itinerary adjustments. Extra costs (hotel extension, meals, transport, tickets) are guest responsibility. Travel insurance recommended.
  • Do not stop in roadways; guests are responsible for accidents caused by unsafe behavior.
  • Alaska weather may require adjusting activity sequence; tours not fully canceled. Partial refunds handled case by case.
  • Purchase travel insurance in advance.
  • 14-seat business vehicles prioritized; other types may be used in peak periods or holidays.
  • Flights to Arctic Circle may be canceled; affected trip fees will be refunded.
  • Itinerary sequence may vary by arrival date; follow final departure notice.
  • Arrive 10 min before pickup at hotel lobby. Late arrival considered voluntary forfeiture; no refunds.

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