Alaskan Coastal Brown Bears & Puffins
Embark on an extraordinary coastal brown bear expedition unlike any other. Immerse yourself in a seven-day / six-night, all-inclusive adventure at an exclusive wilderness lodge that offers unparalleled proximity to majestic coastal brown bears with breathtaking mountain backdrops in every direction. These trips are perfectly timed for when new cubs are emerging from the dens and when males and females are interacting to capture the most intimate moments and inspiring behavior.
What sets our premier location apart is the exclusive, unrestricted access we offer to coastal brown bears rarely photographed by the many who venture to Alaska. Each group is accompanied by two expert guides which allows for divided expeditions, granting each participant ample space and time to capture remarkable shots of these awe-inspiring creatures.
While the bears steal the spotlight, we will also photograph eagles, puffins, murres, pigeon guillemots, kittiwakes, and an array of captivating species. Prepare to indulge in the freshest, locally caught seafood and delight in freshly prepared meals that elevate your overall experience.
Nestled in a remote location off the beaten path, our exclusive lodge boasts breathtaking waterfront views and access, as well as a rejuvenating sauna for relaxation when not pursuing bears. With a perfect blend of modern comforts and historic charm, the lodge provides a genuine taste of Alaskan heritage, complemented by the opportunity to capture remarkable photographs of the world's largest brown bears.
Join us on this once-in-a-lifetime journey—a private rendezvous with bears, puffins, and more
Trip Overview
2025 Dates:
27 Jun - 03 Jul 2025 (only 2 spots left!)
03 Jul - 09 Jul 2025
Tour Price: $6895 per person / double occupancy
Inquire for single supplement, limited availability
Tour Start/End Location: Kenai, Alaska
Accomodations: Private Lodge
Fitness Level: Easy/moderate
Must be able to get on/off a boat
There will be hiking over mostly flat terrain with some opportunity for slippery surfaces (mud).
What’s Included:
Flights to/from the lodge and Kenai, Alaska
Daily bear photography excursions
Freshly cooked, locally sourced meals
Comfortable lodging
Bear & photography guide
Not Included:
Flights to/from Kenai, Alaska
Accommodations in Kenai before/after the trip
Lodge staff gratuity
What Sets This Trip Apart
Exclusive Access:
Immerse yourself in a bear photography experience like no other, where the emphasis is on freedom and tranquility. With the absence of bustling crowds, boardwalks, or time constraints, our unique approach allows us to explore on foot or from our boat, capturing stunning bear photographs at our own pace. Track your favorite bears as they gracefully move across meadows, along the coast, and navigate the sloughs—all without the intrusion of other lodges or day-tourists.
Diverse Photography Opportunities:
We will elevate our photography game with the use of our boat, providing unparalleled diversity. We will walk alongside bears in meadows or photograph from the boat, which offers unique low-angle opportunities. The opportunities for mountain backdrops, and unique rocky coastlines are endless with nearly 360 degrees of breathtaking mountain scenes.
Expert Guidance:
Entrust your bear encounters to our two expert guides, each with over 10 years of experience guiding, photographing & observing bears up close. Their intimate knowledge of bear behavior and movements ensures you're in the right places at the right times to capture the most compelling images.
Beyond Bears:
While bears steal the spotlight, our journey extends to a nearby island for an intimate rendezvous with horned and tufted puffins, accompanied by numerous other bird species. Walk on land with the puffins and broaden your photographic repertoire.
The Eye of the Storm:
Step aboard The Eye of the Storm, our premier vessel offering unique access to areas others cannot reach. With the added perks of an onboard restroom, reprieve from the elements, and incredible cookouts to help us max our time and photographic opportunities, this vessel is a game-changer. Experience truly unique access and often low-angle photography opportunities.
Exclusive Lodging:
Find refuge at Snug Harbor Outpost, where exclusive access to a historic lodge awaits. Over 100 years old and restored from a cannery, this designated historic landmark exudes charm. Indulge in incredible freshly prepared food, comfortable lodging and sauna, and the freedom to explore the grounds and capture the essence of history. From the moment you arrive, you'll be treated like family.
Example Itinerary:
Each itinerary is dependent upon the tide schedule and is subject to change based on weather.
Day 0: Arrive in Kenai, Alaska and stay at a local accommodation (not included). Arriving a day early ensures you will not miss the flight to the lodge.
Day 1: Flight from Kenai to the lodge. Settle into your comfortable accommodations, grab a bite to eat, and stroll the grounds of this historic location before heading out for our first bear viewing adventure.
Days 2-6: Wake up to a freshly prepared breakfast or we might take it with us as we head out to photograph bears. We may stop by a nearby island to photograph puffins, walk to a nearby kittiwake rookery, or photograph eagles right at the lodge between each bear photography excursion. Lunch will be provided in the field so we won’t miss a beat. We will return to the lodge each night to a freshly prepared dinner.
Day 7: Enjoy a hearty breakfast before departing for Kenai.
FAQ
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Contact us to talk through any additional questions you may have. Your spot will be secured once the deposit has been collected.
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This trip includes double occupancy accommodations. If you feel you need your own room, there is limited availability for single occupancy for an additional $500. Please note that rooms currently do not have private bathrooms. Multiple bathrooms are available and are shared.
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Getting to Kenai is simple!
Book your flight from your home airport to the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Then book a separate flight from the Anchorage airport to Kenai. Book this short flight through Grant Aviation or Kenai Aviation. Numerous flights are available each day.
These flights may fill quickly, so please book your flights as early as possible.
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We highly recommend arriving in Kenai at least one day early to ensure you do not miss your flight to the lodge.
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Arrive a day early and spend some time relaxing at your local accommodations, this ensures you will not miss your flight to the lodge.
From there you can catch a quick ride to the aviation company. A trip specific itinerary will be provided to indicate your flight times.
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No problem! They can join us on our excursions as they choose or kick back at our comfortable lodge while admiring the view, relax in the sauna, or stroll the island at their leisure.
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Due to our remote location, cell phones don’t usually work unless connected to the internet. Part of the experience is being off the grid. WIFI is available at times when the generator is running, but is not guaranteed.
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Beer, wine, and limited types of liquor are provided by the lodge.
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This is a historic lodge; therefore, guest rooms do not have private bathrooms. There are multiple bathrooms available and they are shared.
Rest assured, experience has shown that guests have ample access and availability to the bathrooms. Bathrooms are cleaned daily to ensure a pleasant experience.
Have a small group or want a more exclusive experience? Ask about setting up a custom tour. From day trips to week long adventures, we can make your dream photography adventure a reality.
We recommend trip insurance for all of our tours and trips.