Best Time to See Wildlife in Alaska

2957

It’s not surprising that in the land that has the biggest bears in the world, the largest salmon, the greatest gathering of bald eagles and more than half the world’s humpback whale population, you’d find this kind of spectacular wilderness.  View with your own eyes the most dramatic scenery and the most abundant marine life and wildlife in the world on your Alaska cruise or land tour.

Get up close and personal with Alaska’s wildlife.  Where else can you see bald eagles, sea lions, whales, wolves, grizzly bears, caribou, lynx, moose and hundreds of rare and endangered species in their original and undisturbed natural habitats? Alaska is a true nature lover’s delight.

When is the best time to see Wildlife in Alaska?

That all depends on what you want to see!

Whales can usually be seen from June through September.  You may see Humpback, Beluga, Orcas, Sea Otters, Beavers, Dolphin and Harbour Porpoises.

Salmon spawn late July and August so your chance of seeing bears improves these months. Bald eagles also feed on salmon, so this time is also great for bird watching. Other types of birds include hawks, puffins, ducks, and loons. Wildflowers also bloom in late July/August.

Early June, there is more wildlife viewing as young are born, and migrate to better feeding areas in the summer. If you are interested in seeing other wildlife such as Moose, Caribou, Dall sheep, Arctic Fox, mountain goats and bears, try to extend your stay to include a few nights in Anchorage or Denali National Park.

Summer Solstice is June 21st, which is the longest day of the year. Many festivals are held throughout Alaska.

To avoid Alaska mosquitoes, travel in late July or early August. The evenings are normally a bit colder, which ward off the bugs.

Browse Alaska cruises or Alaska land tours. Hope you enjoy our Alaska wildlife photos.

Previous articleFall Foliage Travel Tips: Best Leaf Peeping Destinations & Planning Guide
Next articleBooking With Atlas
Sue Lobo
Sue Lobo is a four-time Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist (2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026) and a Senior Travel Advisor at Atlas Travel Center. With more than 15 years of experience in the travel industry, Sue plans ocean and river cruises, European tours, group travel, luxury vacations, honeymoons, and family trips. Sue works at a family-owned agency that has served travelers since 1987. Atlas is a member of CLIA and ASTA, is IATA and ARC accredited, and has held an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau since 1987.