Geoff H.United Kingdom
All at the right pace, lots of learning, but not too much. Friendly and informative, we got a real feel for Gunnar's life and experience. Highly recommended.
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Private tour in Whittier Gunnar P
Portage Glacier Valley/Turnagain Arm Whittier Private Full Day Tour
5.0
(14) reviews
-
6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size
1
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
Gunnar P.
5.0
Guide rating
113
Reviews
Tours delivered
6 hrs
Avg. response time
Having lived in Anchorage, Alaska, for some 45 years and being a small-business owner for decades, I have traveled worldwide extensively as well as throughout the state of Alaska. Was born and raised and lived for many years in both Norway and Sweden before moving to Alaska. Worked in the airline and travel industry for years and display a great joy and passion sharing information related to travel within the state, and possess patience and enthusiasm along with a good dose of positivity! I am easy to get along with, flexible, and will go out of my way to provide for an exceptional and personal learning experience for every tour customer, whom I treat as a personal guest. All of my tours can be customized upon request and always open to new adventures. I am a small business owner specializing in Alaska travel and outdoor activities, including guiding groups of individuals in wilderness settings, and have written or co-authored a half dozen books on specifics regarding the subject. I am also trained in CPR and First Aid. Was employed as a teacher at the University of Alaska for 14 years as well. None
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Gunnar P.
Explore this amazing and dynamic land of change!
Overview of your Whittier tour
Carved out by a gigantic river of ice millennia ago, Portage Valley today is part of the Chugach National Forest and home to populations of salmon and wildlife such as bears and moose. Numerous developed trails and trail spurs span the forested valley, providing easy day hikes to the area's lakes, ponds, and streams. Late summer and fall is the perfect time to observe the colorful display of spawning salmon as they procreate the next generation as has been done for eons. Along with this activity comes the very real possibility of spotting (at a safe distance) both black and brown bear that prowl these waters looking for salmon to feast on. Small gatherings of bald eagle are a daily occurrence throughout the autumn months and into early winter (September-November). The valley is bordered by forest-clad mountains, complete with ice fields and bluish-green glaciers, making for a perfect Alaska-themed setting. The Portage Glacier can be viewed up close by boat for additional cost.
Recent Reviews
Cynthia B.United States
Gunnar has a wealth of knowledge and experience and shares it. We learned a LOT about Whittier, Anchorage and Alaska and saw much more than we expected. I would highly recommend hiring Gunnar for a delightful and informative day.
David F.United States
Gunnar had mapped out an outstanding tour for us. His knowledge of the area’s history and its flora and fauna was encyclopedic. He was sensitive to our walking/stair climbing limitations. It was like being with an old friend for the day. We’ve used TBL in a number of countries; Gunnar is at the top of our list.
Bret G.United States
Over the top, fantastic tour! Gunnar was outstanding. He was flexible, personable and very knowledgeable. We spent a wonderful day with him and would highly recommend him to everyone! The tour felt like a day with an old friend.
Mary M.United States
Gunnar is an excellent guide. He is flexible in modifying the tour to address weather conditions and priorities of his guests. He is diligent in addressing safety matters that one who is not from the area might not think about. Gunnar provided an enjoyable and learning day in the Whittier area. I would highly recommend Gunnar as a guide.
Kok Keene C.Singapore
Gunnar is a very knowledgeable and patient guide. We had a nice comfortable drive down to Portage valley and Whittier. We saw plenty of Belugas at Turnagain Arm, Salmon like sockeye and chum in Porter’s Valley as well as Eagles. Lots of information on landmarks and history, well explained in a simply manner for Whittier and along the route. Saw some awesome Glaciers like the Black stone, Byron and Portage Glaciers.
Your Whittier tour itinerary
Departure Port: WHITTIER / ANCHORAGE Note: Tour is subject to accommodating your personal interests and schedule and can be altered or changed upon request. Flexibility is the key! * Pick-up at site of your choice (cruise ship dock, hotel) * Arrive in Portage Valley through Portage Glacier Road * Stop at Explorer Pond to view hanging alpine ice fields and glaciers, and spawning salmon * Stop at Williwaw Salmon Viewing Platform to observe three species of salmon spawning * Walk on Trail of Blue Ice for opportunity to catch glimpse of eagles, moose, and bear, observe local fauna * Stop at Portage Lake for alpine views, glaciers * Option: Visit Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (pay at location) * Drive north along Turnagain Arm on Seward Highway, nationally recognized scenic byway * Stop to view scenery, bore tides, Dall sheep, Beluga whales, and/or eagles if available * If time allows and appetite calls, stop at local cafe or restaurant for a meal * Return to Whittier or location in Anchorage
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Suv
Main vehicle is a very clean and modern Jeep Cherokee seating 3 passengers comfortably, up to 4 with one person in middle seat; air conditioned.
What's included
Private Guide
Private Transportation
What's not included
Food Drinks Snacks
Tickets: Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Meeting location
Whittier, AK, USA
Port of Whittier or Anchorage
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Nature Wildlife And Safaris
City Highlights
Day Trip
Bird Watching
Tour reference number
1109158
Languages
Norwegian
EnglishActivity level
Minimal
Accessibility
Kid Friendly
Wheelchair Accessible
Traveller reviews
5.0
FAQs
Who is this private tour in Whittier best suited for?
This private tour in Whittier is perfect for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. It's also suitable for families with children and travellers with mobility needs, as it is both kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible. You'll have the chance to explore the stunning Portage Valley, observe wildlife like bears and eagles, and enjoy the scenic beauty of glaciers and mountains.
What should I bring or wear?
Can this private tour in Whittier be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?
How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?
Is this private tour in Whittier suitable for cruise ship passengers as a shore excursion?
What happens if a site is closed, crowded, or the weather changes?
What languages is this tour offered in?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
-
6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
More tours in Whittier by Gunnar P.
Explore more of Whittier
Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a 20% deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- The remaining balance will automatically be charged to your credit card 30 days before your tour date.