Alaska Wildlife and Landscape Photography Tour, Southeast Alaska

Photograph bears, glaciers, marine wildlife, and the wild coast of Southeast Alaska.

This Southeast Alaska photography tour combines exceptional bear photography with glaciers, marine wildlife, the Stikine River, and dramatic coastal landscapes. Our home base is a waterfront hotel in Wrangell, with easy access to the surrounding waterways and remote areas we’ll explore. Much of our time is spent traveling by boat, with each outing taking us somewhere different and offering its own photographic experience.

Two separate boat trips take us to Anan Creek, one of the few places in Alaska where black and brown bears can be photographed fishing for salmon in the same stream. Having two days at Anan gives us more time with the bears and a chance to photograph different activities, behaviors, and conditions. A viewing platform and photo blind provide excellent perspectives as bears catch salmon, navigate the creek, interact with one another, and sometimes guide cubs through the forest. Moss-covered trees, ferns, and lush vegetation create beautiful natural backgrounds.

Other outings take us into Southeast Alaska’s glacier country. At LeConte Glacier, we’ll photograph blue icebergs, floating ice, waterfalls, and the surrounding mountain scenery. Another day takes us to Shakes Glacier and along the Stikine River, combining glacier photography with a completely different landscape.

We’ll also head out specifically in search of marine wildlife, including humpback whales, Steller sea lions, bald eagles, and other wildlife found along the coast and waterways of Southeast Alaska.

Photography Highlights

• Bear behavior in action: Photograph bears fishing for salmon, interacting with each other, and cubs playing along the shoreline.

• Close-up opportunities: Mothers and cubs resting or nursing in natural coastal habitat.

• Bald eagles: Regular chances to photograph eagles along the coast and near salmon streams.

• Strong landscapes: Rugged peaks, fjords, and coastal estuaries provide powerful backgrounds.

• Extended shooting time: Long summer days mean more flexibility and better light at the beginning and end of each day.

• Additional wildlife: Sea otters, whales, and sea lions are often present, with harbor seals seen floating on icebergs.

• Glaciers and waterfalls: Photograph the blue ice of LeConte and Shakes Glacier, along with waterfalls cascading down steep granite cliffs.

• Floating icebergs: Deep blue tones and sculpted shapes

• Forested Mountains rising straight from the water

• A balanced mix of bears, marine wildlife, glaciers, and coastal scenery

Dates and Details

When: July 24–30, 2027 (3 spaces left)
Starting and Ending Point: Wrangell Airport (WRG) with regular Alaska Airlines service

Who Should Join

This tour is open to anyone passionate about nature photography, from beginners to professionals. You should be comfortable handling your camera, love nature, and enjoy small group camaraderie. Participants need to be able to climb in and out of small boats while carrying gear and should be in good overall health. Short hikes of 1–2 miles may be included.

Group Size

Small groups and two leaders mean more learning, flexibility, and closer access to wildlife. You’ll avoid the crowds and have more personal instruction throughout the trip.

Pricing

Cost: $9295 per person
Deposit: $3000 pet person (this reserves your spot)
Balance: $6,295 (due 9 months before departure)

Single Room Upgrade: $350 (this will give you a private room)

If it’s easier, you can split your remaining balance into multiple payments.

Price Includes:

• 6 nights lodging at a Wrangell waterfront hotel (double occupancy)

• 2 boat rides to Anan Creek

• 1 boat tour to LeConte Glacier

• 1 boat tour to Shakes Glacier and the Stikine River

• 1 boat tour dedicated to marine mammals

• Professional photography instruction and wildlife expertise

Not Included:

• Airfare

• Tips for boat drivers

• Food and drink

Cancellation Policy

Meet Your Leaders

John Slonina is a professional nature photographer with more than 35 years of experience and decades exploring Alaska. He is well-versed in bear behavior and spends extensive time researching each location to understand seasonal wildlife activity, light, and habitat. His deep knowledge of Alaska’s landscapes and wildlife helps participants capture powerful, creative images. John’s teaching style blends technical skill, field awareness, and a strong eye for storytelling.

Jenny Bowlden is an experienced wildlife and landscape photographer who has traveled to Alaska for over two decades and has co-led many Alaska photo tours with John. Skilled in photographing wildlife behavior, she brings both expertise and enthusiasm to the field. Jenny enjoys helping photographers refine composition, work with natural light, and capture authentic moments in nature.

Together, John and Jenny combine decades of experience, field leadership, and personalized guidance to make this expedition both educational and inspiring.

Questions? Email us or visit the link below to reserve your spot.