Alaska's Iditarod with Fairbanks

Alaska's Iditarod with Fairbanks

Fairbanks Alaska
Fairbanks

Fairbanks Alaska

Days 1-3
Fairbanks Alaska
Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks Alaska

Days 1-3
Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage

Anchorage, Alaska

Days 3-5
Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage

Anchorage, Alaska

Days 7-11

Map
8 Views
11 Days From

$4746

$4304

Alaska's Iditarod with Fairbanks

11 Days Starting in Fairbanks, Alaska and ending in Anchorage, Alaska

Visiting: Fairbanks, Talkeetna, Anchorage, Seward, Girdwood, Big Lake, Willow

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

AIQ-2026

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $4746 $4304 (USD) Operator discount: -$442

NB: Prices correct on 21-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Alaska with the "Alaska's Iditarod with Fairbanks" tour. Begin your adventure in Fairbanks, where you'll witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Explore the cultural richness of Fairbanks with a visit to the Morris Thompson Cultural Center and marvel at the engineering marvel of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Travel aboard the iconic Alaska Railroad to Talkeetna and Anchorage, soaking in breathtaking views. Experience the vibrant city of Anchorage with its winter festivities and explore the scenic beauty of Seward and Girdwood. Delight in the thrill of the Iditarod race, meeting mushers and their sled dogs, and enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences at the Alaska Zoo and Happy Trails Kennels. Conclude your Alaskan adventure with the ceremonial start of the Iditarod in Anchorage, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Highlights

  • Witness the stunning Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska.

  • Explore the Morris Thompson Cultural Center in Fairbanks.

  • Ride the world-famous Alaska Railroad from Fairbanks to Talkeetna.

  • Visit the Alaska Sealife Center in Seward for a conservation experience.

  • Enjoy an aerial tram ride with breathtaking views in Girdwood.

  • Experience the Iditarod festivities and meet mushers in Anchorage.

  • Visit Happy Trails Kennels, home of Iditarod Champion Martin Buser.

  • Cheer on mushers at the ceremonial start of the Iditarod in Anchorage.

Places You'll See

Pike's Waterfront Lodge

Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa

Alyeska Resort Hotel

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Fairbanks,Alaska

Location: Fairbanks

Accommodation Name: Pike's Waterfront Lodge

ARRIVE IN FAIRBANKS, ALASKA Welcome to Fairbanks! You’ve arrived in the “Golden Heart” of Alaska and gateway to Denali National Park. Later this evening, join your Local Guide and travel companions and get your first glimpse of one of nature’s most magnificent shows—the aurora borealis (Northern Lights). TOUR HIGHIGHTNATURAL WONDERS Witness the stunning spectacle in the sky known as the aurora borealis with a Local Guide. Marvel at the kaleidoscope of light dancing across the night sky in a dramatic display of celestial waves and brilliant beams. When conditions are right, the aurora dances across the horizon and lights up the night sky with such beauty, even Alaska’s tough ol’ “Sourdoughs” (old timers) are impressed.

Day 2: Fairbanks

Location: Fairbanks

Accommodation Name: Pike's Waterfront Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast

FAIRBANKS Fairbanks Fun Enjoy a morning at leisure before this afternoon’s city tour of Fairbanks that includes a visit to the Morris Thompson Cultural Center. Afterward, see the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, one of the most challenging and remarkable engineering feats of modern time. This evening is another opportunity to view the amazing aurora borealis light up the northern skies. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURE & TRADITION The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center welcomes visitors year-round with world-class exhibits of Alaska’s four seasons. Experience Alaskan Native art, music, stories & dance, and local experts who share stories. Take a moment to walk around the grounds to see the iconic antler arch and seasonal displays of flower gardens and ice sculptures.

Day 3: Fairbanks,Alaska Railroad,Talkeetna,Anchorage

Location: Fairbanks, Talkeetna, Anchorage

Accommodation Name: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

FAIRBANKS–ALASKA RAILROAD–TALKEETNA–ANCHORAGE Riding the Rails Travel from Fairbanks to Talkeetna today on the world-famous Alaska Railroad. Continue to Anchorage and your hotel. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTEPIC RIDE Board the Alaska Railroad train for spectacular views through panoramic windows designed for soaking in the stunning scenery on this full-day journey that showcases America’s 49th state. Keep an eye out for views of Denali (formerly known as Mount McKinley)—as well as wildlife along the way!

Day 4: Anchorage

Location: Anchorage

Accommodation Name: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast

ANCHORAGE Exploring Anchorage Enjoy a full day at leisure in Anchorage. You may want to explore the historic downtown area or join in some of the festivities happening throughout the city, including a winter carnival, ice-sculpting contest, a melodrama, dog mushing, and more. Check at your hotel’s front desk for an up-to-date list of activities. (B)ENHANCED FREE TIMEEXPLORE MORE in Anchorage with a dinner out in this iconic Alaskan city. Tap your GlobusGO mobile app for the best bites, brews, and things to do!

Day 5: Anchorage,Seward,Girdwood

Location: Anchorage, Seward, Girdwood

Accommodation Name: Alyeska Resort Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

ANCHORAGE–SEWARD–GIRDWOOD Wild & Wooly in Alaska This morning, meet your Tour Director and travel companions at a welcome breakfast. Then, board your motorcoach and make one of the world’s great drives as you travel along dramatically scenic Turnagain Arm. Marvel at the dramatic views, and keep your eyes open for Dall sheep, eagles, and other wildlife. In coastal Seward, visit the Alaska Sealife Center. Later, arrive in the ski resort community of Girdwood, where you’ll spend the next two nights at the luxurious Hotel Alyeska. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCONSERVATION HEROES Visit the Alaska Sealife Center in coastal Seward to witness the wonderful work of conservationists who help to rescue and rehabilitate injured sea life. Get an in-depth look above and below the waters of Alaska.

Day 6: Girdwood

Location: Girdwood

Accommodation Name: Alyeska Resort Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

GIRDWOOD Alaskan Adventure Enjoy a full day at leisure—perfect for joining in a wide variety of optional activities. Consider flightseeing, skiing, snowshoeing, or just relax at the hotel’s spa. An included aerial tram ride offers breathtaking panoramas of Turnagain Arm and seven glaciers. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Settle into your basecamp for adventure at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood- Alaska’s premier year-round destination featuring fine dining experiences, a saltwater pool, ski mountain along with the new Nordic Spa. Alyeska is the perfect base camp for endless adventure and relaxation.

Day 7: Girdwood,Anchorage

Location: Girdwood, Anchorage

Accommodation Name: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

GIRDWOOD–ANCHORAGE A Dog’s Life Return to Anchorage and join an included tour through the historic downtown district and the Lake Hood Seaplane Airport, the world’s busiest seaplane base. Next, visit the Alaska Zoo for a behind-the-scenes tour. This afternoon, there is time to explore Anchorage on your own. Tonight, enjoy Iditarod festivities and dinner at the [LF] Mushers Banquet. Enjoy Alaskan entertainment, see the mushers draw for starting positions, and meet them for photos and autographs. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITE CULTURE & TRADITION Experience Alaska’s legendary sled-dog race traditions at the annual Mushers Banquet and Iditarod Festivities. Break bread with the stouthearted mushers who brave Alaska’s harshest elements through a frozen gauntlet from Willow to Nome on the Iditarod Trail.

Day 8: Anchorage. Excursion To Big Lake

Location: Anchorage, Big Lake

Accommodation Name: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast

ANCHORAGE. EXCURSION TO BIG LAKE Heart & Soul on the Trail Travel north to Big Lake and visit the home of four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser at his [LF] Happy Trails Kennels. Hear his fascinating personal stories amid the grandeur of Alaska. Then, visit the Iditarod Trail Race Headquarters to view pictures, videos, and other mementos of the Last Great Race. This evening is at leisure back in Anchorage. Maybe shop for souvenirs, try fresh seafood, or sample a locally made brew. (B) LOCAL FAVORITE LEGENDARY LIVES Visit Happy Trails Kennels, home of 4-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser and family. Here, Happy Trails Kennel was established in 1982 with the express purpose of raising and training happy, fast long-distance sled dogs to race and win the Iditarod. Martin's loving care and faith in his hounds was made evident by his Iditarod wins to earn the 9-year record for the fastest Iditarod race ever.

Day 9: Anchorage. Ceremonial Start Of The Iditarod

Location: Anchorage

Accommodation Name: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

ANCHORAGE. CEREMONIAL START OF THE IDITAROD Making Tracks This morning, head to 4th Avenue to get a great spot for the ceremonial start of the Iditarod. Later, visit the Anchorage Museum, a large art, history, cultural, and ecology museum. After exploring the museum, enjoy a private farewell dinner onsite and a chance to reminisce your Alaska winter adventure with your fellow adventurers. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTICONIC FOOTSTEPS Take a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the start of the Iditarod race and cheer on the amazing sled dogs and mushers. See mushers from all over the world and enjoy other Iditarod festivities.

Day 10: Anchorage. Excursion To Willow

Location: Anchorage, Willow

Accommodation Name: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast

ANCHORAGE. EXCURSION TO WILLOW Gold Rush & Racing Stars Travel north today to the quaint community of Willow, which started as a mining camp when gold was discovered in 1897. Here, you’ll view the Official Restart of the Iditarod. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT LEGENDS OF THE TRAILS Cheer-on your favorite musher as they head off into the Alaska wilderness on the second leg of this 1,049-mile journey to Nome and the final finish line. Be sure to have your camera ready!

Day 11: Anchorage

Location: Anchorage

Accommodation Name: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. You may choose to extend your time in Anchorage and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Stay at Pike's Waterfront Lodge in Fairbanks, Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa in Anchorage, and Alyeska Resort Hotel in Girdwood.

  • Meals

    Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners are included.

  • Guided Tours

    Join a Local Guide for a glimpse of the aurora borealis and a city tour of Fairbanks including the Morris Thompson Cultural Center.

  • Transportation

    Travel from Fairbanks to Talkeetna on the Alaska Railroad and continue to Anchorage.

  • Activities

    Visit the Alaska Sealife Center, enjoy an aerial tram ride in Girdwood, and attend the Mushers Banquet and Iditarod Festivities.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as flightseeing, skiing, and snowshoeing in Girdwood are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Extra Nights

    Extra nights in Anchorage or Fairbanks are available for purchase but are not included in the tour package.

Meals

Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Notes

In the event the Iditarod Official Start is relocated (beyond Willow) due to weather and trail conditions, a full day of activities will be substituted in Anchorage.

The aurora is most active February – March with viewings scheduled from 10 pm – 2 am. Appearance of the Northern Lights is dependent on temperature and sky conditions. Schedule arrival by 3 pm to attend the evening viewing. Guests may choose to arrive a day early and purchase a hotel pre-night in Fairbanks to ensure arrival in time for the next evening’s lights.

Accommodation

Fairbanks: Pike's Waterfront Lodge, Anchorage: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa, Girdwood: Alyeska Resort Hotel.

Mode of Transport

Travel from Fairbanks to Talkeetna on the Alaska Railroad, then continue to Anchorage by motorcoach, with scenic drives along Turnagain Arm.

Check out our Q&As

  • What can I expect to see during the Northern Lights viewing in Fairbanks?

    During the Northern Lights viewing in Fairbanks, you can expect to witness the stunning spectacle of the aurora borealis. This natural wonder displays a kaleidoscope of light dancing across the night sky in a dramatic display of celestial waves and brilliant beams.

  • What activities are available in Fairbanks on the second day of the tour?

    On the second day in Fairbanks, you can enjoy a morning at leisure followed by a city tour that includes a visit to the Morris Thompson Cultural Center and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. In the evening, there is another opportunity to view the aurora borealis.

  • What is the experience like on the Alaska Railroad from Fairbanks to Talkeetna?

    The journey on the Alaska Railroad from Fairbanks to Talkeetna offers spectacular views through panoramic windows, showcasing the stunning scenery of Alaska. You may also catch views of Denali and wildlife along the way.

  • What can I do during my leisure day in Anchorage?

    During your leisure day in Anchorage, you can explore the historic downtown area or participate in local festivities such as a winter carnival, ice-sculpting contest, melodrama, and dog mushing. You can also use the GlobusGO mobile app for recommendations on dining and activities.

  • What wildlife might I see during the drive along Turnagain Arm?

    During the drive along Turnagain Arm, you might see Dall sheep, eagles, and other wildlife as you enjoy the dramatic scenic views.

  • What optional activities are available in Girdwood?

    In Girdwood, you can participate in optional activities such as flightseeing, skiing, snowshoeing, or relaxing at the hotel's spa. An included aerial tram ride offers breathtaking panoramas of Turnagain Arm and seven glaciers.

  • What is the Mushers Banquet in Anchorage?

    The Mushers Banquet in Anchorage is an event where you can enjoy Iditarod festivities and dinner. You will have the opportunity to meet mushers, see them draw for starting positions, and enjoy Alaskan entertainment.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Happy Trails Kennels?

    At Happy Trails Kennels, you will visit the home of four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser. You will hear fascinating personal stories and learn about the training and care of sled dogs for the Iditarod race.

  • What happens during the ceremonial start of the Iditarod in Anchorage?

    During the ceremonial start of the Iditarod in Anchorage, you can get a great spot on 4th Avenue to watch the start of the race. You may have the opportunity for photos and autographs with mushers and enjoy other Iditarod festivities.

  • What is the significance of the Official Restart of the Iditarod in Willow?

    The Official Restart of the Iditarod in Willow marks the beginning of the second leg of the 1,049-mile journey to Nome. It is a chance to cheer on your favorite musher as they head into the Alaska wilderness.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed.

1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Monday

Feb 27, 2026 - Mar 09, 2026
$4746 $4304 (USD)

Operator discount: -$442 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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