Arctic Circle Day Tour
Active
13h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our Most Requested Tour:
Explore Alaska’s Rugged Beauty & Cross into the Arctic
Journey deep into Alaska’s untouched wilderness on this full-day adventure to the Arctic Circle: our most popular tour! Travel along the famed Dalton Highway, made famous by the TV show Ice Road Truckers, and experience the raw, unfiltered beauty of the Last Frontier.
Ride in comfort in our climate-controlled van as your expert guide shares stories, local history, and insights about the landscape, wildlife, and culture that define this extraordinary region. Along the way, stop for scenic views, photo ops, and a walk through the arctic tundra. You’ll even receive an official Arctic Circle certificate to commemorate your experience.
Available options
Arctic Circle Day Tour
Small group day tour to the Arctic Circle<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Personalized Arctic Circle Certificate
Local guide
Snacks & Bottled Water Provided
Hotel Pickup and Drop-off within Fairbanks City-Limits
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We begin our journey with a convenient pickup at your hotel/address
inside the city limits of Fairbanks or North Pole. We will schedule your pick up time between 7 am and 8 am for you, depending on the location of the hotels.
Settle into your seat and relax on the
200-mile (322-km) journey down the back roads of Interior Alaska. We provide free snacks and drinks on the road to ensure your utmost comfort in our climate-controlled vans.
Take a trip back in time as you travel down the Dalton Highway. Enjoy the journey across the Yukon River, as you catch a glimpse of the wildlife that inhabits sub-arctic Alaska. With sweeping views of mountains and valleys, you will also see the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline System (TAPS), one of the largest pipeline systems, transporting thousands of gallons of oil from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez.
2
Stop at the Hilltop Restaurant & Marketplace where you can find the best Pies in this area. No matter if you like to have an extra treat, some Alaskan gifts for the family back home or if you are only interested in using one of the last Restrooms with running water, you are welcome to do any of it during this stop.
3
Stop 3
Travel on the famous Dalton Highway and spot wildlife along the Yukon River
4
Enjoy the beautiful area of Finger Mountain and take a walk around the short hiking path. This is just one more opportunity of many for some amazing pictures.
5
Stop 5
Upon reaching the Arctic Circle, one of the five markers of latitude (Tropic of Cancer, Tropic of Capricorn, Equator & Antarctic Circle) you will be met with a glorious site. The weather in this region can range from extreme cold in the winter months (September to May) to temperate heat, as high as 90 * Fahrenheit (32 * Celsius) in the summer months. (May to end of August).
Hop out and stretch your legs, take a walk and capture photos of this unique location.
After around half hour of sightseeing, enjoy flipping through your photos with your official Arctic Circle Certificate in hand. Sit back and enjoy the journey back to Fairbanks on this one of a kind trip.
With your camera filled with photos and an official Arctic Circle certificate in hand to show off to your friends and family back home, relax on the drive back to Fairbanks.
This small-group tour is limited to 8 to 9 people, ensuring you’ll receive personalized attention from your guide.
6
Stop at the Yukon River Camp and visit the mighty Yukon River. This is your last chance to visit a Restroom with running water (there will be many more stops at outhouses along the road). You will also have a chance to buy some more snacks or visit a one of a kind store with handmade gifts and fur items. Something you will not find at any other tourist store around town.
What's not included
Gratuities
Lunch (available for purchase at Yukon River Camp)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
226 reviews
5★
167
4★
27
3★
17
2★
6
1★
9
Tripadvisor
4.8
452 reviews
5★
408
4★
27
3★
10
2★
2
1★
5
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
Please dress appropriately. The weather in the Arctic can change very quickly. During the summer months it can get very warm and rain might be always possible. We recommend wearing sturdy shoes and bringing a rain/weather jacket.
The weather conditions are in no way predictable in our area and we will not offer a refund in case of too many clouds.
Adult pricing applies to all travelers.
This tour is not recommended for children under 10 years of age.
There is a possibility of cancellation due to dangerous weather and/or road conditions. If this occurs, an alternative date or full refund will be offered.
Type of transportation: Van
The group size is limited to 8 guests for each Transit van. Larger group bookings are possible and multiple vans will be used in this case.
This tour requires being able to enter and exit our van with limited assistance. Please contact us if you have any concerns about mobility.
Not recommended for people with limited mobility.
Important notes
Please ensure that you provide Alaska Wildlife Guide with the location of your accommodation as soon as it is known so that your pick up time can be determined. If you are unsure if you can be picked up from your accommodation location, please contact the Alaska Wildlife Guide office between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday Alaska time on +1 907 712 4529 (landline so no texts please).
If you are staying at an AirBnB, please contact the office on 907 712 4529 (landline) for the closest pick up location.
You will be contacted the day before your tour with your exact pick up time or a few days before if your tour is on a Monday so please ensure you provide a working phone number that you can be contacted on at the time of booking. If you do not hear from us, please check your voicemail as we will leave you a message. If your mailbox is not set up or is full we will send you either an email or message in Viator/Tripadvisor so please remember to check your message for your pick up time.
You will be provided with chips, a granola bar and bottled water. A selection of burgers, soups, salads and pie is available for purchase at Yukon River Camp, however you are also welcome to bring your own lunch items, snacks and drinks.
About Fairbanks
Fairbanks, located in the heart of Alaska, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich gold rush history, and unique subarctic climate. It's a gateway to extraordinary experiences like the Northern Lights, world-class fishing, and a vibrant arts scene. Fairbanks offers a blend of rugged wilderness and charming small-town atmosphere, making it a must-visit for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions
Chena Hot Springs
A popular destination for soaking in natural hot springs, Chena Hot Springs is located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks. The resort offers a variety of activities, including aurora viewing, dog sledding, and ice museum tours.
Nature
Full day
Moderate to Expensive
Museum of the North
Located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, this museum showcases the natural and cultural history of Alaska. Exhibits include wildlife dioramas, Native Alaskan artifacts, and contemporary art.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate
Fairbanks Arctic Warfare Training Center
This historic site offers a glimpse into the military history of Fairbanks, with exhibits on the Arctic warfare training that took place during World War II and the Cold War.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to Low
Pioneer Park
A 44-acre park featuring historic buildings, museums, and recreational facilities. It's a great place to learn about Fairbanks' gold rush history and enjoy outdoor activities.
Historical/Entertainment
2-3 hours
Free to Low
Mosquito Lake
A popular spot for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species and is a great place to see moose, bears, and other wildlife.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Salmon
Freshly caught Alaskan salmon, often grilled or smoked, is a must-try dish in Fairbanks.
Main Course
Gluten-free, high in protein
Reindeer Sausage
A local specialty made from reindeer meat, often served as sausage or in stews.
Main Course
Gluten-free, high in protein
Bannock
A traditional Alaskan bread made with flour, water, and sometimes berries or other ingredients.
Bread
Vegetarian, can be vegan if made without dairy
Akutaq
Also known as Eskimo ice cream, this traditional dish is made with whipped fat, berries, and sometimes fish or other ingredients.
Dessert
Vegetarian, high in fat
Popular Activities
Hiking
Dog sledding
Snowmobiling
Whitewater rafting
Soaking in hot springs
Scenic drives
Wildlife viewing
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Fairbanks for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the midnight sun. The weather is mild, and most attractions are open.
5°C to 25°C
41°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Fairbanks is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in the winter.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Dress appropriately for the weather and activities
- • Carry bear spray when hiking or camping in the wilderness
Getting there
By air
- Fairbanks International Airport • 5 miles (8 km) from city center
By train
Fairbanks Depot
By bus
Fairbanks Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Buses run on a regular schedule, but service may be limited in the winter.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Fairbanks
College Area
Chena Ridge
Day trips
Denali National Park
120 miles (193 km) • Full day
Denali National Park is home to North America's tallest peak and offers stunning landscapes, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities.
Arctic Circle
115 miles (185 km) north of Fairbanks • Full day
The Arctic Circle is a symbolic line of latitude that marks the northernmost point where the sun is visible at the winter solstice.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
250 miles (402 km) southeast of Fairbanks • Overnight
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the United States and offers stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
Festivals
World Ice Art Championships • March
Midnight Sun Festival • June
Fairbanks Fur Rendezvous • February
Pro tips
- Visit in the summer to experience the midnight sun and enjoy outdoor activities
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly, especially in the winter
- Try local cuisine, including fresh seafood and Alaskan specialties
- Be bear aware and carry bear spray when hiking or camping in the wilderness
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
