alaska iditarod sunset cm

Iditarod Race and Northern Lights

from £1928 excluding flights

  • 8 nights
  • Feb
Home Destinations Americas Alaska Iditarod Race and Northern Lights

Highlights

alaska iditarod sled dog race finish nome atia

Watch the start of the legendary Iditarod Race

alaska railroad through winter landscape

Ride the legendary Alaska Railroad from Healy to Talkeetna

alaska northern lights green and pink colours istk

Head out in search of the northern lights

alaska anchorage skyline winter istk

Explore the cities of Anchorage and Fairbanks

Why this trip...

norway meet the locals arceur meet the locals white

Meet the locals

Experience your surroundings through the lives of the people who live and work there

early morning kayak istk activity based 01 white

Activities included

This itinerary features a range of included activities

canada group hiking by mountain lake istk like minded travellers white

Like-minded travellers

Share your travel experiences with fellow travellers

Overview

This escorted holiday lets you experience the atmosphere and excitement of Alaska’s epic Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race combined with exploring some of Alaska’s lesser known areas, the chance to meet the locals and a journey on the iconic Alaskan Railroad.

During your stay you can also take in some of the unforgettable events of Anchorage’s world-renowned Fur Rendezvous Winter Carnival. ‘Fur Rondy’ is a great Alaskan tradition, celebrating the end of the long winter with activities ranging from the fun, to the competitive, to the downright bizarre – Snowshoe Softball and Outhouse Races not least among these!

The Iditarod

Extending for nearly 1,000 miles through some of the roughest, toughest wilderness terrain in North America, the Iditarod Trail crosses the state of Alaska from Anchorage to Nome. Every year intrepid mushers and their dog teams tackle this incredible journey, facing bitter cold, fierce winds and long lonely hours of darkness in a bid to become Iditarod champion.

Itinerary

Upon arrival in Fairbanks make your way to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore this remote northern city.

alaska aurora istk

After a leisurely breakfast take a city tour around Fairbanks, including a visit to the Morris Thompson Cultural Centre and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Head out this evening on a guided excursion in search of the aurora borealis.

trans alaska pipeline winter istk

In the morning transfer by coach to Healy, just north of Denali National Park. Upon arrival visit the Murie Science Learning Centre which acts as the Visitor Centre in the wintertime. Later today there may be the possibility to snowshoe, before heading out this evening for another chance to view
the northern lights.

Transfer to the Healy Rail stop and board the Alaska Railroad for your scenic journey to Anchorage. Keep an eye out for views of Denali.

alaska railroad near denali winter istk

Begin with a city tour of Anchorage featuring the historic downtown area, Lake Hood floatplane base, and Earthquake Park. Later travel along the scenic Turnagain Arm for a visit of the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre to see Alaskan wildlife up close. Upon return to Anchorage, enjoy Iditarod festivities and dinner at the Mushers’ Banquet.

Travel north to meet 4-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser at his Happy Trails Kennel. Hear personal stories while viewing a glimpse of the grandeur Alaska has to offer along the Iditarod Trail. Before returning to Anchorage visit the Iditarod Headquarters.

blue eyed husky sled dog istk

In the morning head to 4th Avenue to get a great spot at the Ceremonial Start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and to cheer on mushers from all over the world. In the afternoon visit the Anchorage Museum, a large art, history, ethnography, ecology and science museum.

alaska iditarod husky dog howling istk

Head north to Willow for the official start of the Iditarod Race. Unlike the relaxed fun of the Ceremonial Start, this is where the serious business begins and the race starts in earnest. Dress warmly as you will be spending the day outside cheering on your favourite dog teams as they head off into the wilderness, whilst you return to Anchorage for your departure flight this evening.

alaska dog sledding race iditarod istk
alaska iditarod dog team crossing sign cm
alaska iditarod husky musher atia

Accommodation Options

With a wide choice of accommodation in Alaska, we can mix and match different grades and styles to suit your personal preference – from motels and hotels to wilderness lodges in stunning locations.

  • ramada anchorage downtown guesthouse

Prices and Departures

Price from £1928 excluding flights

Airfares start from around £1,000 per person and are quoted separately to the holiday price. When enquiring, our Travel Specialists will provide the best fare possible from your preferred airline / airport.
Note: Airfares tend to be cheaper the earlier you book.

What's Included

  • Accommodation in rooms with private bathroom
  • 7 breakfasts, 1 boxed lunch, 1 dinner
  • Transportation as per the itinerary
  • Alaska Railroad (standard seating) from Healy to Anchorage
  • Northern lights viewing tours x 2
  • Fairbanks sightseeing tour
  • Admission to Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre & Anchorage Museum
  • Anchorage sightseeing tour
  • Visit to Martin Buser’s Dog Kennel
  • Entry to the Iditarod Musher’s Banquet (including dinner)
  • Attendance at the ceremonial and official Iditarod starts
  • Services of a tour guide
  • 24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
  • No surcharge guarantee
  • Full financial protection

From prices per person

Based on 2 sharing a room with private bathroom

Departure Duration Twin Price Single Price
25 Feb 2024 8 nights £1,928 £2,450

Group Size

  • Minimum group size: 1
  • Maximum group size: 50

Tailor made trips

As independent destination specialists, we are able to tailor make holidays to suit you, be that customising the itineraries shown on this website or creating something bespoke.

pillars

Travelling sustainably

We believe travel is about finding the right balance between minimising our impact on the environment and broadening minds through new experiences and cultural interaction.