alaska trip plan

Best Alaska Itinerary by an Alaska Guide

Last Updated on February 28, 2024

The best Alaska Itinerary for you depends on how you like to travel and how much time you have so I’ve curated five options for you to choose from, from road trips to car free adventures !

I lived in Alaska for many years and still spend several weeks a year in Alaska working as a guide. I also help people plan their trips to Alaska so I am intimately familiar with how to plan an amazing trip.

The most important piece of advice I have is to PRIORITIZE what’s most important to you . Alaska is a gigantic state, the distances are long. If you make thoughtful decisions about where you want to go and what you want to save for your next trip, you’ll be much happier. You’ll also have more fun and get to know Alaska better.

If you’re still figuring out how you want to visit Alaska, start here before diving into itineraries. Over here I have lots of other resources for planning your dream trip to Alaska

• Epic 10 day Alaska road trip itinerary from Anchorage
• Best 7 Day Car free Alaska Itinerary (no rental car needed!)
• Best 7 Day Alaska Inside Passage Itinerary (no rental car or cruise ship needed!)
• Best 5 Day Alaska Itinerary for Denali National Park (Road trip or car free)
• Best 5 Day Alaska Glacier Itinerary from Anchorage

Unusual and less busy places to add to your Alaska Itinerary

What to do if you have more time.

Best 10 day Alaska Itinerary from Anchorage: Ultimate Road Trip

Want every step of this itinerary laid out for you so all you have to do is book it? Grab it here !

This Alaska Itinerary is best for : Those who love fitting in as many things as possible into a vacation. This is also for those who love road trips!

Best time of year for this itinerary : Late May through early September

Travel time for this itinerary : Anchorage to Denali – allow 5 hours; Denali to Girdwood – Allow 7 hours (including Talkeetna spur road); Girdwood to Whittier – allow 1 hour (and note the Tunnel times); Girdwood to Portage – allow 30 minutes; Girdwood to Seward – allow 2.5 hours; Girdwood to Anchorage – allow 1 hour

2024 Note: The Denali Park Road closed at Milepost 42 (Polychrome Pass) in August 2021. The park service has announced that the road will remain closed at this point at least through the 2024 season. A permanent fix to this section of road is currently being built. Bus tours will still operate up to that point. Eielson Visitor Center and Wonder Lake will not be accessible.

Resources for this itinerary

I recommend staying in Girdwood for the second part of your trip . It’s close to Anchorage but also outside the city and closer to the activities for the next few days. Look for one of the many ski oriented Airbnbs in town, or stay at the Hotel Alyeska.

Make sure to buy and bring snacks, lunches and water for your road trip, especially for the Denali portion where there’s no food available in the park.

• Best things to do in Anchorage
• Guide to the Portage Valley
• Guide to Kenai Fjords National Park
• Best things to do in Seward
• Guide to Denali National Park
• Things to do in Talkeetna

You could extend your road trip from Anchorage up to Fairbanks , or you could spend more time in any of the places on this itinerary. Another option would be to do a loop drive up to Fairbanks, then down the Richardson Highway to Valdez and then either drive back to Anchorage or take the ferry from Valdez to Whittier and pick up the Girdwood portion of the itinerary there.

You can also add one of my ideas at the bottom of this article for extending your trip.

Best 7 Day Car Free Alaska Itinerary: Alaska Railroad

This Alaska Itinerary is best for : Anyone who doesn’t want to or is not able to drive. This is also good for anyone adding additional days in Denali where you wouldn’t be driving anyway. The chart provides a summary with more details below.

Travel time for this itinerary : Anchorage to Whittier – 2.5 hour train ride each way; Anchorage to Denali – 7.5 hour train ride; Denali to Fairbanks – 4 hour train ride

2023 Note: The Denali Park Road closed at Milepost 42 (Polychrome Pass) in August 2021. The park service has announced that the road will remain closed at this point at least through the 2023 season. A permanent fix to this section of road is currently being built. Bus tours will still operate up to that point. Eielson Visitor Center and Wonder Lake will not be accessible.

Make sure to pay attention to the hotels or other accommodations you book as you need to stay at ones that offer shuttles or where you can walk to things. I also strongly recommend booking a hotel in Denali that has a box lunch to order since there’s no food available in the park (Grand Denali Lodge and Denali Bluffs are both good for this and for shuttles).

• Alaska TourSaver – this coupon app (or paper book) saves you a lot of money on your train tickets!
• Unique things to do in Fairbanks

If you have more time for this itinerary, I recommend spending a bit more time in Fairbanks or Anchorage, or take a flight out to one of Alaska’s more remote national parks, such as Gates of the Arctic or Katmai.

Another option is to spend another day in Fairbanks or add on a couple days in Seward.

Best 7 Day Alaska Independent Traveler Itinerary: Juneau and Glacier Bay National Park

This Alaska Itinerary is best for : People who want to experience the glaciers, wildlife, mountains and dramatic scenery of the inside passage without taking a cruise. Anyone who likes to get a bit off the beaten track and see things many visitors miss.

Best time of year for this itinerary : Late May through early July (while you should expect rain any day of the year in Southeast Alaska, May and June are drier here than the later part of the summer.

Travel time for this itinerary : Juneau to Gustavus is a 30 minute flight on a small plane, or a 6 hour ferry ride. Gustavus is about 10 miles from Bartlett Cove in Glacier Bay National Park. There is a complimentary shuttle to Bartlett Cove for guests at the Glacier Bay Lodge, and campers can pay for the shuttle or take a taxi.

I recommend staying either in “the valley” (near the airport, ferry terminal and Mendenhall Glacier) OR downtown. If you stay in another area you will need to get a rental car. You can take the bus between downtown and the valley quite easily and some hotels offer free shuttles to the airport and ferry terminal.

• Things to do in Juneau
• Guide to Glacier Bay National Park

If you’re a hiker or kayaker, you could easily spend a week on the water or trails of the Juneau area. Another option would be to add on a visit to another small community in Southeast, such as Haines , Skagway or Sitka .

Best 5 Day Alaska Itinerary for Denali National Park (no rental car needed!)

This Alaska Itinerary is best for : Those with less time who want to focus primarily on seeing Denali National Park and don’t want to pay for an expensive rental car only to park it for most of the trip! This Alaska Itinerary does NOT include any coastal areas.

Note : this itinerary can also be done out of Anchorage. If someone wants to focus primarily on Denali, Fairbanks is much closer. See Alaska Itinerary #1 for details about the drive between Anchorage and Denali if you decide to do it that way. This Alaska Itinerary can also be done one way if done by train (but not by car as a one way car rental is prohibitively expensive in Alaska).

Travel time for this itinerary (train): Fairbanks to Denali – 4 hours each way

Travel time for this itinerary (driving): Fairbanks to Denali – 2.5 hours each way, Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs – allow 1.5 hours each way

Make sure to stay in a hotel that offers a shuttle back and forth the to the train depot and visitor center, and offers box lunches for you to take on your day into the park.

• Complete Guide to visiting Denali National Park

If you have more time, you can spend more time in Fairbanks either out at Chena Hot Springs, hiking or exploring town. Another option is to continue on the train down to Anchorage and do some exploring there.

Best 5 Day Alaska Glacier Getaway from Anchorage

This Alaska Itinerary is best for : People who want to focus on the glaciers and wildlife of Alaska’s wild coast and those who don’t want to spend the whole time driving. The chart provides a summary with more details below.

Best time of year for this itinerary : Late May through early September. June or July is ideal.

Travel time for this itinerary : Anchorage to Girdwood – allow an hour; Girdwood to Portage Valley – allow 30 minutes each way; Girdwood to Whittier – allow 2 hours each way to account for the tunnel; Girdwood to Seward – allow 2 hours each way.

• Things to do in Anchorage
• Things to do in Seward
• 13 must see stops between Anchorage and Seward

You can easily spend more time in any of these places, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking. Another option is to add a bit more time in Anchorage or add more of the Kenai Peninsula to your road trip.

If you’re one of those travelers (like me!) who like to explore areas that many visitors don’t get to, and you’re willing to trade a famous place for one a bit less known, less crowded and just as beautiful, here are a few ideas. There are nearly unlimited opportunities for solitude in Alaska, though some remote areas are challenging or expensive to get to.

• Alaska’s more remote National Parks – it takes some serious effort to get to these, but it’s so worth it if you love uncrowded wild places. Take a close look at Wrangell-St Elias , Katmai and Lake Clark.
• Valdez – the wonderful and small port town of Valdez is not visited by most cruise ships (some small ships come here) and it’s location further away from Anchorage make it less busy with visitors traveling on their own in a rental car. There are still plenty of visitors, many are other Alaskans getting away for fishing. You’ll also encounter folks in RVs on longer road trips.
• Petersburg or Wrangell in Southeast Alaska – the charming port towns of Wrangell and Petersburg aren’t visited by large cruise ships, so it’s a very different experience than some of the other towns along the inside passage. Both have opportunities for glacier and wildlife tours as well as fishing, hiking and kayaking
• Glacier Bay National Park – Big cruise ships visit Glacier Bay , but traveling on your own to this magical place really gets you away from it all. Big ships don’t go ashore anywhere in the park, and you’ll be enjoying it with just the other folks at the lodge or campground. This is my favorite national park in Alaska!
• Take a water taxi to a remote cabin or yurt – I particularly recommend doing this in Kachemak Bay near Homer or Kenai Fjords National Park .

What to do if you have more time (2 weeks or more) for your Alaska Itinerary

If you’re lucky enough to have more time for your Alaska Adventure, that’s terrific! You can spend more time in any of the places mentioned in these itineraries (especially Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Anchorage and the Kenai Peninsula).

Some other specifics to consider adding to your Alaska Itinerary (with the itineraries they make sense with) include:

• Riding the Alaska ferry (add to tinerary #5)
• Driving the Glenn Highway and visiting Matanuska Glacier (add to itinerary #1 or #4)
• Visiting the town of Homer on the Kenai Peninsula. Homer is a good place to kayak or even stay in a remote yurt in Kachemak Bay ! (add to itinerary #1 or #4)
• Kayak camp in Kenai Fjords National Park (add to itinerary #1 or #4)
• Try your hand at salmon or halibut fishing in Whittier or Seward (add to itinerary #1 or #4)
• Visit remote (but still on the road system) Wrangell – St Elias National Park and historic Kennicott (itinerary #1)
• Visit one of Alaska’s very remote National Parks – several of Alaska’s remote National Parks can only be visited by small plane. They are very expensive to visit, but also very unique and unforgettable. From the salmon eating bears of Katmai National Park to the vast tundra of Gates of the Arctic National Park you can have an experience few can share. This is a fly in experience so you could add it to any of these itineraries.

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Planning Your Perfect Alaska Road Trip Itinerary (2021 Edition)

December 9, 2021 December 28, 2019 | Christopher Harvey

Last Updated on December 9, 2021 by Chris and Lindsay

If you plan to drive to Alaska you have a lot of options for your Alaska road trip itinerary. Alaska is known as the Last Frontier. So getting there is an adventure in and of itself!

Most of Alaska is inaccessible by vehicle. This means you have to plan to get around via plane or boat.

But depending on your level of adventure, funds and Bucket List, you probably don’t need to worry about trying to reach all of those more difficult places.

In fact, if your goal is to travel to Alaska in an RV, then you’re likely looking to explore the part of the state you can reach by vehicle.

(If you just plan to tent camp or stay in hotels you can use our suggested itineraries. You just may need to plan your accommodations differently.)

Fortunately, most activities you would want to do in Alaska are close enough that you can drive to them.

Before we get into a few sample Alaska road trip itineraries let’s cover a few factors that will impact your drive in Alaska.

The Ideal Alaska Road Trip Itinerary

We believe that your ideal Alaska itinerary should include the following information.

Timeframe : 6-8 weeks

Time of Year : June – August

Starting Location : Glacier National Park, MT (or no further west than Spokane, WA)

Ending Location : Seattle area, WA

Key Places To Visit : Banff & Jasper National Parks (Canada), Alaska Highway, Fairbanks, Talkeetna, Kenai Peninsula, Homer Spit, Seward, Valdez, Haines, Cassiar Highway and Hyder.

Key Things To Do : Drive the Dalton Highway (special advise required), see Mt. Denali in Talkeetna, play with reindeer in Palmer, camp on the beach at Homer Spit and Seward , go halibut fishing in Homer, watch sea lions, otters and bald eagles catch salmon in Valdez, search for grizzly bears in Haines and eat at “the bus” in Hyder.

Total Miles : Approx. 6,000 miles

Read on for more specific information to help you plan your perfect road trip to Alaska!

Factors That Impact Your Alaska Road Trip Itinerary

Planning your Alaska road trip itinerary can be daunting. Just reaching Alaska from the Lower 48 will take days and cover thousands of miles.

One you’re there, where do you go? Where CAN you go? What do you do? Where do you stay? For how long do you stay?

Understanding how the following points impact your Alaska road trip will help you craft your perfect trip!

Starting/Ending Location.

Our Alaska road trip itineraries are going to assume that you will begin your journey in the continental United States (Lower 48) in the northwestern half of the country (Montana, Idaho, Washington areas).

If you’re coming from Florida (as we did) or Maine, then add on extra time accordingly.

Our itineraries will be based on “border-to-border” starting and ending locations.

This means we’re guiding you from a US border crossing into Canada (say, from Glacier National Park in Montana) to a return US border from Canada (say, Seattle area).

We believe this is your best opportunity to see the best parts of British Columbia and the Yukon Territory on your way to/from Alaska.

Amount of time you have.

Alaska road trip itineraries are dependent on your time table.

Whether you’re trying to see Alaska during your two-week vacation, two-month summer vacation or retirement makes a big difference!

If you’re making the “border-to-border” drive to Alaska then we’d recommend no fewer than 6 – 8 weeks .

But it is possible to make the trip in 4 weeks if that’s all the time you have.

Further, our Alaska road trip itineraries are for travelers who will leave/return to the US and not those who will fly to Alaska and rent an RV there.

(Note: We do have a few sample itineraries in that case)

You’re going to want to decide how much time you have (if you even have time limits) before you decide all of the things you want to pack into your Alaska itinerary.

Specific places you want to see

Have you always wanted to see the Arctic Ocean? Maybe you’ve wanted to just see the Arctic Circle? Or what about visiting Mt. Denali National Park?

There are lots of places to see in Alaska. If you hash out a general list then that is a great place to start!

Need help hashing out a list? We’ve got suggestions for you!

If there are places you do and do not want to see, this will greatly impact the amount of time you need to complete your Alaska road trip.

For instance, we LOVE Hyder and think you should stop by to see Jim and Diana and have a fresh halibut sandwich at The Bus . But Hyder is a little out of the way if you are short on time.

Get started on that list!

Important things you want to do

Do you want to watch a grizzly bear catch a salmon in its mouth? What about hooking on to a 100-pound halibut? Maybe you’ve just wanted to be one of the few (10% or less!) who get a clear view of Mt. Denai?

These things also impact your Alaska road trip itinerary. Again, get started on that bucket list!  

Your limits on driving time/distance

Alaska is… well, it is HUGE! Driving distances and times are substantial – especially when you consider the “border-to-border” roundtrip.

Determining how far or how long you want to drive each day is important.

This will help you determine not only the important details of where to stay and when to refuel but also how much time you will spend in any given place.

Our ideal Alaska road trip itineraries are based on a comfortable 4-5 hour drive.

If you feel that’s not comfortable, or you want to get to/from Alaska faster or slower then we have a few options for you too!

Other extenuating factors

Do you have any upcoming appointments or important life events coming up like weddings or medical treatment?

Are you closing on the sale or purchase of a house in the near future?

We wouldn’t tell you to call off your Alaska adventure because of these things.

Just be aware that they might impact your Alaska road trip itinerary.

For example, Lindsay travels with Crohn’s Disease . At the time we drove to Alaska we only had 7 weeks.

This is because every 8 weeks she received an IV infusion to treat the disease. As such we left Washington state the day after her infusion and returned two days before her next one.

We would love to have spent more time in Alaska. But extenuating circumstances like these will impact your itinerary as well.

Alaska Road Trip Itineraries

After you’ve answered some of those questions to help you understand the who, what, where, when, why and how of your road trip to Alaska, check out some sample itineraries that we have put together.

You already figured out, every itinerary is subject to change. Either you’ll change it. Or your circumstances will!

But at least you can get started on planning your perfect Alaska road trip itinerary!

Note: ALL of our itineraries include the following places: Alaska Highway, Fairbanks, Denali National Park, Talkeetna, Palmer/Anchorage, Kenai Peninsula (Turnagain Arm, Anchor Point, Homer , Seward ), Valdez, Haines and Hyder.

The only location we exclude in some itineraries is the infamous Dalton Highway. This drive is not for the faint of heart (or unprepared). You can find more information about driving the Dalton Highway here .

• 4 Week Alaska Road Trip Itinerary
• 6 Week Alaska Road Trip Itinerary
• 8 Week Alaska Road Trip Itinerary

While we are trying to prepare you to be able to drive from “border-to-border,” we do understand that you might be planning to fly to Fairbanks/Anchorage to rent an RV.

If this is the case, you likely have less time than those of us driving from the Lower 48.

Here are a few sample itineraries for your journey:

• 3 Week Alaska Road Trip Itinerary (from Fairbanks/Anchorage)
• 4 Week Alaska Road Trip Itinerary (from Fairbanks/Anchorage)
• 5 Week Alaska Road Trip Itinerary (from Fairbanks/Anchorage)

Tips / Things To Know About Driving In Alaska

Now that you have an idea of your Alaska road trip itinerary, here are a few tips that are going to help you enjoy the drive more.

We had a few. You might too. These greatly change things. Depending on your vehicle/RV and your ability to fix it on the fly, your itinerary will change during a breakdown.

We spent more time in some places we never heard of and less time in others because of break downs. But that’s OK. It all worked out as part of our journey!

NOTE: Breakdowns are inconvenient, stressful and potentially dangerous. We had the policy to help everyone we could when we saw a broken down vehicle and encourage you to do the same.

Wildlife is, well, wild. Would you want it any other way?

On your drive to Alaska you will see moose, bear (black and grizzly), bison, elk, deer, fox and porcupine among dozens of other species.

But mind you, they don’t mind the roads.

Sadly you will likely see their carcasses scattered across the highway with accompanying brake marks in the road.

Be aware, even when there are no signs for wildlife there is always the possibility for it.

Hitting a moose will likely end your great Alaska road trip.

Frost Heaves

Sure they sound cute. But once you get into Alaska you will soon grow weary of them.

Frost heaves are subtle bumps, rolls, ridges and dips in the road that change your pace and make you pucker.

They are formed in the road when the ground freezes and the highway lifts up as the ice expands.

Don’t be afraid of them. But be aware. We drove with both hands on the wheel nearly every mile in Alaska because one sudden jolt by a frost heave could be enough to drive you off the side of the road.

Speed Limits

Most drivers forget that speed limits are “limits” and not “mandatories.” When you drive in Alaska, especially in an RV, you are likely not going to be driving at the speed limit (see Frost Heaves above!).

However, just because everyone around you might be zipping past you do not have to drive excessively fast. In fact, just make sure you are safely traveling over the minimum speed limits (sometimes posted).

Or, just drive at the pace you feel comfortable.

But do note that Alaska actually has a law that states that you must pull over if cars are piling up behind you. We did this frequently, especially along the Turnagain Arm on our way to the Kenai Peninsula.

Don’t be a jerk. Especially if there is a highway patrol officer behind you!

About Author

Christopher Harvey

Christopher Harvey is the co-founder and main copywriter for Called To Wander. His passion is to create content that engages and informs readers and helps them to pursue the Abundant Life on the Road. Aside from writing, he also edits videos for the YouTube channel. He has freelanced for a variety of publications and consults with different brands on SEO and content strategy.

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Your Trip to Alaska: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Rugged and remote, Alaska is truly The Last Frontier. Melting glaciers, diverse landscapes, eight national parks , and the big five—grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and Dall sheep—are what you’ll find in this grand state. As you're planning your Alaska getaway, use this guide to learn about what to do and see there, where to stay, how to plan, and the best ways to save money.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Alaska is during the summer months, beginning in mid-May through mid-September, when the weather is warmest and driest.

Language: In America’s 49 th state, the majority of the population speaks English  , followed by Spanish and other Indo-European and Asian languages. And 5.2 percent of Alaskans speak a native language.

Currency: The U.S. dollar is the official currency. Credit cards are widely used throughout the state, however, in smaller towns, cash is the preferred method of payment.

Getting Around: Transportation and getting around Alaska depends on whether you’re traveling to the coastal regions or inland. Cruises, large and small, are the optimal way to experience the coastal regions, while small aircraft, train, and/or a bus (likely, a combination of all three) will help you get to more remote areas inland.

Travel Tip: Timing is everything when planning your adventure to Alaska. Clear and dark night skies, free of light pollution, are needed to witness the aurora borealis; the great caribou migration happens at specific times of year; and the national parks, many of which are only open seasonally, are an excellent way to explore distinct ecosystems, see wildlife, and gain knowledge of indigenous Alaskan cultures. 

Things to Do

Experiencing Alaska is all about adventuring in the outdoors. Be bear-aware and go hiking or get a duck-view of the ocean via kayaking to see marine wildlife. Take a small boat and witness a glacier calving. Ride on the Alaska Railroad to see wide expanses of scenic land. Of course, visiting one, or many, of the eight national parks is a must-do activity as well: Denali National Park and Preserve , Katmai National Park and Preserve , and Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve are the most popular and accessible.

See the tallest peak in North America: Visit Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley, with a summit elevation at 20,310 feet above sea level. Enlist the services of Pursuit, to arrange for travel through the park, a view of Denali, and a stay at Denali Backcountry Lodge , located in Kantishna at the end of the road, mile 92.

Marvel at diverse ecosystems and wildlife: To spot Alaska’s big five, visit Alaska’s interior, and to witness marine life, stick to the coastal regions. You’ll want to travel by boat to see whales, sea otters, seals, sea lions, and walrus in the water, and to see mammals, book a flight seeing tour or land excursion. More than 900,000 caribou travel across Alaska’s tundra as well as 32 different species of carnivores  .

Gasp at the aurora borealis: While it’s possible to see the northern lights any time of year, for the best chances of seeing them, you’ll have to bundle up and visit Alaska during the winter months, when the skies are the darkest (summer is the season of the Midnight Sun). Fairbanks, or Alaska’s interior region, is the best and easiest place to go to see the bands of light, as are the far northern regions of the state.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the best things to do in Alaska , Should You Visit Alaska by Land or on a Cruise? , and our complete guide to Alaska’s national parks .

What to Eat and Drink

Seafood is as fresh as can be in Alaska. Five different species of salmon—coho, chum, pink, sockey, and king; Pacific halibut; rockfish; Pacific cod; shrimp and scallops; oysters; and wild Alaska king crab are widely available and worth a try. Wild game—moose, caribou, reindeer—is also popular. You’ll likely find cured and preserved meats throughout the state, as well as in local grocery stores, like reindeer sausage or jerky. Fish and chips are a popular dish as well. And, for dessert? Try anything with berries. From blueberries to cloudberries to lingonberries, order a slice of pie, a mixed-berry cobbler, or a berry-infused ice cream to satiate your sweet tooth.

Tasting local craft beers is also a great way to sample the flavors of Alaska. Visit or drink brews from Juneau’s Alaskan Brewing Co., Anchorage Brewing Co., Skagway Brewing Co. , Haines Brewing Co ., or Denali Brewing Co . in Talkeetna, among others.

For more on Alaska’s food and beverage scene, read about fun things to do in Talkeetna and things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska .

Where to Stay

The places to stay in Alaska are as diverse as the state itself. Choose from hotels and lodges, wilderness and backcountry accommodations, cabins for bear viewing or fishing lodges, or RV parks and campgrounds. Brooks Lodge , for example, is ideal for visits to Katmai National Park to see the bears catching salmon in the river. The Lakefront Anchorage—a Millennium Hotel or The Hotel Captain Hook are great for stays in the city of Anchorage because of the dining options available and central locations. Talkeetna is a popular stop along the Alaska Railroad route, due to views of the Denali and Alaska Range mountains, and a stay at Talkeena Alaskan Lodge , with its on-property hiking trails and award-winning dining at Foraker Dining Room, is an excellent place to rest your head. And, of course, cruises have their own accommodations, ideal for exploring coastal regions in the state.

Explore further by reading about the best Anchorage hotels and the best Alaska cruises .

Getting There

Cruises, of all sizes, are best for sightseeing the coastal regions, while land tours, which use air taxis, trains, or transportation buses, are best for seeing the immense interior. Jet service is available from the lower 48 states to Alaska’s major airports in Fairbanks and Anchorage. Larger airports partner with smaller chartered carriers to get passengers to the smaller communities and remote areas throughout the state. The most popular airports include:

• Fairbanks International Airport : Non-stop service is available to Europe as well as the lower 48 states. This airport is small, yet it has all of the conveniences that are needed for air travel.
• Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport : With a population of 208,000  , Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska. Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, Condor, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines service this airport.
• Juneau International Airport : This airport, located in the state capital, serves smaller communities in the district and has a seaplane base.
• Ketchikan International Airport : Not accessible by road, travelers who fly into this airport, located on Gravina Island, will have to take a ferry ride to the main city.
• Kodiak Airport : This is a public and military use airport, with only three runways.
• Nome Airport : If you’re planning on seeing the finish line of the famed Iditarod dog mushing race, then you’ll need to fly into Nome, Alaska. This public use airport has two runways. 

Booking a tour of Alaska is the easiest way to plan for logistics, using insider knowledge. Many of the national parks are difficult to access, remote, and require multiple legs of transportation. Additionally, cruises are a popular way to travel and see the coastal regions. You can enjoy excursions to explore the state, safely and with a guided adventure.

Learn more about how to travel within the state or along the coastal regions with these articles: Should You Visit Alaska by Land or by Cruise? , Alaska Railroad Grandview Scenic Train—Anchorage to Seward , and the best Alaskan tundra tours .

Culture and Customs

Alaska has a long-standing culture and when visiting the state, you may want to learn more by visiting Sitka National Historic Park , where totem pole carving  , basket weaving, and beading arts have been re-energized. The state’s historical library and state museum is located in the state’s capital, Juneau. Three types of indigenous populations live in Alaska, with diverse ethnic, lingual, and cultural roots: Indian, Eskimo, and Aleut  .

Money Saving Tips

• Check for available public transportation options when you’re in a larger city like Juneau, Fairbanks, or Anchorage. In many cases, you can see some of the popular sites in a much more affordable way.
• Make sure you pack all necessary travel items, especially technology or electronics, so that you won’t have to pay high-dollar to purchase them once in Alaska.
• Peak seasons runs June to August. To save money, consider visiting outside of summer and book your trip for the shoulder season.
• If you’re driving, make sure you rent a gas-efficient car due to the number of miles you’ll likely be driving to get from point A to point B.
• For a decent price on a cruise, book early and shop around for the best deal. In many cases, it might be less expensive to cruise round-trip from Seattle. Cruise excursions can be pricey and limited. Consider booking experiences through local vendors.

WorldAtlas. "What Languages are Spoken in Alaska" . 2020

Alaska Department of Fish and Game. “ Our Biological Diversity.”

United States Census Bureau. “ Alaska. ” July, 2019.

Britannica. “ Alaska Cultural Life.” 2020

Alaskan Native Cultures. “Alaskan Native Cultures.”

Should You Visit Alaska by Land or on a Cruise?

The Best Time to Cruise Alaska

The Complete Guide to Alaska's National Parks

7 Adventurous Things to Do in Denali

Alaska Cruise Pictures

25 Best Things to Do in Alaska

The Top 15 Destinations in Alaska

The Best Places to See Fall Colors in the USA

A Complete Guide to the Alaska Railroad—From Coastal Journeys to Glacier Routes

Alaska Railroad's Full Summer Schedule Is Back After Years of Reduced Service

12 Best Things to Do in Juneau During an Alaska Cruise

Anchorage Guide: Planning Your Trip

How to Spend One Week in Alaska

14 Best Things to Do in Fairbanks, Alaska

The 5 Best Alaskan Tundra Tours

How to Pack for an Alaska Land Tour

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Plan Your Trip to Anchorage, Alaska

Plan the ultimate trip to Anchorage, Alaska, for memories that will last a lifetime. Maps, transportation schedules, and Alaska travel tips make trip planning a breeze. This website and the free,  Official Anchorage Visitors Guide  include a business directory of local businesses that showcase the best of Anchorage and Southcentral Alaska. Use the links throughout this site to send information requests directly to local businesses and get quick answers.

Alaska vacation deals  and Anchorage travel packages offer the perfect opportunity to see Anchorage and the entire state. Many Alaska vacation deals and tours include motorcoach and train excursions, overnight  accommodations , and activities. Book an  Alaska Railroad  trip, take an Alaska  flightseeing tour  or  day cruise ,  or stay in a remote Alaska  lodge .

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Taking the long way home from Alaska

On an epic road trip, a family plots a course from Alaska to the Lower 48, passing through some of Canada’s most spectacular scenery. The tally: 2,200 miles, five national parks, numerous hot springs and one excellent reindeer hot dog.

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Within months of the Pearl Harbor bombing on Dec. 7, 1941, the United States, in cooperation with Canadian authorities, set out to build a highway from British Columbia to Alaska, then a territory and viewed as vulnerable to attack by Japan. The original 1,685-mile road took more than 10,000 soldiers less than nine months to complete.

An upgraded version opened in 1948 and has been continually resurfaced and rerouted; It now measures just shy of 1,400 miles from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction in Alaska, according to “The Milepost,” a guidebook to the drive.

The highway formed the heart of a family road trip I took last September from Alaska to Idaho, passing through the Yukon, British Columbia and Alberta, in Canada, along the way.

Relying on Google Maps won’t get you far on this drive, where cellphone service is sparse. In preparation, my son found a 1972 road map of western Canada and eastern Alaska that has remained fairly accurate.

The route, which takes motorists through some of the most stunning landscapes in North America, lends itself to a budget trip. We spent about $300 on fuel for the whole trip in a medium-size SUV. We often camped and ate picnic meals, starting in coastal Valdez, Alaska, where we overnighted on a 32-foot powerboat listed on Airbnb ($68 a night) with a great blue heron and a harbor seal as neighbors.

May and September, the start and end of the high-season months for traffic along this route, are also good times to see wildlife that is often pushed to lower elevations by snow.

Lessons in patience

From Valdez, we made our way to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve (free), the largest U.S. national park, and then joined the Alaska Highway at Tok , a small town about 90 miles from the Canadian border that plays a large role in servicing sparsely populated eastern Alaska with its grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.

We planned to drive deep into the Yukon on Day 1, but even with just 10 vehicles ahead at the border checkpoint, it took two hours to reach the lone agent, who asked us a few questions — mostly concerning firearms and hunting — and sent us on our way.

It was the first slowdown of many caused by stretches of unsealed road, construction detours and spots where the blacktop had pitched above frozen ground.

Yukon wilderness

Nearly 600 miles of the Alaska Highway traverse the Yukon.

From the border, the road travels southeast, passing yawning valleys with snaking streams and long glacier-fed lakes en route to Kluane National Park and Reserve , home to 19,551-foot Mount Logan, the highest mountain in Canada, and more than 2,000 glaciers. It, along with neighboring Wrangell-St. Elias and other parks, forms a UNESCO World Heritage site that enshrines the largest ice fields outside of the polar caps.

“This is how the Rockies would have looked years and years ago,” said Fitz McGoey, the visitor experience product development officer for the park, about 80 percent of which is covered by snow and ice.

Losing daylight, we opted for the first campground we could find north of the park. Quiet Lake Creek (20 Canadian dollars, or about $15, a night) offered riverside camping where we made quesadillas over a fire and fell asleep to the sound of a hooting owl while clutching cans of bear spray.

After days of driving and camping, and one excellent reindeer hot dog from a gas station in Haines Junction , we stopped in Whitehorse , the capital of the Yukon and the only major city on the highway, which was on the 52 Places to Go in 2024 list as a destination for northern lights tourism.

Across the 350 forested acres of the nearby Yukon Wildlife Preserve , a three-mile trail linked the habitats of 12 tundra species, including thinhorn sheep, arctic fox and Canadian lynx (admission CA$19).

Checking into the Raven Inn (CA$284), we explored Whitehorse’s walkable downtown and splurged on dinner at Belly of the Bison (bison Bolognese, CA$34). Afterward, our server directed us to the ’98 Hotel lounge for “a real taste of Whitehorse.”

It was open-mic night in the bar, which was decorated in animal skins and antique rifles, and free mugs of Molson beer arrived whenever someone rang the bell above the bar to buy the house a round.

The emcee encouraged reluctant talent by reminding the crowd, “There is no tomorrow if you don’t live today.”

Yukon kitsch

For the most part, the Alaska Highway is free of roadside kitsch with one enormously engaging exception: Signpost Forest in Watson Lake, Yukon (free).

Roughly 270 miles southeast of Whitehorse, a forest of poles displays innumerable road signs posted by motorists since 1942 when a homesick American soldier named Carl K. Lindley erected a sign with the mileage to his hometown, Danville, Ill.

Now license plates and tributes constructed of everything from flip-flops to a toilet seat compete with the signage.

“We call it the largest public display of stolen property in North America,” said Chris Irvin, the mayor of Watson Lake, in a phone interview, who estimated there are about a million signs in the forest.

In British Columbia, springs and safaris

In Alaska and the Yukon, we’d spotted bear and moose. But the wildlife in northern British Columbia, which we entered shortly after the Sign Post Forest, felt like a safari.

We saw black bears emerging from the woods and frequently stopped to view caribou grazing or herds of wood bison on the highway shoulder. A family of thinhorn sheep licking salt from the road nearly collided with our vehicle, their hooves skittering on the pavement.

Reassuringly, our next stop, Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park , offered camping behind an electric bear fence (CA$26 a night). Campers have unlimited access to the springs, reached via a boardwalk — the original was built in 1942 by American forces — over a warm-water swamp and a boreal forest so unusual in nurturing species like orchids that it was originally named Tropical Valley.

With mossy banks, rubble bottoms and temperatures that ranged from about 108 to 126 degrees, the park’s natural pools stayed open around the clock, and we found solitude both at night while stargazing and the next morning in the fog of dawn.

The highway flattens as it nears its origin in Dawson Creek , a British Columbia town of 500 that grew virtually overnight to roughly 10,000 when highway construction began. Black-and-white photos of servicemen working on the road, sitting atop a truck mired in mud and bathing in a river filled the hallways at our hotel, the no-frills George Dawson Inn (CA$174, including breakfast).

The highway’s much-photographed Mile Zero marker neighbors a former grain elevator that has been restored as the Dawson Creek Art Gallery (free).

The gallery’s back stairway exhibits a collection of photos, letters and tributes called “The Road.” It included this anecdote: When the Indigenous people of Canada’s north questioned the speed of the road’s construction, they were told about Hitler’s plan for world domination, to which one replied, “What’s he want all that land for? He will surely die someday like everyone else.”

Alberta’s parks

From Mile Zero, the most direct route to the Lower 48 crosses into Alberta and transits two marquee attractions of the Canadian Rockies: Jasper National Park and neighboring Banff National Park .

In view of rising mountains, immense river valleys and herds of elk, we drove 280 miles, primarily on Highway 40, to Jasper National Park (CA$22 per family or group). Its main road follows the glacial blue Athabasca River to the town of Jasper, where we checked into HI Jasper hostel (CA$306 for a four-bed private room).

Rising early, we beat the tour buses to the park’s Maligne Canyon to peer into a river-carved chasm, following the flow from a cliff-top trail that descended with the river to rapids and pools.

Connecting Jasper and Banff over roughly 145 miles, the Icefields Parkway offered spectacular views of waterfalls and peaks winking in and out of the clouds. We picnicked on the rocky shores of the Athabasca and skipped tourism developments like the glass Columbia Icefield Skywalk , where admission starts at CA$41.

A double rainbow arched across Highway 93 as we entered Banff, the popular Canadian mountain town. We stayed just outside the busy city center at the Juniper Hotel (CA$317) and used its free shuttle service to hit the town center for a round at Three Bears Brewery and Restaurant (pints CA$9) and stock up on picnic supplies at Wild Flour Bakery .

A quiet alternative

On a sunny morning, as Banff flexed its magnetism, framing mountain views down seemingly every lane, we backtracked about 18 miles to rejoin Highway 93 as it takes a southwestern swing into Kootenay National Park (CA$22 per family or group).

In Kootenay, we had Marble Canyon, a 200-foot gorge with marble walls polished by a roaring river, to ourselves. Seven bridges allowed us to cross the narrow gap as ruby-crowned kinglets sang from the pines.

We found Kootenay’s crowds at Radium Hot Springs (CA$17.50). Surrounded by forested slopes, the large pool lacked the aura of a wilderness hot springs, but with family-friendly shallows and a stinging cold plunge, it was a great diversion.

From Kootenay National Park, the U.S. border lies about 140 miles south on uncrowded roads that follow rivers and lakes, skirting the British Columbia ski town of Kimberley , where we spent our last night at its new boutique hotel the Larix (rooms from CA$155 dollars, including breakfast).

The tiny former lead-, silver- and zinc-mining town is now an outdoorsy destination with three golf courses, a downhill ski area and over 60 miles of bike trails. Restaurants and breweries in the pedestrian center included Hourglass , serving cocktails, charcuterie and cheese plates (from CA$22). “We do pack a lot into this little town,” said Breanna Fast, a co-owner.

Just over an hour from the border, Kimberley made a fitting finale to a trip so packed with sights that I never cracked the novel I brought.

Glusac writes for The New York Times.

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Can You Drive to Juneau Alaska? Travel to Juneau (2024)

H ave you found yourself scratching your head and wondering if you can drive to Juneau, Alaska? If so, you’re not alone. This question has puzzled many travelers planning their Alaskan adventure.

Can you drive to Juneau Alaska? The short answer is no, you can’t drive directly to Juneau from anywhere.

As someone who lived in the huge state of Alaska for seven years, I’ve gathered a wealth of knowledge about its unique geography and transportation quirks.

In this post, we’ll unravel the mystery surrounding the accessibility of Juneau, a city known for its stunning landscapes and rich history.

We’ll tackle the complexities of Alaskan geography and transportation, providing clear, reliable information to dispel any doubts you might have.

Whether you’re planning a trip to the Last Frontier or just satisfying your curiosity, this post is designed to guide you through the confusion.

Can You Drive to Juneau, Alaska?

Despite being the capital city of Alaska, Juneau is unique in that it’s not connected to the rest of the state by a road system.

Nestled at the base of towering mountains and surrounded by the waters of the Gastineau Channel, Juneau is what’s known as a ‘roadless city.’

It is a city that’s as unique as it is beautiful. Nestled in the heart of the Inside Passage of the Alaska Marine Highway, it’s a place where mountains and glaciers serve as the backdrop to everyday life.

But there’s that weird catch – if there isn’t a road that leads directly to Juneau, how do you get there?

Well, it’s all part of the Alaskan adventure! You could drive to Bellingham in Washington State and hop on a ferry for a scenic journey.

Or, if you’re up for an epic road trip, you could traverse part of the iconic Alaskan-Canadian Highway and then catch a ferry from Skagway to Juneau.

Either way, the journey to Juneau is just as memorable as the destination itself!

Is Juneau Only Accessible by Boat?

While boat travel is a popular way to reach Juneau, it’s not the only option. Juneau is primarily accessible by two means: by sea and by air.

BY SEA : The Alaska Marine Highway System operates ferries that connect Juneau with other communities in Southeast Alaska, as well as with Bellingham, Washington. This is a scenic and popular way to reach Juneau, allowing you to bring your vehicle with you.

BY AIR : Juneau International Airport serves as a major hub for air travel in Southeast Alaska. It offers regular flights to and from several Alaskan cities and towns, as well as seasonal flights to Seattle, Washington.

So, while you can’t drive directly to Juneau, you have options when it comes to choosing your mode of transportation. Whether you prefer the leisurely pace of a ferry ride or the speed and convenience of air travel, getting to Juneau is part of the fun!

How Do I Get My Car to Juneau?

If you want to bring your car to Juneau, the most feasible option is to use the Alaska Marine Highway System, which operates a network of ferries that transport people, vehicles, and cargo to various locations in Alaska such as Whittier, Valdez , Homer, Ketchikan, and Haines, to name a few.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Drive to a Ferry Terminal : The southernmost terminal of the Alaska Marine Highway System is in Bellingham, Washington. You can drive your car to this terminal.
• Take the Ferry : Once you reach the terminal, you can load your car onto the ferry. The ferry will then transport you and your car along the scenic Inside Passage to Juneau. The journey takes about 2-3 days, depending on the specific route and schedule.

Remember to book your ferry passage in advance, especially during the busy summer months. Also, note that the cost of ferry travel will depend on the size of your vehicle and the number of passengers.

So, while you can’t drive directly to Juneau, you can certainly bring your car with you and enjoy the freedom of having your vehicle once you’re there!

What to Pack for Your Juneau Adventure

Heading on an adventure to Juneau, Alaska, is an exciting prospect! To ensure you’re well-prepared for your trip, it’s important to pack appropriately. Here’s a practical guide to help you decide what to bring, depending on the season and your planned activities.

Clothing : Regardless of the season, layering is key in Juneau. The weather can change quickly, so it’s best to be prepared.

• A mix of short and long-sleeved tops
• Warm sweater or fleece, and a waterproof jacket
• Knit hat and light gloves
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city
• Gore-Tex hiking boots if you plan to hit the trails.

Outdoor Gear : If you’re planning outdoor activities, consider packing the following items to make your day more comfortable and efficient.

• Binoculars for wildlife viewing
• Reusable water bottle
• Backpack for day trips

Summer Accessories : If the sun is shining, which admittedly, doesn’t always happen, you will want some protection!

• Cap or baseball hat
• Bug spray can also be useful

Winter : Winter in Alaska can be brutally cold. Juneau can be damp as well as it is rainier in this area.

• Warm waterproof mittens
• Fleece-lined hat
• Thermal Layers
• Waterproof winter boots

Essentials : Everyone has those personal needs that one doesn’t want to forget to pack! Make a list and check it twice.

• Travel documents
• Medications
• Any specialty items you might not be able to find easily in Juneau

Remember, packing for Juneau is all about preparing for adventure and being ready to embrace the elements, whatever the weather may bring.

Top Attractions in Juneau Alaska

Here are some of the top attractions that visitors to Juneau, Alaska, should not miss that work well for day trip ideas:

• Mendenhall Glacier : This stunning glacier is located just 12 miles from downtown Juneau and is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities here, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.
• Tracy Arm Fjord : Known for its stunning natural beauty, Tracy Arm Fjord offers breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. Boat tours are a popular way to explore this area.
• Mount Roberts Tramway : This tramway offers a quick and scenic ride to the top of Mount Roberts, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Juneau and the surrounding area.
• Alaska State Museum : This museum offers a comprehensive look at Alaska’s history, culture, and art. It’s a must-visit for those interested in learning more about the state.
• Juneau Whale-Watching Tours : Juneau is a great place to spot humpback whales and killer whales (orcas), especially between April and November. Several tour operators offer whale-watching excursions.
• Alaska State Capitol : A tour of the Alaska State Capitol building provides insight into the state’s political history and processes.
• Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure : This botanical garden offers guided tours through a lush rainforest, with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
• Juneau-Douglas City Museum : This local museum provides a look into the history and culture of the Juneau-Douglas area.
• Macaulay Salmon Hatchery : Here, visitors can learn about Alaska’s important salmon industry and even see thousands of salmon up close.
• Treadwell Mine Historic Trail : This trail offers a glimpse into Juneau’s gold mining history, with interpretive signs and remnants of the old Treadwell Mine along the way.

Looking for some popular tours and activities in Juneau?

• Best Private Whale Watching Tours in Juneau

• Best Juneau Helicopter Tours

• Best Juneau Whale Watching Group Tours

FAQS: Can You Drive to Juneau, Alaska?

Understandably, people have quite a few questions about how to get to the small city of Juneau, Alaska! Here are some common ones and some answers.

Why is Juneau not accessible by car?

Juneau’s unique geographical location is the primary reason it’s not accessible by car. The city is nestled in the Southeast Alaska panhandle, surrounded by water on one side and towering mountains and glaciers on the other. This rugged terrain makes it impossible to build a road that directly connects Juneau to the rest of Alaska or the lower 48 states.

Are there any roads going to Juneau Alaska?

While there are no roads that connect Juneau to the rest of Alaska or the continental United States, the city itself does have a road system. The Juneau road system covers the local area, including the Mendenhall Valley, Auke Bay, and out to Thane and the Kensington Mine. However, these roads end where the city ends.

Are there cars in Juneau Alaska?

Yes, there are cars in Juneau, Alaska. Despite the city’s unique geographical location and lack of connecting roads to other cities, Juneau has a local road system that residents and visitors use for transportation within the city and its surrounding areas.

People use cars for daily commuting, running errands, and exploring the local area.

The local road system covers areas such as Downtown Juneau, the Mendenhall Valley, Auke Bay, Douglas Island, and out to Thane and the Kensington Mine.

Additionally, cars can be brought to Juneau via the Alaska Marine Highway System, which operates ferries that can transport vehicles. There are also car rental services available in Juneau for visitors who need a vehicle during their stay.

Do you need a car when visiting Juneau Alaska?

Whether you need a car when visiting Juneau, Alaska, largely depends on what you plan to do during your visit! If you’re planning to stay mainly in downtown Juneau and visit attractions such as the Alaska State Museum, the State Capitol, or the historic district, you might not need a car.

Downtown Juneau is quite walkable, and many of the main attractions are within a reasonable walking distance of each other.

However, if you want to explore areas outside of downtown, such as the Mendenhall Glacier, having a car can be beneficial. Public transportation in Juneau is limited, and while there are some bus services, they may not align with your schedule or go to all the places you want to visit.

There are also taxi services and tour companies that offer transportation to popular attractions. Some visitors also choose to rent bicycles or scooters to get around.

The Bottom Line: Can You Drive to Juneau Alaska?

So while we’ve determined that you can’t drive to Juneau, Alaska, this unique aspect only adds to the city’s charm and allure!

The journey to Juneau, whether by ferry or plane, is an adventure in itself, offering spectacular scenery in the Alaskan wilderness.

Once there, you’ll find a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, from the bustling downtown to the serene Mendenhall Glacier.

So, don’t let the lack of a road deter you. Embrace the adventure, set sail for the horizon, and discover the unforgettable experience that is Juneau.

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The post Can You Drive to Juneau Alaska? Travel to Juneau (2024) appeared first on This Noshtalgic Life .

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• Royal Caribbean strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport. Learn why a passport is best.
• Passports must be valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends
• Read more about passport requirements.
• U.S. Birth Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID)
• U.S. Birth Certificates must be the original or an official document issued by the government.
• Read more about birth certificate requirements.
• Guests age 15 and under are NOT required to have a photo ID, just the birth certificate.
• Permanent Resident Card (Alien Resident Card "ARC" OR Green Card) AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship
• Guests must bring their physical Permanent Resident Card and it must be original – no photocopies.
• Passports must be valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
• Guests age 16 and older whose ARC has no photo must present a valid government issued photo ID
• Barbados & Martinique require ARC guests to provide a valid passport.
• Any additional requirements are the responsibility of the guest.
• U.S. Naturalization Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID)
• Original U.S. Naturalization Certificate or a certified copy.
• Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is not expired
• Enhanced Driver's Licenses are only available from the following states: Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington State.
• An Enhanced Driver’s License is different from a REAL ID compliant id. An EDL will have a flag on the front.
• U.S. Passport Book
• Visa may be required based on Passport Country of Origin. Learn More

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries.

• Electronic Travel Authorization will be required based on disembarkation port.
• Learn more about visa requirements.

Accepted Identification for Canadian Citizens

• Canadian Passport Book – Required if traveling to the U.S. by air
• Enhanced Driver's Licenses are only available from the following Provinces: British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec.
• Guests age 14 and under may present a passport as noted above OR one of the documents below:
• Original Naturalization Certificate OR Original Valid Canadian Citizenship Card OR Original Birth Certificate Issued by Canada.
• Read more about birth certificate requirements

In order to sail, a guest must meet the requirements below.

• Canadian Passport Book

Accepted Identification for Other Nationalities

• Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries. Please check requirements for your own nationality. Common visas are noted below.

• The United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.
• Please check requirements for your own nationality .
• Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) is required for Chinese Nationals.
• Sailings with a Canadian Port of Call (ex. Alaska sailings) may require a Canadian Visitor’s Visa.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Australian homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Australia. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens

• U.S. Passport Book AND Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• All visitors are required to get an Australian ETA to travel to Australia.
• Read more about passport requirements

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries. Please check requirements for your own nationality.

• New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
• All visitors are required to get a NZeTA to travel to New Zealand.

Accepted Identification for U.K. Citizens

• Passport Book

Accepted Identification for Australian Citizens

• Australian Passport Book
• Australian Driver's License OR Government-issued, laminated photo ID
• Cruise itinerary must call only on Australian ports of call.
• If an itinerary leaves Australia, then guests must use a Passport.
• Guests age 17 and under may present one of the documents below:
• Medicare Card - Can be used as the only identification for children when all guests share the same last name.
• Original (or Certified) Birth Certificate - If the parent's name differs from the child.

* Sailings that originate and end in ports within Australia that do not include a visit to an overseas port outside of Australia. (Note that Queensland cruises that include Willis Island are considered domestic cruises) . If an itinerary leaves Australia, then guests must use a Passport.

• Passport Book AND Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• For Transpacific sailings, the United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Canadian homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Canada. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents

• U.S. Passport Book - If traveling to Canada by air
• U.S. Passport Card - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea
• U.S. Birth Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID) - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea
• Original U.S. State Certified Birth Certificate or a certified copy; or an original Consular Birth Abroad Certificate from the U.S. State Department.
• Permanent Resident Card (Alien Resident Card "ARC" OR Green Card) AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship - If traveling to Canada by air, ground/car or by sea
• Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
• Guests age 16 and older whose ARC has no photo must present a valid government issued photo ID.
• Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is not expired - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea

Accepted Identification for Canadian Citizens & Permanent Residents

• Canadian Permanent Resident Card AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship
• Guests age 14 and under may also present either:
• Canada may require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from European homeports (excluding Southampton, England; Haifa, Israel & Istanbul, Turkey)

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Europe. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter European Union countries.

• Traveling to Europe
• Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
• Sailings that have a European Union Port of Call
• For Transatlantic sailings, the United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Accepted Identification for European Citizens

• Guests are responsible for any requirements a country may have.
• Royal Caribbean strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport. Learn why a passport is best
• EU Government ID
• Cruise itinerary must call only on countries within the Schengen Region .
• EU Government ID must be valid at least 3 months after your cruise ends.
• A Multi-Entry Schengen Visa may be required
• Coming Soon - European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
• Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
• A Schengen Visa may be required
• European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
• Coming Soon - Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Dubai

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Dubai. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.K. Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Central & South American homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Central and South America. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Australian citizens cruising to and from Buenos Aires, Argentina and Valparaiso, Chile require additional documentation.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Singapore

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Singapore. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.S. Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)
• All visitors are required to get an Singapore Arrival Card to travel to Singapore.

Accepted Identification for Singaporean Citizens

• Singaporean Passport Book
• Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)

Travel document requirements for sailings from Japanese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Japan. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for Japanese Citizens

• Japanese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Chinese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from China. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for Chinese Citizens

• Chinese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Istanbul, Turkey

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Istanbul, Turkey. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.S. Passport Book AND Turkish Visa
• All visitors are required to get a Turkish Visa to travel to Turkey.
• Passport Book AND Turkish Visa

Travel document requirements for sailings from Haifa, Israel

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Haifa, Israel. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Seward, Alaska

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Seward. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Canada may require a Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Southampton, England

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Southampton. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter the U.K. and European Union countries.

• Entering the U.K.
• Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an U.K. Travel Authorization (ETA) to travel to the U.K.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Honolulu. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

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