Day 1: Individual Arrival
Arrive individually in Whitehorse, Yukon/Canada. Transfer to your reserved hotel in Whitehorse via shuttle bus or taxi.
Day 2: Journey to Glanzmann Tours Lodge
In the morning, you will be welcomed at your hotel reception. After a short stop at the supermarket for personal supplies, we begin our journey to Glanzmann Tours Lodge. The route follows the spectacular Alaska Highway and the Takhini River, where we often encounter wildlife such as moose, elk, and foxes. After approximately three hours, we arrive at Glanzmann Tours Lodge near Kluane National Park. Here, there will be time to explore the surroundings and share a warm meal together. In the evening, we will prepare for captivating northern lights photography, right outside your cabin amidst a stunning mountain and forest landscape.
Day 3: Dezadeash Lake
Today we visit the nearby Dezadeash Lake, renowned in winter for its spectacular sastrugi—wind-sculpted snowdrifts resembling waves or dunes. These natural artworks offer extraordinary photographic opportunities. At sunrise, a breathtaking mountain panorama awaits us over the frozen lake. The crisp winter air and soft light provide ideal conditions for stunning landscape photography.
Day 4: Kathleen Lake and Burnt Forest
The day begins with a visit to a burnt forest area, where the charred tree trunks set against the backdrop of the Kluane Mountains create unique photographic compositions. Later, we explore the idyllic Kathleen Lake, the most famous lake in Kluane National Park. Along its shores, we’ll find fascinating ice structures, air bubbles trapped in ice, and ice floes, offering excellent foregrounds for creative shots. In the evening, we’ll hold an image-editing workshop and enjoy a relaxing sauna. If the skies are clear, there will be opportunities for northern lights and astrophotography.
Day 5: Day Trip to Kluane Lake
We start early, heading north along the border of Kluane National Park to the majestic Kluane Lake. Winter’s icy waves and formations along the shore provide unforgettable photographic subjects that will immerse any photographer in a state of flow. Afterward, we’ll relax in the sauna and enjoy optional northern lights photography.
Day 6: Journey to Haines – Eagles Await
After breakfast, we depart from Glanzmann Tours Lodge to Haines, Alaska. The route takes us across the Haines Pass, one of the most scenic roads in the North, offering stunning views of the glaciated peaks of the St. Elias Mountain Range. Upon arrival in the “Valley of the Eagles,” we’ll witness the unique natural spectacle of bald eagles. Up to 20 eagles perch on a single tree, while hundreds soar over the river delta, diving for fish and engaging in dramatic aerial battles. In the evening, we settle into a comfortable hotel in Haines, a charming fishing village by the sea, and enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant.
Days 7–10: Eagle Photography in the Chilkat Valley
The next five days are dedicated entirely to the majestic bald eagles. After breakfast at a nearby café-bakery, we’ll spend the entire day immersed in photography. To capture the best light on the glaciated mountains and the peak activity of the eagles, we’ll leave for the sanctuary in the early morning darkness. Your guide will ensure you’re positioned at optimal locations based on weather and light conditions. You can choose to photograph as part of the group or individually explore nearby areas for subjects. Your guides will also assist in transporting your camera equipment to the best spots. After sunset, you’ll have time to relax at the hotel, explore the village, the harbor, or the local brewery located near the hotel before dinner. Evening photography workshops will take place in the hotel, offering tips to enhance your skills and creativity regardless of your experience level. During these sessions, you can share your best shots of the day for review and feedback in a relaxed atmosphere. Professional photographer Beat Glanzmann will provide insights on techniques for action and portrait photography of eagles, as well as topics like exposure, composition, experimental long exposures, and post-processing planning. We will also visit the adjacent Chilkat River Valley, a scenic drive along the fjord to the mystical Chilkoot Lake. This area features contrasting landscapes, including coastal forests, mossy meadows, and sprawling fern fields, where we may spot eagles and, with some luck, large coastal brown bears (grizzlies).
Day 11: Eagles and Return to Glanzmann Tours Lodge
After a final morning photographing bald eagles along the Chilkat River, we begin our return journey to Glanzmann Tours Lodge in the early afternoon. The scenic route takes us back through breathtaking mountain passes. Once at the lodge, we’ll conclude this unforgettable photography tour with a group dinner, a final sauna session, and an overnight stay in cozy cabins.
Day 12: Return to Whitehorse
After breakfast, we embark on the drive back to Whitehorse via the Alaska Highway, with more chances to spot wildlife. The tour ends in Whitehorse around midday. Individual return or onward travel begins from here. Additional hotel accommodations in Whitehorse can be arranged upon request. Important: Plan your return flight no earlier than 1:00 PM.
All routes and times listed in the itinerary may vary depending on weather and road conditions.
