03.11. – 14.11.26
Tour 1
11 days
Duration
Whitehorse
from / to
3–6
Group size

Bald Eagle Photography Tour

Yukon and Alaska

Experience the unforgettable Bald Eagle photography tour through the Yukon and Alaska. Join us as we travel along the majestic St. Elias Mountains to the Chilkat River in Haines, Alaska.

From late October into November, thousands of eagles gather to feast on spawning salmon. This unique natural spectacle amidst spectacular landscapes, combined with the vibrant Northern Lights, is breathtaking and magical.

Your guides, renowned photographer Beat Glanzmann and his business partner Eva Riedwyl, will lead you through this fascinating wilderness. With over 30 years of experience in eagle photography and extensive local knowledge, they offer unparalleled insights and photographic opportunities.

Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, you will benefit from Beat Glanzmann’s detailed instructions and return home with hundreds of impressive images.

Enjoy daily small-group photo workshops and immerse yourself in nature firsthand.

Requirements

The tour does not require a high level of fitness. However, you should be in good physical condition and be able to hike, at a leisurely pace on a good paths about an hour.

  • Observing and photographing bald eagles, the world’s largest collection with up to 3500 animals.
  • Expansion of photographic knowledge in photography workshops with the the topics flight and action shots of eagles, stars and winter landscapes
  • Magical northern light experiences in the quiet of the wilderness
  • Romantic log cabins with crackling wood-burning fire and sauna under an open, starry sky
  • Observing wildlife
  • Photographing black ice and ice formations on short winter hikes across frozen lakes and along snow-covered landscapes
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 concludes 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.

Additional Information

All routes and times listed in the itinerary may vary depending on weather conditions.

Accommodations

Enjoy rustic cabin charm at Glanzmann Tours Lodge, nestled in the tranquil wilderness of Kluane National Park. Cabins feature wood heating, LED lanterns, and candlelight for a cozy atmosphere. Amenities include cooking facilities, water canisters, and a nearby outhouse. Couples will have private cabins, while two to three solo travelers may share.
A sauna with a shower is available for relaxation. Camera batteries and devices can be recharged during the day using solar power at the lodge.

Meals

During your stay at Glanzmann Tours Lodge, breakfast and dinner are included. Meals are communal, with a buffet-style breakfast and dinner prepared for you, followed by group cleanup. Meals during hotel stays in Whitehorse and Haines are not included.

Included Services

  • 6 nights in double rooms (1 in Whitehorse, 5 in Haines)
  • 5 nights in cabins
  • All program-related transportation
  • Bilingual guided tours and activities
  • Photography guidance and workshops by professional photographer Beat Glanzmann
  • Half-board (breakfast and dinner) at Glanzmann Tours Lodge
  • Sauna access

Not Included

  • Flights to/from Whitehorse
  • Meals during hotel stays (Whitehorse and Haines)
  • Single room supplement (USD 720 for 6 nights / USD 120 per night)
  • Snacks, drinks, and alcohol
  • Airport-hotel transfers
  • Gratuities
  • Personal expenses
  • Optional activities
  • Travel insurance
  • eTA (Canada entry) CAD 14.00
  • ESTA (USA entry) $21 + Alaska border crossing fee $10

Additional Information

All routes and times listed in the itinerary may vary depending on weather conditions.

Accommodations

Enjoy rustic cabin charm at Glanzmann Tours Lodge, nestled in the tranquil wilderness of Kluane National Park. Cabins feature wood heating, LED lanterns, and candlelight for a cozy atmosphere. Amenities include cooking facilities, water canisters, and a nearby outhouse. Couples will have private cabins, while two to three solo travelers may share.
A sauna with a shower is available for relaxation. Camera batteries and devices can be recharged during the day using solar power at the lodge.

Meals

During your stay at Glanzmann Tours Lodge, breakfast and dinner are included. Meals are communal, with a buffet-style breakfast and dinner prepared for you, followed by group cleanup. Meals during hotel stays in Whitehorse and Haines are not included.

Clothing and personal material

  • Luggage
  • Casual trousers
  • Warm trousers
  • T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, pullovers
  • Underwear
  • Warm winter socks
  • 2-3 pairs of gloves (2 pairs of thin gloves and 1 pair of warm mittens)
  • 1 pair of winter boots (best with removable inner shoe, can be rented with prior notification)
  • 1 pair of warm house shoes or bivouac boots (for cabins)
  • Goretex jacket (this should be wide enough for you to put on enough layers underneath)
  • Goretex trousers (under which you can put on long thermal underwear and/or fleece trousers)
  • Warm jacket or sweater and enough warm clothing
  • Down jacket (very comfortable to photograph)
  • 1 set thermal underwear
  • Warm hat with ear protection
  • Neck warmer “Buff”
  • 2 towels for the sauna
  • Toiletries
  • Wet wipes (optional)
  • Earplugs
  • Eyeglasses and replacement eyeglasses for those who need them (we recommend contact lenses additionally because of condensation/icing hazard of the lenses)
  • Headlamp (including spare batteries)
  • Thermos (min. 750 ml)
  • Pocket knife (carry it with you in your checked baggage for the flights!)
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Wristwatch or mobile phone with alarm function (or travel alarm clock)
  • Rucksack (about 20 liters for spare clothes and snacks on the way; lunches can be bought locally)
  • Rain cover for the rucksack or waterproof bag in the rucksack to protect documents, photo equipment etc. from moisture
  • Personal medication (carry in hand luggage for flights)
  • Headphones for the flight (can be bought in the plane)

For December to April trips you need to bring

  • Sunglasses and Ski goggles
  • Sunscreen
  • Balaclava with face protection

What can be rented additionally

  • Baffin or Sorel winter boots (guaranteed warm during cold days) CA$ 40.00 per week (please reserve in advance)
  • Towel for sauna CAD 5.00 (washing fee)

Documents

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond the return date)
  • Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for entry into Canada. NEW, this type of pre-authorization is mandatory to fly into Canada (arrivals by ship or land do not need eTA). This affects nationalities that do not normally require a tourist visa for Canada. So, for Swiss and EU citizens also. The permit must be obtained online before entry and costs CAD 14.00.
  • ESTA permit for entry into the USA (14 US$). Please also note the current entry regulations of the USA, as this trip leads by land to Alaska/USA. To cross the border, you need 10 US$ in cash.
  • Address of your accident, rescue and health insurance, as well as travel cancellation and liability insurance
  • Airline tickets
  • Credit card
  • Vaccination certificate or copy
  • Cash in CAD and US$

(recommended) Camera equipment

  • Camera
  • Memory cards
  • Lenses
  • Power-adapter for 110 volt (adapter north America)
  • Batteries, rechargeable batteries, charger
  • Cable release / remote release
  • Tripod
  • Various filters (if available)
  • Camera/lens bags
  • Camera weather protection

We strongly recommend several batteries/battery packs. It is possible to recharge the batteries at the Glanzmann Tours base during the days only.

Photographic equipment tips and details PDF

Photographic Highlights You Can Expect

Eagle Photography
  • Eagles in flight, some carrying salmon in their talons
  • Aerial and feeding battles captured in high-speed shots
  • Eagles resting on trees and sandbanks
  • Portraits and close-ups
  • Eagles feeding on salmon in the Chilkat River Delta
  • Acrobatics against majestic mountain backdrops
Landscape Photography
  • Unique mountain, ice, and lake landscapes in the pristine Kluane National Park
  • Northern lights without light pollution
Astrophotography
  • Crystal-clear skies for star and Milky Way photography
  • Star time-lapse sequences

Impressions of Bald eagle Photography Tour

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