Yukon Winter Magic – 12 days

Day 1:

Arrival
Individual arrival in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada, the day before the tour begins. Overnight stay at a hotel in Whitehorse. Welcome to the Far North!

Day 2:

Welcome and Transfer to the Glanzmann Tours Lodge
After your individual arrival, we will meet you at 10:00 AM at your hotel reception. Following a short city tour of Whitehorse, we’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on snacks and beverages for the coming days. We then embark on a three-hour drive to the Glanzmann Tours Lodge, located on the edge of Kluane National Park.

Traveling along the Alaska Highway and the Takhini River, you’ll have the chance to spot wildlife such as elk, moose, foxes, or spruce grouse. The snow-covered mountains and pristine lake landscapes provide stunning opportunities for landscape photography.

Upon arrival at the lodge, you will experience the tranquility of the wilderness. The cozy, hand-crafted log cabins sit on an 8-hectare forest property with unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, we will enjoy dinner together and discuss the next day’s itinerary.

Northern Lights Photography
From the comfort of your log cabin, you can gaze at the starry sky – free of light pollution and illuminated by a spectacular display of the Northern Lights. Bundled up in warm clothing, with your camera ready, you can capture the beauty of this natural wonder. Guided by a professional photographer, you’ll learn tips to create unforgettable images.

Day 3:

Arrival in the Wilderness – Kluane Lake and Wildlife Observation
Early in the morning, we set out for Kluane Lake, one of the Yukon’s largest lakes, stretching 81 kilometers in length. During the drive, you’ll experience the vast expanse of the winter landscape, and with some luck, encounter Dall sheep, moose, or foxes in the snowy valleys or along the roadsides.

At Kluane Lake, countless photography opportunities await: ice waves, crystal-clear textures, and untouched wilderness create a magical atmosphere. Lose yourself in the stillness of the Yukon while capturing the beauty of this unique location through your lens. Guided by a professional photographer, you’ll hone your skills to preserve these unforgettable moments.

Day 4:

Black Ice at Kathleen Lake
Today we visit the famous Kathleen Lake, nestled in the majestic mountains of Kluane National Park. At this time of year, the lake is covered by a thick layer of ice, but the cold creates fascinating structures: crystal-clear black ice, air bubbles, and delicate cracks that resemble works of art.

The low winter sun bathes the lake and surrounding mountains in warm hues – an unforgettable experience for all the senses. Spend the afternoon soaking in the silence and beauty of this place. In the evening, optional Northern Lights photography is available back at the lodge.

Day 5:

Miraculous Ice Structures at Kathleen River
The Kathleen River is one of the few rivers in the region that does not completely freeze over during winter. This creates unique ice formations along its banks, resembling delicate sculptures. The flowing water, surrounded by glistening snow and ice, creates a serene, almost mystical atmosphere.

This day offers the chance to experiment with macro and landscape photography, capturing the intricate details of this special place. The clear air and remoteness make it a truly immersive experience in nature.

Day 6:

Relaxation and Unwinding
A day to enjoy the surroundings of the Glanzmann Lodge. Take a peaceful walk through the snowy winter landscape, discovering the pristine beauty of glittering snow crystals, frosted trees, and the play of light and shadow on the snow.

This day is dedicated to relaxation and absorbing the tranquility of the Yukon – a rare gift in today’s busy world. In the afternoon, a photo editing workshop provides an opportunity to review and refine your best shots.

Day 7:

Snow Formations at Dezadeash Lake
Today’s journey takes us to Dezadeash Lake, renowned for its spectacular sastrugi – wind-sculpted snowdrifts resembling waves or dunes. These natural formations are stunning and provide exceptional photography subjects.

The crisp winter air and gentle light create ideal conditions for capturing the beauty of this unique landscape.

Day 8:

Day Trip to Haines – Winter Wilderness and Wildlife Observation
We take a day trip to Haines, Alaska, known for its pristine wilderness and fascinating wildlife. The drive takes us along the spectacular Haines Pass, one of the North’s most beautiful and remote roads. Surrounded by rugged, snow-covered mountains, you’ll witness a winter landscape that captivates every photographer.

Along the pass, we may spot wildlife such as mountain goats, Dall sheep, or bald eagles in their natural habitat. With luck, you’ll have the chance to photograph these majestic creatures – a rewarding experience for those with patience and good timing.

In Haines, you’ll encounter the rugged beauty of the coast: quiet bays, shimmering ice, and the soft winter light create the perfect backdrop for landscape photography. This excursion will leave you with unforgettable impressions and images.

Day 9:

Winter Landscapes and Photographic Depth
Today we revisit nearby lakes and rivers to capture the special light and unique atmosphere of the Yukon winter. The afternoon is ideal for long exposures and creative techniques such as focus stacking, highlighting the dynamic beauty of the natural landscape.

Day 10:

Tranquility and Starry Skies
Spend another day savoring the wonders of nature in peaceful solitude. Explore the area around the lodge on foot, absorbing the unmatched stillness of the snowy wilderness.

After nightfall, weather permitting, there is the opportunity to photograph the starry sky. The Yukon is one of the few places on Earth where the Milky Way can be seen in such stunning clarity. In the midst of this vast and quiet landscape, the Northern Lights may once again grace the night sky.

Day 11:

Dezadeash Lake and Kathleen Lake
On this day, we revisit Dezadeash Lake to admire the snow formations one last time before returning to Kathleen Lake. Capture your final impressions and seek out any last special photo opportunities.

The journey concludes under the Yukon’s clear skies, leaving you with lasting memories of its unparalleled tranquility.

Day 12:

Departure
After breakfast, we return to Whitehorse, where the photography tour ends. Individual departure (please book flights departing after 1:00 PM).

Additional Information

The daily schedule and activities may vary depending on weather conditions.

Rest days will be incorporated into the itinerary, allowing time for relaxation amidst the serene Yukon wilderness.

Accommodation
Enjoy the charm of log cabins at the Glanzmann Tours base near Kluane National Park. Each cozy, handcrafted cabin features a wood stove, LED lanterns, candles, and a rustic, comfortable atmosphere. Shared saunas and outdoor toilet facilities are available. Power for charging equipment is provided via solar energy during the day.

General tasks will be carried out as a part of a team effort.

Meals
Breakfast and dinner are included. Meals are prepared in the main lodge.

Included services

• All transportation as per the program (starting and ending in Whitehorse)
• Professional photo guidance and editing workshops by Beat Glanzmann
• 11 nights in shared log cabins (double occupancy)
• Breakfast and dinner (except one dinner in Haines, Alaska)
• Access to saunas

Services not included in the tour price

• Flights to/from Whitehorse
• Hotel stays in Whitehorse before/after the tour
• One dinner in Haines (Alaska)
• Snacks, drinks, and alcohol
• Personal expenses and optional activities
• Insurance (travel, health, or evacuation)
• eTA and ESTA permits for Canada and the USA

Additional Information

All routes and time schedules described in the tour program are subject to change depending on weather conditions.

Clothing and personal material

• 2-3 pairs of gloves (2x thin finger gloves and warm mittens)
• 1 pair of winter shoes (preferably with removable inner shoe)
• 1 pair of warm slippers or bivouac shoes (for accommodation in cabins)
• 2 pair of very warm winter socks
• Wind and rain proof warm winter jacket and trousers
• Warm sweaters and enough warm clothing
• Thin down jacket (optional)
• Long thermal underwear
• Warm cap with ear protection
• Cold face mask / balaclava
• Buff or scarf
• Heat pads
• Toiletries
• 1 towel
• Ear plugs
• Glasses and spare glasses (we do recommend contact lenses due to the risk of condensation/icing of glasses
• Sunglasses and ski goggles
• Sunscreen
• Headlamp (including spare batteries)
• Thermos bottle (min. 750ml)
• Binocular (optional)
• Small daypack to carry lunch, camera and some extra clothing
• Personal medication (take for flights in hand luggage)
• Watch or cell phone with alarm function, or travel alarm clock
• Lunch/Snacks can be bought on site

What can be rented additionally

• Baffin or Sorel winter boots (guaranteed warm during cold days) CA$ 60.00 per week (please reserve in advance)

Documents

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months after the date of return)
• Electronic travel authorization (eta) for Canada. An electronic authorization (eta) is mandatory to fly into Canada. This affects nationalities that do not normally need a tourist visa for Canada. This includes EU and Swiss citizens. Permission must be obtained online before entry. It costs about 7 CA$.
• Please also note the current entry regulations of the USA. For the border crossing you need 10 US$, this fee can be paid by credit card. And if you are not Canadian or American citizen you must apply for ESTA online. This coast approx. 21 US$. Please note that you apply via the official website (.gov), other applications are more expensive.
• Address of your accident, rescue and health insurance, as well as travel cancellation and liability insurance
• Flight tickets
• Credit card
• Vaccination certificate or copy
• Cash approx. 100 CA$

(recommended) Camera equipment

• Power-adapter for 110 volt (adapter north America)
• Camera, cards
• Lenses (we also highly recommend a good wide angle lens for the aurora – and ice shots. In the range of 14 – 35mm, 1.4 – 2.4)
• Batteries, rechargeable batteries, charger
• remote release optional
• Tripod
• Various filters (if available)
• Camera rain cover

We strongly recommend several batteries/battery packs. It is possible to recharge the batteries every other day at the Glanzmann tours base at the solar power supply.