Exclusive Small Group Experience - Reserve Your Spot Today
Ultimate Alaska:
Bears, Mountains, Whales, & Glaciers
Bears, Mountains, Whales, & Glaciers
June 27 - July 3, 2024
ONLY 1 SPOT LEFT
Discover the Heart of Alaska with our Ultimate Wildlife Expedition!
Alaska's Brown Bears
Alaska is home some of the largest and healthiest populations of brown bears on earth. On this trip, we'll have access to a vast array of iconic and reliable destinations. We'll get to know these incredible animals as we travel to brown bear hotspots both by sea and land. We'll get up close and personal with these iconic Alaskan mammals and capture wildlife images to last a lifetime.
Marine Wildlife
This trip will also present countless world-class marine wildlife encounters. We'll be able to capture incredible images of humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, sea lions, puffins, and so much more. As we travel throughout the pristine coastal regions of Alaska both on small and large craft you'll be amazed by the sheer abundance of wildlife found around every peninsula, island, and fjord. Discover the marine wildlife of Alaska like never before.
Live-Aboard
Ship
Ship
Experience the serenity and beauty of Alaskas coasts as we travel on our top-notch live-aboard vessel, the Peregrine. We will be able to access unique locations that are off the beaten path and can get close to prime wildlife hotspots with ease. We will also enjoy luxurious amenities while onboard including meals prepared by a private chef, comfortable cabins, and even a hot tub!
Mountains and Glaciers
In addition to world-class wildlife encounters we will also experience the gargantuan mountains, glaciers, and pristine landscapes of Alaska. We will fly over miles of untracked wilderness, witness glaciers as they slowly tumble into the sea, and capture stunning images of snow-capped jagged peaks rising into the heavens. When it comes to the most photogenic aspects of Alaska, This trip really has it all!
Cozy Alaskan Cabins
Enjoy the comforts and coziness of quaint cabins located just outside of Homer. Perched on top of a bluff, you'll be able to walk right out your front door to see expansive views of Kachemak Bay and the Kenai Mountains. For meals we'll all come together and enjoy delicious food prepared by a private chef. From our cozy cabins we'll be able to take planes or boats across the water to a plethora of wildlife and photography hotspots!
Expert
Guides
Guides
Join us for an unparalleled photography tour, guided by our 5-star rated BCJ Photo Guides. Our team ensures a comprehensive exploration of Alaska's wildlife and landscapes, bringing together professional photographic instruction and deep local knowledge. With their combined insights, you'll not only capture stunning images but also gain a profound understanding of the natural landscapes we traverse.
We connect passionate people to exceptional experiences.
TRIP DETAILS
All-Inclusive Ship and Lodge-Based Photo Safari
TRIP LENGTH: 7 Days/6 Nights
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Dates
June 27 - July 3, 2024
Price
$11,995.00
Deposit
$4,000
Single Supplement
Only available at starting hotel
Otherwise shared cabins
Otherwise shared cabins
Start/End
Homer, Alaska
Arrival Airport: HOM
Departure Airport: HOM
Arrival Airport: HOM
Departure Airport: HOM
*This Special Trip Departure is valid for new trip reservations only (no transfers or trip credit)
Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
HERE’S THE DEAL
We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!We’re so confident that the photography trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.
Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve made on the site – we guarantee it!
THE TRIP
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Experience the Ultimate Alaskan Adventure this summer with Backcountry Journeys!
Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey into the heart of Alaska's pristine wilderness as Backcountry Journeys unveils a special, one-time departure for the summer of 2024.
This hand-crafted expedition offers a diverse itinerary that includes a marine wildlife safari, glacier photography, and an exploration of barren islands in addition to a variety of excursions across Cook Inlet to photograph Alaska’s Brown Bears. Throughout this trip, we will stay both on a remote sleep-aboard vessel (to get close to wildlife action) as well as a beautiful lodge overlooking Kachemak Bay.
This is a special one-time BCJ departure led by Professional Photographer and world-class guide Casey Mannes. This trip will also include a meet & greet at the Land’s End Resort with BCJ founders Russ & Crystal Nordstrand.
Explore the Quaint Town of Homer
Based out of the picturesque town of Homer, Alaska (a quaint and idyllic community that BCJ founders Russ and Crystal Nordstrand call home), this immersive experience promises an unforgettable blend of wildlife encounters, glacier exploration, and breathtaking landscapes. While this trip is primarily designed to provide our guests with incredible Alaskan wildlife encounters – the scenery is nothing short of spectacular.
Homer is situated at the “End of the Road” on the Southern tip of the Kenai Peninsula & is famed for its stunning natural beauty & laid-back vibe. It is literally a hidden gem tucked right in the heart of America's final wilderness frontier & over the years has acquired many affectionate nicknames including: “The Cosmic Hamlet by the Sea”, “The Halibut Capital of the World” & “The End of the Road”
Experience the Wildlife and Scenery of Alaska Like Never Before
We’ve pulled all the stops on this one! The lodge consists of GORGEOUS log-cabin style accommodations & the sleep aboard ship is the perfect base camp for exploring the marine waters of coastal Alaska (it even has a hot tub on the deck!) We’ll have a private chef, exclusive access to fast and comfortable Twin Otter Sea Planes, and a 12-passenger vessel that will act as our marine safari explorer!
We'll embark on a two-night voyage aboard a custom sleep-aboard vessel, immersing ourselves in the tranquility of Alaska's waters while enjoying comfortable accommodations and gourmet meals.
The sleep-aboard section of the trip is followed by three nights at a beautiful Alaskan-style lodge above Homer, offering panoramic views of Kachemak Bay & the Kenai Mountains beyond. Nestled amongst the stunning coastal scenery, this lodge provides the perfect base for exploring the surrounding wilderness.
Throughout the journey, you'll have unparalleled access to some of Alaska's most iconic destinations, including Katmai and Lake Clark National Parks and the Bristol Bay Watershed. With our years of expertise in guiding bear photography trips, we literally have hundreds of locations to choose from – we know where the bears are!
We will also explore Kachemak Bay & Alaska's Barren Islands which stand as a photographer's and birder's paradise. These remote and rugged outcrops, scattered along the state's coastline, boast an otherworldly landscape characterized by volcanic formations, dramatic cliffs, and expansive vistas. What sets the Barren Islands apart is their untouched and pristine wilderness, providing photographers with a rare opportunity to capture raw and unspoiled beauty, while also serving as a haven for a diverse array of seabird species. From the majestic bald eagles soaring overhead to the comical antics of puffins nesting along the cliffs, there are endless photography opportunities here.
Embark on a World-Class Backcountry Journeys Photography Adventure
This unique adventure has been hand-crafted by Backcountry Journeys' expertise honed over almost a decade of leading wilderness tours in Alaska. This once-in-a-lifetime trip will provide the chance to capture stunning images and create lifelong memories.
Backcountry Journeys is committed to providing a safe and enriching experience for all participants, with expert guides ensuring both safety and world-class photography opportunities and education. Whether you're an experienced photographer or simply seeking adventure in the wild, our Ultimate Alaska trip promises an unparalleled journey into the heart of one of the world's most captivating landscapes.
We’d love for you to join us!
This is a signature itinerary and is a special one-time departure that will only run in the summer of 2024. The trip will be led by BCJ guide extraordinaire, Casey Mannes who has spent a majority of his life pursuing a career in wildlife photography and conservation. Casey has worked with brown bears and professionally guided in this part of the world for years and is the perfect person to guide this ultimate adventure.
Due to the limited space available on our ship & in the lodge, we can only take 8 photographers on this journey – and we aren’t able to offer single supplements (shared accommodations only – with the exception of the first night at Land’s End). Bring a friend or your partner otherwise we can pair you with another traveler of the same sex.
Due to this being a “special” departure, we are only offering this to our email Newsletter subscribers & it will not be posted on our website calendar.
Reservations open at 6 am Mountain Time on Thursday, February 15th so make sure you are ready to book when the doors open!
If you have any questions or would like to reserve a spot please contact Lauren Danilek: lauren.danilek@backcountryjourneys.com
Or give us a call at 928-478-1521
We look forward to seeing you in the Alaskan Wilderness this summer!
Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey into the heart of Alaska's pristine wilderness as Backcountry Journeys unveils a special, one-time departure for the summer of 2024.
This hand-crafted expedition offers a diverse itinerary that includes a marine wildlife safari, glacier photography, and an exploration of barren islands in addition to a variety of excursions across Cook Inlet to photograph Alaska’s Brown Bears. Throughout this trip, we will stay both on a remote sleep-aboard vessel (to get close to wildlife action) as well as a beautiful lodge overlooking Kachemak Bay.
This is a special one-time BCJ departure led by Professional Photographer and world-class guide Casey Mannes. This trip will also include a meet & greet at the Land’s End Resort with BCJ founders Russ & Crystal Nordstrand.
Explore the Quaint Town of Homer
Based out of the picturesque town of Homer, Alaska (a quaint and idyllic community that BCJ founders Russ and Crystal Nordstrand call home), this immersive experience promises an unforgettable blend of wildlife encounters, glacier exploration, and breathtaking landscapes. While this trip is primarily designed to provide our guests with incredible Alaskan wildlife encounters – the scenery is nothing short of spectacular.
Homer is situated at the “End of the Road” on the Southern tip of the Kenai Peninsula & is famed for its stunning natural beauty & laid-back vibe. It is literally a hidden gem tucked right in the heart of America's final wilderness frontier & over the years has acquired many affectionate nicknames including: “The Cosmic Hamlet by the Sea”, “The Halibut Capital of the World” & “The End of the Road”
Experience the Wildlife and Scenery of Alaska Like Never Before
We’ve pulled all the stops on this one! The lodge consists of GORGEOUS log-cabin style accommodations & the sleep aboard ship is the perfect base camp for exploring the marine waters of coastal Alaska (it even has a hot tub on the deck!) We’ll have a private chef, exclusive access to fast and comfortable Twin Otter Sea Planes, and a 12-passenger vessel that will act as our marine safari explorer!
We'll embark on a two-night voyage aboard a custom sleep-aboard vessel, immersing ourselves in the tranquility of Alaska's waters while enjoying comfortable accommodations and gourmet meals.
The sleep-aboard section of the trip is followed by three nights at a beautiful Alaskan-style lodge above Homer, offering panoramic views of Kachemak Bay & the Kenai Mountains beyond. Nestled amongst the stunning coastal scenery, this lodge provides the perfect base for exploring the surrounding wilderness.
Throughout the journey, you'll have unparalleled access to some of Alaska's most iconic destinations, including Katmai and Lake Clark National Parks and the Bristol Bay Watershed. With our years of expertise in guiding bear photography trips, we literally have hundreds of locations to choose from – we know where the bears are!
We will also explore Kachemak Bay & Alaska's Barren Islands which stand as a photographer's and birder's paradise. These remote and rugged outcrops, scattered along the state's coastline, boast an otherworldly landscape characterized by volcanic formations, dramatic cliffs, and expansive vistas. What sets the Barren Islands apart is their untouched and pristine wilderness, providing photographers with a rare opportunity to capture raw and unspoiled beauty, while also serving as a haven for a diverse array of seabird species. From the majestic bald eagles soaring overhead to the comical antics of puffins nesting along the cliffs, there are endless photography opportunities here.
Embark on a World-Class Backcountry Journeys Photography Adventure
This unique adventure has been hand-crafted by Backcountry Journeys' expertise honed over almost a decade of leading wilderness tours in Alaska. This once-in-a-lifetime trip will provide the chance to capture stunning images and create lifelong memories.
Backcountry Journeys is committed to providing a safe and enriching experience for all participants, with expert guides ensuring both safety and world-class photography opportunities and education. Whether you're an experienced photographer or simply seeking adventure in the wild, our Ultimate Alaska trip promises an unparalleled journey into the heart of one of the world's most captivating landscapes.
We’d love for you to join us!
This is a signature itinerary and is a special one-time departure that will only run in the summer of 2024. The trip will be led by BCJ guide extraordinaire, Casey Mannes who has spent a majority of his life pursuing a career in wildlife photography and conservation. Casey has worked with brown bears and professionally guided in this part of the world for years and is the perfect person to guide this ultimate adventure.
Due to the limited space available on our ship & in the lodge, we can only take 8 photographers on this journey – and we aren’t able to offer single supplements (shared accommodations only – with the exception of the first night at Land’s End). Bring a friend or your partner otherwise we can pair you with another traveler of the same sex.
Due to this being a “special” departure, we are only offering this to our email Newsletter subscribers & it will not be posted on our website calendar.
Reservations open at 6 am Mountain Time on Thursday, February 15th so make sure you are ready to book when the doors open!
If you have any questions or would like to reserve a spot please contact Lauren Danilek: lauren.danilek@backcountryjourneys.com
Or give us a call at 928-478-1521
We look forward to seeing you in the Alaskan Wilderness this summer!
What's Included
- All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop
- All transportation during the workshop
- All lodging during the workshop
- All permits, park, and admission fees
- Internal flights and boat rides
- Professional photography guiding and instruction
- Exceptional local guides
- Gratuity for service staff
What's Not Included
- Flights to and from Homer, Alaska
- Meals not listed as included on the itinerary
- Lodging outside workshop dates
- Alcoholic beverages
- Souvenirs and personal items
- Gratuity for photography guide
- Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance - see plans here.
Your 3 Unique Advantages
UNPARALLELED PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS
THE BEST TEAM IN THE BUSINESS
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY COMMUNITY
ITINERARY
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(B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
*Some days will involve short walks from 1-2 miles Roundtrip*
DAY 1 (D) - Arrival in Homer
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Your adventure begins in Homer at the “End of the Road” staying at the picturesque Land’s End Resort.
You can arrive in Homer at any time before our orientation at 7 pm.
We’ll do a trip orientation at the scenic Land’s End Resort & go out for an evening shoot as the midnight sun settles over the Kenai Mountains.
You can arrive in Homer at any time before our orientation at 7 pm.
We’ll do a trip orientation at the scenic Land’s End Resort & go out for an evening shoot as the midnight sun settles over the Kenai Mountains.
DAY 2 (B/L,D) - Landscapes, Transfer to Ship
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We will meet bright & early this morning to photograph stunning mountain landscapes. Then we’ll pack up & get ready to head out to our awaiting vessel!
After a delicious breakfast overlooking the emerald waters of Kachemak Bay, we will pack up our gear and travel to the airport to prepare for our flight across the bay to our sleep-aboard ship, the Peregrine.
Upon arrival, we will be greeted by the ship’s staff and transferred to our cabins. We will settle in and then return for a safety and orientation meeting with Hor d’Oeuvres.
This afternoon it’s all about whales, sea lions, otters, bald eagles & thousands of sea birds! We’ll head out on an exploration of the icy fjords of the remote Kachemak Bay. Note that we will be in a very remote area that is purposefully FAR from where other operators go – this allows for a more tranquil wilderness experience & also far superior wildlife encounters.
After the day's shoot, we'll share a gourmet dinner, and discuss the plan for tomorrow. We'll go over our options for locations, departure method, and what gear to bring.
After a delicious breakfast overlooking the emerald waters of Kachemak Bay, we will pack up our gear and travel to the airport to prepare for our flight across the bay to our sleep-aboard ship, the Peregrine.
Upon arrival, we will be greeted by the ship’s staff and transferred to our cabins. We will settle in and then return for a safety and orientation meeting with Hor d’Oeuvres.
This afternoon it’s all about whales, sea lions, otters, bald eagles & thousands of sea birds! We’ll head out on an exploration of the icy fjords of the remote Kachemak Bay. Note that we will be in a very remote area that is purposefully FAR from where other operators go – this allows for a more tranquil wilderness experience & also far superior wildlife encounters.
After the day's shoot, we'll share a gourmet dinner, and discuss the plan for tomorrow. We'll go over our options for locations, departure method, and what gear to bring.
DAY 3 (B,L,D) - The Barren Islands
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We will enjoy a hearty breakfast on the ship and then depart on a voyage to the remote Barren Islands situated between Homer & Kodiak.
The Barren Islands teem with life, offering photographers the chance to capture intimate moments with some of Alaska's most iconic wildlife species. Additionally, the islands serve as crucial breeding grounds for a multitude of seabirds, including guillemots, murres, and kittiwakes, making them an essential destination for anyone seeking to capture the essence of Alaska's untamed wilderness and vibrant avian ecosystems.
The Barren Islands teem with life, offering photographers the chance to capture intimate moments with some of Alaska's most iconic wildlife species. Additionally, the islands serve as crucial breeding grounds for a multitude of seabirds, including guillemots, murres, and kittiwakes, making them an essential destination for anyone seeking to capture the essence of Alaska's untamed wilderness and vibrant avian ecosystems.
DAY 4-6 (B,L,D) - Transfer to Lodge, Brown Bear Photography
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The next few days will be spent at our beautiful wilderness lodge overlooking Kachemak Bay in Homer. Each day will consist of heading out in our privately chartered seaplanes to access Katmai or Lake Clark National Parks, the Bristol Bay Watershed, or any location where bears are currently active.
We will photograph brown bears non-stop and seek out the best possible photography scenarios, with considerations for light, background, behavior, and location.
Every evening we’ll head back to the lodge to sit down for a multi-course meal and discuss the plan for the following day.
We will photograph brown bears non-stop and seek out the best possible photography scenarios, with considerations for light, background, behavior, and location.
Every evening we’ll head back to the lodge to sit down for a multi-course meal and discuss the plan for the following day.
DAY 7 (B) - Morning Session, Flights Home
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On our final day, we will venture out one more time for a morning session to photograph the Kenai Mountains & hopefully a few moose!
Flights home can be booked anytime this morning out of Homer.
Flights home can be booked anytime this morning out of Homer.
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SEE WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY
Meet The #1 Trusted Leader in Small-Group Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris
"Saw lots of big cats - lions, leopards, and cheetahs - and so much more! It was a combination of adventure and luxury with an amazing number and variety of wild animals, beautiful landscapes, and a fabulous “tent” camp, where we were treated like royalty. I loved every minute. This was my second trip with BCJ and I will be back. Well-organized, great group of people, both photographers and staff."
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Christine R.
Big Cats of Africa
"The trip was amazing. There is alot of attention to detail ahead of time to ensure the trip runs smoothly. The accommodations were wonderful. Our guide, Casey, was exceptional. It was a small group and I was a solo traveler. I felt very included. I was probably the person with the least photography experience but never felt left behind. I learned so much!"
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Laurie L.
Glacier National Park
"It's hard to begin to say how great this trip was! This was my first trip with Backcountry Journeys and quite an amazing experience from when I first signed up until the last moment of the trip and after. Kelley from the support team was great in answering all my questions and ensuring that I was prepared for the trip.
Once the trip began, it was just one great experience after another. From the first meeting where our guides Grant and Alex took us through the upcoming weeks plans, to the final breakfast, it was like traveling with a group of friends. We were guided to the best light and locations as well as some little known places that Grant had researched a few weeks prior. It was nice to get some unique shots a little off the beaten path.
To sum it up, one of my best travel experiences ever! So much so, that I have already signed up for 2 more trips."
Once the trip began, it was just one great experience after another. From the first meeting where our guides Grant and Alex took us through the upcoming weeks plans, to the final breakfast, it was like traveling with a group of friends. We were guided to the best light and locations as well as some little known places that Grant had researched a few weeks prior. It was nice to get some unique shots a little off the beaten path.
To sum it up, one of my best travel experiences ever! So much so, that I have already signed up for 2 more trips."
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James W.
Canyons of Utah: Zion & Bryce
"This trip was simply amazing! Well planned, well organized, fabulous/diverse photographing opportunities and a truly professional and experienced leader. I'd travel with BCJ again in a heartbeat.
This was a week-long trip around the Kenai Peninsula that included an all-day fjord boat trip (orcas, humpbacks, seals, birds and a calving glacier), a flight to spend a morning with bears on the beach, a second boat trip to Seldovia (rafts of otters, puffins and...more), and lots of landscape photography. I can't imaging a better week of shooting.
The small group (BCJ is noted for them) bonded quickly and were open to sharing experiences and tips. The guide, Liz Carmel, helped everyone learn something, no matter their prior level of experience. (She was awesome!)"
This was a week-long trip around the Kenai Peninsula that included an all-day fjord boat trip (orcas, humpbacks, seals, birds and a calving glacier), a flight to spend a morning with bears on the beach, a second boat trip to Seldovia (rafts of otters, puffins and...more), and lots of landscape photography. I can't imaging a better week of shooting.
The small group (BCJ is noted for them) bonded quickly and were open to sharing experiences and tips. The guide, Liz Carmel, helped everyone learn something, no matter their prior level of experience. (She was awesome!)"
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Steve D.
Alaska's Kenai Peninsula
"My trip with Backcountry Journeys to the Grand Tetons was spectacular. Every aspect of the trip was researched and executed flawlessly. The lodging was great as were the restaurants we ate at throughout the trip but the best part of the trip was the guide for the trip, Casey Mannes. He was well prepared and treated us as friends rather than guests on a trip. I would highly recommend this trip, company, and guide."
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David S.
Grand Teton National Park
"Recently completed my 5th trip with Backcountry Journeys, this time to Iceland - the Land of Fire and Ice. This was an awesome trip that took in the entirety of this beautiful country, from active volcanos to the northern lights to glacier fed rivers, streams and beaches. As usual with my previous trips with BCJ, this trip was well planned and we stayed at great lodges and had superb meals."
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Tony E.
The Best of Iceland
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Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
HERE’S THE DEAL
We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!We’re so confident that the Photography Trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.
Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve made on the site – we guarantee it!
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