9 Essential Things To Know Before Visiting Alaska In 2023

If you’re planning on visiting Alaska, then you’re going to need to pre-arm yourself with some essential knowledge before you go.

Alaska is an incredible destination that’s world-renowned for its blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural diversity. From its towering mountains and jaw-dropping glaciers to its diverse wildlife, Alaska has something to offer every type of traveler.

However, one of the main draws of Alaska is to experience its vast wilderness. Many people don’t realize that Alaska is quite difficult to travel to by land, which is why we’ve prepared this guide on the things to know before visiting Alaska, so you can travel to this majestic land without a hitch.

So when you’re ready to explore icy fjords, dense forests, and unpack your binoculars to look out for grizzly bears, bald eagles, and humpback whales, keep reading to uncover the most essential tips for a trip to Alaska.

Tips for Visiting Alaska in 2023

From awe-inspiring glaciers to vibrant native cultures, these essential tips will help you prepare for an unforgettable vacation to Alaska.

1. Understand The Vast Size and Wilderness Of Alaska

Did you know that Alaska is the largest state in the United States?

It spans around 663,000 square miles (1.7 million square kilometers) and includes a vast untamed wilderness of rugged mountains, glaciers, and vast stretches of uninhabited land.

Alaska is just so remote, and while it offers a diverse range of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural experiences, many of its towns and natural wonders are only accessible by boat or float plane.

This makes planning a trip to Alaska quite a challenge, as transport to some places are not easy to come by, or just difficult to access.

Choosing a cruise to visit Alaska is a fantastic idea as it allows you the chance to visit some remote and historic places quickly without the hassle.

There’s a huge amount to see, so do your research before you book anything in a hurry, and decide which places are top of your Alaska bucket list – you can’t see it all!

If you do decide to do the cruise option, note that various cruise ship operators sail in Alaska, and most will have different routes and stop-off ports.

Plan upfront where you want to go, and which are the most important places you want to see, and then map out your itinerary from there.

2. Know The Best Time to Visit Alaska

The best months to visit Alaska largely depend on the specific experiences you’re looking…