Alaska bear viewing at Katmai Wilderness Lodge is possible throughout the summer. Located in the Katmai National Park’s coastal wilderness, one of Alaska’s richest habitats for brown bears. It attracts naturalists and animal lovers worldwide looking for an authentic Alaskan bear-watching experience. The lodge lets guests safely spend their entire day viewing and photographing these magnificent animals in their natural habitat up close while enjoying the comfortable nature lodge. You’ll fly from Anchorage to Kodiak Island for a brief visit before continuing to Katmai Wilderness Lodge for three nights, then returning to Kodiak and Anchorage.
Note: Starting at the end of July, salmon begin to arrive in the area, increasing bear activity, with August being the best for bear viewing.
Meals in Kodiak, alcoholic beverages, gratuities, and transfers in Anchorage / Kodiak.
Important - Please overnight in Anchorage before this program. Due to weather reasons, please schedule 2 nights in Anchorage after this program! The lodge itself is located on the Katmai Coast, not on Kodiak Island. However you access the lodge via Kodiak City.
The layover time in Kodiak City is needed for potential weather delays and due to flight schedules. We cannot shorten the stay in Kodiak City.
Katmai Wilderness Lodge will be CLOSED for the 2025 and 2026 seasons to undertake essential renovations and upgrades.
Katmai Wilderness Lodge stands on land that has been home to Native Alaskan Peoples for nearly 6,000 years. The lodge's deep commitment to preserving this rich heritage has guided their decision to implement a complete systems rebuild—one that carefully protects the historical significance of the grounds surrounding the lodge. The renovation plans include installing an environmentally sustainable waste management system that will exceed the efficiency of the current infrastructure. Planned are also enhancements to the lodge's amenities while carefully preserving the rustic, welcoming atmosphere that has always made Katmai Wilderness Lodge special. These improvements will ensure we continue providing comfortable accommodations while better protecting the cherished environment.
See below for alternative lodge experiences.
We had a WONDERFUL time! We loved the Kenai Fjord cruise, and the Talkeetna and Kantishna lodges. We enjoyed the bush plane flight. The train ride to Seward was much fun, as was the bus trip into Kantishna. You did a great job of showing off your amazing state to us.
Judy | Wisconsin
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Fly from Anchorage on a scheduled flight, then embark on an excursion aboard a classic seaplane to enjoy a bird's eye view of the Island's scenic coastline and soaring mountain peaks. Kodiak is the second largest Island in... Browse itinerary
