Find the Best Bear Viewing Tours in Homer, Alaska
Vacations are a common time to step outside of your comfort zone and try something completely new! What unique experience will you have during your next trip to Alaska? Our state’s flora and fauna lend itself to incredible wildlife viewing opportunities that you simply can’t find anywhere else. One of the most exciting adventures you can have during your trip to The Last Frontier is Homer, Alaska, bear tours. These experiences are the opportunity of a lifetime to watch bears in their natural habitat!
Learn more about Driftwood Inn’s Bear Viewing Tour below. Our Alaska bear adventure is your key to an unforgettable getaway!
Driftwood Inn Offers the Most Exciting Homer, Alaska, Bear Tours
Driftwood Inn’s Bear Viewing Tour
Driftwood Inn’s bear viewing tour is available from mid-May to late September. This guided five-hour-long adventure begins with a one-hour flight over the Kachemak Bay from Homer to either Katmai National Park or Lake Clark National Park. We use commercial-rated aircraft and pilots for your maximum safety and comfort. Enjoy views of the pristine blue water over the bay and lush greenery en-route to your final destination.
When you arrive at the viewing location, either Katmai or Lake Clark National Park, your Alaskan Naturalist Guide will take you around the national park’s brown bear viewing hot spots. Follow your guide as he or she alerts you to nearby bears in their natural habitat. Your guide is experienced in respecting the bears and will brief you on all safety precautions before and during your trip. Out of respect for our valued wildlife, the state of Alaska has sensible guidelines regarding bear viewing tours. Your naturalist guide will always act per these restrictions. Aside from awe-inspiring views, your guide will also cue you in on the history and behaviors of Alaska’s bears. You may also catch a glimpse of volcanos and glaciers during your expedition as the route goes right past and over them!
After spending three to four hours on the ground, you will head back to the aircraft for another scenic flight back to Homer, Alaska. These tours typically include about one to one-and-a-half miles of walking. Driftwood Inn’s bear viewing rates start as low as $690 up to $1995 depending on the excursion you choose.
Bear Viewing Dos & Don’ts
Across the board, the No. 1 rule about bear viewing is to do so safely. Bears are awe-inspiring creatures to observe, but it’s important to follow bear viewing safety guidelines. Adhering to these practices ensure you and the bear’s safety. The National Park Service has a comprehensive list bear viewing etiquette that includes, but is not limited to, the following practices: maintain a safe distance from the bear, don’t provoke bears, minimal noise and movement is recommended.
Please remember that our guides are trained in bear behavior and know what best practices will keep your group safe!
About Alaska’s Bears
Alaska has the most bears than any other state in the country. The Last Frontier is home to four types of bears including brown bears (also known as grizzly bears), black bears, polar bears, and glacier bears. For reference, we’re the only state with polar bears and there are around 32,000 brown bears alone across the state of Alaska! That’s about 70 percent on the continent’s grizzly bears. Glacier bears are exclusively found in Alaska. This species is a descendant of the black bear, although it’s silver in color.
Due to the abundance of bears in Alaska, you’re nearly guaranteed to see a few during your Homer, Alaska, bear viewing tour! Be sure to consult with your tour guide about bringing a camera to take photos. Your guide may recommend you turn off the flash or turn off your camera’s shutter sound.
More One-Of-A-Kind Experiences in Homer
Can’t catch one of our Homer, Alaska, bear viewing tours? Don’t worry! If you’re looking for more adventure in Alaska, we have options for you. The Driftwood Inn proudly offers world-class fishing charters, oceanic wildlife viewing, and eco-tours.
Did you know that Homer is the halibut fishing capital of the world? Our Homer, Alaska, fishing charters are comprised of half-day and full-day salmon, halibut, and combination charters. These tours are available year-round are are led by expert captains who help you navigate our waters. No trip to our area would be complete without a Homer, Alaska, fishing adventure!
Can’t get enough of Homer’s wildlife? Our Seldovia Wildlife Tour is another way to experience our area’s captivating wildlife! This boat tour departs from Homer, Alaska, and ventures to Seldovia. Along the way, guests have the opportunity to see seabird species closer than ever. It’s common to see Bald eagles, otters, and more on this adventure!
Our customizable eco-tours are another great opportunity for sightseeing in Homer, Alaska! Join us for a seven-hour eco-tour with either a hike to Glacier Lake or lunch in a scenic cove. These tours give guests a chance to learn more about wildlife biology, topography, and history of Homer.
Stay at The Driftwood Inn
The Driftwood Inn has everything you need for an authentic Alaskan experience. We offer a variety of adventure packages, which include Homer, Alaska, bear tours.
The Driftwood Inn also offers diverse lodging options. Choose from modern lodges, Old Town cottages, Woodside Lodge suites, historic inn rooms, tiny houses, and even an RV park! Solo travelers and groups alike are sure to find an accommodation type with our Inn that suits their needs.
Our Homer, Alaska, accommodations are also located between Bishop’s Beach and fantastic things to do in Old Town Homer, for an experience that makes guests leave feeling like locals!
Book your bear viewing tour to start planning your Alaska adventure!