Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # See The Northern Lights in Alaska: Nature, Culture & Wildlife Tours to Bucket List Destinations ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [The Best Bear Viewing In Alaska: 4 Incredible Locations](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/best-bear-viewing-in-alaska/): Home to over 98% of the U.S. brown bear population, Alaska has one of the highest bear densities in the world. Alaska is home to three species of bears: brown bears, black bears, and polar bears. In this blog, we’re going to focus on the best bear viewing in Alaska for those who want to see brown bears. - [Incredible Antarctica Tour with Gondwana Ecotours: Adventure and Exploration](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/incredible-antarctica-tour/): Gondwana Ecotours is running Antarctica tours, with the inaugural departure in early 2028. We are thrilled to offer our guests this incredible opportunity to experience Terra Australis, the great southern land. This blog outlines what you can expect to see on the tour, provides details of the itinerary, and explains what makes this Gondwana Ecotours Antarctica tour so special.  - [Where to Travel in 2026: Explore These Spectacular Destinations](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/where-to-travel-in-2026/): Each year, the New York Times compiles a list called “52 Places To Go”. This year is no different, and the Travel section’s 2026 list includes some incredible destinations. Tanzania, Costa Rica, Norway, and Alaska all made the list. These are all places we travel to — we think they have great taste! If you’re thinking about where to travel in 2026, then read on. - [2025 Gondwana Ecotours’ Recap Video](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/2025-gondwana-ecotours-recap-video/): This past year, we explored rugged coastlines from Norway to Ushuaia, wandered through Alaska’s boreal forests, crossed the sweeping plains of Serengeti, and connected with the communities that call these places home. We’ve gathered a collection of those moments—many shared by you—in the video below. - [Tourism in the Serengeti: The Problems and Solutions](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/tourism-in-the-serengeti/): So what makes this landscape so extraordinary? And what are the issues it's facing? Read on to learn about tourism in the Serengeti. - [Gondwana Ecotours Featured in Forbes: Embracing the Rise of Short, Experience-Rich Travel](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/gondwana-ecotours-featured-in-forbes-embracing-the-rise-of-short-experience-rich-travel/): We’re excited to share that Gondwana Ecotours was recently featured in Forbes in an article highlighting the rise of short, adventure-packed trips across the U.S. and beyond. The piece explores how travelers are maximizing their time and budget with experiences that are rich in culture, nature, and unforgettable moments. - [Explore Rwanda: 5-Day Or 10-Day Tour](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/explore-rwanda-5-day-or-10-day-tour/): Gondwana Ecotours offers two incredible ways to experience Rwanda. Whether you want to extend your journey in Africa or seek a deeper exploration of Rwanda, both itineraries provide unforgettable wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and stunning natural landscapes. The five-day tour focuses on gorillas, golden monkeys, and some cultural activities, whereas the longer ten-day tour visits another national park and the beautiful Lake Kivu in the west. - [Gondwanaland: The epic history of the world, and our name ](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/gondwanaland-the-epic-history-of-the-world-and-our-name/): We’re often asked about the meaning behind the name “Gondwana Ecotours”. The short answer is that we’re named after the ancient supercontinent, Gondwanaland. But this story spans millions of years and thousands of miles, culminating into the name, ethos, and mission that define who we are. Read on to find out more. - [10 Unique Oceanfront Activities for Solo Travelers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/10-unique-oceanfront-activities-for-solo-travelers/): Exploring the world alone offers unparalleled opportunities for personal discovery, and the oceanfront provides a unique setting for solo travelers. Engaging in activities by the sea not only encourages relaxation and reflection but also invites exploration of coastal cultures and natural wonders. - [Increase Your Chances of Seeing The Northern Lights In North America](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/northern-lights-in-north-america/): Simply put, the best time to watch the aurora borealis in North America is during cold months. This time usually ranges from September to March. Areas near the magnetic north pole see the most brilliant displays, which become more intense as the temperature drops. Although the aurora technically occurs year-round, dark, cold night skies provide the best time to watch the northern lights in North America’s fall and winter months. You may ask yourself when are the northern lights in North America, and are the summer months the best time to spot them? If you are planning to witness a spectacular event, the summer months are not the best months to visit since the sky does not get dark enough. Making a trip to Fairbanks and the Aurora Oval can greatly increase your chances of seeing these lights cascade into the sky. Plan for 5 to 7-day trips to increase the chance of having clear enough skies to dedicate your time to locate them. - [2024 Recap Video](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/2024-recap-video/): Take a look back at where we’ve traveled–the places we’ve visited, the people we met, and the wildlife we encountered. - [Alaska: Navigating the Inside Passage](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/alaska-the-inside-passage/): The Inside Passage is a network of waterways running from Washington State's Puget Sound in the south, northwards along the Pacific coast of British Columbia, and through the Alaska panhandle to Skagway, Alaska. The Inside Passage is a natural, sheltered sea route extending for more than 1,000 miles.  It is the route generally used by coastal shipping to Alaska and is known for its scenic beauty and dependable smoothness.  - [Natural Landmarks of Norway](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/landmarks-of-norway/): Norway is not only rich in fascinating history but also in its natural beauty. The breathtaking physical landscape has been shaped by thousands of years of glaciation, just like the rich cultural landscape has been shaped by the people who have lived there. This blog explores the natural landmarks of Norway and some of the key places to visit. - [Kayak A Wildlife Paradise](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/kayak-a-wildlife-paradise/): Kenai Fjords National Park is a must-visit destination in Alaska. Its landscapes— shaped over millennia by glaciers, icefields, and ocean storms— are picturesque sights with deep fjords, rugged mountains, and cascading waterfalls. One of the best ways to discover this area is by kayaking, which offers a serene and up-close exploration of the park’s coastline and waters as you navigate through passages inaccessible by land or larger vessels. - [Gondwana Ecotours In ‘The Nomad Almanac’](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/gondwana-ecotours-in-the-nomad-almanac/): The Nomad Almanac highlights Gondwana Ecotours in its list of 20 notable travel companies that are sustainable and ethical. These companies are for those who are “conscious about the footprint leave as travel around the world”, underscoring a growing priority to travel ethically. - [The Extraordinary Rainforests of Louisiana](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/rainforests-of-louisiana/): The unique, fairytale-like feeling of walking through a rainforest can’t be replicated. Excitement hangs in the air and incredible wildlife encounters are around every corner. Visiting the swamps and subtropical rainforests of Louisiana is similar to visiting the Amazon rainforest. If the Amazon is on your bucket list, a trip to Louisiana is a great place to start! - [Exploring Louisiana: Be Transported to Another Country](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/exploring-louisiana/): As you travel through Louisiana, prepare to be transported into what feels like another country. The unique language, culture, cuisine, and wildlife intertwine to create an environment that is unlike anywhere else in the United States. Visitors who are exploring Louisiana can feel this, particularly in New Orleans and Cajun Country.  - [Discovering Africa’s Big Five](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/discovering-africas-big-five/): The leopard, one of Africa's Big Five, is a majestic and elusive big cat known for its stunning appearance and stealthy nature. Found in various habitats across Africa, from savannas to rainforests, leopards are skilled climbers and powerful predators. Their distinctive rosette-patterned coat provides excellent camouflage in the wild, allowing them to stalk and ambush their prey with precision. While solitary by nature, leopards are known for their agility, speed, and exceptional hunting skills, making them a revered and respected member of the Big Five animals to spot on an African safari. Whether lounging in the branches of a tree or stealthily moving through the grasslands, encountering a leopard in the wild is an unforgettable experience that showcases the beauty and diversity of Africa's wildlife. - [Gators and Gumbo:<br/> An Interview with Gondwana Guide John Stewart](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/louisiana-tour-guide-interview-with-gondwana-guide-john-stewart/): If you want to experience the incredible confluence of cultures and habitats in Louisiana, you can learn more about the Louisiana tour and download the brochure here.  - [Watch The Bears’ Bulking Season During Fat Bear Week](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/watch-the-bears-bulking-season-during-fat-bear-week/): Held annually, the Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska kicks off Fat Bear Week around the first week of October with their partner and wildlife streamer, Explore.org. The single-elimination tournament invites wildlife enthusiasts across the globe to celebrate the upcoming winter hibernation season of brown bears. Watch the parks’ live video feeds of the bears feasting on salmon to build their fat reserves, then cast your vote on which bear you believe will end up as the fattest champion.  - [Preserving Pura Vida: Ecotourism in Costa Rica](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/ecotourism-in-costa-rica/): The rise of ecotourism in Costa Rica has resulted in an expansion of the job market, allowing local citizens to generate income and employment. Local communities and schools receive significant investments and donations from visitors, helping to improve the living conditions of local people. - [2023 Recap Video](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/2023-gondwana-ecotours-recap-video/): Take a look back at where we’ve traveled–the places we’ve visited, the people we met, and the wildlife we encountered.  - [A Guide to the Fascinating Alaskan Brown Bear Life Cycle](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/brown-bear-life-cycles/): Brown Bear life cycles follow the seasons and the demands of their lifestyle—particularly for those living in the Alaskan wilderness who must cope with cold and snowy winters. The average life span for a Brown Bear in the wild is about 20 years. However, the oldest known Brown Bear lived for 35 years in the wild. - [Tour Guides As Voices Of Sustainability](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/tour-guides-as-voices-of-sustainability/): At Gondwana Ecotours, our guides transmit our values and core principles about sustainability through education, entertainment, and embodiment. - [Our Animal Welfare Policy](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/our-animal-welfare-policy/): The latest step we have taken in our responsible travel commitments is to formally develop an animal welfare policy. The policy states how we observe and encounter wildlife and domestic animals on our tours in a safe, responsible way. - [Our Forbes Featured Pick – Norway: Western Fjords Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/forbes-featured-norway-western-fjords-tour/): Everett Potter, a Forbes contributing writer, spotlights our ‘Norway: Western Fjords Adventure’ in his list of 5 New Adventures For 2024. The article selects journeys for travelers looking for “fresh and intriguing ways to see a new part of the world” and our Norway tour topped the list.  - [Experience the Western Fjords of Norway](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/experience-the-western-fjords-of-norway/): Norway’s Western Fjord area is rich in beauty, history, culture, and drama. This landscape has not only been shaped by thousands of years of glaciation but also by the people and societies that have existed there over this time—from ancient humans to Vikings, mediaeval farmers to modern society. This blog explores some of the history of the Western Fjords and some of the key places to visit. - [Birds of Alaska](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/birds-of-alaska/): This blog explores some of the beautiful birds of Alaska that you might see on our tours. - [Sea Turtles and Conservation in Costa Rica](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/sea-turtles-conservation-costa-rica/): Tortuguero National Park is a remarkable and remote national park in the northeast of Costa Rica only accessible by boat or small planes. Tortuguero National Park is famed for being home to a massive amount of biodiversity and being a dream destination for nature lovers. This is largely due to the range of habitats that exists within the park, including mangroves and tropical rainforests, as well as aquatic habitats like beaches, canals, wetlands and lagoons. In addition to the sea turtles that this area is named for, a few of the other animals commonly spotted in the park include Spider Monkeys, Spectacled Caiman in the river, both river turtles, and beautiful birds of Costa Rica including tiger herons, kingfishers, caracaras, green macaws, and toucans. - [The Biodiverse Wonders of the Osa Peninsula](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/biodiverse-wonders-of-osa-peninsula/): The Osa Peninsula is a destination that is world-famous for its incredible and biodiverse rainforest. Located in southwestern Costa Rica, the Osa Peninsula juts out of the mainland into the ocean and is bordered by Drake Bay to the northwest, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Golfo Dulce to the east. The Golfo Dulce is incredibly special, as it is one of only four tropical fjords on Earth — which is why we are delighted to guide travelers on Costa Rican adventures! - [Gondwana Ecotours Recognized for Sustainable Travel Commitments](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/gondwana-ecotours-recognized-sustainable-travel/): We’re excited to be included in Sustainable Jungle’s roundup of sustainable travel companies! - [Learn About The Maasai](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/learn-about-the-maasai/): The Maasai are one of Africa’s most iconic tribes. Dive into who the Maasai are, and the fascinating history and culture of the tribe. The Maasai people are known for their distinctive customs, vibrant traditional clothing, and rich oral storytelling tradition. They are primarily nomadic pastoralists, relying on cattle for their livelihood and sustenance. The Maasai culture places a strong emphasis on communal living and a deep connection to the land. Their traditional dances and ceremonies are not only visually striking but also hold significant cultural and spiritual meaning. By delving deeper into the intricate customs and way of life of the Maasai, we gain a greater appreciation for their resilience and unique heritage in the modern world. - [Safest Places To Go On Safari In Africa](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/safest-places-to-go-on-safari-in-africa/): An African Safari is a bucket-list experience for a reason, and the thrill of the unknown is a huge draw when it comes to traveling. However, traveling to a new continent can be a daunting task, especially when considering safety. When traveling to new places, it’s essential to research and find out what to expect. - [Solar Cycles and the Northern Lights](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/solar-cycles-and-the-northern-lights/): As the solar cycle approaches its peak in 2024-2025, scientists anticipate heightened activity in the occurrence of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. The solar cycle, also known as the sunspot cycle, is a periodic fluctuation in solar activity that typically lasts around 11 years. We are beyond thrilled to expect the northern lights solar activity to steadily fill us with awe deep into 2025! - [Niche Travel Tours for Wildlife Lovers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/niche-travel-tours-for-wildlife-lovers/): Our friends at Travel Market Report recently wrote an article on niche travel tours, about how there are increasingly more options for travelers who have specific interests or things they’d like to experience on vacation. Gondwana Ecotours travel itineraries are designed for travelers who have wildlife and sustainability in mind. - [Gorilla Trekking Q&A](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/gorilla-trekking-qa/): Gorilla trekking is one of the most exhilarating experiences in the world. Sitting meters away from silverbacks and their family is incredible - this article has everything you need to know if you are thinking about experiencing it for yourself - [Great Migration Q&A](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/great-migration-qa/): The Great Migration is a true spectacle to witness and a wildlife viewing experience that is understandably on many people's travel bucket lists. In this article, we are going to answer some of the most-asked questions about the Great Migration. - [Tanzania Safari Tours](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/tanzania-safari-tours/): One of the biggest differences between the choices of Tanzania Safari Tours is the accommodation. Which accommodation you choose will impact the experience you have. For an enriching experience where you can delve deeper into Maasai culture and traditions. Learn more about the fascinating Maasai people through immersive activities and interactions led by knowledgeable guides. Embark on a journey with Gondwana Ecotours to gain a deeper understanding of the Maasai way of life and their sustainable practices. - [Carbon Neutral Tours and Vacations](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/carbon-neutral-tours-and-vacations/): Gondwana Ecotours was founded to offer environmentally-friendly tours, and we are committed to this ethos. We travel responsibly by making eco-friendly choices, working with locally-owned businesses, and supporting local non-profit organizations. Becoming a carbon neutral company is another step we’ve taken towards the path of sustainability. - [The Best Mendoza Tour and Vacation](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/the-best-mendoza-tour-and-vacation/): Let this blog post guide you to some of the most must-do stops for the best tour of Patagonia. - [The Best Patagonia Tour & Vacation](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/the-best-patagonia-tour-vacation/): Let this blog post guide you to some of the most must-do stops for the best tour of Patagonia. - [Alaska Adventure Tours](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/best-alaska-adventure-tours/): If it’s an adventure you’re looking for — look no further than Alaska! Alaska adventures come in all shapes and sizes, and one thing we can guarantee is that Alaska has something for everyone! There are lots of adventurous activities for you to take part in all year round. - [Alaska Bear Viewing Tours](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/alaska-bear-viewing-tours/): Grizzly bears are a subspecies of North American Brown bears and can be found in large numbers during the Alaska summer, but during the winter they hibernate to escape the cold. There are a number of different ways to see grizzly bears in Alaska, but one of the most surefire ways is to go on a designated Alaska Grizzly Bear Viewing Tour. - [Safe African Safaris](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/safe-african-safaris/): An African Safari is a bucket-list experience for almost everyone. African wildlife includes some of the most iconic species in the world. When traveling to new places, it’s important to research and find out what to expect when you get there. A big question that a lot of people ask when they are planning their vacation to Africa is: are African Safaris safe? - [What is an Ecotour? ](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/what-is-ecotourism/): Ecotourism is travelling responsibly to natural areas. This type of travel conserves wildlife and the environment, sustains the well-being of local people in the destination, and creates knowledge and understanding through education. Ecotourism is similar to sustainable tourism, but with a nature and wildlife focus, and the addition of educational experiences. - [Best Alaska Summer Tours](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/best-alaska-summer-tours/): Because of Alaska’s summer tourist season, few summer activities are available before May or after September. So if you have an interest in kayaking, hiking, deep-sea fishing, or whale watching then an Alaska Summer Tour is for you. - [The Best Tour of Argentina](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/best-tour-of-argentina/): So you’re planning to go to Argentina? First of all — excellent choice! Secondly, let this blog post guide you to some of the most unmissable stops for the best possible tour of Argentina. - [How to Plan An Affordable African Safari](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/how-to-plan-an-affordable-african-safari/): There is nowhere in the world to view large animals quite like Africa. Home to some of the most iconic species on the planet, Africa is on many people's bucket list. At Gondwana Ecotours we believe this opportunity should be available to as many people as possible, that’s why this article is about how to plan an affordable African Safari. - [What Are The Best Months To See the Northern Lights in Alaska?](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/best-time-to-see-the-northern-lights-in-alaska/): Many people say the months of January through March are the best time to visit Alaska! But are they the best months to see the Northern Lights in Alaska? Yes! These two months are one of the best times to see the Northern Lights in Alaska, although temperatures through February are quite cold, often as low as -20 Fahrenheit, so make sure to wear insulated clothing from top to bottom. If you don’t own everything you need to stay warm in the Arctic (most people don’t!), we offer affordable gear rentals for our tours, which include suitable mittens, a winter hat, snow boots, and insulated pants, and a warm coat. - [Katmai National Park Bear Tours](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/katmai-national-park-bear-tours/): Katmai National Park is famous for many things; from the valleys and lakes carved out by glaciers, to the active volcanoes and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. However, arguably the biggest attraction for people from all over the world is the chance to see grizzly bears up close. ## Pages - [Discover Tanzania on a Tarangire National Park Safari](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-tanzania/discover-tanzania-on-a-tarangire-national-park-safari/): Most first-time Tanzania travelers arrive focused on the Serengeti and the Great Migration. Tarangire National Park tends to catch them off guard. It is quieter, less popular, and in the dry season it produces wildlife concentrations that rival anything else in East Africa. Elephants in the hundreds. Ancient baobabs breaking the skyline. Lions moving through the long grass in the late afternoon. Here is what Tarangire is, why it belongs on a Great Migration itinerary, and what travelers should expect when they embark on a Tarangire National Park safari. - [Discover Argentina on a Fitz Roy Patagonia Tour](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-argentina/discover-argentina-on-a-fitz-roy-patagonia-tour/): There are mountains that photograph well and mountains that stop you cold when you actually stand in front of them. Mount Fitz Roy in Argentina is the second kind. The granite towers of the mountain's sides rise nearly vertically from the Patagonian steppe, and on the days when clouds pull back to reveal the mountain's full profile, it is the kind of view that stops travelers in their tracks. Here is what a Fitz Roy Patagonia tour is actually like for small group travelers, and what you should know before you go. - [What Are the Best Waterfall Hikes in Costa Rica for Eco-Travelers?](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-costa-rica/what-are-the-best-waterfall-hikes-in-costa-rica-for-eco-travelers/): Costa Rica's waterfalls are not just scenic stops on a busy, small-group tour. These natural wonders sit inside living rainforest, surrounded by habitat that wildlife depends on, and the hike to reach them is often as rewarding as the destination itself. Travelers who approach them with that mindset, moving slowly, staying observant, and keeping noise low, tend to leave with far more than a photograph to remember their trip. Here is what eco-travelers should know before heading down the trail for waterfall hikes in Costa Rica. - [What is the Best Time to Visit Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking?](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-rwanda/what-is-the-best-time-to-visit-rwanda-for-gorilla-trekking/): Picking the right month for a Rwanda trek matters more than most travelers expect. Trekking season is technically a year-round event, which sounds simple until you start comparing trail conditions, permit availability, and crowd levels across the calendar. The difference between a dry season and a wet season trek is not just the weather. It is the physical demand of the trail, the visibility during animal encounters, and how easily you can lock in the permits you want. Comparing these variables is how you can decide the best time to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking - for you. - [What Can You See on a Norway Fjords Wildlife Tour?](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-norway/what-can-you-see-on-a-norway-fjords-wildlife-tour/): Most travelers who come to Norway's Western Fjords arrive focused on the scenery. The cliffs, the water, the sheer scale of the landscape that surrounds them. But the wildlife is what makes the trip even more memorable. White-tailed eagles tracing wide arcs above the water. Puffins packed into cliff faces just offshore. Harbor seals surfacing between rocks without much concern for who is watching. The fjords are one of Europe's most productive wildlife habitats, and a small group tour is one of the best ways to move through them. Here is what you can realistically expect to see. on a Norway fjords wildlife tour. - [Alaska Whale Watching Tours for Small Groups](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/alaska-whale-watching-tours-for-small-groups/): Every summer, hundreds of humpback whales travel thousands of miles from their breeding grounds near Hawaii and Mexico to feed in the cold, nutrient-rich waters of Southeast Alaska. For travelers wondering where to actually find them once they arrive, the answer depends on understanding both the geography of Alaska's Inside Passage and the feeding behavior that draws whales to specific channels and bays each season. This is where Alaska whale watching tours really shine! - [Is Solo Travel in Costa Rica a Good Idea?](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-costa-rica/is-solo-travel-in-costa-rica-a-good-idea/): Costa Rica has built decades of tourism infrastructure around exactly the kind of traveler who wants meaningful nature experiences without complicated logistics. The country is small enough that distances between destinations are manageable, stable enough that safety concerns common in other parts of Latin America are significantly reduced, and experienced enough with international visitors that solo travel in Costa Rica is normalized, and not considered an anomaly. - [What Does A Kenai Fjords Wildlife Tour Actually Include?](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/what-does-a-kenai-fjords-wildlife-tour-actually-include/): Kenai Fjords National Park sits a few hours south of Anchorage, and for most cruise ship passengers, it is a glimpse from the deck rather than a destination in its own right. That is a missed opportunity. A small group Kenai Fjords wildlife tour gets travelers far closer to glaciers, wildlife, and coastline than a cruise stop ever could, and it does so without the scale and crowds that come with mass tourism. Here is what that experience actually looks like. - [Is a Patagonia Tour Accessible for First-Time Travelers?](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-argentina/is-a-patagonia-tour-accessible-for-first-time-travelers/): Patagonia has a reputation. Vast, remote, windswept, and demanding. For travelers considering South America for the first time, that reputation can be intimidating enough to push a Patagonia tour down the list in favor of destinations that feel more approachable. That hesitation is understandable, but it is also based on an out-dated picture of Argentina. - [Discover the Serengeti on A Tanzania Camping Safari](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-tanzania/discover-the-serengeti-on-a-tanzania-camping-safari/): When planning your trip, it's worth considering the difference between a Tanzania camping safari vs a Tanzania lodge safari. The choice between them shapes everything from wildlife access to daily rhythm to environmental impact. Neither option is universally better. The right answer depends on what kind of traveler you are. - [Is Summer the Best Time to See Exit Glacier Alaska?](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/is-summer-the-best-time-to-see-exit-glacier-alaska/): Alaska has more glaciers than the rest of the inhabited world combined — roughly 100,000 of them, covering about 5 percent of the state's total land area. But seeing a picture of a glacier and actually standing at the foot of one are two very different experiences. For most travelers, a trip to Exit Glacier Alaska is the best way to make that second thing possible. The question, however, is when to visit, what tour operator to book, and what responsible access to these landscapes actually looks like. - [What the Western Fjords Look Like in July and August](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-norway/what-the-western-fjords-look-like-in-july-and-august/): Norway's western fjords in July and August are not the same place they are in November. The light alone changes everything. At this latitude — roughly 60–62 degrees north — the sun barely sets in midsummer, grazing the horizon for a few hours before rising again. The quality of that light, stretched thin and golden across the water and the mountains, is something that photographs approximate but do not fully capture. Waterfalls that are thin trickles in autumn run full and white with snowmelt. The mountain roads are open. The ferries are running. The fjords are at their most accessible and, many people who visit in multiple seasons would argue, their most beautiful. - [Lake Titicaca Travel Guide: Uros Floating Islands, Taquile Island & What to Expect](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-peru-bolivia/trip-tips-peru-bolivia-lake-titicaca-travel-guide/): Lake Titicaca sits at 3,812 meters above sea level on the border between Peru and Bolivia. At that altitude the sky is a shade of blue you will not see at sea level, the light has a quality that makes colors look saturated beyond what feels natural, and the air is thin enough that most visitors feel it within the first hour. The lake itself — 8,372 square kilometers of cold, deep, impossibly clear water — stretches to every horizon. It is one of the more disorienting and beautiful places in South America, and it rewards the people who spend proper time on it rather than treating it as a half-day stop between Cusco and La Paz. - [Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda: What to Expect on the Trail](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-rwanda/mountain-gorilla-trekking-in-rwanda-what-to-expect-on-the-trail/): There are roughly 1,000 mountain gorillas left on Earth. All of them live in a single forested arc spanning the volcanoes of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park is where most serious travelers choose to see them — the infrastructure is excellent, trek times are manageable, and the gorilla families are well habituated to human presence. What happens when you find them is something most people struggle to describe afterward. - [Insider’s Guide to Humpback Whale Watching in Southeast Alaska](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-whales-tours/humpback-whale-watching-in-alaska/): Southeast Alaska is one of the few places on Earth where humpback whale watching is not a matter of luck. Every summer, one of the largest concentrations of humpback whales in the North Pacific gathers in the protected waterways of the Alaska panhandle — feeding, socializing, and performing behaviors that have stopped boats dead in their tracks for generations. Frederick Sound and Icy Strait sit at the center of it all. - [#Trip Tips: Rwanda](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-rwanda/): Rwanda Travel Tips - [#Trip Tips: Peru & Bolivia](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-peru-bolivia/): Tips for Experiencing Peru & Bolivia - [#Trip Tips: Norway](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-norway/): Norway Travel Tips - [#Trip Tips: Whales & Waterfalls Yacht Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-whales-tours/): Tips for Alaskan Whale Viewing Adventures - [Best Time to Visit Costa Rica: Green Season vs Wet Season](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-costa-rica/best-time-to-visit-costa-rica-green-season-vs-wet-season/): What is the best time to visit Costa Rica? If you're planning a trip to the land of pura vida, knowing when to go is important! Many travel guides offer tours during the dry season, when the weather is more predictable, the roads are easy to navigate, and the skies are reliably clear. This is not bad advice if you want a beach vacation, but if you want to see the country's wildlie on a small group tour, the green season is a better option. Knowing the difference between the two seasons can help you make a more informed decision about your trip timing! - [What Is the Best Time to Visit Antarctica?](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-antarctica/what-is-the-best-time-to-visit-antarctica/): If you're planning a trip to Antarctica, the fist thing to ask is this: what is the best time to visit Antarctica? For this destination, it's important to understand that there is no year-round schedule. The continent is only accessible to travelers for only a few months each year, and the window is shorter than most people expect. But within that window, the timing of a visit makes a significant difference — not just for comfort, but for what travelers actually encounter when they get there. - [Experiece a Denali Summer Tour in Alaska with Gondwana Ecotours](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/experiece-a-denali-summer-tour-in-alaska-with-gondwana-ecotours/): For most travelers, a Denali summer tour is one of the few travel experiences that consistently exceeds expectations. Here is what it actually looks like when you plan an off-the-beaten path adventure through a small tour operator like Gondwana Ecotours. - [Bio: James Anderson](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/bio-james-anderson/): Alaska Guide - [Bio: Nick Burns](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/bio-nick-burns/): Alaska Guide - [What Serengeti Predators Follow the Great Migration?](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-tanzania/what-serengeti-predators-follow-the-great-migration/): The Great Migration is more than a wildlife event. It is a food chain in motion. Understanding the Serengeti predators that shadow the Great Migration changes how travelers experience the plains entirely and transforms a simple safari into a cyclic drama of epic proportions. - [What Makes a Secluded Costa Rica Wildlife Tour Unique?](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-costa-rica/what-makes-a-secluded-costa-rica-wildlife-tour-unique/): A secluded Costa Rica wildlife tour operates differently from the moment you set foot in the land of pura vida. It starts with where you go, how many people you travel with, and how much of the natural world you actually get to experience before it disappears into the noise. Keep reading to learn more about slow travel in the magical land. - [Bears Catching Salmon: A Feeding Frenzy at Brooks Falls](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-bear-tours/bears-catching-salmon-a-feeding-frenzy-at-brooks-falls/): There is nothing quite like watching bears catching salmon from the lip of a waterfall. It's raw, fast, and completely wild — a moment that reminds you what Alaska is actually for. Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park is the most famous stage for this spectacle, but it's one stop in a much larger story playing out across Alaska every summer. Here's an essential guide to help you plan your trip and see bears catching salmon at some of Alaska's top wilderness areas. - [Things to Do in Costa Rica: A Wildlife-First Itinerary](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-costa-rica/things-to-do-in-costa-rica-a-wildlife-first-itinerary/): Costa Rica covers less than .1% of Earth's surface yet shelters an estimated 5% of the world's species. For travelers who want more than a beach vacation, the country delivers one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences on the planet. Whether you're planning your first ecotour or returning for a deeper look, this itinerary puts the natural world first and allows you to explore things to do in Costa Rica that focus on the country’s incredible wildlife. - [Meet the Penguins: Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie Penguin Colonies in Antarctica](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-antarctica/meet-the-penguins-gentoo-chinstrap-and-adelie-penguin-colonies-in-antarctica/): There are very few places on Earth where a person can stand a few feet away from thousands of wild penguins and watch them go about their day. The Antarctic Peninsula is one of them. For wildlife lovers, it's one of the most extraordinary experiences the natural world has to offer. Three penguin species dominate this remote icy landscape — Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie. Each one has its own personality, its own home turf, and its own fascinating story to tell. Discover penguin colonies in Antarctica on an adventure of a lifetime! - [Ngorongoro Tours in Tanzania: A Step-by-Step Guide](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-tanzania/ngorongoro-tours-in-tanzania-a-step-by-step-guide/): But knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. This step-by-step guide walks through everything needed to plan Ngorongoro tours with confidence. - [Why Antarctica Is the Ultimate Eco-Adventure Destination](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-antarctica/antarctica-eco-adventure-destination/): An Antarctica eco-adventure is ideal for travelers who want more than a scenic vacation. It is for people who value wildlife, conservation, remote landscapes, expert guidance, and experiences that require a little flexibility. The reward is a journey that feels rare and deeply memorable. Whether the highlight is kayaking beside icebergs, watching penguins move across the snow, seeing whales in the Southern Ocean, or simply standing in silence beneath a vast polar sky, Antarctica has a way of reshaping how travelers think about adventure. - [Adventure Awaits with Must-Do Costa Rica Tours](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-costa-rica/adventure-awaits-with-must-do-costa-rica-tours/): For travelers who want a culturally immersive experience, the must-do Costa Rica tours are the ones that go deep. Into remote national parks and along canopy trails alive with birdsong. In short, into places most tourists never find. But with the right tour operator, top rated Costa Rica tours are easy to find. - [What Is Solar Wind? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/solar-wind/): Before there's aurora, there's solar wind. Everything else in the northern lights forecast — the Kp index, the Bz reading, the geomagnetic storm alerts — traces back to this one phenomenon. Understanding what solar wind is, and what makes it vary, gives you a foundation for reading every other piece of space weather information you'll encounter while planning or photographing an aurora trip. - [What Is a Coronal Mass Ejection? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/coronal-mass-ejection/): If you've ever seen a news headline about a geomagnetic storm bringing the northern lights unusually far south, a coronal mass ejection was almost certainly the cause. CMEs are the solar events most closely associated with strong, widespread aurora — and understanding what they are, how they travel, and what to watch for when one is en route makes a real difference in how you plan and shoot. - [What Is a Solar Flare? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/solar-flare/): Solar flares get a lot of attention in aurora coverage, and the association makes intuitive sense — a dramatic eruption on the sun ought to produce a dramatic display in the sky. The reality is more specific than that, and understanding the distinction between what a solar flare does and what it doesn't do will make you a better reader of space weather forecasts. - [What Is a Coronal Hole? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/coronal-hole/): Not all elevated aurora activity comes from dramatic solar eruptions. Some of the most reliable periods of geomagnetic activity are driven by a quieter, more predictable feature of the sun — the coronal hole. For aurora travelers and photographers who want to plan further ahead than a 3-day forecast allows, coronal holes are worth understanding in some detail. - [What Is a High-Speed Stream? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/high-speed-stream/): Most space weather events that drive aurora are difficult to forecast more than a day or two in advance. High-speed streams are an exception. They originate from coronal holes — relatively stable features on the sun that rotate into Earth-facing positions on a predictable schedule — which means their arrival can often be anticipated several days out. For aurora travelers and photographers trying to make informed decisions about where to be and when, that lead time is genuinely useful. - [What Is a Corotating Interaction Region? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/corotating-interaction-region/): Most aurora travelers focus on single-night events — a geomagnetic storm, a substorm, a spike in the Kp index. But some of the most productive stretches for aurora viewing unfold over two or three consecutive nights, driven by a solar wind feature called a corotating interaction region. Understanding what a CIR is helps explain why geomagnetic activity sometimes builds gradually and persists longer than a single evening. - [What Is the Solar Cycle? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/solar-cycle/): Aurora is possible at any point in the solar cycle — clear skies and a location beneath the auroral oval will produce results regardless of where the sun is in its roughly 11-year rhythm. But the solar cycle does affect how often intense displays occur and how far south aurora can reach, which makes it worth understanding when you're deciding when to travel. - [What Is a Sunspot? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/sunspot/): Sunspots have been observed and recorded for centuries, long before anyone understood what they were. Today they're one of the more accessible indicators of solar activity — visible in filtered solar images updated daily — and they offer aurora travelers a useful early signal that something interesting may be developing on the sun. - [What Is the L1 Lagrange Point? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/l1-lagrange-point/): Every aurora forecast app, every NOAA storm alert, every real-time Bz reading you check while standing outside in the cold — all of it traces back to a gravitational sweet spot about 1.5 million kilometers from Earth. That location is the L1 Lagrange point, and the satellites stationed there are the source of the most actionable short-term aurora forecast data available. - [What Is the DSCOVR Satellite? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/dscovr-satellite/): When an aurora app shows you a live Bz reading or a solar wind speed update, that data almost certainly originated with one satellite: DSCOVR. Operated by NOAA, it sits at the L1 Lagrange point between Earth and the sun and continuously measures the solar wind before it reaches Earth. Understanding what DSCOVR measures — and what those measurements mean — is the foundation of reading any real-time aurora forecast. - [What Is the Kp Index? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/kp-index/): If you've spent any time looking into northern lights forecasting, you've encountered the Kp index. It appears on every aurora app, every space weather dashboard, and most forecasting guides. It's a useful number — but like most shorthand, it works better when you understand what it's actually measuring and where its limits are. - [What Is the K-index? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/k-index/): Most aurora travelers are familiar with the Kp index — the global measure of geomagnetic activity that appears on forecast apps and space weather dashboards. Fewer know about the K-index, its local counterpart, and why the difference between the two can be significant when you're trying to interpret what's actually happening overhead on a given night. - [What Is the A-index? A Guide for Aurora Chasers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/trip-tips-alaska/northern-lights-glossary/a-index/): Aurora forecasting involves a handful of indices that measure geomagnetic activity at different time scales. The Kp index updates every three hours. The A-index takes a different approach — summarizing an entire 24-hour period into a single daily number. It's less useful for real-time decision-making than Kp, but it serves a distinct purpose in longer-range aurora planning and historical analysis. ## Products - [Antarctica: Penguins & Polar Frontiers Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/antarctica-penguins-polar-frontiers-booking/): Secure your spots with a $3500 per person non-refundable deposit. In the event that we cancel the departure, we will provide a full refund of the deposit. For more information, you may refer to our Booking Agreement. - [Machu Picchu Extension](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/post-trip-machu-picchu/): Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that’s fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. - [Nazca Lines & Pisco Tasting Extension](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/pre-trip-nazca-lines-pisco-tasting/): Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that’s fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. - [Peru & Bolivia: From Salt Flats to Sacred Lakes Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/peru-bolivia-from-salt-flats-to-sacred-lakes-adventure/): Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that’s fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. - [Rwanda: Gorillas, Chimps & National Parks Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/rwanda-mountain-gorilla-safari-10-day/): Secure your spots with a $1,750 per person deposit. The deposit is used to secure your trekking permits and is non-refundable. The remaining balance is due 120 days before the tour departs. - [Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls Extension](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/zimbabwe-victoria-falls-extension/): See more of Africa with our Victoria Falls Extension. This four-day extension takes you to Victoria Falls, located on the river border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Experience the beauty of one of the largest waterfalls in the world. Enjoy activities like a morning game drive in Zambezi National Park, looking for wildlife like elephants, leopards, and lions. Pay your deposit today to reserve your spot! If you are interested in a different departure date than listed in the brochure, please email or call us with your inquiry. - [Alaska: Whales & Waterfalls Yacht Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/alaska-whales-waterfalls-yacht-adventure/): Secure your spots with a $2000 per person deposit that’s fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. Cancellations processed after 30 days from the time the deposit was placed are not eligible for any refund. Please be aware that this is not a guaranteed departure. You will be notified of the tour status no later than March 3, 2026. In the event that we cancel the departure, we will provide a full refund of the deposit. For more information, you may refer to our Booking Agreement. - [Tortuguero National Park Extension](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/tortuguero-national-park-extension/): During this five-day pre-trip extension, visit Tortuguero National Park, an ecological paradise with freshwater canals, wetlands, and forests that shelter diverse wildlife. Look for wildlife like toucans, monkeys, caimans, sloths, and otters while hiking, kayaking, and boating. Pay your deposit today to reserve your spot! - [Ushuaia Extension](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/ushuaia-extension/): See more of Argentina with our Ushuaia Extension. Over multiple days, this post-trip extension brings you to the Southern tip of Argentina, known as “Fin del Mundo” (End of the World). Here, we’ll explore the city of Ushuaia, known for its unparalleled views of the Andes Mountains and the Beagle Channel, bordering nearby Chile. Home to glaciers, forests, and diverse wildlife including thousands of Magellanic Penguins, you can enjoy the best of the area’s natural wonders while feasting on Argentinian seafood and sipping tasty wines. Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that's fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. - [Iguazu Falls Extension](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/iguazu-falls-extension/): See more of Argentina with our Iguazu Falls Extension. One of UNESCO's Natural Wonders of the World, this extension takes you to Iguazu Falls, located on the river border between Argentina and Brazil. The waterfalls are surrounded by lush tropical jungle and wildlife including coatis, capybaras, howler monkeys and toucans. This incredible system contains 275 falls and has the greatest flow of any waterfall system in the world. Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that's fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. - [Arenal Volcano Extension](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/arenal-volcano-extension/): See more of Costa Rica with our Arenal Volcano Extension. Escape the crowds on our four-day extension to the Arenal Volcano area. Begin with a serene stay at an organic coffee farm just outside of San Jose. Venture to the Arenal Observatory Lodge, the only hotel within the Arenal National Park. Discover pristine hiking trails and encounter a variety of wildlife including three kinds of monkeys, anteaters, coatis, and more than 500 species of birds, all while enjoying the stunning volcano views. Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that's fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. - [Norway: Western Fjords Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/norway-western-fjords-adventure/): Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that's fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. - [Costa Rica: Secluded Wildlife Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/costa-rica-adventure/): Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that's fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. - [Rwanda: Mountain Gorilla Safari](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/rwanda-gorilla-trekking-adventures/): Secure your spots with a $1,750 per person deposit. The deposit is used to secure your trekking permits and is non-refundable. The remaining balance is due 120 days before the tour departs. - [Tanzania: Great Migration Safari](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/tanzania-great-migration-safari/): Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that's fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. - [Patagonia & Mendoza Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/patagonia-mendoza-adventure/): Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that's fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. - [Alaska: Denali Discovery Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/alaska-denali-discovery-adventure/): Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that's fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. - [Alaska: Glaciers & Grizzlies Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/alaska-glaciers-grizzlies-adventure/): Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that's fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. This deposit excludes the Kenai Peninsula Borough sales tax of 3.49%, which will be added to the total tour cost on your final invoice. - [Alaska: Northern Lights Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/product/alaska-northern-lights-tour/): Secure your spots with a $500 per person deposit that's fully refundable within 30 days, provided it is still 121 or more calendar days before the first day of the tour. ## Portfolio - [Antarctica: Penguins & Polar Frontiers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/antarctica/): Journey from the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, where you’ll board your expedition vessel. Set sail from the southern tip of South America, cross the legendary Drake Passage as the ship heads towards the remote, icy waters of the Antarctica. - [Alaska: Denali Discovery Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/denali-tours-alaska-summer-vacations/): June, Aug - [<span>Rwanda:</span> Gorillas, Chimps & National Parks Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/rwanda-mountain-gorilla-safari/): Hike through the mist-covered bamboo rainforest and gaze deeply into the soulful brown eyes of endangered mountain gorillas—the largest-living primate on the planet. - [<span>Rwanda:</span> Mountain Gorilla Safari (5 Day Tour)](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/rwanda-mountain-gorilla-safari-5-day-tour/): Hike through the mist-covered bamboo rainforest and gaze deeply into the soulful brown eyes of endangered mountain gorillas—the largest-living primate on the planet. - [<span>Zimbabwe:</span>Victoria Falls Extension](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/zimbabwe-victoria-falls-extension/): This four-day extension takes you to Victoria Falls, located on the river border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Experience the beauty of one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world and enjoy activities like a game drive in Zambezi National Park, looking for wildlife like elephants, leopards, and lions. This extension blends relaxation and adventure for the perfect addition to your journeys in Africa. - [<span>Costa Rica:</span> Secluded Wildlife Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/wildlife-adventure-travel-costa-rica/): Make the most of your Costa Rica tour by adding on the extension. Learn more about the extension by downloading the brochure above. - [Norway: Western Fjords Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/small-group-guided-tours-norway/): Norway: Western Fjords Adventure{{dc:post:title}}Length\n\n9 Days\n\nDeparts\n\nJuly, Aug\n\nCapacity\n\n18\n\nAs seen in...\n\nExplore Norway’s most iconic region—from mountain passes and glaciers to picturesque fjords cut between towering mountains.\n\nBut the wonders of Western Norway extend far beyond its fjords. On this tour we’ll also explore charming coastal towns that effortlessly blend old-world charm with modern delights. Wander through colorful streets lined with wooden houses and discover the warmth and hospitality of the locals, eager to share their rich cultural heritage with us. EXPLORE Norway’s most iconic region—from mountain passes, panoramic roads and glaciers to fjords cut between tall mountains. EXPERIENCE Norway’s centuries-old coastal culture, meeting interesting locals along the way. EMBARK on an exhilarating RIB boat ride to view 7,000-year-old rock art on an exclusive guided visit to a remote archeological site. KAYAK in a dramatic fjord across calm waters. CRUISE the UNESCO-listed Geiranger Fjord by ferry, where the famous Seven Sisters Waterfalls cascade 1,350 feet into the water below. ENJOY a guided tour of the UNESCO listed Bergen Wharf, with its historic wooden warehouses. STAY in a historic hotel with incredible views that has hosted royals, authors, and dignitaries for more than a century. What Makes This An Ecotour?\n\nWhat's Included In Norway: Western Fjords Adventure\n\nEight nights at city & boutique hotels 24/7 local Norwegian guide & Gondwana trip leader Private transport with professional drivers and ferry boat captains All tours and activities as described in the itinerary  All meals except one lunch on your own Tips for activity guides Transfers to and from the airport To minimize our trip’s impact on the environment we pay to carbon neutralize the entire tour and activities, as well as guest flights to and from Norway. \n\nIf you're looking for dates & prices and the full itinerary, please download the tour brochure using the form on this page.\n\nNorway: Western Fjords Adventure Tour Map Click to Enlarge\n\n \n\nDownload the brochure for dates, prices, & the full itinerary.Other Tours\n\nArgentina: Patagonia & Mendoza Adventure\n\nAlaska: Glaciers & Grizzlies Adventure\n\nBOOK THIS TOUR NOW\n\nBOOK THIS TOUR NOW\n\nWhat an amazing company to book your adventure with. My trip was absolutely amazing and I commend this company on how eco friendly they are. The guide was so knowledgeable and caring. My group all became best of friends. If you’re looking for a tour that you can count on...this is the company you should use!\n\nJENNIFER LYLES Gondwana Adventurer\n\n\n\nSee The Tour Dates & Pricing\n\nNorway: Western Fjords Adventure Photo Gallery\n\nClick each image below to see the full image and read the captions. You may also use the arrows in the gallery viewer to move from one image to the next. The photos were taken on this tour by Gondwana staff, guides, and/or guests. Enjoy! BOOK THIS TOUR NOW\n\nBOOK THIS TOUR NOW\n\nMore Alaska Tours\n\nAlaska: Northern Lights Adventure\n\nAlaska: Glaciers & Grizzlies Adventure\n\n\n\nWestern Fjords Adventure FAQs\n\n\n\n - [<span>Argentina:</span> Patagonia & Mendoza Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/patagonia-mendoza-adventure-tours-argentina/): 10 Days - [Tanzania: Great Migration Safari](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/great-migration-serengeti-safari-tour-tanzania/): Experience the best of Tanzania on our locally crafted Safari. Our guides have strong ties to the community and join us as we mingle with the Maasai people, walk across a beautiful pasture used by both domestic and wild animals for grazing, search for endangered black rhinos, and observe the biggest concentration of elephants in the world. - [<span>Peru & Bolivia:</span> From Salt Flats to Sacred Lakes Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/peru-bolivia-from-salt-flats-to-sacred-lakes-adventure/): Journey through Peru’s highland valleys and heartlands–from the grandeur of Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest, to the tranquil shores of Lake Titicaca. Visit Taquile Island and meet the weavers who keep centuries-old traditions alive. Walk through the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a centuries-old convent that spans over 20,000 square meters. Learn more about Andean life and culture. Then, travel to Bolivia and ride the world’s highest cable car system. Explore the otherworldly rock formations of Valle de Luna. Continue to the vast expanse of the Uyuni Salt Flat, where sunsets reflect like glass. - [<span>Alaska:</span> Whales & Waterfalls Yacht Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/alaska-whales-waterfalls-yacht-adventure/): This unforgettable small-group yacht adventure navigates where most other vessels cannot, bringing you through restricted areas like the Endicott Arm, Fords Terror, and Windham Bay Wilderness Area for an up-close experience with Alaska’s pristine wilderness and diverse wildlife. Visit Admiralty Island National Monument, home to one of the world's highest concentrations of brown bears. Cruise through Glacier Bay National Park and spot puffins, sea lions, guillemots and gulls in this wildlife haven. Spot majestic humpback whales coasting through Frederick Sound and the lcy Strait, kayak through remote bays, and see the awe-inspiring Dawes Glacier.  - [Alaska: Glaciers & Grizzlies Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/kenai-brooks-falls-grizzly-bear-tours-alaska/): Alaska: Glaciers & Grizzlies{{dc:post:title}}Length\n\n9 Days\n\nDeparts\n\nJune-Aug\n\nCapacity\n\n16\n\nAs seen in...\n\nGlaciers & Grizzlies Adventure featuring Brooks Falls\n\nLearn more about this incredible summer tour to Seward, Homer, Kenai Fjords National Park and Katmai National Park. Don’t miss this quintessential Alaskan summer bear tour, full of unforgettable wildlife viewing and incredible scenery. One day of exclusive fly-in bear viewing. When the salmon are running we may fly to the famous Brooks Falls to witness the world's largest brown bears fishing atop waterfalls. Other off-the-beaten-path, but equally spectacular locations include Hallo Bay, Chinitna Bay, Moraine Creek, and Silver Salmon. The exact destination depends on which location has the best bear viewing potential and the clearest weather that day. Regardless of where we go, the bear viewing locations are all amazing. Search for moose, whales, sea otters, puffins, orcas, eagles, sea lions and more throughout the Kenai Peninsula. Our small-group, Alaskan guided tour includes time in Seward, Katmai National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park and a night in Anchorage. We can accommodate nearly all ages and fitness levels. Cruise, hike, kayak, drive and fly through some of the most dramatic landscapes on earth. What Makes This An Ecotour?\n\nWhat's Included on the Glaciers & Grizzlies Adventure?\n\nEight nights of premium hotel accommodations A chartered flight to visit bears in the best locations possible in Katmai or Lake Clark National Parks A helicopter ride to glacier where you'll meet Alaskan mushers, and strap in for a thrilling dog sled ride with brilliant views All your transportation in Anchorage, Homer, Seward, and the Kenai Peninsula Your Local Guides All tours and activities (bear viewing with park rangers, a boat tour and kayaking in Kenai Fjords Nat'l Park, hiking tours, a tour of Exit Glacier, plus more...) All meals listed as included in the itinerary Gondwana Ecotours carbon neutralizes the footprint for each guest on this tour to minimize our collective impact on the environment \n\nIf you're looking for tour dates, prices, and the full itinerary, please download the tour brochure using the form on this page.\n\nAlaska Summer Tour Map Click to Enlarge\n\n \n\nDownload the brochure for tour dates, prices, and the full itinerary.Other Tours\n\nAlaska: Northern Lights Adventure\n\nArgentina: Patagonia & Mendoza\n\nBOOK THIS TOUR NOW\n\nBOOK THIS TOUR NOW\n\nIf you are on the fence about booking a tour with Gondwana, let this be your sign to DO IT! My family and I had the pleasure of experiencing the Glaciers and Grizzlies tour in Alaska in July. I was a bit skeptical about the “tour experience” since I enjoy planning my own trips, but I cannot recommend Gondwana Ecotours highly enough! They are committed to excellence and local connection. I felt less like a tourist and more like a welcomed guest in Alaska with incredible tours from small companies, outstanding food from restaurants and local vendors, and amazing staff throughout. This is an adventurous tour with fantastic experiences. You will not be disappointed!\n\nNICOLE B. Gondwana Adventurer\n\n\n\nSee The Tour Dates & Pricing\n\nAlaska: Glaciers & Grizzlies Adventure Photo Gallery\n\nClick each image below to see the full image and read the captions. You may also use the arrows in the gallery viewer to move from one image to the next. The photos were taken on this tour by Gondwana staff, guides, and/or guests. Enjoy! BOOK THIS TOUR NOW\n\nBOOK THIS TOUR NOW\n\n\n\nGlaciers & Grizzlies Adventure FAQs\n\nOther Tours\n\nAlaska: Northern Lights Adventure\n\nArgentina: Patagonia & Mendoza\n\n\n\n - [Alaska: Northern Lights Adventure](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/northern-lights-tour-fairbanks-alaska/): Alaska: Northern Lights{{dc:post:title}}Length\n\n 8 Days \n\nDeparts\n\n Sep-Apr \n\nCapacity\n\n 14-18 \n\nAs Seen In...\n\nAurora Watching, Dog Sledding, Reindeer, Hot Springs and More!\n\nJoin us for the greatest light show on earth on our Northern Lights Adventure in Alaska! Get a dose of local culture by day, and by night look for and photograph the Aurora Borealis. Our aurora guide provides the necessary wake up calls when the northern lights appear and helps you capture the perfect photo. Learn what life's really like in the interior of Alaska over a meal with local homesteaders, a walk with reindeer, and dogsledding with mushers. Try the sport of curling and relax in outdoor hot springs. Over the past three seasons, 99% of our guests have witnessed the Northern Lights during our Alaska: Northern Lights Adventure. While we cannot guarantee the appearance of this natural phenomenon on any specific departure, the likelihood of experiencing this breathtaking spectacle is exceptionally high. What Makes This An Ecotour?\n\nWhat's Included On this Northern Lights Tour:\n\n Six Nights of Cozy Accommodations Outside Fairbanks & One Night in Fairbanks Wake-up Service when the Aurora is Active Three Expert guides, Two for Activities and One for Aurora Entry into Chena Hot Springs A Dog-Sledding experience Entry into the Museum of the North Entry into Running Reindeer Ranch Curling Lesson from Local Players Home-cooked breakfasts every morning at the lodge Safe and Comfortable Van or Minibus Transportation in Alaska \n\nIf you're looking for departure dates, prices, and the full itinerary, please download the tour brochure using the form on this page.\n\nAlaska Northern Lights Tour Map Click to Enlarge\n\n \n\nDownload the brochure for tour dates, prices, and the full itinerary.More Alaska Tours\n\nAlaska: Glaciers & Grizzlies Adventure\n\nAlaska: Denali Discovery Adventure\n\nBOOK THIS TOUR NOW\n\nBOOK THIS TOUR NOW\n\nOne month ago my husband, 2 teenage boys and I had the privilege of travelling with Gondwana Ecotours around Fairbanks, Alaska. This was no ordinary holiday – it was an experience that made me laugh and cry with joy, be in awe of Alaska’s beauty in the depths of winter, and connect with fellow travellers and guides who started as strangers but became friends in such a short period of time. Every detail of every day and night was perfect. Thanks to perfect weather, we saw extraordinary Aurora on multiple evenings... The daily activities were diverse, informative and so much fun...Thank you for looking after us so well! One week after we returned home, we booked our second tour with Gondwana to see Alaska this summer.\n\nLOUISE T. Gondwana Adventurer\n\n\n\nSee The Tour Dates & Pricing\n\nAlaska: Northern Lights Photo Gallery\n\nClick each image below to see the full image and read the captions. You may also use the arrows in the gallery viewer to move from one image to the next. The photos were taken on this tour by Gondwana staff, guides, and/or guests. Enjoy! BOOK THIS TOUR NOW\n\nBOOK THIS TOUR NOW\n\nMore Alaska Tours\n\nAlaska: Glaciers & Grizzlies Adventure\n\nAlaska: Denali Discovery Adventure\n\n\n\nAlaska Northern Lights Adventure FAQs\n\n\n\n - [Arctic Circle Extension Alaska](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/alaska-arctic-circle-extension/) - [Custom Cuba Ecotours<div class="tourPlace">Cuba</div>](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/cuba-people-people-ecotour/) - [Custom Andes, Amazon & Galapagos Adventures](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/amazon-rainforest-ecotour/) - [Adventure with Polar Bear](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/polar-bear-adventure/) - [LOFOTEN ISLANDS AND WESTERN FJORDS <div class="tourPlace">Norway</div>](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/the-lofoten-islands-and-western-fjords-of-norway/) - [MACHU PICCHU, CUSCO, & THE SACRED VALLEY Peru](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/machu-picchu-tour/) - [Olympic Peninsula Trip](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/washington-state-olympic-peninsula-trip/) ## Categories - [Africa](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/africa/) - [Alaska](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/alaska/) - [Alaska - Grizzlies & Glaciers](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/alaska-grizzlies-glaciers/) - [Alaska - Whale Cruise](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/alaska-whale-cruise/) - [Amazon Rainforest](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/amazon-rainforest/) - [Antarctica](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/antarctica/) - [Argentina](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/argentina/) - [Costa Rica](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/costa-rica/) - [Cuba](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/cuba/) - [Ecuador](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/ecuador/) - [Environment](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/environment/) - [Featured](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/featured/) - [Louisiana](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/louisiana/) - [Northern Lights](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/northern-lights/) - [Norway](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/norway/) - [Peru](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/peru/) - [Press](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/press/) - [Rwanda](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/rwanda/) - [South America](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/south-america/) - [Tanzania](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/tanzania/) - [Travel](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/travel/) - [Uncategorized](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/uncategorized/) - [Wildlife](https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/travel-journal/category/wildlife/)