The essential Alaska in 9 days

Denali National Park sits at the center of Alaska, the US state located at the continent's northwestern tip, bordering Canada.
As large as 4 French départements and designated a “Biosphere Reserve” since 1976, the park offers a breathtaking diversity of landscapes: tundra, taiga, deep valleys, glaciers and peaks rising above 6,000 metres form one of the richest ecosystems in the world. Ferns, mosses, lichens, towering trees — you'll find it all here. If you have the chance to visit Alaska, this exceptional park, embodying the sheer scale of the American continent, is not to be missed.

Naturalists and wildlife enthusiasts alike come to Denali to observe wildlife typical of North America. You can see grizzlies, black bears, caribou, moose, Dall sheep, marmots, and countless bird species, including migratory ones that populate the park at different times of year. An exceptional diversity that will delight any nature lover.

Welcome to the “Golden Heart of Alaska”! Here you can experience the polar days of summer, admire the elusive northern lights illuminating the winter sky, and enjoy the remarkable outdoor activities offered by the surrounding nature, such as hot springs and miles of snow-covered tundra. 

Venture out to explore the region, or stay close to town for snowmobiling, rafting, skiing or dog sledding, Fairbanks' specialty. From breweries to must-see museums of every size, not to mention plentiful shopping, festivals and local specialties, Alaska's second city is a one-of-a-kind place well worth exploring.

Established in 1980 to protect some of Alaska's most remarkable and impenetrable wilderness, Kenai Fjords National Park spans more than 2,500 km², at the foot of Seward. Snow and ice cover 60% of its area. From the vast Harding Icefield bordering the park, countless glaciers flow down, carving valleys that fill with seawater to form fjords and icebergs the size of small houses. 

This rugged terrain is home to a wide range of plants and animals. Numerous land animals inhabit this territory, including black and brown bears, beavers, coyotes, mountain goats, river otters, moose, grey wolves and wolverines, and marine wildlife is equally diverse. The glacial waters of the fjords are home to porpoises, sea lions, seals and whales. The park is also a recognised bird habitat, with 191 species recorded to date.