A wild land
Alaska with its extraordinary landscapes, is a great destination for all nature lovers. The 49th state of the United States is also the largest. Located in northwestern part of Canada, Alaska is bordered by the Arctic Ocean to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south. This state, the northernmost in the country, is characterized by its large areas with few inhabitants and its polar climate. Alaska is covered by tundra and vast forests. 7 national parks are found on this territory, hosting a fauna and flora typical of cold countries. The country has hundreds of lakes, volcanoes and mountain ranges. The highest peak is Mount Denali, which rises to 6190 meters above sea level. Originally inhabited by Denbigh people, from 3000 years to 1000 years before Christ, Alaska was home to various tribes. Later on, the population mixed with the arrival of Russian trappers in 1784, setting up camps and trading posts. This Russian past is still visible in some cities, with the presence of Orthodox churches. American merchants and missionaries arrived afterwards. In 1867, Alaska was bought from the Russians by the United States. At the end of the 19th century, a real gold fever attracted adventurers, before the fishing, canning and oil exploitation businesses developed. The population is now diversified, with a majority of whites but also Amerindians, mixed race or Asians.
Typical ports
The Alaskan coast is very extensive, rugged and steep. It is accessible by large ships only in some ports. Indeed, many islands or glaciers make it difficult to navigate. However, the landscapes are sublime with impressive fjords and many animal species, from whales to penguins. On land, it is not uncommon during an expedition to encounter moose, caribou, foxes or, fortunately, more rarely, bears and wolves! The capital of Alaska is Juneau, accessible by sea through the inland passage. This city, both traditional and modern, is an ideal tourist destination. You can go shopping and visit art galleries and museums, or go hiking in the state's largest temperate rainforest. You can admire impressive glaciers in a kayak and follow the path of the gold diggers more than 100 years ago. In southern Alaska there is the port of Ketchikan. This ancient city is worth visiting for its typical atmosphere, with its colorful houses on stilts or its many tribal totems. Activities are centered around nature, from a forest expedition to salmon fishing. Located in the southeast of the Alaskan peninsula, Anchorage is the largest city in the country and a popular tourist port. The climate is quite mild, compared to the rest of the state. The cultural life is notable, with a symphony orchestra and several museums such as the Anchorage Museum of History and the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Despite its important infrastructure, nature is never far away, with many green spaces and animals living near the city. Another popular port, Skagway offers a unique experience, the opportunity to discover a small town close to the setting of an American western. You feel like you're going back in time or landing in a movie set! During your trip, you can visit some of the many islands in the state. The Aleutian archipelago, which forms a semi-circle, includes 300 volcanic islands and extends over hundreds of kilometres.
A journey with a taste for adventure
Alaska's climate is polar and it is necessary to be well equipped before leaving. Winter is long and icy but allows you to admire glaciers and amazing snow-covered landscapes. For your trip, it is better to leave in the spring when the ground thaws and gives access to numerous lakes, or during the brief summer. The most suitable months for a cruise are between May and September, so that you do not experience the worst of the winter polar climate at -86°F. If you want to find a relatively mild climate, Anchorage is the best place to go. With its southern location and subarctic climate, temperatures average 59 to 77°F in summer. The port of Haynes is also ideal, as it benefits from the strongest sunshine in the south. You can admire snow-covered mountains and a wild natural landscape in a fairly pleasant climate. As in many Alaskan communities, crafts are rich, with traditional objects from the know-how of Eskimos and Indians. You can buy ivory carvings, wooden totems and hand-knitted fabrics made from beef wool. In the city, local bars provide a friendly atmosphere, while restaurants serve consistent food, which can boost your energy before your next adventurous expedition into the wilderness!