Ketchikan’s top tours showcase the essentials: totem poles, wildlife, and native culture.
Having explored these options extensively, I can recommend several standouts. The Private Ketchikan City Totems & Wildlife Van Tour excels at wildlife spotting – you’ll often see black bears and eagles up close.
For value and variety, the 2.5-Hour Potlatch Park Tour combines cultural sites with excellent wildlife viewing spots.
Those seeking a more social experience will appreciate the City Saxman Wildlife and Waterfall Van Tour, which maintains small groups without sacrificing quality.
The Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour is perfect for those with limited mobility but who still want to experience Saxman Native Village thoroughly.
Let’s look at our favorite Ketchikan tours in detail.
Good To Know
- The Private Ketchikan City Totems & Wildlife Van Tour offers an intimate experience with local experts, showcasing Ketchikan’s nature and cultural highlights.
- The Private 2.5 Hour Potlatch Park, City & Wildlife Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Ketchikan’s key attractions, including Potlatch Park and local wildlife.
- The City Saxman Wildlife and Waterfall Van Tour, operated by Average Alaskan Tours, offers a small-group experience with a focus on Ketchikan’s natural wonders.
- The Ketchikan: Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour combines sightseeing of Saxman Native Village, Herring Cove, and the city in a San Francisco-style trolley.
- The tours vary in duration, group size, and accessibility, allowing visitors to choose the option that best suits their interests and needs.
Private Ketchikan City Totems & Wildlife Van Tour
When visiting Ketchikan, the Private Ketchikan City Totems & Wildlife Van Tour is an excellent way to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage and abundant natural wonders. Priced at $450 for up to 6 people, this private tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
You’ll be picked up from the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and embark on a journey to discover the city’s iconic totem poles and diverse wildlife.
Throughout the tour, you’ll be guided by knowledgeable and friendly local experts, Art and Rick, who’ll share their deep understanding of Ketchikan’s history and ecology.
Highlights include sightings of black bears, bald eagles, and stunning totem poles, as well as opportunities to hike, explore local flora, and learn about the region’s cultural stories.
The tour is accessible, with infant seats and accommodations for small collapsible wheelchairs, and gratuities are included.
With consistently positive reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this tour promises an unforgettable Ketchikan experience.
Read our full review: Private Ketchikan City Totems & Wildlife Van Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private 2.5 Hour Potlatch Park, City & Wildlife Tour
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Ketchikan’s rich heritage and abundant wildlife, the Private 2.5 Hour Potlatch Park, City & Wildlife Tour offers an engaging experience.
Operated by Northern Tours LLC, this private tour takes you on a 2.5-hour journey through Potlatch Park, the city, and the surrounding wildlife. With a focus on taxes and park fees included, as well as gratuities, the tour makes for a hassle-free excursion.
The tour departs from the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, where you’ll check in 20 minutes prior to the scheduled departure. Pickup options are available for those staying on Ward Cove NCL ships, either in the early morning or later in the day.
The tour ends back at the meeting point, and you’ll receive confirmation upon booking.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and infants can sit on laps. Most travelers can participate, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience.
Read our full review: Private 2.5 Hour Potlatch Park, City & Wildlife Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
City Saxman Wildlife and Waterfall Van Tour
The City Saxman Wildlife and Waterfall Van Tour, operated by Average Alaskan Tours in Ketchikan, USA, offers a maximum of 13 travelers an immersive exploration of the area’s natural wonders.
Beginning at the Ketchikan Cruise Ship Docks, the tour whisks you away in a high-top blue transit van marked with Average Alaskan Tours, where you’ll have the opportunity to request a pickup or select a designated meeting point.
Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy snacks and water, with all fees and taxes included in the tour.
While the van isn’t wheelchair accessible, it can accommodate strollers and service animals, and infants can sit on laps.
The tour offers a personalized experience, with a knowledgeable guide sharing insights on the local area and culture.
Past travelers have highlighted the small group advantages, praising the overall tour experience.
With a 5.0 rating from one review, this City Saxman Wildlife and Waterfall Van Tour promises an engaging and memorable exploration of Ketchikan’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: City Saxman Wildlife and Waterfall Van Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Ketchikan: Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour
Take a journey through Ketchikan’s storied past and vibrant present on the Ketchikan: Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour.
For $85 per person, you’ll embark on a 2.25-hour guided tour in an authentic San Francisco-style trolley. Explore Saxman Native Village, home to the world’s largest collection of 29 hand-carved totem poles, and watch master carvers at work in the carving shed.
Then, head to Herring Cove for wildlife viewing, where you may spot eagles, bears, and seals during salmon spawning season.
While the overall tour rating is 4.1/5, reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide but express some disappointment with the Saxman village experience and perceived value for money.
Keep in mind that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility scooters, and certain items, like high-heeled shoes and oversized luggage, are prohibited.
Remember to dress warmly and bring your camera to capture the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Ketchikan.
Read our full review: Ketchikan: Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Ketchikan offers a variety of city tours showcasing its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you prefer a private van tour, a trolley tour, or a combination of activities, you’ll find an option that suits your interests and schedule. With knowledgeable guides, you’ll get an in-depth look at Ketchikan’s top attractions, from totem poles to wildlife. Choose the tour that best fits your needs and enjoy your time in this vibrant Alaskan city.