An example of aurora seen on our October 2012 Alaska land expedition. Constellations such as Sagitta, Delphinus, and Aquila are also captured here. Paul D. Maley photo.
Our lodge on a beautiful fall day looking North.
Program Itinerary:
Please note that while every effort has been made to finalize this customized itinerary, it remains subject to potential adjustments or modifications. We strive to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants, and any changes will be communicated promptly.
Upon arrival in Fairbanks, collect your luggage and meet your fellow travelers before joining your private transfer to A Taste of Alaska Lodge, where you’ll check in and settle into your Alaskan home for the stay.
This evening, enjoy Northern Lights Briefing Part 1 with Paul Maley. As the sun sets, gather in the dining room for a Welcome Dinner, then step outside later in the evening to begin your first search of the night skies for the unforgettable Aurora Borealis.
Sunset at 10:20pm
Sunrise at 5:31am
Start the day with breakfast in the lodge dining room before meeting your private drivers for a guided Fairbanks city tour, exploring highlights such as Golden Heart Park, Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline, and the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, as time and weather allow. Continue on to the Museum of the North, then return to A Taste of Alaska Lodge for a relaxed lunch.
In the afternoon, attend Northern Lights Briefing Part 2 with Paul Maley, followed by time to unwind before enjoying dinner in the dining room.
Later this evening, keep watch from the lodge as you scan the night skies for the dazzling Aurora Borealis.
Sunset 10:17pm
The Alaska Pipeline typical view as seen on the local city tour and the optional Arctic Circle tour. Joan Steiner photo.
Sunrise at 5:35am
Begin the day with breakfast in the lodge dining room before departing for a scenic transfer to Chena Hot Springs Resort, where you’ll have time to relax and enjoy this iconic Alaskan destination.
After returning to A Taste of Alaska Lodge, enjoy a leisurely lunch, followed by a visit to Running Reindeer Ranch for a memorable walk alongside these gentle animals. Later in the afternoon, return to the lodge for some downtime before attending Northern Lights Briefing Part 3 with Paul Maley.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious dinner in the dining room, then cap off the evening by watching the night skies from the lodge in search of the magical Aurora Borealis.
Sunset 10:14pm
Part of the herd at Running Reindeer Ranch
Image of hot springs at Chena Lodge
Sunrise at 5:38am
Begin the day with breakfast in the lodge dining room before enjoying a full day at leisure to rest, relax, or explore the peaceful, remote surroundings, with some guests choosing to pursue independent activities.
Lunch is included back at the lodge, followed by a presentation by Paul Maley highlighting upcoming Ring of Fire Expeditions journeys.
As evening falls, enjoy dinner in the dining room, then head outside later in the night to watch the skies for another chance to witness the stunning Aurora Borealis.
Sunset 10:09pm
Sunrise at 5:41am
Start the day with breakfast in the lodge dining room, then place your checked bags outside your room or suite in preparation for departure.
Meet your private driver outside the main lodge for your transfer to the airport. Van departures from the lodge to Fairbanks Airport depart after 10am. It usually takes about 35 minutes for the transfer if weather is good. If you have scheduled a flight earlier than 12 noon you will need to make independent arrangements for a taxi to take you to the airport.
Deposit & Registration:
1st Deposit at time of registration: $1,500 per person nonrefundable
2nd Deposit due March 31, 2026: $1,500 per person nonrefundable
Deposits are accepted by credit card only.
Final payment is due July 31, 2026. Non-refundable.
Registrations are acknowledged in order received. Direct Travel handles all invoicing. For questions about registrations or billing contact Direct Travel by phoning +1 309-834-3739 or toll free 1-866-592-0455; or by email reservations@directtravelgroups.com.
Cancellations and Refunds:
Cancellation fees are based on the date the written notice is received by Direct Travel
(notification of cancellation must be received in writing).
A full copy of our terms can be found on the eclipsetours.com website.
All funds paid for this program are considered non-refundable
Other Key Dates:
The last day to make a name change to avoid change fees is 46-days prior to arrival.
The last day to sign up for optional tours is 61-days.
The last day to join this tour is typically 61-days before departure but may be cut off earlier.
Clients should be aware that we cannot guarantee the weather for this astronomical event or any other.
Travel Insurance:
We highly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation and delay insurance (cancel for any reason is recommended) and out of country medical insurance (to include emergency evacuation) once your deposit becomes nonrefundable. If you decline travel insurance, we will require you to sign a waiver indicating you declined all insurance offered by Direct Travel.
Complete one registration form per person. You will be confirmed only after BOTH a deposit AND registration form have been received by Direct Travel.
