Kodiak Expedition
Trip Highlights
Explore the true wilderness of Alaska by land and sea in search of whales, puffins, sea otters, eagles, foxes, and the largest brown bears on Earth.
Discover the rugged coastline of Kodiak Island from the comfort of a charter boat that gets you close to the wildlife (think breaching whales and fishing bears) for optimal viewing and photographic opportunities.
Embark on two full-day, land-based tours to Kodiak’s beaches, mountains, parks, and wildlife hotspots.
Enjoy a small group size of 4-6 participants, allowing for a personalized and intimate experience with like-minded women who share your passion for wildlife and adventure.
Experience the magic of a dark sky, with the chance to witness the dancing aurora borealis.
Locations:
Kodiak, Alaska
Dates:
September 6 – 10, 2026
Limit:
4 – 6
Trip Details
Talk about a trip of a lifetime! This unforgettable five-day wildlife tour places you at the heart of what we call the “real Alaska”—Kodiak. Get ready to explore pristine rivers and rugged coastlines in search of whales, puffins, otters, eagles, and, of course, the legendary Kodiak bears. With postcard-worthy scenery at every turn, you’ll be fully immersed in the wild beauty of this untouched corner of the world.
Alongside expert guide Sheridan Samano and a small group of like-minded, wildlife-loving women, you’ll explore Kodiak Island by sea and by land. Your full-day marine excursion may offer sightings of breaching humpback whales, colorful puffins, and charismatic sea otters. You’ll spend two full days exploring Kodiak’s coastline by road and on foot. And if the night skies are clear, you may even witness a stunning display of northern lights.
This experience is unlike any other, offering awe-inspiring moments that will stay with you long after the journey ends. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, this trip is the perfect opportunity to see the “real Alaska” and to share the adventure with other women who share your passion for wildlife and exploration.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival to Kodiak, Alaska
After arriving to Kodiak this afternoon, you’ll settle into your cozy lodging. Kodiak’s downtown area and harbor are just a short stroll away, offering the perfect opportunity to wander and catch glimpses of bald eagles, sea otters, and sea lions— your new wild neighbors! Later, we’ll gather for a warm and welcoming group dinner, where we’ll enjoy some delicious local fare and craft brews as we toast to new adventures. Every night, we’ll monitor the aurora forecast, hoping for clear skies to catch a glimpse of the northern lights.
Accommodations: Best Western Kodiak Inn
Meals: Dinner
Day 2 – A Whale of a Time on the Water
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll gather our gear and head out for an exciting day on the water. We’ll meet our captain at the harbor and board our comfortable, custom-built boat designed for smooth sailing and great views. With plenty of deck space and a spacious cabin, you’ll have unobstructed views from anywhere on the boat— perfect for wildlife observation and photography. Our day-long cruise takes us on a scenic route, where we’ll be on the lookout for whales, sea otters, sea lions, puffins, and with any luck, world-famous Kodiak bears along the shoreline. Boxed lunches, snacks, and beverages will be provided to keep everyone energized.
After a full day on the water, we’ll return to our lodging to rest and regroup. We’ll check the aurora forecast and keep our fingers crossed for northern lights!
Accommodations: Best Western Kodiak Inn
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Days 3 & 4 – Exploring by Van and on Foot
We have two fulls days to explore Kodiak’s road system by van and on foot with nature walks interspersed throughout. We’ll be on the lookout for an array of species from fox to weasels and eagles to fishing bears. We could stumble upon anything around any corner. Spectacular views abound. Each evening, we’ll continue to watch for aurora activity, and our last night together will include a farewell dinner.
Accommodations: Best Western Kodiak Inn
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch (Day 3); Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Day 4)
Day 5 – It's Not Goodbye but See You Later
Yes, it’s our final day in Alaska. Before our afternoon flights home, we’ll head out one last time to (hopefully) spot some bears, check the harbor for sea lions, and search for some of the other wild goodies we’ve come to know and love on this island. It’s not goodbye, but rather see you later.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Your Guide
Sheridan Samano
Sheridan Samano is a wildlife enthusiast, guide, and co-founder of Her Wild Life Expeditions. Her passion for animals began as a child, flipping through National Geographic magazines, and has only grown since then. Sheridan holds a bachelor’s degree in wildlife and fisheries science and a master’s in biology. Her guiding journey began when she launched a study abroad program focused on sea turtle conservation in Costa Rica. In the field, Sheridan’s ability to spot a break in the pattern and quickly adapt leads to plenty of “wows” from the guests in her groups. When she’s not traveling, you’ll find her along a trail in Colorado with her family, searching for something feathered or furred, or enjoying a local craft beer after a day in the field. Her favorite animal? The cheetah.
The gallery below includes photos by Michelle Puplava from our 2025 expedition.
What to Expect
Every Her Wild Life expedition is designed to offer full, active days for women traveling together seeking authentic, immersive wildlife experiences. This often means being active when wildlife is most active. Our trips are carefully planned to put you in the right place at the right time, while acknowledging that unforgettable wildlife encounters require both a bit of luck and the expertise of your guide team.
This Alaska expedition involves:
- Marine wildlife cruise along the coast of Kodiak Island, an 8-hour tour averaging 50 miles roundtrip. The vessel is a custom-built catamaran designed as a day charter boat. It’s stable, fast, and quiet, and includes a bathroom with electric toilet.
- Touring the island’s road system by van and on foot. Two days of full-day excursions with picnic lunches in the field.
- Hikes for up to 3 hours at a time over beautiful, though occasionally rough, terrain.
- Variable weather conditions in the Alaskan wilderness. Expect both sunny and rainy days, with temperatures ranging from mid-30s to lower 50s.
- Early morning activities on most days, starting by 7 a.m.
- Be prepared for these conditions: Pack your sense of adventure, wonder, flexibility, and humor!
Accommodations
- 4 nights at Best Western Kodiak Inn
What's Included
- Lodging for 4 nights as listed. A private room is included in the trip cost.
- Expert guide Sheridan Samano.
- Meals as listed.
- Airport transfers via hotel shuttle on arrival and departure days.
- 3 days of private transport, including snacks and refreshments in the vehicle.
- Activities as listed.
What's Not Included
- Airfare to and from your departure city and Kodiak
- Travel insurance (quotes available)
- Alcohol
- Optional activities
- Pre- or post-trip hotels
- Room upgrades
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Cost
- $3965 per person based on private, single occupancy accommodations.
Conservation Impact
The Kodiak Brown Bear Trust’s mission is to support conservation of Kodiak brown bears and protection of their wilderness habitats throughout the Kodiak Archipelago. A conservation donation to support Kodiak Brown Bear Trust’s efforts will be made on behalf of all participants.