Humpback Whales: The Stars of the Show
As we set out on our boat transfer to our lodge on a remote island in the park, I couldn’t wait to catch a glimpse of the park’s most iconic residents: the humpback whales. These gentle giants did not disappoint. We were lucky enough to spot a pod of humpbacks feeding in the fjords. The highlight, though, was after we arrived at the lodge. That evening, after dinner, in the late evening sunlight, I walked to the beach and observed a pod of humpbacks breaching the surface as they lunged for krill and small fish. Watching these incredible whales for two hours alone was a humbling experience, just me, the humpbacks, and the beauty of Kenai Fjords.
Coyotes: The Cunning Canines
After leaving the shoreline and the whales, I walked through the fields near the ocean and was surprised by a curious coyote that popped out of the long grass twenty feet away. With its bushy tail bobbing up and down, the animal cautiously approached closer as I took a knee to get eye-level photographs. Realizing I was alone late at night (bear in mind, this is the land of the midnight sun), I decided to scare the coyote off when it got within ten feet of where I was kneeling.
River Otters: The Playful Pioneers
Early the next morning, on a hike in the surrounding landscape I was thrilled to spot a family of playful river otters—one of the park’s most charming residents—frolicking in the water. I followed them to the shore and was rewarded by one of the otters with its breakfast in its mouth, less than ten feet away! Within minutes, two others snuck up five feet behind me and surprised me with their squeaks. Spending time in the remote wilderness with these charismatic animals was a truly special and entertaining experience.
In both cases of the coyote and river otters, it was amazing the proximity you can experience these animals when there has been little, or no, human presence and they do not have a learned response to fear people. They seemed as curious as I was.
Black Bears: The Forest Kings
Unlike other areas of Alaska, Kenai Fjords does not have brown bears, but is home to black bears. These magnificent animals frequent the area around the lodge, and we were fortunate to spot a few roaming the shores in search of food. With their shaggy coats and powerful builds, they were an awe-inspiring sight, a reminder of the beauty and power of nature.
And So Much More….
As we explored the park’s stunning landscapes, we saw many other wildlife, including countless bald eagles, puffins, and both seals and sea lions in the rocky shores of the fjords.
Kenai Fjords National Park is a wildlife wonderland, a place where the boundaries between land and sea blur and the creatures that inhabit this incredible landscape will leave you in awe. From the majestic humpback whales to the playful river otters, every moment of our safari adventure was a thrill. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, Kenai Fjords is a must-visit destination. So, pack your bags, grab your binoculars, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
