Ketchikan, Alaska, is a destination full of breathtaking views and rich culture, but what truly made our visit special was our private tour with Alaskan Native Tours, led by Alberta, a Tlingit elder.
We visited Alaska while on our 9 night cruise on the Disney Wonder. The cruise took us to several Alaskan ports including Ketchikan, Stikine Icecap, Juneau, Icy Straight Point, and Sitka.
Did you know that Ketchikan is one of the rainiest places in North America, with yearly rainfall measured in feet, not inches? It’s no wonder it’s nicknamed the “Rain Capital of Alaska.” Our day there was no exception—it was a very rainy day, but that didn’t slow down our exploring one bit. With rain jackets zipped up and a sense of adventure, we embraced the weather and made the most of every moment, proving that a little rain can’t dampen an incredible experience.
One of our travel goals has been to seek out and explore Native culture wherever we go. Through our journeys, we’ve been documenting these experiences in the Explore Native section on PowWows.com, where we share stories, insights, and highlights from Indigenous communities around the world.
Alaska, with its rich Native heritage, was an obvious choice for us to dive deeper into this cultural exploration. Having a local Native guide, like Alberta, made the experience even more meaningful. It wasn’t just about visiting a place; it was about connecting with the stories, traditions, and people who have called this land home for generations—a dream come true for us.
From the moment we met Alberta, her welcoming presence set the tone for a truly unique adventure. Having a guide with deep ties to the land and its history gave us a perspective we’ll always treasure.
A Closer Look at the Tour
Our journey began in downtown Ketchikan, where Alberta introduced us to the history of the area. After exploring the town, we headed into the woods, where the natural beauty of Alaska surrounded us.
Alberta showed us how Indigenous people have relied on the land for generations, from picking berries to using the forest’s resources for daily life.
Sampling fresh berries straight from the wild was not only a treat for the taste buds but also a reminder of the deep connection between the Tlingit people and the land. Alberta explained how these berries have been used for generations—not just as food, but also in traditional medicines and ceremonies—adding even more significance to the moment.
The Difference a Local Guide Makes
What stood out most was Alberta’s storytelling. She shared personal stories that connected the history and sights to her own experiences as a Tlingit elder. Her knowledge and insights gave us a deeper appreciation for the land and its cultural significance.
This wasn’t just a tour; it was an opportunity to learn directly from someone with a lifetime of connection to the area.
See the Experience for Yourself
We captured our journey on video so you can see just how special this tour was.
🎥 Watch the Video Here
If you’re visiting Alaska, we highly recommend booking a tour with Alaskan Native Tours. It’s the perfect way to experience Ketchikan’s beauty and learn about its rich cultural heritage. Visit alaskanativetour.com to plan your own adventure.
Have questions about the tour or Alaska?
Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to check out the video for more details.
