Denali National Park | Credit: Alaska Railroad / Stewart Sterling
Peace of Mind
Freedom of Choice
Back
Denali & Talkeetna Pre-Cruise Adventure
Thumbnails
Denali National Park | Credit: Alaska Railroad / Stewart Sterling
Denali National Park | Credit: State of Alaska / Michael DeYoung
Alaska Railroad | Credit: Glenn Aronwits
Denali | Credit: Travel Alaska / Matt Hage
Anchorage | Credit: Frank Flavin
GoldStar Service Outdoor Platform | Credit: Glenn Aronwits
Alaska

Denali & Talkeetna Pre-Cruise Adventure (Tour code: 15225)

Starts and Ends
Anchorage to
Seward or Whittier
Travel Periods
18 May 26 - 12 Sep 26
Experience
Travel Style
Rail Holiday Packages
Adventure through Alaska’s majestic mountains, pristine parks, and iconic wildlife on an unforgettable rail journey.

Highlights

Enjoy premium rail travel on Alaska Railroad’s GoldStar Service, journeying from Anchorage to Talkeetna and Denali while soaking up uninterrupted views of rugged peaks, river valleys and untamed wilderness

Immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Denali National Park, with spectacular scenery and opportunities to spot iconic Alaskan wildlife

Freedom of choice on days 2 and 5, with wildlife tours, flightseeing, hiking, gold panning, or Jeep and Tundra excursions

Talkeetna charm and Denali views, from historic main streets to the gateway of North America’s highest peak

Entire Bonus

This holiday package is carefully designed by our team to give you complete Peace of Mind, with access to trusted local partners and expert support at your destination.

6 days
From
AUD 4,752
per person, twin share
Travelling with kids? Read more 
All services are subject to availability.

Book Now

Only $100pp deposit to Book Now

Visit our Agent Portal for more info.

Make an enquiry

Overview

This immersive Alaskan journey takes you through the heart of the state before your cruise begins. Travel aboard the iconic Alaska Railroad, explore the rugged landscapes of Denali National Park, and enjoy the charm of Talkeetna and Anchorage. With guided tours, wildlife viewing, and scenic rail experiences, this package offers the perfect blend of adventure and comfort in Alaska’s stunning interior.

Peace of mind booking plan
  1. ENTIRE Cooling-Off Period
  2. ENTIRE AUD Prices
  3. ENTIRE Change of Mind
  4. ENTIRE Industry Accredited
  5. ENTIRE On Ground Support
  6. ENTIRE Australian Owned

Inclusions

Alaska Railroad GoldStar from Anchorage to Talkeetna
Alaska Railroad GoldStar from Talkeetna to Denali
2 nights in Anchorage at Hilton Anchorage Hotel
1 night in Talkeetna at Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge
2 nights in Denali Park Entrance at Denali Cabins
Rail station transfers in Talkeetna and Denali
Coach transfer from Denali to Seward or Whittier
Meals as per itinerary
Freedom of Choice Days
Freedom of Choice

Our Freedom of Choice program offers flexibility, by allowing you to choose from different options on pre-selected days.

Our per person price includes one tour on each Freedom of Choice day, as follows:

  • One "Freedom of Choice" tour on day 2
  • One "Freedom of Choice" tour on day 5

Expand the itinerary below for more details.

Please note, if more than one room is selected during the booking process, our team will contact you afterwards to discuss options.

Rail Onboard Alaska Railroad - GoldStar Service

The Alaska Railroad’s premium class of service offers passengers an exceptional way to travel across Alaska. Glass-dome ceilings allow for panoramic views as Alaska unfolds along the tracks, and an outdoor, upper-level viewing platform - the only one of its kind in the world - offers fresh air and an excellent vantage point for photos.

Onboard Alaska Railroad - GoldStar Service
GoldStar Service | Credit: Alaska Railroad / Glenn Aronwits

Day 1 Anchorage

Upon arrival in Anchorage, transfer to your hotel at your own expense. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the sights.

Overnight in Anchorage at the Hilton Anchorage Hotel

Anchorage
Anchorage | Credit: Visit Anchorage / JodyO.Photos

Day 2 Anchorage

Today you can personalise your day by choosing one of these excursions.

Overnight in Anchorage at the Hilton Anchorage Hotel


Freedom of Choice Options

  • Turnagain Arm Wildlife Tour with Alyeska Tram:

    This full-day tour from Anchorage includes an aerial tram ride up Mt. Alyeska, fresh lunch in Girdwood and tour of the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre home to moose, brown and black bears, wolves, bald eagles, musk oxen, and reindeer, giving guests an opportunity to view each species up close.

OR

  • Hatcher Pass Hike and History Tour:

    This half-day afternoon excursion from Anchorage includes a local guide, a tour of Independence Mine State Historical Park, gold panning, and an interpretive hike along the Mill Loop Trail (an easy 0.9-mile trail with 177 feet of elevation gain). Travel along the Knik Arm, ascend into the Talkeetna Mountains, and take in the breathtaking alpine scenery of Hatcher Pass.

OR

  • Anchorage Flightseeing Safari:

    View Alaska’s largest city from above! On this 30-minute introductory flight, you’ll launch from Lake Hood and fly to some of the most scenic sites in the area. Options include the stunning backdrop of Anchorage, the Chugach Mountain Range, Turnagain Arm or the Cook Inlet – all with great opportunities to spot wildlife from the air. Please note that wheeled planes may be used early and late season.

OR

  • Sunset Photo Safari:

    Chase the best light of the day, which during summer in Alaska can last for several glorious hours before sunset. You’ll be transported to scenic locations around Anchorage and Chugach State Park to shoot a variety of enchanting subjects. The itinerary is flexible and allows for spontaneous stops to photograph wildlife en route. Along the way, you’ll be offered creative and technical support from your Alaska Photo Treks guide.

OR

  • Anchorage Scenic City Tour:

    Embark on a historical tour starting in downtown Anchorage, where you’ll explore the origins of the city at Ship Creek. Witness Chinook salmon in the world’s only urban King salmon fishery. Discover Dena’ina heritage, visit Earthquake Park, and experience the world’s busiest seaplane base at Lake Hood. Conclude with panoramic views from Anchorage’s Hillside, where wildlife sightings, including moose and eagles, are possible.

OR

  • Anchorage Walking Tour - Downtown Food & History:

    Stroll downtown Anchorage on a three-hour guided food and history adventure. Sample regional specialties—fresh seafood, gourmet reindeer sausage, handmade desserts—while hearing fascinating tales of Alaska’s past from engaging local guides. Perfect for foodies and culture lovers alike.

Anchorage
Alyeska Tram | Credit: Juno Kim

Day 3 Alaska Railroad: Anchorage Talkeetna

Depart early on the Denali Star Train by Goldstar Railcar to Talkeetna, best known as base camp for climbers attempting Mount Denali and for the stunning views of this famous mountain. This afternoon is at leisure to take a stroll down the main street for river views, local brews and great eats. (Breakfast is included onboard the train today)

Overnight in Talkeetna at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge

Breakfast
Alaska Railroad: Anchorage → Talkeetna
GoldStar Service | Credit: Alaska Railroad | Michelle Park

Day 4 Alaska Railroad: Talkeetna Denali National Park Entrance

This morning, take the Denali Star, Alaska Railroad’s flagship train, in the Goldstar Railcar to Denali National Park. The afternoon is open for optional activities such as whitewater rafting down the Nenana River, helicopter flightseeing over the park, landing on a glacier or hiking. (Lunch is included onboard the train today)

Overnight in Denali at the Denali Cabins

Lunch
Alaska Railroad: Talkeetna → Denali National Park Entrance
Denali National Park | Credit: Travel Alaska / Michael DeYoung

Day 5 Denali

Today you can personalise your day by choosing one of these excursions.

Overnight in Denali at the Denali Cabins


Freedom of Choice Options

  • Denali Highway Jeep Excursion:

    Ranked #2 in Drives of a Lifetime by National Geographic Traveler magazine, experience the natural wonders of Alaska’s Denali Highway — this time by Jeep! This 4-hour guided excursion travels along a 135 mi (217 km) gravel road & takes you off the beaten path in a 4 x 4 to enjoy scenic views of Denali, the Alaska Range, glaciers and wildlife.

OR

  • Tundra Wilderness Tour:

    This half-day coach tour offers incredible scenery, a narrated history of the park road and opportunities to view the park’s wildlife inhabitants. Picturesque highlights include the craggy cliffside of Cathedral Mountain, wildlife-rich Sable Pass and braided wash of the East Fork River in Denali National Park.

Denali
Denali Mountain | Credit: State of Alaska / Michael DeYoung

Day 6 Denali Whittier or Seward Cruise Terminal

Early this morning, depart Denali aboard a comfortable motorcoach. The driver will provide narration as you travel on the nationally recognised Parks Highway through Alaska’s spectacular scenery and small historic towns. You will have a layover of approximately 90 minutes in Anchorage so that you can purchase lunch. Continue on to Seward or Whittier along scenic Cook Inlet and Turnagain Arm, offering diversity of scenic landscapes and unique natural features all concentrated in one area. Arrive in Whittier or at Seward’s cruise dock in the afternoon and embark on your ship.

Accommodation

Hilton Anchorage Hotel

Anchorage
Located in the heart of downtown, within three blocks of the Egan and Dena'ina convention centres, 5th Avenue Mall, and the Alaska Centre for the Performing Arts. The hotel lobby features an extensive collection of Alaskan art. Visit the fitness centre and relax in the indoor pool and steam room. Enjoy American favourites and local specialties, such as wild Alaskan salmon caponata and seared Alaskan halibut in the restaurant. 

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge

Talkeetna
Set on a ridge just above the town of  Talkeetna, the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge offers majestic views of the tallest peak in North America. It’s the best of Alaska, outside and in. Outside, we’re at the doorstep for high-energy outdoor adventures in Denali and beyond. Inside, there’s a crackling fire in a giant river rock fireplace, and a carefully-curated selection of Native art in the boutique. Award-winning cuisine, the best wine selection in the area, friendly service—and a great night’s sleep! All rooms feature a full private bath, hair dryer, coffee maker, refrigerator, satellite television, telephone, and wireless internet. Photo credit: Pursuit / Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge

Denali Cabins

Denali National Park
Cabins are a classic tradition in Alaska. Here at the Denali Cabins, you'll experience the magic. The Denali Cabins are made up of 46 individual cedar cabins that are comfortably heated and appointed with private baths and blackout curtains for a peaceful night's sleep. All cabins come well-appointed with Wi-Fi, telephones, televisions, and private baths. The quiet location outside the National Park entrance grants peaceful solitude. Outdoor hot tubs are the perfect way to relax after a day enjoying the ample activities and adventures waiting on your doorstep.

Additional information

Official language
English
Local currency
USD

Excluded

  • International airfares and taxes
  • Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
  • Visa expenses, processing and issuance fees
  • Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
  • Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.)
  • Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, hotel, restaurant or boat staff, etc.
  • Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package
  • Gratuities, optional excursions, and transfers 

FAQs

Who are Entire Travel Group?

Welcome to Entire Travel Group. We offer exceptional travel experiences across our extensive range of Entire Holiday Packages, Entire Group Journeys, Entire Rail Journeys, and Entire Cruise Journeys. With our industry-leading Peace of Mind Booking Plan, you can Book Now with flexibility and confidence.

Entire Travel Group is celebrating over 50 years of passionately delivering unique and memorable travel experiences. We are an Australian, family-owned, award-winning business with a friendly team ready to match your expectations to the perfect holiday experience.

Entire Travel Group used to be known by the individual brands shown in the footer of the website. The company has not changed, but we have amalgamated under one brand - Entire Travel Group.

For more details please visit - About Us | Entire Travel Group

Is Entire Travel Group Australian owned and operated?

Entire Travel Group is proudly Australian family owned and operated and as it stands today represents 50 years of experience, progress, and evolution. We proudly support the community with our long-term commitment to many important charity organisations. We were awarded the best operator in our class at the most recent National Travel Industry Awards.

Is Entire Travel Group industry accredited?

Entire Travel Group is both ATIA and CATO Accredited. The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) is the trade association representing the land supply sector of the Australian Travel Industry.

Does Entire Travel Group have industry awards?

Entire Travel Group was honoured at the 2023 National Travel Industry Awards with Most Oustanding Wholesaler - Product / Service.

As our team works tirelessly to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, it was exciting to have this acknowledged with the highest recognition. The award is also a testament to the quality of our partners around the globe, and we take this opportunity to thank them for their tremendous support of our customers.

Are the Entire Travel Group holiday packages exclusive?

In some cases, we are the sole representative in Australia for the overseas travel operator. In other circumstances the product developed has been exclusively built for Entire Travel Group and can’t be found elsewhere.

What’s unique about Entire Travel Group Holiday Packages?

  • They are not group tours with set departures - they are pre-designed, purpose built, independent holiday packages full of unique and memorable experiences.
  • Our holiday packages have been exclusively built for us in collaboration with our handpicked suppliers, who also offer full on-ground support for the clients.
  • We are offering unique travel experiences which cannot be found elsewhere.
  • Many packages include our “Freedom of Choice” options which allow you to tailor the holiday experience. Like a sommelier matching wine to a meal, we have used our experience to carefully select and offer the right experiences in each location.
  • They include our Peace of Mind Booking Plan.
  • A wide selection of our packages are compliant with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Covid Safe Travels.

Our motto for Independent Holiday Packages is start your holiday when and with who you want!

Our Independent Holiday Packages are NOT group tours with set departure dates. Group Tours have specific set departure dates, and of course, you are travelling with unknown passengers in a coach. These tours are great for certain travellers and there are many reputable tour operators providing a wide range of options around the world.

At Entire Travel Group, our focus is Independent Holiday Packages. Available daily, they are pre-designed, purpose built, packaged itineraries full of memorable experiences delivered by our hand-picked local partners.

Our holidays suit every demographic, from couples to singles, to retirees to families and everyone else in between.

Why travel with Entire Travel Group?

Of Entire Travel Group's attributes, we have settled on "When Experience Matters" as the quality we believe adds the most value to our customers. We have the experience to ensure your itinerary makes the dream holiday possible. Our continually enhanced technology allows our team to provide a quality customer service experience, and our partnerships with outstanding operators ensure we are confident of the on-ground experience for our customers.

For more details please visit - About Us | Entire Travel Group

How does the Peace of Mind Booking Plan work?

Our Peace of Mind Booking Plan allows you to book with confidence in the new international travel environment. With low deposits, a cooling off period and a flexibility period where you can cancel and rebook later, we really do have you covered.

For more details please visit - Peace of Mind Booking Plan | Entire Travel Group

Is there a cooling-off period?

Look for packages with our Peace of Mind Booking Plan logo on the website.

  • We understand that occasionally plans may change, so we give you the confidence to proceed with a cooling off period.
  • You may cancel for any reason within 7 days, where you will receive a 100% refund of your $100 per person deposit.

For more details please visit - Peace of Mind Booking Plan | Entire Travel Group

What is Freedom of Choice?

At Entire Travel Group we understand that our customers have their own personal tastes and interests - so throughout our packages look for “Freedom of Choice” which gives you the ability to tailor your holiday from the various experiences offered on selected days. Like a sommelier matching wine to a meal, we have used our experience to carefully select and offer the right experiences in each location.

The Freedom of Choice options are included in the package price, and the price remains the same regardless of the choice you make on each day.

Our Freedom of Choice program offers flexibility, by allowing you to choose from different options on pre-selected days in the itinerary.

  • Our per person price includes one tour on each Freedom of Choice day in the itinerary.
  • The price of the package remains the same regardless of the choice you make on each day.

For more details please visit - Freedom of Choice | Entire Travel Group

What is Book Now?

Book Now offers you the ability to make a reservation on our website for Holiday Packages that include our Peace of Mind Booking Plan. But it’s not just a static offer – you have complete flexibility from travel dates, passenger numbers, single supplements, room upgrades, optional extras, flexible booking terms and more.

  • Our team will contact our overseas suppliers and confirm all arrangements.
  • A Confirmation from our reservation system will be sent in the coming days.
  • The Booking Number on this confirmation supersedes the website reference.

How secure is the Entire Travel Group's on-line payment portal?

  • Entire Travel Group have partnered with TravelPay to ensure secure on-line credit card payments.
  • TravelPay is a level 1 PCI DSS compliant, which gives you peace of mind that your payment card data is in safe hands.
  • Entire Travel Group does not store any credit card information.

For more details please visit - Security and Compliance - TravelPay

What forms of payment can be used at Entire Travel Group?

  • To confirm a booking using our on-line Book Now process, a credit card must be used to pay the refundable deposit.
  • For additional payments on the booking, Entire Travel Group supports bank transfer, credit card, TravelPay B2B, PaymentGate.
  • For further details please visit our Payments page.

Can you book my international airfares?

On some Islands Holiday Packages (e.g. Fiji), it is practical to include flights, so where we have done this it is indicated by the plane icon.

However, on the majority of our Holiday Packages, we do not include international flights.

We found that many customers may prefer to:

  • Travel on a specific airline of their choice
  • Have the flexibility to book flights with Frequent Flyer points
  • Select flight dates that may be different to our Holiday Package start/end dates
  • Use a Travel Credit already held with the airline
  • Use their travel agent for this service

We are able to assist with flights on any Holiday Package, so please just notify us during the Book Now process or contact our team.

Should I take travel insurance?

Travel insurance is strongly recommended. During the Book Now process please confirm you require assistance, and our team will be in contact with you.

What should I do before travelling?

Before you travel it is your responsibility to ensure you have the appropriate documentation including visas. If you are travelling on a passport other than Australian or New Zealand, you will require a permit to re-enter Australia. It is your responsibility as the traveller and/or travel booker to meet all government entry requirements.

For more information please visit - Before you travel | Entire Travel Group

How does a Travel Agent make a booking?

Please visit the Entire Travel Group's Agent Portal. We are here to support our industry partners with a range of informative updates, marketing collateral for campaigns and a reward & recognition program.

How do I start a Booking?

  • On any page that has Book Now simply follow the booking process.
  • You must select the Travel Agent tick box and provide correct details.
  • To confirm a booking only the refundable deposit is required.
  • An agency credit card must be used for this initial payment.

How do I contact Entire Travel Group?

For more information please visit - Contact us | Entire Travel Group

SOMEWHERE ELSE TO CONSIDER

View all

Subscribe now for your chance to win
a $500 Travel Voucher

Be the first to hear about our new Holiday Packages