Excursion Saxman native village & city tour tour at Ketchikan

Enjoy a rare window into Native culture as you visit Saxman Village, an active Native Village near the historic city of Ketchikan. Be sure to bring your camera, as this tour provides uncommon access to the cultural elements that make up the rich living culture of Alaskan Native Americans. Begin and end your visit with a scenic drive and a driving tour of Ketchikan.

Scenic Drive to Saxman Village and Village Welcome

Begin with a lovely, narrated drive through Ketchikan before arriving at Saxman Native Village. Upon arrival, experience a traditional tribal welcome ceremony, following the ways of the Tlingits in welcoming visitors for centuries.

Cultural Experience at Saxman Village: Native Dancing and Totem Park,

As you enter the Beaver Clan House, find a seat and prepare yourself for an elaborate display of traditional songs and dances performed by the Cape Fox Dancers. Through banging drums, infused aromas, lighting, native props, and regalia the songs will portray the stories about the fierce warrior men and women of the village. There is also the chance for participation, as you are given Tlingit costume to try on for you to join the Cape Fox Dancers during the final portion of the show.

Walk to the Saxman Totem Park to get educated on the history of the impressive totem poles that play an important role in Native Alaskan culture. Your knowledgeable Tour Host shares with you the history and significance of awe-inspiring, enormous master-works that tower over you.

Then at the Village Carving Center see where some of the most sought-after Native pieces in the world are created. There is an opportunity to bring some of this beautiful work home at the Village Store to help seal your unforgettable experience at Saxman Native Village.

Ketchikan Scenic Driving Tour

After your visit to the village, it is time to re-board the coach. Take a brief ride through and around charming Ketchikan as you wind your way back to the ship. Highlights include driving past Alaska's busiest waterfront, home to not just boats but also water-planes, as well as the notorious Creek Street, formerly the city's red-light district during the Gold Rush, and of course the historic residential areas and the turn-of-the-century style downtown area. Return to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Historic Ketchikan downtown; Saxman Village, Totem Pole Park, Beaver Clan House, and Carving Shed; Ketchikan scenic waterfront

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, approximately half a mile, with 500 feet of incline to negotiate and some gravel paths. Stairs can be bypassed, making this tour suitable for guests in a wheelchair, though an ADA-accessible vehicle must be requested in advance. There is no minimum age to participate, but vehicles do not have a child safety seat.  Guests are recommended dress in warm layers and wear comfortable walking shoes, and to bring binoculars and bottled water.