Head to the far north of Alaska and into the Arctic Circle, taking progressively smaller and smaller aircraft until you reach a tiny Inupiat settlement on the shores of the Beaufort Sea
This settlement, a ramshackle collection of buildings clinging on to the edge of the vast Alaskan wilderness is home to one of the best opportunities to see polar bear's in large numbers
Each year this Inupiat colony - an ex-fishing settlement - is allowed to take a small number of bowhead whales using traditional methods. This is done for food in the way that people here have done for centuries. The carcasses of these whales are an irresistable draw to Polar Bears that gather here awaiting the formation of the sea ice.
Working with one of the region's most experienced Inupiat guides who Natural High's Olly Williams has worked with for decades, this is an extraordinary opportunity to witness bears in the company of someone who undertands this remote landscape and its wildlife better than most.
A huge mother polar bear, her fur turned a sandy grey from rolling around in the bloody remains of a whale killed several weeks prior, stands guard over her three fuzzy young cubs, who are scampering among the driftwood. Nearby, two robust sub-adult males wrestle in the freezing water, thick layers of blubber beneath their snow-white fur keeping them warm and buoyant. ”
During our 30 year career I have been privileged to work with some extraordinary wilderness experts and conservationists; men and women who against all odds have dedicated their lives to saving their piece of wilderness. My Inupiat friend is one such man. He has guided President Carter, Sebastian Salgado and Senator John Kerry and other dignitaries. In my opinion he is one of the most important and resonant voices in indigenous affairs and Arctic conservation today.”
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+44 (0) 1747 830950
Our experienced travellers include:
Catherine Ronan
Rod Tether
Olly Williams
It takes genuine local knowledge to craft trips that go beyond the ordinary.
All of us at Natural High have over 20 years’ experience in the countries we offer. We’ve lived there, worked there and arranged countless one-off journeys for clients. We live to travel – and love to share our tips on what’s really worth doing. For expert advice (and a traveller’s tale or two), speak to one of our team. They’ll be happy to let you in on their travel secrets, and help you plan a tailor-made trip that’s truly unforgettable.
Natural High Brochure
Drop us an email if you'd like us to send you a copy our brochure. Or you can download a digital copy here
Reviews
Delivered
"Excellent experience - again - from trip design through to execution. Excellent staff in Natural High but also on the trek."
Excellent Service
"Really enjoyed the holiday. Was exactly what we were looking for. Service from Natural High was perfect. Would definately recommend and use again."
THE PERFECT TREK!
"Vanessa from Natural High Safaris provided a very responsive,personal and bespoke service which in turn led to a perfect trip, that was without fault! From our pack mules all the way up to our guide, Oulaid, it was outstanding. We were guided through the most beautiful and remote countryside to camp sites with the most awesome views. Oulaid had really thought about our route and request to be off the beaten track. It was a delight that we did not see any tourist for the whole trek. Our team were professional,hospitable and friendly, delivery a very well prepared and comfortable camp each evening.The camp chef did an amazing job bearing in mind the remoteness of our location, conjuring up very tasty and varied meals each day. If I could book another trip tomorrow I would.Next year beckons!Well done all!!"
Sublime Garden Route
"Fantastic accommodation recommendations in small boutique hotels"
I will definitely plan an expedition with this company again.
"They promptly provided an itinerary in response to our desires. Feedback on the plan was well received. Closer to the time we were connected with our guides to further hone our trip. A group of 5 women, arriving from various destinations, camping and lodges in the desert with extraordinary guides. Yes, the cliche works here...a trip of a lifetime."
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