Kenai Fjords National Park is a place rich in biodiversity. Like the Dry Tortugas National Park, it also harbors a diverse marine ecosystem and a wide range of birds.
Further, it is an elusive land of glaciers, icy lands, rocky mountains, and green canopies. It is also the park where you can take part in activities like hunting, fishing, petting at Exit Glacier, boating, and kayaking. However, the most fascinating activity to do here is watching wildlife.
Here, I will be your entourage in finding how the wilderness becomes alive at the Kenai Fjords National Park.
Exploring Kenai Fjords National Park Wildlife
The Kenai Fjords National Park has one of the highest footfalls among the national parks of America. In 2023, 387,525 people visited this National Park thanks to its wildlife and the most dramatic landscape with glaciers, mountains, ocean, and valleys. (Source)
Further, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game explains why and how the geographical features of the National Park make it rich in wildlife and biodiversity. About the habitat, it says,
“The park contains shallow bays and estuaries, and deeper marine habitats. Regional currents drive nutrients into outer Resurrection Bay, making that area especially rich in fish and an early location for spring bloom of plankton and algae. Cliffs and rocky shores create nesting sites for birds and haul-out areas for marine mammals.”
Do you want a slice of wildlife at this park where whales and mountain goats cohabit in the most amazing way? Let’s explore.
However, if you are more interested in amphibians and reptiles, the Everglades National Park will be your go-to destination.
Whales At Kenai Fjords National Park Wildlife
Watching the whales is one of the best activities to do at Kenai Fjords National Park. You can see the whales here throughout the year.
The table below presents a sneak peek into the different species of whales and their best viewing time.
Type of Whale
Best Viewing Time
Humpback Whale
Mid-May to August
Orca or Killer Whale
Mid-May to June
Gray Whale
Mid-April to May
Fin Whale
May to September
You can easily spot whales on the surface of the water. As they spout, fluke dive, breach, or spy hop in the water, you will get to know about their playful nature.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) ensures that cruising companies and visitors maintain respectful behavior when they are on whale-watching trips.
Other Sea Mammals At Kenai Fjords
Kenai Fjords is home to many sea mammals along with various species of whales. Don’t forget to catch a glimpse of Dall’s Porpoises, harbor seals, sea otters, and sea lions.
Dall’s Porpoise
Dall’s Porpoises look like orcas but are faster. They eat lanternfish, octopus, and squid.
Harbor Seals
You will find these cute sea mammals resting around active glaciers. They also stay on ice floes. They love to eat shellfish and fish.
Sea Otters
You will spot the playful sea otters swimming on their back in the water. They love fish, crabs, sea urchins, and squids.
They are furry, and the funniest thing is to see them using their bellies as tables. For sure, you will want to grab a soft toy version of these sea mammals.
Stellar Sea Lions
Stellar sea lions are an endangered species, and they stay on the icy shore of the sea. They have reddish fur, and they are 6-8 in height.
“Kenai Fjords provides habitat for at least 191 species of birds. The black oystercatcher spends most of its time feeding in the rich intertidal zone. Tufted and horned puffins nest in rock crevices along the coast. Bald eagles patrol the waters in search of salmon and other fish.”
It’s time we meet the birds and learn briefly about them.
Horned Puffins
These beautiful birds have unique black horn-like markings over their eyes. The touch of red on the tip of their beaks further makes them easily distinguishable.
You must visit the Kenai Fjords from mid-May to August to catch a glimpse of these birds.
Bald Eagles
You may catch bald eagles preying on fish and waterfowl. They get their name from their white-feathered head.
Peregrine Falcons
Known for excellent hunting abilities, peregrine falcons have a vibrant touch of yellow around their eyes and on their beaks.
Along with these birds, you can also see birds like the common murre, black-legged kittiwake, and cormorant at Kenai Fjords National Park.
Land Mammals At Kenai Fjords
Mountain goats and brown and black bears are common at Kenai Fjords. The mountain goats have split hooves for a better grip on the mountains and on the snowy land.
Further, many people visit the Kenai Fjords only to meet black and brown bears. These bears love eating fish, berries, and other vegetation.
Final Words
Global temperature changes and glacier melting have challenged the vast wilderness at Kenai Fjords National Park. Further, the movements of crustal plates beneath the Earth’s surface make the landscape and its ecosystem volatile.
So, there is nothing permanent about the animals found in this park, stretching over 1000 square miles of water and land. Also, it is impossible to know about all the species habituating here thanks to the geographical nature and dramatic differences in weather conditions across seasons.
Nevertheless, as you take a tour of this rich national park on a cruise or explore its various parks, make sure to abide by the safety norms. Respect nature and its inhabitants! This is the best way to experience the natural abundance the park is known for.
Do you have plans to visit the Kenai Fjords anytime soon? What do you find the most amazing thing about it? Don’t forget to share your ideas with us!
Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park: FAQs
What Animals Can You See In Kenai Fjords National Park?
Kenai Fjords wilderness is vivid. As you take a cruise trip or explore the National Park, you will notice the seals first, comfortable on the floating ice in the sea. Further, the male and female sea lions make their presence felt on the icy seashore.
Kenai Fjords is home to many notable species of marine and land mammals. Also, you will find various birds here.
Whales, sea otters, Dall’s porpoise, gray wolves, minks, and mountain goats are common animals here.
Birds such as puffins, bald eagles, and peregrine falcons will greet you as you visit this beautiful national park.
Can You See Bears In Kenai Fjords National Park?
Located at the edge of the Kenai Peninsula, Kenai Fjords has black and brown bears. Black bears are easily spotted, and they are more timid than brown bears.
The National Park Service has a set of safety guidelines, including not attracting bears with food and garbage and avoiding their personal spaces. Follow the norms to make your interaction with the bears delightful.
Can You See Northern Lights In Kenai Fjords National Park?
Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Kenai Fjords National Park during the autumn and winter seasons. The night sky of Kenai Fjords looks like the most amazing melange of green, purple, blue, and green shades.
If you are a religious soul, you must visit the Virgin Mary Russian Orthodox Church with the Northern Lights dancing in the sky. It’s the most divine experience.
For a spiritual journey, watch the lights over the Seward boat harbor.
When To See Whales In Kenai Fjords National Park?
You can see whales in Kenai Fjords National Park throughout the year. However, if you want to watch a specific species of whale among the varieties seen here, you must plan a trip according to the right season.
The best time for watching gray whales is March and April. In these months, gray whales migrate to this part of the world through the Gulf of Alaska.
Do you want to watch the humpback whales? You can see them from May to October. They flock in large numbers from Mexico and Hawaii. They live in the water here as they can find nutrient-rich food for them throughout the summer.
In addition, Orcas or the killer whales are seen in mid-May and June. Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you will also see minke whales and fin whales in this area.
What Is Special About Kenai Fjords?
Your Alaska trip is incomplete without a visit to Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can see the best of the marine world. Also, it is the home to Northwestern, Aialik, and Holgate tidewater glaciers. Glaciers move relentlessly into the sea.
Further, it is the most picturesque landscape where mountains, an ancient icefield, valleys, cascading falls, forest canopies, and the great Pacific Ocean coexist. Thanks to this coexistence, Kenai Fjords National Park is rich in biodiversity. You will find humpback whales, sea otters, mountain goats and many species of birds in the National Park.
Designated as a National Park in 1980, Kenai Fjords National Park also protects various archeological and historical remains. The park has many prehistoric, protohistoric, and historic sites.
Archeologists still conduct surveys in this park to learn more about the human way of living and why it has changed over the years.
Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!
Picture this.
You're paddling through the water, the smell of pine filling your nose, the warm sun on your face. Is this a dream? Nope, it's you in your new inflatable kayak.
There are so many incredible benefits of this kayak over a hardshell. And no matter your needs, there's a perfect model for you. Keep reading to learn why you should buy yourself an inflatable kayak.
Lightweight and Portable
These kayaks are portable and fold up into a carry bag, no bigger than a standard duffle bag. So put the roof rack away and throw the bag in the trunk with your other lake day essentials.
The weight will depend on the make, but they usually weigh anywhere between 25 and 35 lbs. And if you're a beginner looking for a light and portable kayak, consider the Sevylor Quikpak K5, which has a backpack storage system.
Stable and Durable
Inflatable kayaks have wide bottoms, tall sides, and they're very buoyant. They also have a good weight capacity, don't easily capsize, and are hard to tear. But if something goes wrong, you can always repair it using a patch kit.
But just note, lower-end kayaks will be significantly less durable than higher-end ones. So if you're kayaking in rough waters, you should get one made from a heavy-duty rubber or PVC material.
And if you want a super-strong and versatile kayak, get the Sea Eagle Explorer 300x. But don't worry, it's still light, weighing only 31 lbs.
Easy Storage
While you want your kayak to function well for your day on the lake, you also have to think about the off-season storage.
To store an inflatable kayak, you have to deflate it, dry it off, fold it, and put it into a carry bag. Inflation and deflation are quick and should take no longer than 10 minutes each. And of course, this bag doesn't take up much space and can be put in any garage, basement, or storage unit.
For example, the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame is a sturdy touring kayak but can still fold up to 30" x 17" x 10."
Relatively Inexpensive
While costs vary based upon quality, you can get a great inflatable kayak for a reasonable price.
For example, inflatable boat expert Tom Fontana says that they can vary from $100 to $1,700. He claims that if you're buying one for recreational use, then you should look to spend $400 to $500. But if you want your kayak to function similarly to a hardshell, you should spend more than $1,000.
If you want to strike a good balance between price and function, the Intex Excursion Pro will be your new best friend. And you can find more pricing information from Tom about inflatable kayaks at pumpupboats.com.
Now Go Buy Yourself an Inflatable Kayak
As you can see, an inflatable kayak is great for all types of water and boating activities. So whether you purchase it for durability, easy storage, or the low price point, you'll have a blast when you finally get it on the water. Now go get your perfect kayak!
If you enjoyed this article, check out more of our adventure content.
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Huka Lodge stands against an idyllic landscape of majestic rivers, mountain vistas, lush wilderness, and crystal clear lakes - the setting for 20 Junior Lodge Suites and two Owner Cottages on its 17-acre park-like grounds.
Inside the main lodge, subtle touches of tartan and crackling fireplaces may transport you back to Scotland. And indeed, Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II has visited four times!
Huka Fall Hotels in New Zealand Are Going Luxury
Huka Fall hotels in New Zealand provide an ideal combination of luxury accommodations and style, situated in breathtaking settings with plenty of activities such as golfing and kayaking available at each property.
This Lodge has long been considered an iconic New Zealand retreat since it first opened its doors in the 1920s. Now enjoyed by some of the world's most discerning travelers and boasting an unrivaled riverside location, Huka Lodge is the best accommodation in Taupo and provides unmatched hospitality and attentiveness that rivals that of the Waikato River itself. Within 17 acres of exquisitely manicured grounds, Huka offers 25 suites - 18 Junior Lodge Suites, one Lodge Suite, as well as two exclusive cottages: Owner's Cottage (featuring four suites) and Alan Pye Cottage (2 suites).
Rooms boast modern architecture and feature luxurious amenities such as flat-screen TVs with DVD/CD players and minibars; some also have private outdoor pools. Suites boast spaciousness with luxurious touches, including king-size beds, separate sitting areas, luxury toiletries, and full kitchens - not forgetting their stunning exterior views of London Bridge!
Apart from a full-service spa, this property also features an array of activities both on and off-property. Guests can indulge in watersports on stunning Lake Taupo or take an aerial tour over Tongariro National Park's volcanoes on a helicopter tour. Relaxation options such as yoga and massage services are also offered on-site for complete enjoyment.
What To Expect
Huka Lodge provides guests with a wealth of indoor and outdoor dining venues, from its wine cellar and library through the Jetty Pavilion, Orchard Room, and Orchard Terrace, as well as table d'hote dining or a la carte service, including its selection of New Zealand wines, beers, and champagne/cocktails.
Originating as a fishing lodge on New Zealand's Waikato River near cascading Huka Falls, this property has since grown into one of New Zealand's premier luxury boutique hotels. Consistently rated among the world's best, the hotel now provides adventure-rich culinary and relaxing retreats alike - complete with helicopter flights that transport guests directly into wilderness areas rich in trout-rich waters; four-wheel drive vehicles may be hired for off-roading expeditions to more distant spots; while golf, spa treatments, and skiing (in winter).
The hotel's 25 suites and two exclusive cottages spread out across 17 acres, each boasting private space and stunning vistas. Each boasts a casual yet luxurious style. Their muted tones recall traditional New Zealand homes while remaining thoroughly modern. Suites feature LCD televisions with DVD players as well as kitchens equipped with refrigerators. Room service, free Wi-Fi access, and in-room massage services are also in place.
Pet-friendly hotels like this one welcome animals, too, offering free shuttle service around town as well as an on-site fitness center and outdoor swimming pool to use during their stay. Other amenities available to guests include a tennis court, volleyball court, games room, wine cellar, and lounge bar services.
From Better to Best
Staying at this stunning boutique property nestled against the wail-thundering Waikato River is truly unforgettable and regularly ranks as one of the world's premier hotels - it is easy to see why.
Twenty-seven luxurious suites and cottages, exquisitely furnished with antiques and historical artwork, behold doors that open onto stunning views. There are private pools as well as pavilions for enjoying outdoor living in this part of New Zealand.
Suites feature deep tubs with luxurious towels, heated floors, and comfortable lounge areas designed to relax. Take in breathtaking views across manicured gardens and the river while reading. Or watch your favorite film on one of the amazing screens.
Huka Lodge stands out from the competition thanks to its outstanding service and attention to detail. For example, magically appearing magazines or treats you request before you even mention them. The staff seems to anticipate your needs before you say it out loud. This is an unparalleled level of customer care that Huka Lodge prides itself on.
The food here is equally impressive. British head chef Paul Forget provides menus inspired by seasonal produce sourced locally. He has past stints at Gidleigh Park and three Michelin-starred Bernard Loiseau en Bourgogne under his belt. Guests have an offering of over 20 romantic dining locations indoors and outdoors throughout the property. It ranges from wine cellars to jetty pavilions. No matter when or where guests decide to dine, they are sure to find an intimate spot perfect for romance!
This Huka Falls hotel is an ideal option for guests who like activities such as kayaking, golfing, and horseback riding. It is conveniently located within miles of Huka Prawn Park and Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs Water Park. It provides easy access to everything this region has to offer. The location also allows easy access. Among its features are a pool, free parking, and a spa center. There's also dining at an on-site restaurant and lounge bar.
Wrapping Up
These Huka Falls luxury accommodation has long been one of New Zealand's luxury lodges. It hosts visitors from across the globe and boasts beautiful gardens along the Waikato River. There is also the scenic Lake Taupo in Central North Island. Offering over 20 romantic indoor and outdoor private dining venues.
Virginia Fisher designed the interiors of the main lodge to offer a luxurious atmosphere that complements its magnificent natural setting. Each luxurious suite boasts king beds, fireplaces, and luxurious suite bathrooms. It is complete with deep baths and premium spa amenities for an opulent stay.
The resort's expansive grounds invite a range of leisurely pursuits, such as tennis and croquet. Strolling through its gardens is an aesthetically pleasing journey awash with vibrant flower borders and peaceful water features. Additionally, there are two relaxing pools perfect for unwinding after an active day! Anglers will appreciate nearby lakes and rivers popular for exceptional trout fly-fishing opportunities.
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Is it about getting most of your travel credits? It’s time to check out the FintechZoom best travel credit card alternatives.
As I was traveling in July this year, the travel credit card I was using gave me a lot of hassle. Only a traveler stuck in a foreign land knows what a nightmare it is! The bonus policies were all over the place for me, and every time I wanted to redeem my award points, the hotels charged me a certain fee. I was angry and did not know why I earned those points!
However, as I returned home, I started exploring other options and found the Platinum Card® from American Express a feasible option.
Then again, a better option for me may not work for others. So, as a traveler, I felt that I should have a sincere discussion about the traveler-friendly options available.
The travel credit card you choose will decide your travel benefits and how many miles you gather. FintechZoom has suggested some of the most suitable travel credit card options. In this guide, we will delve deeper and determine the best options for you.
THIS IS Why You Will Choose FintechZoom Best Travel Credit Card
Let me be as honest as a mirror for you! I am always skeptical about what financial solutions to trust, and I piss my partner off with endless questions as he has a better understanding of these things. Then again, he wanted me to learn things the hard way. So, he suggested that I explore the FintechZoom options.
FintechZoom is the best platform for choosing the best travel credit card because of its in-depth analysis and comparisons. Further, FintechZoom makes the most of the artificial intelligence (AI) technology to provide specific information based on accurate financial stats.
In addition, I was really impressed by the transparency of the platform, and the app offered easy navigation while I was exploring options.
THIS Is The FintechZoom Best Travel Credit Card
Here, I present the FintechZoom best travel credit card! I will keep it to the point and drive to your travel requirements.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
As I was exploring the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card travel benefits, I found out that USA Today has called it the best travel credit card for “beginners and experienced travelers.” Indeed, the terms are pretty clear and transparent.
Also, my research said that in 2021, Chase was the largest credit card issuer based on market share. So, there is enough backing to go by the FintechZoom suggestion.
What You Get From The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The table below explains the benefits of the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.
Welcome Bonus60000Flexible Point Transfers* 14 Airline or Hotel Partners (Or you can redeem through Chase Travel℠ at 1.25 cents each.)Travel Purchase through the Card5x Reward PointsDining3x Reward PointsAll Other Travel Purchases2x Reward PointsAnnual Hotel CreditsUp to $50Points Worth 25% More When Booking Travels (For example, for 10000 points, you will get $125 as cash back or gift cards)Yearly Bonus10%Repay Eligible PurchasesUp to 24 Months Without Interest (Purchase of $100 or More)Complimentary Travel Protections$10,000 Per Person and $20,000 Per Trip (Against non-refundable, pre-paid travel expenses when the trip is canceled or interrupted)Purchase Protection Benefits $500 for Each Item and $50000 for Every AccountForeign Transaction FeesWaived OffReferral PointUp to 75000 a Year on Successful Referrals (15000 Points on Each Referral)
However, I found two downsides of the card. The $95 annual fee is a little bothersome. Also, the “21.49%-28.49% variable APR” is high.
* Point transfers can occur among 11 airlines and 3 hotel partners on a 1:1 basis. So, there will be no transfer fees. Marriott, Hyatt, United Airlines, Air Canada, and Air France are some of the prestigious partners for this point transfer benefit.
2. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Platinum Card® from American Express is celebrating its 40th year. So, you will get many years of trust and safety when you pick this one. Further, with this best travel credit card, you will get access to airport lounges, and as I have started using this travel credit card, I am already in love with the car rental benefits.
Even though the $695 annual fee is quite high, it has offered me more than $1500 in benefits and values. For me, it is a suitable option as I travel quite often. Honestly, the high annual fee can be justified only when you are using the card frequently.
“No other card comes with as much perk potential as The Platinum Card® from American Express (terms apply, see rates & fees). If you travel frequently and want to do so in style, this card deserves a place in your wallet. However, this card is best for urban fitness buffs, frequent travelers, high-end shoppers and those who want top rewards on flights and premium accommodations. If you don’t fit the profile, justifying the $695 annual fee might be a stretch.” - Forbes
This Is What You Get From Platinum Card® from American Express
Learn the American Express Platinum Card® benefits from the table below.
Membership Rewards80000 (After spending $8000 on “eligible purchases in the first six months of the card ownership.)Foreign Purchase Transaction Fees NoneFlight And Prepaid Hotels Booked through the Card5x Reward PointsOther Purchases 1x Reward PointsAirline Free Credit Up to $200CLEAR® Plus Membership$199Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® Application Fee CreditUp to $85Hotel Benefits Up to $200Digital Entertainment CreditMaximum $240Equinox Credit $300Cellphone ProtectionUp to $800 for Each Eligible Card Account
Further, British Airways Avios and Air Canada Aeroplan are some of the prestigious aviation partners of this travel credit card. Also, among the hotel partners, Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton deserve a special mention.
I am so proud to have chosen this card!
3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers an easy and transparent reward program. Here is what you get with this best travel credit card.
Unlimited 2x reward points on every purchase
75000 sign-up bonus on a $4000 purchase in the first three months
1,300+ airport lounges access
So, overall, this is a card for travelers who go on a trip twice or thrice a year and prefer simple terms.
4. Citi Premier® Card
The Citi Premier® Card has great rewards for travelers. You can earn 3x reward points on air travel, hotel booking, and gas station usage.
You have to visit the ThankYou® Rewards program to redeem your reward points. Further, you can transfer the points to the airline partners of the travel credit card for added benefits.
Things No One Told You About Choosing FintechZoom Best Travel Credit Card
FintechZoom’s selections are great, and now you have better options. However, to choose the best travel credit card for you, you will have to abide by the following smart tips.
Earlier, I was foolish not to think of these aspects, and I don’t want you to make the same mistakes.
Consider Your Travel Habits
You must keep your frequency and expense of traveling and the benefits a card offers on purchases. Further, be careful about dining, lodging, flight booking, and car rental benefits. These are the things that cover the majority of our travel expenses, right?
Know the Sign-Up Bonus
When you get a travel credit card, know the minimum amount you need to spend to get the sign-up bonus. It is crucial to get the sign-up bonus if you want to increase your rewards balance.
Further, make sure that the minimum amount you need to spend for the sign-up bonus is within your budget.
Look at the Annual Fee
Is your travel credit card waiving off the annual fee for the first year? Or does it offer annual credits?
These are some of the factors that you need to consider to get the best travel credit card. Also. ensure that the perks and rewards of your card are more than the annual fee you pay.
Know About The Foreign Transaction Fees Benefits
Foreign transaction fees are bothersome for international travelers. So, waiving foreign transaction fees is crucial if you travel to other countries frequently.
Flexible Redemption Options
Flexibility and versatility in redemption options are important while using a travel credit card. The best one will allow you to transfer points to hotels and airline partners.
Of course, the option of redeeming your points as cashback or gift cards is always available.
FAQs About FintechZoom Best Travel Credit Card
1. What makes FintechZoom’s travel credit card recommendations reliable?
FintechZoom is famous for its objective and accurate reviews. Further, FintechZoom has reviewed factors, such as sign-up bonuses, redemption points, travel benefits, and annual fees, to suggest the best travel credit cards for us.
Also, the FintechZoom travel credit card suggestions cater to all types of travelers and their different requirements.
2. Can I have more than one travel credit card?
Yes, you can have more than one travel credit card. Each card comes with its unique reward redemption benefits and bonuses.
If you are an aware user, you will know the perks of each card and which one will be the most suitable for the type of travel expenses you are making now.
So, use your cards strategically to optimize your travel benefits and earn more points.
3. How can I maximize my travel rewards with the FintechZoom best travel credit card?
You can follow simple tricks to optimize your travel credit card benefits.
Know and use the sign-up bonuses.
Pay your credit card bill in full and final at the end of every month.
Know and transfer the transfer points and transfer them to travel and airline partners for optimized benefits.
4. Are there any downsides to using the FintechZoom best travel credit card?
Yes, some travel credit cards can have downsides in the form of high annual fees and APR. Also, the interest rates of these credit cards increase in leaps and bounds if you don’t pay the monthly bill in full.
Therefore, you have to be mindful of your financial state and control your spending habits before you apply for a credit card.
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