2 1/2 Hour Private Tour With Locals ( Price Up To 5)

The one thing that made this tour outstanding was our tour guide Logan. He was so informative and helpful I felt like booking the tour again!

Booked via Tripadvisor in the UK for our Ketchikan stop off. I wanted to try and book locally rather than take the ship trips. Stopped for lunch at noon (1pm tour) and discovered there was a refund of sorts via our bank. Phoned Lisa to find that she had a hospital visit at the last minute and could not take us. Were neither phoned nor messaged all the morning by anyone She said a friend could hopefully take us - we agreed as it was far too late to arrange a trip with someone else. We stupidly made the assumption that it would be very similar to her advertised trip. (we did ask before agreeing) and we had to pay him direct He arrived in a taxi and took us straight to the fishery lay by - just about made out a bear on the tree line with the aid of binoculars. He said we'd try another back road - no luck. Stopped at a waterfall by the road. Back to the lay by. We eventually saw a hint of a bear again through bins. Back to town What a poor decision. There was nothing to do with Tlingit tradition/totum poles/view points etc. We did get some "what we did when we were boys" stories but definitely not what we expected for or paid for, nor was he Tlingit Lisa said she'd refunded us £200 for our booked trip, and anything else was nothing to do with her. Using advice from other posts I wrote to Vialtor when we got home, quoted the full refund policy ie 100% if the provider cancelled on the day, and said that we wouldn't have known at all if the bank didn't alert us. Thankfully Rialtor refunded the other £85 without an argument. Stressful and left us with a bad taste. We particularly wanted to include some Tlingit stories/local history as well as wildlife (if we were lucky). It would have saved us a heap of money had we just booked a taxi to the salmon fishery. We've just checked Rob charged us £298.10 (in US$) He also took another group before us - what a payday - not to mention it was even more than Lisa/Vialtor charged altogether He definitely shouldn't have included the Vialtor share (theyre taking about a 1/3 mark-up!) Be extremely careful how you book trips and look at reviews on other sites before deciding - we feel ripped off

Definitely didn't feel it was worth the money. Only saw one black bear from a great distance for just a minute and two eagles on the way back to port. Had we just gotten off the ship earlier in the morning we could have seen some eating the salmon at Creek Street.

We’ve always had excellent tours with Viator but this one was a complete waste of time and money. Please do not book this tour. Our guide was late picking us up then proceeded to drive us to her friends driveway and parked there for 30 mins because she claimed the bears will walk by there. We question this and asked her to please drive us to see other sights. She left and drove us to the fish hatchery which was beautiful but no bears at that time. She then drove us back to her friends driveway a second time! Finally I said can you please show us some more sights that were described for the tour?! She then drove us to the water edge where we saw one eagle and then dropped us off at Creekside. THAT WAS IT! This tour cost $375! I wish we would have just taken an Uber to the fish hatchery and back for $40 instead! Complete waste of time and money.

This is travel with a local, so you get local stories and experiences. We loved seeing a mamma bear and 2 cubs and visiting the beach with time to explore and find purple starfish. Lisa felt like a family friend in no time.

It says in the description that you could possibly see bears, whales, eagles, etc…. In their natural habitat. We did see 2 bears but they were in someone’s yard and the owner of the home was near the bear calling it by name and trying to coax it out. ( not what we expected). I know they can’t predict if the animals will be out but other than some eagles, and the “pet” bear, that is all we saw. Our guide said the waterfall was too crowded to go to so she skipped over that. She took us to their “beach” and it was pretty. The guide herself, Lisa, was very nice and she did want us to have a good experience and she tried hard but this excursion didn’t turn out like we thought it would at all. We were disappointed.

Wonderful tour. Got to see mom and her cubs feeding. Well respected member of her community who loves to tailor your tour to your interest. Engaging and flexible!

We try to support local businesses whenever we can, but this tour was a ripoff. We booked this tour because we wanted to see bears. We did notice that our ship was not offering tours to see bears but we decided to give this tour a try thinking that locals usually have access to areas that companies may not have. Well, not the case this time. We understand that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed but the way this tour works is that you are inside a car hoping to see bears. We had a few stops where we got out of the car, at a creek, at a waterfall, at the beach, but we didn’t see anything. We did not walk on a trail looking for bears, instead we parked in front of someone’s driveway hoping that a bear will come out of their backyard. Most private tours that I have booked with Viator ask about your interests, what do you want to do and see within their itinerary. She didn’t ask that and she didn’t have a plan B for the lack of bears. She took us go see a totem pole because I asked. She didn’t even offer to take a picture of our group when we were at the waterfall. Not worth it.

This was a great way to get away from the crowds and see the local sites. We were able to talk about like in Ketchikan and it felt like we were riding along with a favorite cousin. We got to see a wonderful "hidden" waterfall and walked the shore with no ship guests in sight. It was a great change of pace and we would go back in a second.

Lisa is a true local who shares her knowledge of the area and is multitalented in traditional arts craft and use of area plants for nutrition and healing The highlight was her singing happy birthday to my husband in her native language at totem park She tried really hard to find us a bear but after multiple tries we weren’t so lucky Such is nature! We did see a bald eagle and a Sitka deer

My husband and I had a great tour around Ketchikan with Lisa. We saw a bear. We saw bald eagles. We stopped at the Totem Heritage Center. Having grown up in the area, she really knows her stuff. And, she’s always reading about and learning more regarding the area. She’s very personable, knowledgeable, communicative and has a good sense of humor.

We had a great experience! We walked around town first because she said she could pick us up wherever we were at 2. So we made use of the time to get a little shopping in! I texted her at 2 and told her where we were and she was there within minutes! She immediately headed out for a known area to see some bears! We saw a large male bear and were able to get some great videos of him! Mamma bear and her cubs remained hidden from us, but they were working on their schedule, not ours! We also went to rainbow falls for some pictures ! It was such a great day ! She was so much fun! We would definitely do this again next time!

Lisa was awesome and I highly recommend. She tailored our trip to what we wanted. We got to see bears, bald eagles, wildlife, and great views from different points. She also really knew her stuff when it came to anything Ketchikan and Alaska.

We were met at the cruise port by Lisa, she came early so we started. She was a blast to tour with, she was very knowledgeable about the islands history. She knew all the right places to look for wildlife and when to go. One stop we couldn't find anything and moved on, she had a feeling and went back on the way to the ship and there was a big old bear crossing the street. Being from the island she knew just about everyone and the were keepng in touch through a private group about animal sightings etc. It was a great tour and allot of fun I would recommend this to anyone that is traveling to Alaska

I love supporting the locals and I am so glad I did this time! Lisa was amazing! We learned so much about the culture and history of Ketchikan from a who grew up there. Lisa was determined to find us a bear and she did. We saw a mom with 2 cubs and another one in the wild as well as an eagle. Added bonus on our drive back to town, she spotted a whale. We went to her “spot” to wait for it and even though I thought she was crazy, the whale actually swam by and we got to witness bubble feeding! I met almost every goal for my Alaska trip in just one 3 hour tour! Thank you so much Lisa! I loved every minute and would highly recommend this for anyone visiting Ketchikan

We had so much fun looking for wildlife with Lisa. We got great shots of bears and an awesome video of a whale. It was great to have our own tour with someone who grew up in Ketchikan. She was just as excited as us to spot something. If you are looking for a spontaneous adventure instead of a dull overcrowded tour group, this is for you!

What a gem! Eight of us walked right off the cruise and were told to find someone to take us to Herring Cove. I walked up and asked Lisa if she would take us and she said yes. It was one of the highlights of our entire trip. She is a native, knowledgeable of Ketchikan and so fun. When you are looking for bears with her, she is on a mission, too. She is just as excited as you are to find them. We saw three bears immediately. If you can book with her, I highly recommend.

It was a rainy day, but Lisa did her best to make sure that we saw a mama bear and her cubs and the heritage centre was very interesting.

Lisa was wonderful. Such great local knowledge and sincere efforts to make sure we had wildlife sightings (which we did)! Would ask for her again!!!!

Lisa was an outstanding host and tour guide!!! We planned to have lunch before we left our ship, but all the restaurants were closed. She made sure to take us to pickup lunch before we started. We throughly enjoyed all of the stops. Saw many bald eagles, tiny fawn with her mom, collected sea glass, shells and rocks, and learned so much about her Tlingit family history and the significance of Totem poles. She tried hard 4 times to find bears, but certainly made up for missing them with all her stories. All of us were so happy with her tour!

Great experience. Lisa was prompt, friendly and provided excellent details of the area. She drove out small party all around and we did see a bear so always a bonus.

WOW!!! Lisa and Cassie were amazing. The knowledge and excitement with them was awesome. They went above and beyond to show us a good time. The bears and cubs were great to see. Lisa’s communication with me from the time we booked until drop off was fantastic. The pickup and drop off at the port was so convienent. Lisa even helped me with taxi service for our group of 9. Lisa’s singing was a highlight. I would definitely recommend them. We always prefer tours with locals who know all the history of the port we are in. Lisa and Cassie were one of the best tours we ever had in our travels. Thanks Ladies

If you are looking for a private tour in Ketchikan, look no further than Lisa with Tlingit Tours. We took a private four hour tour with her and she was amazing. She has so much knowledge of the history and the land of Ketchikan. She took us in search of bears, eagles, all wildlife and to certain areas that only a local would know. We had a great time with her. She was very professional and very "real" and accommodating. My favorite were the totem poles, their history and her playing the drum she made and singing to us at a special totem pole site. She was amazing.

Time with Lisa in 2024 was amazing, it was our highlight! Matter of fact so great that I booked again for June of 25 so my cousin could REALLY see and experience what I had in 24! Lisa is amazing in every way and is so knowledgeable! Lol, by choice I still haven't been to Creek St! There is SO much more to Ketchikan..and Lisa will share it all with you! You'll be surprised!

This Ketchikan tour with Lisa was A+ in every regard. Picking us up at the Ward Cove terminal and returning us on time, every minute of the tour was fun, informative and interesting. We saw black bear, 6 eagles, and other wildlife. The Totem Museum tour gave us insight into the local culture. And the salmon store stop was a hoot (one of the employees was from Flatbush-our home town area). Lisa is a wealth of knowledge, and eager to share her insights. A wonderful experience for our family group of 4.

The tour with Lisa was one of the most fabulous tours that I have been on. She is so extremely knowledgeable about the area and has a wonderful personality. She is so kind in that she was only worried about us and what we wanted to see and do. Her suggestions were amazing, I could not have asked for more. I will definitely reach out to Lisa again, on my next visit to Alaska.

I highly recommend this fabulous tour. Lisa knows the ins and outs of Ketchikan and she will take you to some stunning beaches find bears Eagles the totem Cultural Center the trips are very customizable. We will definitely be coming back in the first thing we'll book is Lisa's tour.

Lisa was an amazing tour guide and such a wonderful person to get to know. She knows so much about the land and the culture. It was truly a wonderful experience. I would recommend this tour to anyone headed to Alaska.

Our tour in Ketchikan was great. Our guide, Lisa, was phenomenal. Her knowledge of Tlingit culture was evident, and we learned so much about the history, traditions, and stories of the Tlingit people. She was incredibly knowledgeable, engaging, and answered all of our questions. The wildlife was plentiful, we saw bears and eagles in their natural habitat, thanks to Lisa's expert guidance and friends everywhere. The van was clean and comfortable. The communication leading up to the tour was excellent, and the pickup location was clearly communicated and perfectly executed. Lisa provided an unforgettable experience that perfectly blended cultural immersion with breathtaking Alaskan wildlife.

We enjoyed Lisa’s tour on May 6, 2025. We weee able to see a bear, several eagles and a seal. The highlight of our trip was our visit to Potlatch Totem Park where Lisa taught us about the traditional living quarters and some medical plants including the health benefits of spruce tips with a tasting. Thank you Lisa!

Due to weather conditions the captain of the cruise needed to cancel the stop in Ketchikan (Ward Cove). As the announcement came about 14 hour before the start of the excursion we couldn’t.cancel anymore. Tried by contact Viator, but they said sore the booking is already closed. So contacted the Lisa from the excursion. But the answer was that we need to ask the cruise company. Of course this is not how it works if you book your excursion by yourself. Yes, you take a risk by booking by yourself, that’s why you need to cancel at least 24 hours before. But if the captain cancel the port last minute, then I should be normal that you can cancel. Tour companies also can cancel last minute when weather condition are worse. Still hope aviator or the tour company will refund us.

We have had an amazing tour with Lisa today as part of our Alaskan adventure! Within 30 minutes of meeting us we saw our first bear of the trip! Lisa then drove to another area and sure enough another bear passed by, in time for amazing photo capture! Lisa provided us with lots of detailed information about her area, fun facts and historical detail. The visit to Potlatch Park provided a fascinating insight into times past. This was a memorable tour and we are so grateful to Lisa for sharing so much information with us.

Our tour was absolutely amazing! We heard stories about Donna and Lisa’s family who are originally from Ketchikan. We had a wonderful time. I would highly recommend this tour!

Lisa was the absolute best! She customized our tour to us and what we wanted to do. We wanted to see bear. They didn't come out while we were there but Lisa wouldn't give up. She took us places no other tour co went to and all of a sudden there he was. We saw a black bear. She followed him while he kept stopping, looking back at us and posing. It was really cool. She taught us so much about Ketchikan and took us to some beautiful places with great photo ops. Everytime we got out of the vehicle and would jump onto her fb group to see if there were any whale sightings so we could see a whale. She truly cares about providing the greatest experience

Lisa generously shared her knowledge, her humour and wisdom. The overall experience - from bear watching to exploring the vibrant history and contemporary traditions of Tlingit and other indigenous culture - lifted our hearts and minds. Many thanks for all.

Lisa was amazing! So warm, friendly and informative. We saw eagles and Bears! She drove us around to all the best spots to see gorgeous nature and learn about the town and people. Would highly recommend her and this tour.

Donna, Lisa's sister, took us on our tour while Lisa was out sick. She was a wonderful lady with a lot of great information about the area of Ketchikan! We really enjoyed our time and Donna even offered to send us her homemade jam! Lovely tour, thank you!

Our tour with Lisa was a wonderful experience filled with knowledge of wildlife, history, Tlingit heritage and traditions. Lisa is very kind and eaccommodating in customizing tours to ensure her customers do all they want to do in Ketchikan. Highly recommend!!

Lisa our Local native tour guide is highly recommended ,knowledgeable about her cultural heritage she even sang a native song for us, we enjoyed her story of the symbolic meaning of Totem, history of the Ketchikan etc we are so glad that we booked this tour

Lisa was very welcoming and firstly took us to look for bears pointing out lots of interesting places along the way & talking about the history of Ketchikan. The bears were hiding so we went to some other places (& waterfall and an eagles nest) but then went back to look for bears and we not only saw one but four !! A mama bear & her 3 cubs, how amazing!! Our final stop was Potlatch Totem Pole Park before she dropped us back in Ketchikan so we could have a mooch around before we needed to back to our cruise ship. Lisa never rushed us and gave us options of what we wanted to do/see. She was very knowledgeable about Ketchikan & its history, pointing out her childhood homes where she grew up. Would not hesitate to recommend a tour with Lisa - she even entertained us with her drum and vocals

Dear Lisa, We’re home now but we wanted to THANK YOU again for the awesome educational tour you gave us and let you know "it will live in our memories forever"! I’m crying as I’m writing this as we feel so blessed for the good fortune of meeting you and YOU being our tour guide! We wanted to share with you who we had the good fortune of meeting on our flight home………..Kevin Johnson with Ketchikan Native Tours! We were seated right next to Kevin and after introductions Kevin asked us if we had a good time and had gone on any tours with which we replied yes and told him your name! His face lite up and he said “you got the best tour guide”! Eventually he told us who he was and told us about his tour company and said his company couldn’t have done any better job than Lisa! Truthfully we’re hillbillies from The Sierra Nevada Mountains and don’t do a lot of touring but what you shared with us was extraordinarily informative as we were able to have an informative conversation with Kevin and not look too ignorant of the Alaskan peoples customs.😂 He spoke so highly of you and that was so heartwarming as you rarely see that in this day and age. Thank you to all the Alaskan clans for opening your loving arms! What a blessing to be directed to you by The Black Bear Inn!

This experience was way better with a local native than touring the city of Ketchikan on your own! We learned so much about the history, wildlife, and Lisa’s personal experiences in the town. She also takes initiative to learn about what is important to you to make sure you have a great time and do everything YOU want to do in Ketchikan.

Lisa our tour guide is Alaskan Native. She is passionate and proud of her heritage. She was constantly pointing out things to see on our drive. We enjoyed visiting & learning about Totem Bight state park and Potlatch totem park. Unfortunately we couldn’t see the bear but she went beyond our time to spot the whale. We did salmon creek / ladder on our own which gave us more time for the rest of the tour.