Cultural Tours & Totem Pole Art in Saxman Village Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; primarily walking and standing during performances.
Overview
Discover Saxman Native Village near Ketchikan, where Tlingit culture comes alive through totem pole art and traditional dance performances. Dive into Alaska’s rich heritage with immersive cultural tours.
Saxman Native Village & Ketchikan Highlights
Visit a Tlingit Village • Totem Park • Native Dance Performance
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About This Adventure
Experience the vibrant culture of Southeast Alaska at Saxman Native Village. Engage with the Tlingit warrior tribe, enjoy a captivating performance by the Cape Fox Dancers, and explore the intricate art of totem pole carving. This immersive journey offers a unique glimpse into the rich heritage and traditions of the community.
Duration
From Ward Cove Cruise Terminal 2.5 Hours From Downtown Meeting Location 2 Hours
What's Included
•Access to Saxman Native Village including the Beaver Clan House Carving Center, & Totem Park. •Private performance by the Cape Fox Dancers. •Shopping Opportunity in the Gift Shop.
About
Immerse yourself in living history by visiting Saxman Native Village where you will experience the rich native culture of Southeast Alaska. The village is home to a Tlingit warrior tribe descending from Saanya Kwaan also known as the “People of the Southeast Wind”. Throughout your visit, you will get to observe and learn the lifestyles, heritage, and history of the people that live in this community.
Upon arrival, a Tour Host will welcome you in the Tlingit dialect and direct you into 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. After the performance, your Tour Host will guide you through the Carving Center for an up-close look at totem pole carving and paint making. The totem pole park is the last area to explore which includes detailed descriptions about the figures carved and cultural significance about each pole.
Tour is accessible for guests in wheelchairs, scooters and walkers who can transfer 2-3 steps.
Adventure Tips
Respect cultural customs
Listen attentively during dance performances and ask before photographing ceremonies or individuals.
Wear waterproof layers
Southeast Alaska weather is often wet; prepare for rain even in summer to stay comfortable.
Bring binoculars
Nearby forests and shorelines are prime spots to spot bald eagles and other wildlife.
Book tours in advance
Popular cultural tours can fill quickly during peak season; reserve your spot early.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagle
- Black bear
History
Saxman Native Village was established in the early 1900s as a central community for Tlingit families, preserving their cultural traditions through totem pole carving and dance.
Conservation
The village promotes sustainable tourism by educating visitors about indigenous stewardship of forest and marine resources in Southeast Alaska.
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Adventure Hotspots in Ketchikan
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Rain jacket
Keep dry during showings and walking around the village in wet spring weather.
spring specific
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating village paths and trails with uneven terrain.
Camera
Capture the intricate totem poles and dynamic dance performances.
Layers
Bring warm layers for cooler fall days in Southeast Alaska.
fall specific