Koyasan wasn’t on our original Japan itinerary.

Osaka was. It’s part of the typical route, and when you’re planning your first trip, it’s easy to feel like you’re supposed to hit all the major stops. But the deeper I got into planning, the more Osaka started to feel like another big city on a trip that already had plenty of city energy built in. We’re much more drawn to nature, culture, and experiences than checking off urban stops just because they’re popular.

Somewhere in the middle of planning, someone in a travel group mentioned Koyasan. A mountain town. A temple stay. A completely different pace from Tokyo and Kyoto. It sounded interesting, but also a little out of the way and a lot more expensive than a typical overnight.

Still, it stuck in my mind. And eventually, we swapped Osaka for a one-night stay in Koyasan instead.

I’m really glad we did.

Why We Added Koyasan to the Trip

By the time we were mapping out our route, we knew we didn’t want to move cities every other day just to say we’d been somewhere. We were already starting and ending in Tokyo and spending several nights in Kyoto. Adding another large city didn’t feel like it would add much contrast.

Koyasan, on the other hand, felt completely different.

It offered something slower. More immersive. A chance to experience a part of Japan that wasn’t centered around crowds, shopping streets, or train stations. We tend to build trips around experiences rather than just destinations, and staying overnight at a Buddhist temple definitely qualified.

It also meant accepting that this wouldn’t be the easiest stop logistically. Getting there requires some planning, and the overnight temple stays aren’t cheap. But if we were going to try something like this, it felt like the right trip to do it.

Getting There

Koyasan isn’t the kind of place you just pass through on the way to somewhere else. It takes intention to get there.

We opted to hire a private driver from Kyoto. It wasn’t the budget option, but at that point in the trip, it felt like the smoothest choice. I was still getting comfortable with the train system, and the idea of navigating multiple transfers with luggage for a one-night stay didn’t sound appealing. The driver made the entire process simple and stress-free, and we were able to enjoy the changing scenery on the way up into the mountains.

Would I do it the same way again? Maybe not. Now that I’ve experienced Japan’s train system, I’d probably try the train route next time just to save money. But for a first visit, the private transport made the transition from Kyoto to Koyasan feel calm and easy.

First Impressions of Koyasan

The shift from Kyoto to Koyasan was immediate.

The air felt cooler. The streets were quiet. Everything moved at a slower pace. After days of navigating busy train stations and crowded neighborhoods, arriving in a small mountain town where things felt peaceful and orderly was a noticeable change.

It’s clean. Calm. Quiet in a way that feels intentional rather than empty.

There’s not a lot of noise, not a lot of rush, and not a lot competing for your attention. It’s the kind of place that encourages you to slow down whether you planned to or not.

Our Temple Stay at Ekoin

We stayed at Ekoin, one of the temple lodgings in Koyasan that offers overnight accommodations for visitors. From the moment we arrived, everything felt calm and structured.

The person who greeted us was a monk in training who walked us through the schedule for the stay, explained the meals, and showed us around. The way he spoke was incredibly calming — slow, clear, and patient. It set the tone immediately. Nothing felt rushed. Nothing felt chaotic. It was all very intentional.

The monks themselves were mostly silent. We didn’t have conversations with them in the way you might expect in a traditional lodging setting. Instead, there was a quiet understanding of how things worked and where to be.

That silence actually added to the experience. It made the stay feel immersive rather than performative.

The Meals

Dinner and breakfast were both traditional temple meals, fully vegan and very different from what we were used to. Some of the dishes were familiar in flavor, but many had textures and ingredients that felt completely new to us. It wasn’t the kind of meal you’d order in a restaurant at home, and that’s exactly the point.

Eric described it best: educational.

We knew we were experiencing something outside our normal reality, and that made this very special for both of us.

Morning Prayer and Fire Ritual

Guests are invited to attend the morning prayer, and it was one of the most memorable parts of the stay. Sitting quietly while the monks chanted and moved through the ritual was peaceful in a way that’s hard to describe without sounding overly dramatic. It wasn’t flashy or emotional — just calm and steady.

Later, there was a fire ritual where you could write your prayers on a wooden stick. The head monk offered them up during the ceremony, and that small act made the experience feel personal without feeling forced.

None of it felt like a performance for tourists. It felt like being allowed to quietly observe something that would have happened whether we were there or not.

Was It Worth It?

Yes. Absolutely worth doing once.

It was expensive, especially with the private driver added in. It was also different from anything we’ve ever done while traveling. Staying overnight at a Buddhist temple in a mountain town is not a typical vacation experience, and that’s exactly why it stands out.

That said, it’s not something I feel the need to repeat. I’m really glad we did it, but once was enough. If we return to Japan, I’d be more likely to try a ryokan stay somewhere else or explore another mountain area rather than repeat the exact same experience.

Still, I wouldn’t remove Koyasan from this trip. It added a layer of calm and contrast that balanced out the faster pace of Tokyo and Kyoto.

Would I Do Anything Differently?

If we went back to Koyasan, I’d probably try navigating the trains instead of hiring a driver. Now that I’ve experienced Japan’s transit system firsthand, I’d feel more confident attempting the route and saving some money.

Other than that, I wouldn’t change much. The overnight stay felt like the right amount of time. Long enough to experience the temple and the town, but not so long that it slowed the trip down too much.

How It Fit Into Our Trip

Swapping Osaka for Koyasan changed the tone of the entire trip. It added contrast. It added a slower moment in the middle of a busy itinerary. And it gave us an experience that felt completely different from the rest of our stops.

Not every itinerary needs Koyasan. It takes time to get there, and it’s not a budget stop. But if you’re building a trip around cultural experiences and you’re willing to move at a slightly slower pace, it can be a really memorable addition.

For us, it ended up being one of those decisions that almost didn’t happen — and then became one of the things we talked about most afterward.

Final Thoughts

I almost skipped Koyasan because it didn’t feel convenient. It wasn’t directly on the route, it required extra planning, and it added cost to the trip.

But it also gave us one of the calmest, most immersive experiences of the entire two weeks.

Not because it was flashy or packed with activities, but because it was so different from everything else. It slowed the trip down in the best way and reminded me that sometimes the most memorable parts of a trip are the ones that don’t look the most efficient on paper.

If you’re building a Japan itinerary and trying to decide whether to add something like this, the real question isn’t whether it’s easy to get to. It’s whether the experience fits the kind of trip you want to have. If you need help planning, let me know! That’s what I do!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase from one of them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

The post Staying at a Buddhist Temple in Koyasan: What It Was Actually Like appeared first on Boujee on Any Budget Travel.

Mt. Fuji

I had a list for Japan that was about three trips long.

That’s not an exaggeration. Every time I saved something — a shrine, a market, a neighborhood, a food spot — the list just kept growing. It became obvious pretty quickly that there was no version of this trip where I would see everything. Once I accepted that, planning got easier.

We went for two weeks in November for our first trip. Fall colors, cooler weather, and way too many places I thought we “should” see. At one point I was staring at my notes thinking, this is impossible. I had far more saved than any human could fit into fourteen days without turning the trip into a blur.

That’s when I stopped asking, “How do I see everything?” and started asking, “How do I want this trip to feel?”

Bishamondo Temple

For us, the answer was intentional. Cultural. Not rushed. I didn’t want to sprint from temple to temple all day and collapse at night wondering what we actually experienced. The biggest mistake I wanted to avoid was overplanning every hour. And really, that’s the mistake I see most people make with Japan. They stack too many stops into each day and underestimate how much walking and transit time everything takes. Japan is incredible, but if you plan it like a checklist, you’ll feel like you survived it instead of enjoyed it.

Once I knew the feeling we were aiming for, the route got clearer.

Hozugawa River

Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine

We started in Tokyo, spent the bulk of the trip based in Kyoto, did an overnight in Koyasan, added a few nights in Okinawa, and ended back in Tokyo. Osaka was originally on my list, but the deeper I got into planning, the more it felt like another big city stop we didn’t need. We’re more drawn to nature and cultural experiences than city hopping, so we stayed longer in Kyoto instead. That decision eventually led to one of our favorite experiences: an overnight stay at a Buddhist temple in Koyasan.

The single most helpful thing I did during planning was build everything out in Google My Maps. About three weeks before we left, I pinned every place we wanted to go — temples, markets, neighborhoods, train stations. Seeing it all visually changed everything. It showed me what could realistically be done in one day and what absolutely could not. Some stops that looked close on a list were nowhere near each other once mapped.

Traditional Tea Ceremony in Kyoto

That mapping phase is what kept this trip from feeling chaotic. It helped me group days logically so we weren’t zigzagging across cities and exhausting ourselves.

Transportation was the other piece that felt intimidating before we left. Everyone says the train system is easy, but very few explain what it feels like to walk into a massive station in Tokyo and try to find the right platform. We gave ourselves plenty of time for our first shinkansen departure because I knew I didn’t fully understand the layout yet. Once we figured it out, it was fine. But building in that extra time made a huge difference in stress levels.

Insuien Garden in Nara

We also skipped the rail pass after doing the math. It didn’t make sense for our route. Local trains are inexpensive, and we were only taking the shinkansen once. I think a lot of people overbuy passes because they assume they need them.

A few other realities: Tokyo hotel rooms are tiny, packing light matters more than you think, and you will walk a lot. We’re early risers, which is funny in Japan because not much opens early. Convenience stores became our go-to for coffee and snacks before starting the day. By the time most places opened, we had already logged thousands of steps.

One of the best decisions we made was staying longer in Kyoto instead of bouncing around constantly. Having a home base made the middle of the trip feel calmer. From there, we did the overnight to Koyasan and stopped in Nara on the way back. It was a good balance of movement and stability.

Koyasan ended up being one of the most memorable parts of the trip. Staying at a Buddhist temple isn’t something most people get to do. It was expensive, partly because we opted for a private driver instead of navigating multiple trains. At the time, that choice made the experience smoother. Now that I’ve done it once, I’d probably use the train system next time and save the money. But I don’t regret it.

Okuno-in Cemetery

Looking back, the biggest thing that made this trip work was planning ahead and then giving ourselves room within that plan. Flights were booked about seven months out. Once those were set, I had time to map everything, adjust, and build days that flowed well instead of feeling crammed.

If I went back tomorrow, I’d pack lighter, spend a few more nights in Tokyo for the food scene, and explore somewhere off the typical route — maybe a mountain town or a ryokan stay. Now that I’ve seen many of the “must-see” spots, a return trip could feel more like living there instead of trying to see it all.

If you’re planning your first trip to Japan and feeling overwhelmed, that’s normal. There’s a lot you could do. But you don’t need to do everything. Decide how you want the trip to feel, map your priorities, and build from there.

That’s how you experience Japan without turning it into a sprint.

Hanamikoji Street in Kyoto

Paper Lantern in Koyasan

If you’re planning Japan and your notes app is starting to look like a second job, you’re not alone. Mine did too. There’s a lot you could see, a lot you’ll be told you should see, and a lot that will look doable on paper until you actually map it out. The shift for me was realizing I didn’t need to do everything in one trip. Once I focused on pacing, mapped the stops that mattered most, and built the days around how we actually like to travel, the overwhelm settled down and the trip started to feel like ours instead of a checklist. We didn’t see everything, and that ended up being exactly why we loved it. Japan isn’t a one-and-done destination anyway. It’s the kind of place you experience a little at a time — and then start thinking about when you can go back before you’ve even unpacked.

Want more tips for planning bucket list trips? Need help with flights and accommodations? That’s literally what I do. Send me a message if you want me to put a trip together for you.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase from one of them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The post How I Planned a Trip to Japan Without Completely Overwhelming Myself appeared first on Boujee on Any Budget Travel.

When your dollar’s playing MVP, you can live large without the large price. While I haven’t personally visited all of these spots (yet!), I’ve done my homework to find destinations where 1 USD goes farther than usual. For me, going somewhere that maximizes the strength of the USD is a big deal. We work hard for our money, and I want it to work just as hard for me. So, the more I can get out of each hour I’ve spent earning, the better the trip feels. Here are seven destinations that made it to my list of potential adventures!

1. Thailand: A Blend of Culture and Relaxation

Located in Southeast Asia, Thailand offers a mix of vibrant city life, cultural landmarks, and beautiful beaches. Bangkok is a must-see for its energy and street food, while Chiang Mai gives a glimpse into the country’s history and tradition. Phuket and other islands offer the perfect spot for beaches and resorts. Whether you’re exploring temples or relaxing by the sea, Thailand offers a variety of experiences with a great value for your dollar.

Rate: ~$1 USD = 32.36 Thai Baht 

Why Go: Luxury beach massage, 5★ dining street‑style, and boutique resorts under $100/night.

Cons: Tourist saturation in Bangkok/Phuket; tropical weather can mean humidity, storms in the rainy season; long flight time for most U.S. travelers.

2. Albania: Mediterranean Charm at a Great Value

Located in Southeastern Europe, Albania offers a unique mix of Mediterranean beauty and history, without the hefty price tag. Its Riviera coastline is home to pristine beaches, while cities like Berat and Gjirokastër showcase the country’s rich culture and ancient architecture. Though less developed than some other European destinations, Albania’s affordability and stunning landscapes make it an appealing choice for those seeking something different.

Rate: ~$1 USD = 83.2 Albanian Lek 

Why Go: Mediterranean vibes at Eastern Europe prices; stunning Riviera beaches, and charming towns

Cons: Limited direct flight options; less infrastructure for English speakers; some attractions don’t have high‑luxury polish yet.

3. Vietnam: A Blend of History, Culture, and Affordable Luxury

Located in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is a country of contrasts, from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil beauty of Hoi An. Known for its incredible street food, Vietnam offers rich cultural experiences, historic sites, and affordable luxury. In cities like Hanoi, you can dive into the local culture, while Hoi An and other towns offer charming boutique hotels and the chance to indulge in affordable opulence. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples or enjoying the local cuisine, Vietnam provides an unforgettable experience at a great value.

Rate: ~$1 USD = 26,150 VND 

Why Go: Incredible street food, custom-ready luxury, boutique hotels

Cons: Heavy traffic in cities; language barriers in rural areas; air quality can be problematic in places like Hanoi.

4. Turkey: A Crossroad of Cultures and Budget-Friendly Luxury

Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey offers a rich mix of history, culture, and landscapes. Cities like Istanbul blend modern life with ancient landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, while regions like Cappadocia and Ephesus transport you back in time. With affordable luxury, from seaside resorts to boutique hotels, Turkey provides unique experiences at a fraction of the cost compared to other European destinations. Whether you’re exploring vibrant markets or relaxing by the Mediterranean, Turkey offers an adventure that’s both rich and affordable.

Rate: ~$1 USD = 40.54 Turkish Lira 

Why Go: Rich culture, spa traditions, cave hotels, waterfront luxury- all doable on a serious discount.

Cons: Political/economic volatility can affect comfort; best exchange value- riskier; regional tensions.

5. South Africa: Adventure, Wildlife, and Value

Located at the southern tip of Africa, South Africa is known for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and incredible wildlife. Cape Town offers stunning coastal views and vibrant city life, while Johannesburg is a hub for history and modern attractions. For nature lovers, safaris in Kruger National Park or exploring the Garden Route provide unforgettable experiences. South Africa’s affordability makes it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure, wildlife, and culture without breaking the bank.

Rate: ~$1 USD = 17.75 ZAR 

Why Go: Safari trips, vineyard stays, coastal road routes, and luxury hotels for much cheaper than U.S. equivalents.

Cons: Safety risk varies by area; domestic flights/time; unpredictable currency fluctuations tied to economic/political events.

6. Nicaragua: A Hidden Gem of Central America

Nestled in Central America, Nicaragua is an emerging destination known for its stunning natural beauty and rich culture. The colonial city of Granada is a must-see, with its colorful architecture and historic charm, while San Juan del Sur offers beautiful beaches and a laid-back vibe. Nicaragua also boasts active volcanoes, pristine lakes, and lush jungles, making it perfect for adventure seekers. With a strong USD and affordable prices, Nicaragua offers an authentic experience at a great value.

Rate: ~$1 USD = 36.78 NIO 

Why Go: Surf towns, volcanoes, colonial architecture and nature experiences- all way cheaper than neighboring Costa Rica.

Cons: Infrastructure is less developed (roads, medical facilities); basic tourism services; occasional political unrest.

7. Egypt: Ancient Wonders and Modern Experiences

Located in northeastern Africa, Egypt is a land of rich history and culture, home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Cairo is a bustling metropolis with a mix of ancient and modern attractions, while Luxor offers a deep dive into Egypt’s ancient past with temples and tombs along the Nile. Whether you’re exploring the desert, cruising the Nile, or visiting the Mediterranean city of Alexandria, Egypt offers a unique and affordable adventure, where the USD stretches far.

Rate: ~$1 USD = ~49 EGP 

Why Go: Nile cruises, pyramids tours, and upscale hotels without the typical “Egypt tax” on your travel budget.

Cons: Hot climate, scams/tout culture near tourist sites; safety varies by region; currency volatility tied to ongoing economic reforms.

Let’s book a trip!

When the U.S. dollar is strong, these destinations let you travel luxe but live smarter. Each offers high style at low to mid-range cost. Just be aware of the tradeoffs: from safety and infrastructure to flight time and offbeat tourism infrastructure. And if you’re ready to plan one of these trips, I’m here to help. From flights to stays to excursions, let me do the hard work for you, so you can focus on enjoying your next adventure!

Check out these other amazing itineraries

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase from one of them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The post 7 Amazing Places to Vacation Where the USD Is Strong appeared first on Boujee on Any Budget Travel.

There are few experiences in life as awe-inspiring as watching the northern lights dance across the sky- and there is no better place to witness this natural wonder than Alaska. With its wide-open landscapes, dark winter skies, and prime aurora-viewing locations, Alaska offers one of the most magical front-row seats to the show. In this Alaska bucket list guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to chase the aurora borealis- from the best times to go and where to watch, to tips for maximizing your chances of seeing this bucket list spectacle. 

Things to Know

Best Time to Visit

The best time for witnessing the northern lights is during the winter months, from late September through early April. This is when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest- ideal conditions for aurora viewing. The heart of the winter, especially between December and March, tends to offer the most reliable activity, along with the added bonus of the snowy landscapes that make the experience even more magical. 

I suggest staying 4-5 nights. If you stay in Fairbanks for a minimum of 3 nights and are actively out seeking every night, you have a 90% chance of catching the show. The more time you give yourself, the more you can plan around weather which could bring in some clouds. Clear skies are a must for this adventure.

What to pack for Alaska

Where to stay in Fairbanks

Hampton Inn

Hotel in Fairbanks with free breakfast and airport shuttle service

check pricing

Hyatt Place

Hotel in Fairbanks with free breakfast and airport shuttle service

check pricing

Springhill Suites

Riverfront hotel with free breakfast and airport shuttle service

Check Pricing

You will need a rental car for this trip. I strongly advise a 4×4 as your nightly excursions will take you well outside of town to escape the light pollution. 

You will need a few tools to assist in your aurora hunt. First, download My Aurora Forecast & Alerts on your phone. This app offers information such as the likelihood of visibility, details about solar winds, and a list of best locations to view from “right now”. Forecasts for the next hour and several hours will help you to plan your evenings. 

Next, check the Aurora Tracker on the Explore Fairbanks website. This combines the same data from the app that comes from the Geophysical Institute along with weather in six locations, the amount of darkness, and 3 days of predictions. 

Between these 2 tools, you will have a pretty good idea of your chances for seeing the northern lights and where to go. 

Viewing Locations

When to Hunt

The optimal window for viewing is between 10pm and 3am. For the best chances of seeing the magical lights, you should pull an all-nighter. If this isn’t your cup of tea (it was not mine!), then you should use the tracking app and website to get a good idea of future activity. 

For example, around dinner time I would check the app and see what the chances of activity looked like. Then we formulated a plan of attack. This allowed us to go to bed and rest for a few hours, set an alarm for around midnight and then hit the road for our chase. We stayed out for a few hours, then returned back to the hotel to catch a few more hours of sleep before waking up and doing day time activities. 

Other options include guided tours that can take much of the guesswork out of the evening for you. Take a look at these great tours.

Ice Fishing

This unique Alaskan adventure combines the serenity of winter with the thrill of catching fish beneath the frozen surface. Our guided fish was set up in a cozy cabin with the fishing holes pre-drilled waiting for us to reel in Arctic char, rainbow trout, or silver salmon. The guide prepared reindeer sausage and cooked our fish for us on the iron stove. 

What made this a truly special night was fishing under the glow of the northern lights. It was a peaceful, almost surreal experience that blended outdoor adventure with the raw beauty of Alaska’s winter wilderness. 

Although this is a bucket list item, this trip is far more than just checking an item off the list- it’s stepping into a world where nature puts on a show like no other. Whether you’re an adventurer, a photographer, or simply someone in search of magic, witnessing the aurora borealis is a soul-stirring experience. Bundle up, head north, and let the lights lead the way- you won’t regret it. 

Have you visited Alaska to see the Northern Lights? What was your favorite experience?

For more awesome winter escapes, check out this post about Banff!

The post Alaska Bucket List Guide; See the Northern Lights appeared first on Boujee on Any Budget Travel.

You’ve seen the viral videos.
You’ve seen my videos and pictures.
Massive brown bears standing in a rushing waterfall, casually plucking salmon out of the air like it’s no big deal. Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park is one of the most iconic wildlife viewing experiences in the world.

And it’s also one of the most complicated to get to.

Want to plan your own trip to see it? Buckle up (literally), because I’m breaking down what it really takes-from lottery hopes to floatplanes and the not-so-budget-friendly price tags.

Option 1: Win the Brooks Camp Lottery (AKA the Unicorn Route)

If you’re planning way in advance, you can try to win the golden ticket: a reservation at Brooks Camp. This is the only developed area inside Katmai where visitors can stay overnight near the falls.

• How to enter: The National Park Service opens the lottery each year through katmailand.com (December 1- December 30). The drawing is random and winners are contacted by early February with their dates to stay at the lodge for THE FOLLOWING YEAR. For example, December 2025 the lottery will open, early 2026 names will be drawn and contacted for a stay in summer of 2027. 50% payment is required within 7 days to secure your stay.
• Your odds: Slim. Tens of thousands of people sign up for this lottery.
• Cost: A stay at Brooks Lodge (if you do get a spot) runs $1,300+ per night. There is a 3–night maximum stay. this includes meals, but not flights. Cabins are 2 twin bunk beds
• Perks: You wake up with the bears. Literally. You can walk to the platforms during early and late times and don’t need to rush a day trip.

If you’re one of the lucky few, congrats. If not? Don’t worry. There are still ways to see the magic…

Option 2: Day Trip from Anchorage

If you’re starting in Anchorage, you’ll need to take two flights:

1. Anchorage → King Salmon
   • Commercial airlines like Alaska Airlines operate this leg.
   • Flight time: About 1 hour
   • Cost: ~$500 round trip depending on time of year
2. King Salmon → Brooks Falls (floatplane)
   • You’ll transfer to a floatplane with Katmai Air or another air taxi service
   • Flight time: ~20 minutes
   • Cost: $450 round trip per person

That means just getting to and from the falls can run $900–$1,000+ per person, and you’ll still need a place to stay in Anchorage before or after your trip.

The downside to this option is the amount of time spent flying to and from, limiting the available time to spend with the bears.

Option 3: Day Trip from Homer

Homer is a smaller, quirkier town on the Kenai Peninsula (and worth visiting even if you’re not heading to Katmai). There are a few companies that run full-day bear viewing excursions from Homer that include round-trip flights and guide services.

• Flight time: 1.5 hours each way
• Cost: Typically $1,000–$1,400 per person
• Perk: No need to coordinate separate flights. You book once and they handle everything.

This is a popular option for those wanting a once-in-a-lifetime guided experience without the hassle of logistics. The perk of using Homer as your base is access to Lake Clark National Park and other parts of Katmai National Park such as Halo Bay.

Option 4: Day Trip from King Salmon (the closest access point)

If you can get yourself to King Salmon, this is your shortest route into the park.

• Floatplane to Brooks Falls:
  • Flight time: ~20 minutes
  • Cost: $450 round trip per person

But-and this is important–getting to and around King Salmon is no small feat. It’s only accessible by plane. No roads. No Ubers. Limited rental cars unless your VRBO host also owns a vehicle (ask me how I know ).

There are very few places to stay, and the ones near the river with prime access are often luxury lodges charging thousands per night. You can find more budget-friendly rentals, but they go quickly and don’t come with many frills.

I chose this location purely for convenience on location to Brooks Falls. I wanted to go 2 days in a row to experience the environment as much as possible. After a lot of research, I found that flights are cancelled often due to weather, so getting as close as possible and setting myself up for 2 full days with the possibility of a 3rd day for rebooking if needed due to weather, was the most important factor.

So… Is It Worth It?

Let me be clear:
Getting to Brooks Falls is not easy, and it is not cheap. But it is one of the most awe-inspiring, humbling experiences you’ll ever have.

Watching an 800-pound brown bear snatch a salmon out of a waterfall just feet from where you’re standing is the kind of stuff that stays with you.

So whether you win the lottery or cobble together a floatplane-fueled adventure from King Salmon, it can be done if you’re willing to plan ahead and make it happen.

Want more tips for planning your Alaska bucket list trip? Or need help piecing together your flights and accommodations? That’s literally what I do.
Send me a message if you want me to put a trip together for you!

Want to check out another amazing spot for wildlife viewing? Check out this blog for Yellowstone and Grand Teton!

The post Into the Wild: How To See Bears In Brooks Falls, Alaska appeared first on Boujee on Any Budget Travel.