Whales, Beavers & Bears: A Wildlife Discovery of Vancouver Island

Fly from the UK to Vancouver, Canada.

Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Vancouver, where urban sophistication meets breathtaking natural beauty. Spend three nights exploring the diverse cultural scene, from art galleries to world-class dining. Stroll through Stanley Park, where you might spot a cheeky raccoon or two andvisit Granville Island for its bustling market and artsy vibe. 

Ferry transfer from Vancouver to Victoria.

Welcome to Victoria, the charming capital of British Columbia, where history and nature intertwine beautifully. Spend three nights immersing yourself in the city's British charm. Wander through the iconic Butchart Gardens, a floral paradise that’s a feast for the senses, while the city's waterfront is perfect for leisurely strolls and perhaps a spot of afternoon tea. As you explore Victoria, the anticipation for your whale-watching adventure builds, setting the stage for your next leg in Tofino.

Arrive in Tofino, a laid-back surf town where nature reigns supreme. Spend three nights surrounded by the pristine beauty of beaches and lush rainforests. Your adventure here includes an unforgettable whale-watching excursion by covered vessel. Get ready to witness these gentle giants up close—an experience sure to leave you in awe. Not a whale in sight? Don’t worry; the playful sea otters and bald eagles have got you covered. Enjoy local seafood delicacies and maybe catch a wave or two. Tofino’s relaxed vibe and stunning landscapes make it a wildlife lover’s paradise.

Spend a night in Campbell River, known as the "Salmon Capital of the World." The town offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. Be sure to explore the nearby Elk Falls Provincial Park for a dose of nature. This is your gateway to bear country, where the wilderness awaits. Campbell River serves as a delightful stopover, providing both relaxation and anticipation for the adventures to come.

Fly from Campbell River to Knight Inlet Lodge by float plane.

Experience 2 nights at the Knight Inlet Lodge, where the untamed beauty of the wilderness surrounds you. This floating eco-lodge offers a front-row seat to the majestic grizzly bears in their natural habitat. From the safety of viewing platforms, watch as these magnificent creatures fish for salmon in the river. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience that will leave you speechless. As the day winds down, enjoy a hearty meal and the tranquil sounds of the forest.

Grizzly Bear Viewing:

From April onwards, both black and grizzly bears emerge from hibernation and frequent the cove and estuary to feed on succulent spring growth, providing a wonderful opportunity to witness new born cubs as they explore their surroundings. Even in mid-summer, when some bears migrate to nearby timber clearings for berry feasting, several bears are still spotted daily around the estuary. The spring program includes boat-based bear watching tours, ensuring a non-intrusive experience with these magnificent creatures. As summer progresses, the boat-based bear viewing continues, taking advantage of the season's best weather and extended daylight hours. Come fall, starting in late August, the tours transition to viewing stands, offering a secure and comfortable vantage point. This period coincides with the surge of pink salmon up the Inlet, attracting numerous grizzlies to the spawning channels for a hearty feast in preparation for winter.

Included Optional Tours: 

Inlet Cruise: Embark on a breathtaking 2-hour journey through the enchanting Knight Inlet, where nature's wonders come alive before your eyes. Marvel at majestic waterfalls cascading down sheer rock faces, witness ancient glaciers sculpting through rugged mountains, and glide along wild rivers brimming with life. Expert guides will entertain and enlighten you with captivating local history, folklore, and legends. Discover the mystical allure of 'Spirit Water', behold centuries-old native pictographs, and venture to the enchanting Annuhati River.

Walking Tours: Delve into the heart of an ancient, old-growth rainforest in the pristine Kwalate valley, just a short boat ride from the lodge. Traverse alongside the stunning Kwalate River, adorned with giant moss-covered trees and captivating waterfalls, as you uncover the secrets of the rainforest and its diverse flora and fauna. This leisurely 4-8 kilometre hike, with occasional rocky sections and a gentle incline, promises a small yet rewarding adventure. Typically scheduled in the morning, return to the lodge for a delightful lunch on the front deck before opting for an afternoon activity.

Interpretive Tracking Tour: Embark on a fascinating journey through bear habitat rarely seen on traditional bear-viewing tours. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you on a leisurely drive down an old forestry road, where you'll search for intriguing bear signs such as day beds, tracks, and "rub" trees. Gain insights into the captivating bear research supported by our lodge, offering a unique perspective on life in bear country.

Walk Above the Clouds: Ascend a raised wooden boardwalk to a scenic lookout boasting panoramic vistas of Knight Inlet. Accessible via 4x4 vehicle along a historic mountain road, the journey itself is an adventure! With a leisurely one-hour walk, this tour offers an easy yet rewarding experience amidst the wilderness.

Big Cedar Hike: Journey through dense young forests gradually transitioning into older, towering trees including Western Red Cedars, Western Hemlock, and Sitka Spruce. Encounter culturally significant cedar trees marked by Indigenous people for centuries, while learning about their ecological importance and the threats posed by historical logging practices. Listen to the melodic tunes of various bird species during the spring and early summer months, enhancing the immersive experience.

Sea Kayaking: Glide silently along the tranquil waters in your sea kayak, where sightings of grizzly bears foraging along the shoreline are not uncommon. New to kayaking? Fear not! The sheltered cove and calm waters provide the perfect learning environment, with expert guides offering coaching on the fundamentals of sea kayaking. Embark on this unforgettable adventure aboard stable, spacious single and double kayaks designed by Necky Kayaks.

Fly from Knight Inlet Lodge by float plane back to Campbell River, pick up your car and drive to Nanaimo.

Conclude your wildlife adventure with a night in Nanaimo, a coastal city known for its rich history and, of course, the famous Nanaimo bar. Explore the charming downtown area with its unique shops and waterfront views. Take a relaxing walk along the Harbourfront Walkway or visit the Bastion, an iconic wooden fort. Reflect on your journey filled with unforgettable encounters with whales, beavers, and bears. As you savour a slice of the iconic dessert, you’ll find Nanaimo offers the perfect sweet ending to your Vancouver Island wildlife discovery.

Ferry transfer from Vancouver Island to Vancouver, then fly to the UK.