Canada Wildlife Holidays:
Vancouver + Victoria Island - Bears + Whale Watching
Our self-drive Canada wildlife holidays combine the beautiful city of Vancouver, with the fabulous bears, whales & other wildlife of British Columbia.
Explore Vancouver using your Hop Off Bus Pass, then take the ferry to magnificent Victoria Island, where you can enjoy two included whale watching excursions, as well as viewing black bears along the shores of Pacific Rim National Park. Stay overnight at the salmon capital of Campbell River, then take a thrilling floatplane journey to Knight Inlet Lodge, where you can also view grizzly bears.
Price: from £3,899 pp sharing + flights
No. nights: 12
Deposit: 15%
Starts / Finishes: Vancouver
Best Time: mid-May to Sept
Reference Code: PCN3
SAMPLE ITINERARY
Day: 1 Arrive in Vancouver
On arrival collect your car and proceed to your hotel.
Days 2 & 3: Explore Vancouver
Two full days at leisure to explore. We have a variety of fascinating pre-bookable experiences which you may wish to consider. If you're happy to simply wander and see as many sights as possible, you'll find Vancouver a very walkable city. Top spots include lush Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown, the shops of Robson Street and the fascinating public market on Granville Island. For those with a head for heights, admire the views from the Vancouver Lookout or the nearby Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain gondola ride.
Day 4: Vancouver to Victoria
Travel by ferry across the Georgia Strait to Vancouver Island and drive onwards to Victoria, the capital of British Columbia.
Day 5: Victoria
This city is an intriguing blend of old world charm and modern features, with the bustling Inner Harbour as its focal point.
Day 6: Victoria/Cowichan Bay
Drive onwards to the Cowichan Valley, a fertile crescent of rich farmland, lush vineyards, heritage river systems and scenic backroads in the south eastern corner of Vancouver Island. The village of Cowichan Bay and the surrounding area is home to a host of artists, craftspeople and cottage industries, including some fine local wineries.
Day 7: Cowichan Bay/Tofino
Travel to Tofino, regarded as the jewel of the west coast thanks to its stunning location in the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The pristine waters of Clayoquot Sound offer stunning scenery and wildlife. Pacific Gray whales are regular visitors from March to October, with other marine wildlife sightings possible such as humpback whales, transient orcas, seals, sea lions as well as birds including bald eagles.
It is an ideal destination for lovers of the great outdoors as well as foodies, with a variety of excellent restaurants.
Day 8: Tofino
At leisure in this nature lover's paradise where activities available include fishing, kayaking, whale watching, bear watching and hiking to name but a few.
Day 9: Tofino to Campbell River
Cross back to the eastern coast of Vancouver Island to Campbell River (290km), famous for salmon fishing – it’s long been known as ‘The Salmon Capital of the World’.
Along with breathtaking scenery Campbell River enjoys a sterling reputation among anglers from all corners of the globe.
Day 10: Campbell River to Knight Inlet
Morning transfer and departure by floatplane (30 minute flight) to Knight Inlet Lodge. Once settled embark on asmall boat excursion in the estuary. In the aftemoon begin with a two hour bear viewing tour (by boat in spring and summer, or on a viewing platform late August to October) of Glendale Cove, home to one of the largest concentrations of grizzly bears in British Columbia. This is followed by a two hour Knight Inlet sightseeing cruise.
On each tour you are accompanied by a knowledgeable guide to ensure you don't miss a thing. This evening, relax whilst a guide gives an interpretive presentation.
Day 11: Nanaimo
Morning bear viewing trip before you return to Campbell River by floatplane. On arrival drive south to Nanaimo where you have time to stroll around the lovely harbour and bustling waterfront.
Day 12: Nanaimo to Vancouver
Return by ferry across the Georgia Strait to Vancouver where you have time for last minute shopping and
sightseeing.
Day 13: Drive to Vancouver Airport
Your arrangements end with the check out from your hotel and the return of your car to the Vancouver airport rental depot.
PRICING
Price is based on two adults sharing en-suite accommodation on a room only basis, with the option to upgrade to Superior or Deluxe hotels. Full board is included at Knight Inlet Lodge. Intermediate car hire is included, as well as the ferry to and from Victoria Island, and all specified wildlife activities. International flights are not included and will be quoted separately.
We offer a choice of hotels at different prices, so please discuss your requirements with us. All hotels are subject to availability.
Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information, including directions and suggestions on places to visit, to help you get the most from your trip.
It is essential that you have personal holiday insurance and an appropriate driving licence. The FCO should also be consulted.