Have The Ultimate Vacation With Haida Gwaii Adventure Tours And Travel

By Sally Delacruz


If you love the outdoors and active travel, you probably also love destinations that are a little off the beaten track. After all, you can't really enjoy nature in all its glory when you find yourself on an overcrowded beach backed by high-rise tourist hotels. The perfect alternative for you would be to consider Haida Gwaii adventure tours and travel.

The archipelago known as Haida Gwaii lies off the northern coast of British Columbia in Canada. It's to the south of Alaska and to the north of Vancouver Island. There are about 150 islands in the group, with Moresby and Graham Islands the two largest ones.

Until 2010 the islands were officially called the Queen Charlotte Islands. The new name pays homage to the indigenous population, the Haida people. Their ancestors came here many centuries ago and today nearly half of the inhabitants are of indigenous descent. IN the village of Kaay Ilnygaay you'll find the Haida Heritage Centre, which will tell you more about the people's culture and history. There are also totem poles and ancient little villages dotted throughout the islands.

The original inhabitants were renowned sailors and water-based activities are still a popular pastime. Rent a kayak or take a boat cruise to explore the coastline and get to the more remote parts of the archipelago. There are some good surf breaks too. If you're in the region at the right time, you can go whale watching or fishing for a variety of species.

Wildlife is plentiful, especially in the national and provincial parks. Otters and black bears are just some of the species that are native to the island group but you may also spot animals such as beavers that came from the mainland. There are many bird species too and going on a hike through the wilderness is the best way to see them.

A great time to visit is in summer, when the weather's cool and it's pleasant outside. This doesn't mean though that there's nothing to do in winter. This is the time to go steelhead fishing and it's so mild that you won't mind being outside. Fall is not the best time for outdoor activities, however, since this is when the rain comes down hard and heavy. Find refuge in one of the great little pubs, restaurants or coffee shops or visit a local art gallery, of which there are plenty too. Museums include the Haida Gwaii Museum as well as the Dixon Entrance Maritime Museum and the little Port Clements Museum.

There are two main ways to get to the islands. One is to fly in, with regular flights from Vancouver, especially during summer. Another option is to travel to Prince Rupert and then take a seaplane from there. Ferries sail from Prince Rupert throughout the year too. There are excellent taxi and shuttle services once you're here.

There are several tour operators that offer a variety of packages, from hiking or kayaking trips to bear-watching or whale-watching tours. Accommodation options are plentiful as well and range from campsites to hotels, cabins and guest houses. Find these establishments online and remember to book well in advance, especially if you're planning to visit during the busy summer season.




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