Introduction
This programme offers lively urban centres, remote wilderness destinations and the unrivalled beauty of Vancouver Island’s scenery. From the bustling city of Vancouver, you will plunge right into a whalewatching journey from Victoria and the Pacific Rim National Park. Stepping aboard a floatplane you will head inland, to go in search of grizzly bears, eagles and foxes near Knight Inlet. The final leg of your adventure takes you back to the mainland where you will explore the rugged seascapes of the Sunshine Coast en route to Vancouver.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Vancouver
Transfer independently to your hotel and pick up your documentation package from reception. Overnight Vancouver.
Day 2 Vancouver to Victoria – 70 km (land only)
Pick up your hire car and cruise the Strait of Georgia by BC ferry to Vancouver Island. You could visit Butchart Gardens before you continue to Victoria. Admission to the Royal BC Museum is included. Overnight Victoria.
Day 3 Victoria to Tofino – 320 km
Take the scenic Island Highway and then head west through mid island mountains to Pacific Rim National Park, with miles of sandy beaches and ancient rainforests. 2 nights in Tofino.
Day 4 Tofino
Today take part in a thrilling whale watching expedition searching for the Pacific grey whale, sea lions and puffins.
Day 5 Tofino to Campbell River – 290 km
This morning, journey back to the eastern coast of Vancouver Island. You could visit Horne Lake Caves or the giant cedars of Cathedral Grove. 2 nights in Campbell River.
Day 6 Campbell River
Drive north to the fishing community of Telegraph Cove and take the included killer whale watching cruise to the unspoilt wilderness of Johnstone Strait before returning to Campbell River.
Day 7 Campbell River to Knight Inlet
Today’s destination, Knight Inlet Lodge, is not accessible by road, so you’ll fly in by floatplane from Campbell River. You’ll be on a bearwatching and wildlife viewing tour today. Overnight in Knight Inlet. Lunch and dinner included. For more details on the spectacular Knight Inlet, see p.10
Day 8 Knight Inlet to Vancouver – 160 km (land only)
This morning return to Campbell River by floatplane and drive south to Nanaimo. The BC ferry will take you back to Vancouver for your final night.
Day 9 End of tour
Return to Vancouver Airport for your flight home.
Departures: Daily May - October
Children: Minimum age 8.
