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Wildlife Holidays in Canada

Book any of our Canada wildlife holidays and get ready to be transported to one of the most beautiful countries on the planet. From the magnificent Rocky Mountains in the West to the Arctic Tundra in the North. The cities are vibrant and diverse while the nature reserves are second-to-none. Every corner of this stunning land has something to offer. One of the aspects most loved about Canada is its majestic wildlife. It is home to some of the richest species in the world; in particular the famous Grizzly bear. The best way to see this magnificent creature is on one of our Canada wildlife holidays.

A wildlife viewing holiday is purposely designed to get you as close as possible to the bears in the wild. You’ll stay in lodges deep within their natural environment. Although grizzly bears are the main attraction, Canada is also home to the elusive ‘spirit bear’, black bears and even polar bears.

Grizzly Bear - Knight Inlet Lodge
Knight Inlet Lodge Holiday
Canada Wildlife Holidays - Bear Cubs
Spirit Bear Lodge | Canada Travel Specialists

Whale Watching 2024/25

Whale-watching stands out as one of the premier attractions in Canada's coastal towns and cities. Such is its popularity that upon visiting the harbors of Vancouver and Halifax, you'll encounter numerous tour companies eagerly awaiting your arrival (remember, we can assist in booking tickets as part of your holiday package). However, to maximize your experience during any whale-watching excursion, it's advisable to conduct some preliminary research. Here are a few key points to consider:

Discovering where to spot whales in Canada

The choice of whale-watching location largely hinges on the specific type of whales you wish to observe. Below is a brief overview of the prime spots along the west coast, east coast, and even the north coast.

West Coast

Your whale-watching destination largely depends on the type of whales you're eager to encounter. Below is a concise overview of prime locations along the west coast, east coast, and even the north coast.


If you're embarking on an Alaska cruise departing from Vancouver, chances are high you'll catch sight of whales from your stateroom. However, if you opt to explore British Columbia's coastal regions on land, we have several recommendations for you.


Robson Bight Ecological Preserve on Vancouver Island stands as Canada's sole killer whale sanctuary, hosting approximately 200 killer whales along its misty shores. Boat tours, originating from Telegraph Cove, offer approximately three-hour excursions.


Tofino Bay emerges as another renowned destination, particularly for grey whale sightings. These whales traverse the area during their summer migration to Alaska, with March marking the peak season. Numerous whale-watching tours depart from Tofino, and the whales often come remarkably close to the shoreline, potentially rendering lengthy voyages unnecessary.

East Coast

While the west coast garners significant attention for whale-watching, it's actually Canada's east coast that boasts the highest numbers. Atlantic Canada is home to a staggering 20 whale species, many of which inhabit inland coves, eliminating the need to venture far into the open ocean for sightings.
Newfoundland's waters teem with whales on a daily basis, with Witless Bay Ecological Reserve emerging as a premier location. While humpbacks and minkes are prominent residents, visitors can also encounter a diverse array of rare seabirds, with the added spectacle of icebergs floating by in early summer.

The Saguenay River holds its own allure, drawing hungry whales with its abundant krill population. Humpbacks, minkes, and blue whales frequent this area, with the occasional appearance of white belugas, typically found only in the Arctic.

The Bay of Fundy, renowned for harboring the world's highest tides, boasts an abundance of fish and other whale prey. Finbacks, humpbacks, and minkes are regular diners within its waves, alongside the occasional sighting of the rare right whale.

For those disinclined towards boat rides, Cape Breton Highlands in Nova Scotia offers an alternative vantage point, where pilot whales are frequently spotted from the shores. However, for a closer encounter with finbacks and humpbacks, Zodiacs and boat trips are readily available.

North Coast

If your sights are set on observing beluga whales, the Arctic waters are where you'll need to venture. Churchill in Manitoba stands out as the premier location for beluga whale sightings, alongside polar bears. Here, you can arrange kayaking and boat trips, with the more adventurous opting for snorkeling sessions (clad in ultra-thick wetsuits).

The Arctic Coast is also home to the elusive Narwhal, although spotting them requires a journey further north to Nunavut, typically in an expedition-like fashion. As the world's most northern whale species, Narwhals seldom venture south of 70 degree north, even during the summer months.

How to dress and what to pack

Even if the temperatures are mild on land, it's important to prepare for the chill out at sea, so we strongly advise dressing warmly. Layering is key, allowing you to add insulation as you venture further into the ocean and shed layers upon returning to shore. We recommend donning a fleece, sweater, trousers, gloves, and a hat. Additionally, wearing sunscreen, and bringing sunglasses and binoculars is wise.

When it comes to cameras, we suggest opting for a super-zoom camera, as a phone camera may struggle to capture distant whale sightings effectively. Many whale-watchers opt to simply savor the moment rather than focusing on capturing it on film.

Canada Wildlife Holidays - Bear Cub
Grizzly Bear watching in British Columbia

These beautiful animals once roamed all of North America. While some remain in the American Rockies, most of the population is now confined to Canada. The best place to find them is on a wildlife holiday at Knight Inlet, British Columbia. Here on the west coast, on a corner of Vancouver Island, you’ll see the Grizzlies for yourself.

You’ll stay in lodges purpose-built for viewing these gentle giants. Watch as they spend their days eating salmon from the fast flowing rivers and foraging for nuts and berries. It’s rare to see Grizzly bears in packs as they are typically very solitary animals. Yet, they often come together to fish in the streams of British Columbia.

Along with your guides and fellow travellers, you’ll trek the forests and rivers of Vancouver Island. The best time to visit is spring, just after they emerge from hibernation. Females tend to give birth over the winter period, so if you’re lucky, you’ll catch the baby’s first steps! Cubs are often born as twins, so it’s not uncommon to see them playing together. The patient mother will follow them and teach them to forage for berries, roots, and nuts. And you can watch it all.

Many of Canada’s bears are wary of confrontation and are shy when it comes to humans. Grizzlies, on the other hand, got their name for a reason! When it comes to catching a glimpse of these creatures, it’s always best to travel with expert guides. That’s where a wildlife holiday comes in. They’ll keep you safe and they know the best spots!

The Grizzly bear is categorised as ‘threatened’ under the Fish & Wildlife Service classifications. These rare and magnificent animals must be protected and allowed to live in their natural habitat. Guided tours within their natural home are the only humane and safe ways to experience the bears. If we don’t act against urbanisation and hunting, we may not be able to see them at all.

Canada Wildlife Holidays - Bear Family
Black Bear watching in Quebec

Grizzlies aren’t the only bears you’ll find in Canada. The black bear is the most common species of bear on the planet, with many residing in this fine country. Why not plan your entire wildlife holiday with these creatures in mind? For guaranteed black bear sightings, head to the holiday lodges in the Quebec region between July and September. Make this part of your wildlife holiday and you’re in for an awe-inspiring experience.

Having said that, it’s not uncommon to see black bears on the side of the road while driving across Canada. Generally, they tend to avoid confrontation with humans and attacks are very rare. Still, it’s best to travel with experienced guides and a wildlife travel company.

Canada Wildlife Holidays - Polar Bears
Polar Bear watching in Manitoba

Yes, you really can see polar bears in Canada too. You’ll need to prepare yourself for a cold trip north to Arctic regions, but it’s well worth it. As part of a wildlife holiday, you’ll visit the northern tip of Manitoba. Here you’ll find a small town called Churchill where many polar bear study teams and scientists reside. It’s an amazing place to discover this beautiful bear.

Polar bears have recently been categorized as a ‘vulnerable species’ due to their sad decline. Pressures from global warming, habitat loss and pollution are making life difficult for the majestic polar bear.

Canada Wildlife Holidays - Wild Bears
Elusive Spirit Bear watching in British Columbia

The Spirit bear is Canada’s most elusive, magical bear. Booking a wildlife watching holiday is the only way you’ll see it in the wild! Scientists think there are only about 400 in existence, and sightings are rare. They are almost mythical and legendary in their nature. In actual fact, they are simply black bears with odd colouring. They appear white, like a polar bear. Also known as the Kermode bear, they are found in The Great Bear Rainforest on Vancouver Island. Among the snowy peaks and icy fjords, a glimpse of one of these is a truly magical experience.

The best thing about a wildlife holiday in Canada is that you can match it with incredible adventure. To discover these creatures, you’ll explore the lakes, rivers and forests of this stunning land. You’ll kayak across fjords, hike through snowy peaks and immerse yourself in nature. What better way to discover the world around you?

Our Canadian specialist staff will be able to help you choose the right region and time of year to maximise your chances of spotting elusive wildlife. And you can make the most of the great outdoors by trying activities such as horse riding across the prairies, paddle the country’s still-water lakes or hike in the mountains. With a range of different national parks and reserves on offer in Canada, there’s nowhere better to catch sight glimpse of some of the world’s most elusive and impressive wildlife!

Popular Wildlife Watching Destinations