There is nowhere else like Haida Gwaii. It is an archipelago near the west coast of Canada with a unique people and unique natural history. To explore the islands visitors an take a range of different Haida Gwaii tours or drive themselves around to see their extraordinary beauty and experience a unique people.
Taking just a two hour flight from Vancouver can transport you to this distinct place. Some organised tours take place mainly on land and some are aboard yachts and cruisers. This depends on your preferences and whether you want to see more of the culture or more of the wildlife.
Once on the islands tourists are amazed at the natural beauty. They have been nicknamed the "Galapagos of the North" as they have many endemic species which have evolved in isolation. The seas are also extremely rich with fish, birds and mammals, such as whales and dolphins. Historically fishing and arts and crafts have been the main sources of income.
At the southern tip of the archipelago is the Gwaii Haanas National Park. It is a true wilderness with mile after mile of ancient forest. It also has areas of alpine and sub-alpine tundra, fjords, lakes and wetlands. The brown bears found here are much bigger than their cousins on the mainland and are often seen by hikers. The area is ideal for the adventure enthusiast with miles of trails, kayaking, fishing, climbing and sailing.
Another thing which makes the islands unique is the human culture. The Haida people made it their home thousands of years ago and learned how to live in harmony with the nature they revere. There is a heritage center in Skidegate which provides an introduction to the people and their way of life. There are displays of their houses, canoes and totem poles.
Art was always a way for them to express their appreciation of the natural world and many of the traditional crafts continue today. Many Haida people are expert carvers. They tell the stories of their heritage in the totem poles and carvings which adorn their houses. In recent years many artists have been so inspired by the place they chose to make it their home. The arts enthusiast will find a number of galleries and modern artists to visit.
Many tours include a boat trip but they can also be arranged individually. This is surely one of the best ways to experience the archipelago. Many of the wild beaches, abandoned villages and forests can only be accessed from the sea. These are truly remote and special places to see.
There are a number of companies offering package tours on the islands. There are general ones which include a bit of everything or specialist ones for adventure seekers, natural history and art and culture. Most companies can also offer bespoke tours for small groups and families. Independent travel is possible but there is no public transport on the islands.
Taking just a two hour flight from Vancouver can transport you to this distinct place. Some organised tours take place mainly on land and some are aboard yachts and cruisers. This depends on your preferences and whether you want to see more of the culture or more of the wildlife.
Once on the islands tourists are amazed at the natural beauty. They have been nicknamed the "Galapagos of the North" as they have many endemic species which have evolved in isolation. The seas are also extremely rich with fish, birds and mammals, such as whales and dolphins. Historically fishing and arts and crafts have been the main sources of income.
At the southern tip of the archipelago is the Gwaii Haanas National Park. It is a true wilderness with mile after mile of ancient forest. It also has areas of alpine and sub-alpine tundra, fjords, lakes and wetlands. The brown bears found here are much bigger than their cousins on the mainland and are often seen by hikers. The area is ideal for the adventure enthusiast with miles of trails, kayaking, fishing, climbing and sailing.
Another thing which makes the islands unique is the human culture. The Haida people made it their home thousands of years ago and learned how to live in harmony with the nature they revere. There is a heritage center in Skidegate which provides an introduction to the people and their way of life. There are displays of their houses, canoes and totem poles.
Art was always a way for them to express their appreciation of the natural world and many of the traditional crafts continue today. Many Haida people are expert carvers. They tell the stories of their heritage in the totem poles and carvings which adorn their houses. In recent years many artists have been so inspired by the place they chose to make it their home. The arts enthusiast will find a number of galleries and modern artists to visit.
Many tours include a boat trip but they can also be arranged individually. This is surely one of the best ways to experience the archipelago. Many of the wild beaches, abandoned villages and forests can only be accessed from the sea. These are truly remote and special places to see.
There are a number of companies offering package tours on the islands. There are general ones which include a bit of everything or specialist ones for adventure seekers, natural history and art and culture. Most companies can also offer bespoke tours for small groups and families. Independent travel is possible but there is no public transport on the islands.
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