Exploring Western Canada: top 3 must-do experiences

From magnificent mountains to wild rainforests and jaw-dropping icefields, Western Canada boasts endless remarkable experiences.

three unforgettable destinations in canada

Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia

If seeing bears in their natural habitat is high on your bucket list, then a stay in the Great Bear Rainforest is a must. These 21 million acres of pristine wilderness are the only place on earth where you might be able to spot an elusive Kermode or ‘spirit’ bear; as well as brown grizzly bears and black bears. The rainforest is also home to an abundance of other creatures including bald eagles, cougars, mountain goats, sea lions, orcas and humpback whales. Despite being remote, you can access this coastal wonderland by road, plane and boat.

Vancouver Island, British Columbia

If you are a nature-seeker, an adventure-enthusiast or wildlife-lover, then Vancouver Island should be the first stop on your Canadian journey. Renowned for its spectacular scenery which encompasses rugged coastlines, imposing mountains, and lush green rainforests, Vancouver Island is a natural paradise. Relax, explore and discover all that this area has to offer:

• • Marvel at black bears in Ucluelet.
  • Take a responsible whale watching boat tour to see orcas and humpback whales in Telegraph Cove.
  • Learn about the First Nations including the Kwakwaka‘wakw, Coast Salish, and Nuu-chah-nulth communities.
  • Explore the parks spectacular coastline by kayak in the Pacific Rim National Park.
  • Go glamping near Tofino, zipline over the trees in Sooke, or tee off from a mountaintop golf course in Victoria.

The Rocky Mountains, Alberta

The Rocky Mountains are often at the top of visitor’s must-see lists when they embark on a journey across Canada, and once you’ve stood gazing upon the natural beauty of the soaring Canadian Rockies, you’ll understand why. Take some time to explore this area, so that you don’t miss out on the many highlights, including:

Canada’s first national park, Banff National Park, has been wowing visitors since it was first discovered in 1883. Facilities have evolved over the years, but the majestic beauty of the region remains the same. The adventurous will be spoiled for choice with golf, kayaking, horse riding, mountain biking and rock climbing among other activities. Those looking to unwind, can enjoy the many shops and restaurants, as well as the museum and art galleries in Banff Village.

Road trip along Icefields Parkway, one of the best driving routes in the world. 232km of spectacular highway links Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. En route you will gaze upon the vibrant Bow Lake and Peyto Lake, hundreds of shimmering glaciers, including the popular Athabasca, and the picturesque Sunwapta Falls. We recommend taking your time with this drive so that you don’t miss any of the breathtaking sights along the way.

The fabulous Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, and a visit here gives you a fantastic opportunity to spot some of Canada’s famous wildlife. Jasper National Park’s wild terrain is home to a sizeable population of grizzly bears, as well as caribou, moose, elk and lots of interesting flora and fauna. If you have time, take a kayak out onto the crystal clear waters of Maligne Lake, where you can admire the incredible scenery, including three glaciers and Spirit Island.

Browse our range of holidays in British Columbia and Alberta.