The archipelago of Haida Gwaii lies just off the coast of British Columbia but it feels like another world. It has a history and culture unlike any other place and its wildlife have evolved in isolation from the mainland. Haida Gwaii tours will take you to a place of myth and legend to visit a people and their home which is unique in the world.
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.
The Haida people have a unique culture and evidence of it is dotted all over the land. There is an excellent heritage center in Skidegate which has exhibitions of many of their ways of life. They have a very structured society and were thought to be fearsome warriors. Nowadays they are more known for their arts and crafts which are highly skilled, especially in carving.
Art is an integral part of the culture of the islands and the visitor can enjoy a variety of traditional crafts and modern art styles. For the Haida art was a way to join their culture with their land. They use lots of wood and are experts in various carving styles. There is an art route which has an online brochure available. In addition to native arts Haida has attracted a number of creative people over the years and there are also modern galleries to explore.
It is highly recommended that visitors interested in seeing the most remote and mythical parts of the islands take a bout trip. Many abandoned villages, forests and beaches can only be reached from the sea. There are also whale watching tours and many outdoor pursuits in these areas. Climbing, caving, kayaking, fishing, camping and sailing are all popular activities in Haida Gwaii.
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.
The Haida people have a unique culture and evidence of it is dotted all over the land. There is an excellent heritage center in Skidegate which has exhibitions of many of their ways of life. They have a very structured society and were thought to be fearsome warriors. Nowadays they are more known for their arts and crafts which are highly skilled, especially in carving.
Art is an integral part of the culture of the islands and the visitor can enjoy a variety of traditional crafts and modern art styles. For the Haida art was a way to join their culture with their land. They use lots of wood and are experts in various carving styles. There is an art route which has an online brochure available. In addition to native arts Haida has attracted a number of creative people over the years and there are also modern galleries to explore.
It is highly recommended that visitors interested in seeing the most remote and mythical parts of the islands take a bout trip. Many abandoned villages, forests and beaches can only be reached from the sea. There are also whale watching tours and many outdoor pursuits in these areas. Climbing, caving, kayaking, fishing, camping and sailing are all popular activities in Haida Gwaii.
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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