Haida Gwaii Tours Are Fun And Memorable

By Tamika Powell


Once known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, Haida Gwaii is Canada's most isolated group of islands, as well as a Haida First Nation territory. The area's remote location and rare characteristics have made this archipelago a favored destination among visitors from all around the world. Haida Gwaii tours are popular with vacationers who enjoy, photography, hiking, sailing, beach combing, or simply exploring unique and interesting places.

Just like tours offered by natural history societies and similar organizations, the majority of such excursions begin at a centralized location, where visitors stay in comfortable accommodations. Popular areas from which to start a tour of this type include the Tlell River and the Naikoon Provincial Park. Tourists are generally offered the opportunity to explore historical, natural and cultural areas of the archipelago.

Most tours of this kind are guided by local individuals who have a significant amount of experience leading such excursions. They are also well versed in the history of the islands. This makes it easy for participants to learn about the area as they participate in sightseeing or engage in tourist activities. This is why the tour venue is considered recreational as well as educational.

Although the details of each individual tour will vary substantially from one establishment to the next, most allow up to twelve participants, and cover all the major stops throughout the archipelago. Adequate time is usually made in the schedule for all significant points of interest. Certain tours, however, focus on lesser known local areas for those who enjoy exploring obscure places.

The islands can be reached by plane in approximately 2 hours. Depending on the season during which one decides to travel to the islands, direct service may be available from Vancouver. Those traveling during peak seasons, however, should reserve their spots ahead of time. This will help visitors to avoid missing out on their dates of choice. It is also usually wise to choose 2 different dates in case one is unavailable.

Numerous travel agencies provide packages including meals, accommodations, airfare, and gratuities. When visiting the area, participants will find that their meals usually consist of local foods prepared by natives. This is enjoyable to many vacationers, as it allows them to glimpse into Haida Gwaii's local culture.

While on the archipelago, tourists are usually transported via a walk-on bus to the local activities and attractions in which they will be participating. Most vehicles used on such tours are equipped with internal microphone systems, and are insured and driven by qualified, licensed drivers. This venue gives vacationers a chance to enjoy each other's company and talk about their experiences while on the tour.

Because numerous organizations and travel agencies offer Haida Gwaii tours, comparison-shopping is always wise prior to making a final choice about a specific package. Asking the tour coordinator or travel agent for paperwork that outlines the details of the excursion is also a good idea. Regardless of one's personal goals for his or her getaway, a tour to this beautiful and intriguing part of the world is sure to be unforgettable.




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