It’s not just beautiful scenery and killer coffee (which is pretty glorious, I'll admit), Vancouver is also home to some seriously delicious food. It’s a coastal gem, home to an incredible ecosystem teeming with amazing wildlife.
A wildlife watching adventure awaits just a splash (or hike) away from majestic whales breaching the surface to eagles soaring overhead.
Before we grab our binoculars and go, however, let’s discuss responsible wildlife viewing.
Eco-tourism is key! When partnering with local, environmentally conscious guides, all the impact is kept at a minimum on these special little critters and the environments in which they live.
Always check airport parking deals before travelling and book according to your needs. |
Whale Watching Wonderlands
Vancouver's waters are a ballet of whales, seasonal. Gorgeous orcas, humpbacks, and minke whales migrate in, feed, and occasionally put on a show with spectacular breaches, from spring through fall.
Victoria and the Salish Sea:
Ferry over to Vancouver Island and take a tour out to Victoria with one of the few eco-operators offering whale watching with a research and conservation slant - Prince of Whales. Watch for playful harbour porpoises and curious seals as well!
Gulf Islands:
Find out about the Gulf Islands, a chain of islands between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia. Salish Sea Kayaking offers a unique whale watching experience from kayaks, where you get much closer (and quieter) than you would from a boat.
Eagle Eye Adventures
Bald eagles are almost Vancouver's mascots, and they're almost right. They are these majestic birds of prey with their piercing gaze soaring up through the sky.
Stanley Park:
It’s an urban oasis in the middle of Vancouver that is surprisingly full of wildlife, including a resident population of bald eagles. Walk around the Lost Lagoon nature trail, keep your eyes open for these impressive birds dotted on trees or gracefully diving for fish.
When travelling for an extended period, you can book long stay parking Heathrow. |
Beyond Whales and Eagles: A Wild Menagerie
Wildlife in Vancouver is not just about whales and eagles; there is so much more to it. Here's a glimpse at some other fascinating creatures and how to see them ethically:
Bears:
So you better be careful, for bear watching is not just a walk in the park and needs professional help!
A more elaborate trip could be planning for a several day bear watching tour to a reputable bear watching lodge that would have set up responsible means of getting the travellers close to the bears in their natural environment such as the Knight Inlet Lodge.
Sea Otters:
These cute creatures of the sea are truly entertaining to watch. Visit the Clayoquot Sound on Vancouver Island and go on a wildlife watching tour with an eco friendly company such as Clayoquot Wild.
Birds Galore:
Vancouver is certainly one of the best places for bird watching. While colourful warblers can be found in Pacific Spirit Park, owls are hiding in Lighthouse Park and many others are waiting to be spotted.
Expert identification and tips can be obtained when joining the Vancouver Bird Walk Society for a guided birdwatching tour.
Remember:
As with other forms of tourism, the golden rule is always to respect the wildlife. The most important tips are to stay at a reasonable distance, to follow the guide’s instructions and to avoid any loud noises and movements that might cause the animals to flee.
Although Vancouver is a major urban centre, there is wildlife that exists beyond the concrete jungle. So take your camera (and your green mindset), find a local guide, and go on your own safari in the city! You could be shocked by the wonderful animals that you come across.
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