Time in Vancouver
Explore the seaport city of Vancouver and cross Capilano Suspension Bridge.
Sail the remote waters of Haida Gwaii, uncovering the ancient culture of the Haida First Nations people and exploring the nooks of this wild island chainset that protrudes from the western coast of British Columbia.
Key Highlights of this Itinerary
Explore Haida Gwaii
Cruise the wildlife-rich archipelago of remote islands and temperate rainforest, most of which is only accessible by boat.
Gwaii Haanas Reserve
Explore the remarkable Gwaii Haanas Reserve with its plethora of elk, blacktail deer, eagles and black bears.
Sail the Archipelago
Look out for humpback whales and dolphins while sailing around Haida Gwaii.
Why Steppes?
Rated Excellent
on Trustpilot
One of the World's Top 5
Travel Specialists
Transparent and
Accountable
-
Day 1
Vancouver
-
Day 2
Vancouver - Haida Gwaii
-
Days 3-9
Haida Gwaii
-
Day 10
Haida Gwaii - Vancouver
Day 1
Vancouver
Spend the day exploring Vancouver, whether that’s cycling in Stanley Park, meandering down the cobbled streets of Gas Town or sampling Canadian treats at Granville Island public market.
Day 2
Vancouver - Haida Gwaii
After breakfast, fly from Vancouver to Sandspit on Moresby Island in Haida Gwaii. Overnight at Sandspit Harbour Inn.
Days 3-9
Haida Gwaii
Visit the Haida Heritage Centre followed by a traditional Haida lunch. Later, board the Island Solitude for a safety briefing and welcome dinner. Spent the next few days sailing the archipelago of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve which protects a range of historical monuments, archaeological sites, cultural events, indigenous heritage and artistic traditions.
Day 10
Haida Gwaii - Vancouver
Fly back to Vancouver for onward travel home.
More Details
Vancouver
Spend the day exploring Vancouver, a city that is consistently voted as one of the best places to live in the world. Cycle the perimeter of Stanley Park, whilst taking in the breathtaking backdrop of the North Shore mountains plunging into the Pacific Ocean. Spot harbour seals from the sea wall in False Creek, sample Canadian treats at Granville Island public market, or visit the boutique shops of Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood.
Haida Gwaii
Known as the ‘Canadian Galapagos’ for its endemic wildlife, this remote archipelago off the northern coast of British Columbia, is a place of great cultural significance, natural beauty, and ecological importance. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich heritage of the Haida people who have inhabited these islands for more than 14,000 years. For a privileged insight into this ancient culture, journey onboard the 12-passenger Island Solitude to Haida village sites, hot springs and Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve where moss-draped cedars and the stories of ancestral connections between the land, sea and people are narrated through ancient totem poles.
How does this holiday make a positive impact?
- Relevant SDGs
-
-
-
Created with the environment in mind, the Island Solitude comprises an improved hull designed for increased sailing efficiency when motoring or sailing. This, combined with engines that exceed EPA emission standards, means that this vessel has a reduced carbon footprint compared to others of a similar size.
The Gwaii Haanas National Marine Conservation Area Reserve protects Haida Gwaii’s diverse marine ecosystem. Key conservation efforts include restoring kelp forests through sea otter recolonization, recently returning to the area for the first time in over 100 years. Tourism generates the funding which ensures the long-term preservation of biodiversity in the region.
Gwaii Haanas National Park, a 5000 km² protected area managed by Parks Canada, safeguards Haida Gwaii archipelago’s ecosystems and living Haida culture. Management principles are rooted in traditional Haida values like respect, connection and balance, emphasizing collaboration with local communities. This approach blends indigenous knowledge with modern conservation, which is largely funded by tourism, to address biodiversity loss and adapt to climate change.
Learn more about the UN's 17 sustainability goals
Contact Us
Start planning your trip
Send us an enquiry
Complete our enquiry form and start your next journey.
Review Contact Form
A note on price
Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchased through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.
This Itinerary
Price
From £6,500 Per person
When to travel
Canada in January
January is an undoubtedly cold time of year in Canada, with temperatures reaching negative daily. However, visiting during this time can be a good chance to avoid the overwhelming busy times of the festive season and school holidays.
Canada in February
Winter in Canada offers an array of sporting and cultural events both indoors and out. Banff, Whistler and Jasper offer phenomenal ski resorts or perhaps be a spectator of an ice hockey match, arguably the country’s favourite sport.
Canada in March
While March can be a good off-peak time to visit, it is worth being prepared for drastic weather changes. However, this also means lower costs and fewer crowds. The mountains are still open for the ski season and cities are ideal as they are fewer tourists.
Canada in April
April marks the start of spring across Canada, a time to avoid crowds and discover all that the country has to offer with comfortable temperatures on average.
Canada in May
May is a favourable time to visit Canada, with temperatures rising, avoiding school holidays and off-peak rates.
Canada in June
For many travellers, June is the ideal time to visit Canada. Just before peak season, the weather is favourable and most of the trails and seasonal activities will have opened.
Canada in July
Summer in Canada calls for longer days to explore the natural beauty that awaits outdoors whether it’s hiking, fishing or camping. Temperatures average around 25, making cities quite warm but head into the wilderness or by the coast and enjoy the open air.
Canada in August
Summer is considered the peak season with warm temperatures and all attractions open. It is worth noting this time of year can be quite busy as it is school holidays.
Canada in September
As autumn rolls in and temperatures lower, September is a great time to avoid massive crowds and experience all that the country has to offer in comfortable weather. September is also the beginning of the salmon run, a peak time to see the bears fishing.
Canada in October
Temperatures continue to drop in October, also bringing cloudy days and rain. The autumn foliage is in full bloom across the countryside. This can also be a good time to take advantage of off-peak rates, however, it is worth bearing in mind that the weather can vary and some coastal towns will have started to close for the season.
Canada in November
November is a good time of year to visit the cities of Canada. It is too late to view the foliage and a bit too early to skiing yet, but a good time to explore cities across the country, in temperatures averaging 5 degrees.
Canada in December
The build-up to the festive season is in full swing across the country. Snow may have already started, making the perfect scene for ice skating and markets.
Holiday Inspiration
Our experts have created and curated these tailor-made holiday ideas to get you started. Take the time to search through them and find something that is the spark for your unique adventure.
Why Choose Steppes?
Our knowledge, curiosity and expertise set us apart, driving us to create remarkable holidays and Beautiful Adventures tailored perfectly to you, carefully curated to help protect and conserve our planet.
Are you ready to Discover Extraordinary?