Whales, Bears and Vancouver Island

Experience lively urban centres, remote wilderness destinations, the unrivalled beauty of Vancouver Island’s scenery and fascinating aboriginal culture experiences. Arriving in the provincial capital of Victoria, you will plunge right into a whale watching journey. Travel to remote Tofino to discover the remote and untamed beauty seldom seen by people, home to grizzly bears, eagles and other quintessentially Canadian wildlife. A captivating stay at an authentic wilderness lodge provides the perfect setting for eco or wilderness tours. The final leg of your adventure takes you back to the mainland where you will explore Vancouver.

Victoria 
Arrive in Victoria at your downtown hotel and take the rest of the day to create your own west coast island adventure amid the port lands, parks, restaurants, and gardens of British Columbia’s capital city. Embark on a fascinating wildlife viewing adventure aboard a fast-moving Zodiac rigid boat. A certified marine biologist provides insight into the environment and habits of orca, minke and grey whales as well as other marine wildlife. 

Tofino 
Be sure that you have your camera at the ready – a panorama of scenic beauty is about to unfold before you. Your road leads across Vancouver Island to the Pacific Coast winding through ancient rainforests and provincial parks. You’re venturing into true wildlife territory, exemplified by The Pacific Rim National Park - a marvel of ecological and geographical diversity. 
Experience a captivating bear watching excursion, aboard a Zodiac boat and speed along the lush coastline to the bears’ feeding grounds. When the tide goes out the bears emerge from the forests and forage along the shores in search of rock crabs, providing the perfect opportunity to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Back on dry land, you’re free to explore the rugged coastline along the network of hiking trails or to walk the shoreline in search of shells and driftwood. Perhaps enrich your experience with a visit to the Himwitsa Art Gallery and marvel at the collection of authentic pieces native to the Tofino area. 

Sonora Resort 
This morning, the spectacular winding road takes you back to the eastern coast of Vancouver Island. Your route will introduce you to many gems, like a brief visit at the native rock carvings at Sproat Lake or the picturesque falls at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. Upon arrival in Campbell River, you board a water taxi for the short boat ride to the stunning Sonora Resort. Settle in for the night at this quintessential west coast resort and prepare yourself for tomorrow’s day of adventure and discovery! 
Today, you have the entire day at this luxurious wilderness resort. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy unlimited hiking, swimming, and tennis throughout their stay. Embark on a thrilling 1-hour Eco-Adventure Tour aboard an 8.53m Zodiac boat, accompanied by your knowledgeable wilderness guide. In the evening, sit down to a gourmet dinner, sip a fine wine on a terrace, or mingle with other guests in one of the lounges or games room. 

Vancouver 
This morning, board the water taxi for your return trip to Campbell River where you continue your drive south along the eastern shores of Vancouver Island. Small seaside towns such as Comox, offer delightful spots to stop for some shopping for reminders of your west coast experience. Arriving in Nanaimo, you board a BC Ferries vessel and sail across the Strait of Georgia to arrive in Vancouver where the remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to dine out at one of Vancouver’s many excellent restaurants, offering everything from Canadian/European fusion to authentic Far East Asian cuisine. 
Today is yours to explore this vibrant cosmopolitan city. Boutique shoppes line Robson Street, offering everything from high fashion to aboriginal artwork. Perhaps pay a visit to Khot-La-Cha Art Gallery and Gift Shop, featuring masks, prints, gold and silver jewellery, wood carvings, textiles and clothing produced by First Nation artists. Stanley Park is interwoven with paved forested trails and features an enthralling zoo at its centre and the fascinating Klahowya Village. The boardwalks along the seawall provide sweeping views of the water and the rising mountains of the mainland. Discover the charms and sights of this truly magnificent city on the water.

Please find our suggested length of stays below:

Victoria - 2 Nights 
Tofino – 2 Nights 
Sonora Resort – 2 Nights 
Vancouver -2 Nights