Haida Gwaii is an archipelago located in the north of British Columbia, and is considered as the region's best kept secret when it comes to recreation, relaxation, fun and adventure. A mere stone's throw away from the city of Vancouver, a short two hour flight, will see you land on these beautiful islands. No wonder many have taken advantage of Haida Gwaii adventure tours and travel packages that are available today.
The islands are the home of the Haida people, who also make parts of Alaska their home. First known as the Queen Charlotte Islands as named by it first surveyor Captain Dixon, it has since been renamed as Haida Gwaii, or islands of the Haida.
There is something for everyone when one makes a visit to the islands, whether it before cultural, relaxation, or adventure reasons. However, you should be aware that you will need a fair amount of transportation to get around whether by water or by land when going around. Although you may want to do a lot of hiking, there will come a time wherein you may need a boat or a bicycle to get through some areas.
For the culturally inclined, it would take about four days to go through all the local communities and to absorb the local culture and heritage. Many experiences can be had by going through the local workshops of bent wood furniture and such as well as visits to the many totem poles that are historical records of various families in the islands.
Whale watching can best be done from the vicinity of the islands and is touted as probably the best area for whale watching at close distances. Those who want to watch gray whales are best advised to do so in the months of March and April while those who are fans of the killer whale should watch these whales in the months of May to September. Humpbacks can also be seen in the area almost the whole year round.
Those who prefer a land adventure would be pleased to know that there are quite a lot of hiking trails available as well as guided tours. One of these guided tours is quite unique in that it provides a tree climbing experience. Most people at the end of a long hike enjoy the serenity of the surrounding beaches to chill out and yet others take to biking and exploring the island on mountain bikes.
For those who do not want to much strenuous activities, there are plenty of spaces to lounge around in. There are also great fishing spots to be had along areas with great kayaking also. There is always something for anyone to do to make the trip worthwhile.
Thus for those who want something different, this little gem of British Columbia might just be the thing you are looking for. The weather is great all year round with not so cold winters and not so hot summers. Perhaps now is a good time to pack your bags and head on towards Haida Gwaii!
The islands are the home of the Haida people, who also make parts of Alaska their home. First known as the Queen Charlotte Islands as named by it first surveyor Captain Dixon, it has since been renamed as Haida Gwaii, or islands of the Haida.
There is something for everyone when one makes a visit to the islands, whether it before cultural, relaxation, or adventure reasons. However, you should be aware that you will need a fair amount of transportation to get around whether by water or by land when going around. Although you may want to do a lot of hiking, there will come a time wherein you may need a boat or a bicycle to get through some areas.
For the culturally inclined, it would take about four days to go through all the local communities and to absorb the local culture and heritage. Many experiences can be had by going through the local workshops of bent wood furniture and such as well as visits to the many totem poles that are historical records of various families in the islands.
Whale watching can best be done from the vicinity of the islands and is touted as probably the best area for whale watching at close distances. Those who want to watch gray whales are best advised to do so in the months of March and April while those who are fans of the killer whale should watch these whales in the months of May to September. Humpbacks can also be seen in the area almost the whole year round.
Those who prefer a land adventure would be pleased to know that there are quite a lot of hiking trails available as well as guided tours. One of these guided tours is quite unique in that it provides a tree climbing experience. Most people at the end of a long hike enjoy the serenity of the surrounding beaches to chill out and yet others take to biking and exploring the island on mountain bikes.
For those who do not want to much strenuous activities, there are plenty of spaces to lounge around in. There are also great fishing spots to be had along areas with great kayaking also. There is always something for anyone to do to make the trip worthwhile.
Thus for those who want something different, this little gem of British Columbia might just be the thing you are looking for. The weather is great all year round with not so cold winters and not so hot summers. Perhaps now is a good time to pack your bags and head on towards Haida Gwaii!
