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Wildlife & Animals

About Wildlife & Animals

Nature gives you a big bear hug when you venture out and get to know some of the many other inhabitants the Earth is home to. Canada is filled to the brim with about 2000 different wildlife species, and there are many ways to get to know some of these creatures in a safe and respectful way. From those who migrate to those who hibernate, from massive blue whales to tiny humming birds, and from intimidating moose to adorable seal pups, you will never run out of fascinating animals to encounter on a journey through our country.

Wildlife 11 Calgary Zoo Credit Tourism Calgary

Zoos and Aquariums

Zoos and aquariums allow you to see and appreciate animals from all over the world, all at one location! Ensure that the facility you are visiting is ethically run and takes good care of the animals. The Calgary Zoo is world-renowned for its variety of animals, large enclosures, and exceptional care of the creatures it houses.

Wildlife and Animals BC 02 Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary Credit Destination BC Andrew Strain

Sanctuaries and Preserves

These facilities protect and preserve wildlife, including bringing rescued animals to live happy, quality lives without risk of poaching or environmental damage. Creatures tend to flourish in these spaces, so they are prime locations for animal lovers to get a good glimpse of their favorites in a more natural setting. Ecotourism benefits all involved, as tourists experience an amazing adventure, and fees for tours are poured back into maintaining the preserves and sanctuaries where these amazing animals live. 

Wildlife 10 Group Jasper Alberta Credit Darren Robert

Safaris

The Swahili word “safari” means journey, but safaris are not limited to Africa – wildlife tours are available all over the world, including Canada! Go beyond carefully maintained and enclosed areas into the great outdoors on a guided tour to up your chances of spying fascinating, beautiful, and awe-inspiring wild animals. Your guides will be able to show you the best spots to find the local wildlife, establish safety protocols to protect both you and the animals on your adventure, and give you expert knowledge on the various species you will encounter.

Tours with Wildlife & Animals

Head to southern Alberta to experience some of Calgary’s popular urban adventures, cultural immersion, and stunning views. Excitement awaits in “Cowtown”! Package available May to September.
Discover the stunning West Coast, taste exquisite wines in the Okanagan, and marvel at the Rocky Mountains on a leisurely tour from Vancouver to Calgary. Tour available from May to October.
If you are looking for a taste of Canada’s north, try this Yukon vacation package. This mixed bag of sights, wildlife, museums, arts and relaxation is created for the leisure traveller.
Spend a relaxing weekend in the wilderness away from the hustle of the city. Unwind in an off the grid cabin while you enjoy light activities and connect with nature on your very own personal retreat.
Leave the crowds behind and go on an adventure! This tour offers a taste of some of the outdoor experiences that the Yukon has to offer. This active 6 day 5 night package departs from Whitehorse.
Wild and breathtakingly beautiful, Whitehorse has plenty to offer adventure seekers, nature lovers, and the artistically inclined. The Yukon has excitement and memories right at your fingertips.

Build Your Own Tour

Let’s make a trip that’s uniquely yours! You decide how long, which animals you hope to see, number of inclusions, everything. Start planning now and make your dream trip a reality.

Staff Picks

Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

The sanctuary near Cochrane, AB is a rescue organization for wolfdogs and promotes awareness of these animals and their wild cousins, wolves. Choose between self- or expert-guided tours, or go for their interactive tour where you can get up close and personal with the beautiful dogs.

Churchill, Manitoba

This northern Manitoba town is known as the polar bear capital of the world. Because it lies along the migration path of both polar bears and beluga whales, tours from this location offer your best chances at spotting these incredible yet elusive animals.

Telegraph Cove

Travel to this former fishing village on Vancouver Island where you can observe aquatic life from shore, the comfort of a cruiser, or by getting even closer on a kayak tour to paddle amongst humpback whales and orcas.

ADVENTURE

Where To Find Animal Friends

Wild life-Big Horned Sheep-Alberta

Land

From roving hills to deserts, towering mountains to vast stretches of prairies, Canada is home to a variety of land ecosystems bursting with diverse species for you to discover. Explore Banff and Jasper National Parks, which are teeming with big horn sheep, elk, mountain goats, and bears, or gawk at the spectacle of the slithering Narcisse Snake Pits in Manitoba.

Wildlife and Animals NS 02 Sea Lions Credit Tourism Nova Scotia Patrick Rojo

Water

There is something so magical about seeing animals in water. Whether they are easily gliding along or majestically leaping and diving in their natural habitat, or curiously playing and splashing like we humans do, it is sure to be a delight to witness. Observe the mass migration of the magnificent antlered caribou from Labrador Sea to James Bay in Quebec, or jump in yourself and swim the fast-flowing salmon run in Campbell River, BC.

Wildlife and Animals NS 01 Bald Eagle Credit Tourism Nova Scotia

Sky

Get your binoculars out and turn your eyes skyward to enjoy the dance and dash of birds, bats, butterflies, and all others who can glide or fly. Head to Point Pelee National Park, where you can see 34 different species of warbler in a single day, along with orioles, flycatchers, and many others. On Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, bald eagles and puffins receive top billing as they swoop over the headlands and thrashing ocean. 

Essential Gear and Equipment

One thing you’ll definitely want to bring, no matter what kind of wildlife tour you’re on, is your camera. 

Don’t forget your wilderness survival essentials (first aid kit, navigation, food, water, knife, fire starter, communication, and a backpack) if heading outdoors! 

Tips

Anytime you decide to go explore nature, you should…

  • Check the weather.
  • Research the route and take a map with you. 
  • Carry the proper gear for the experience.
  • Bring extra food.
  • Tell someone where you are going.
  • Check with the Parks or tourism office for closures and wildlife updates. 
  • Follow the Leave No Trace principles.
  • Do not feed, touch or approach wildlife.
Yukon-White-fox-wildlife

Did You Know?

Spotting a bear in the wilderness is always a thrilling experience (keep your distance!), but wildlife lovers will never forget the moment they lay eyes on the spirit bear (kermode) in the heart of Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia. This rare species of black bear appears white and is an important character in First Nations legends. The spirit bear is found exclusively in this BC rainforest.

Wildlife and Animals BC 03 Great Bear Rainforest Credit Destination BC Yuri Choufour

Have Questions?

Sometimes it’s just easier to talk to someone. Give us a call and let’s discuss how we can create your unique experience.