British Columbia is fast becoming a popular destination, not only for Canadians, but other international tourists as well. A local secret is also fast becoming more known in the world, the island chain of Haida Gwaii. Before you go on and book on the many Haida Gwaii hotels available, read on in this article and find out what activities are available on and around the archipelago.
Being an archipelago, expect that quite a lot of activities or major activities for that matter, will be centered around or near the water or sea. In fact a major, if not prime attraction is the year round whale watching tours and excursions that many have come to know and enjoy.
For the island community, whale watching has been a great money earner since the area is known to be the best in the world for watching certain whale species year round. Specific whale species that are common in the area are killer whales, gray whales and humpback whales. Depending on the month or the season, you either will get increased or decreased frequencies in sightings per hour when you go. Thus it is always best to do your research on the best times to go when whale watching so you can get the most bang for your buck.
One should not be mistaken that only water activities are available. There is plenty to be had on land as well. Quite a few hiking trails and camping areas dot the archipelago, as well as some notable kayaking and fishing spots. A popular activity engaged in by most tourists is to bike around in the morning, and in the afternoon just lounge around one of the many beaches in the area waiting for nightfall.
Those of a more cultural and historical leaning in terms of having a good vacation will not be disappointed. The local Haida are very friendly and more than willing to share with you their culture and history. It is best to avoid embarrassment by reading into the culture earlier so you can avoid any uncomfortable moments and comments.
When traveling to each of the islands, one will notice the prevalence of quite a few totem poles that look surprisingly Alaskan in their characteristics. This is not surprising as the Haida also do occupy large areas of Alaskan territory. Each of these totems are accorded much respect as they are recorded histories of people on the islands.
Many would want to explore every corner to be able to learn much more. In order to get this fully immersed experience would require that you spend at least four days to fully circumnavigate the area. During this time you will be able to visit all local community museums and arts and crafts establishments. You will learn more about the bent wood technique to make furniture, something North American Indian tribes have been doing for a long time.
Getting to the archipelago is quite simple. All it will take is a two hour plane ride from Toronto. Some people opt to take the more scenic boat or ferry ride that takes close to eight hours.
Being an archipelago, expect that quite a lot of activities or major activities for that matter, will be centered around or near the water or sea. In fact a major, if not prime attraction is the year round whale watching tours and excursions that many have come to know and enjoy.
For the island community, whale watching has been a great money earner since the area is known to be the best in the world for watching certain whale species year round. Specific whale species that are common in the area are killer whales, gray whales and humpback whales. Depending on the month or the season, you either will get increased or decreased frequencies in sightings per hour when you go. Thus it is always best to do your research on the best times to go when whale watching so you can get the most bang for your buck.
One should not be mistaken that only water activities are available. There is plenty to be had on land as well. Quite a few hiking trails and camping areas dot the archipelago, as well as some notable kayaking and fishing spots. A popular activity engaged in by most tourists is to bike around in the morning, and in the afternoon just lounge around one of the many beaches in the area waiting for nightfall.
Those of a more cultural and historical leaning in terms of having a good vacation will not be disappointed. The local Haida are very friendly and more than willing to share with you their culture and history. It is best to avoid embarrassment by reading into the culture earlier so you can avoid any uncomfortable moments and comments.
When traveling to each of the islands, one will notice the prevalence of quite a few totem poles that look surprisingly Alaskan in their characteristics. This is not surprising as the Haida also do occupy large areas of Alaskan territory. Each of these totems are accorded much respect as they are recorded histories of people on the islands.
Many would want to explore every corner to be able to learn much more. In order to get this fully immersed experience would require that you spend at least four days to fully circumnavigate the area. During this time you will be able to visit all local community museums and arts and crafts establishments. You will learn more about the bent wood technique to make furniture, something North American Indian tribes have been doing for a long time.
Getting to the archipelago is quite simple. All it will take is a two hour plane ride from Toronto. Some people opt to take the more scenic boat or ferry ride that takes close to eight hours.
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