10 Day Pacific Rim, Whales and Bears

Arrive in Vancouver and make your way to an airport hotel, relax after your long flight ready for your adventure to begin tomorrow morning.

Today make your way across the Straits of Georgia to Vancouver Island as you enjoy the 90-minute scenery ferry ride. You will depart the ferry at Swarts Bay, from here make you way to Victoria, the provincial capital of British Columbia. After settling into your hotel get out and explore the charming harbour town of Victoria.

Your first animal experience is today, embark on an exciting three-hour whale-watching tour which takes you out in search of whales on a custom built Zodiac boat that is built for speed but also provides a safe and intimate whale-watching experience.

After your exhilarating whale-watching tour and your back on dry land spend the rest of the afternoon in Victoria, see the Parliament Buildings, or maybe even head to Butchart Gardens and wonder through the beautifully landscapes gardens.

Leave Victoria behind today and drive up to Tofino, on the Pacific Coast, the journey is about four and a half hours but it’s a beautiful one. You’ll travel across Vancouver Island through ancient rainforest and provincial parks. Tofino is located within the Pacific Rim National Park which is a haven for ecological and geographical diversity.

Your second wildlife experience is scheduled for today; take part in a thrilling bear watching experience. At low tide you’ll board the Stellar Sea; a 14-meter panoramic cruiser which will speed along the coast to the bear feeding grounds.

When the tour comes back to Tofino you can explore the rugged coastline and make the most of the hiking trails and beaches.

Rise and shine, it’s time to hit the spectacular winding road that takes you back to the eastern coast of Vancouver Island. Your route will introduce you to many gems you may wish to stop at for 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, park up your car and board a water taxi for the short boat ride to the stunning Sonora Resort, nestled in the Discovery Islands archipelago. Settle in for the night at this quintessential west coast resort and prepare yourself for tomorrow’s day of adventure and discovery!

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.

After a wonderful couple of nights it's time to board the water taxi and head back to Campbell River to collect your car. Head down the eastern shores of Vancouver Island, maybe stop off in Comox for a bit of shopping and a late morning snack. On arrival at Nanaimo board the BC Ferries vessel and sail back across the Straits of Georgia to Vancouver. Back in Vancouver, make your way to your downtown hotel and check in. The rest of the day is yours at leisure, you could spend some time walking down Robson Street perusing the shops, or discover the many restaurants and bars in the trendy Gastown area.

Enjoy a full day in Vancouver, western Canada’s largest city but with a small town feel. Maybe rent some bikes and explore the vast trails that run through the city and make sure you explore Stanley Park, the 400-hectare urban landscape that is surrounded by water and offers hidden gems like English Bay Beach, Beaver Lake and even an aquarium. In the evening head to Granville Island and discover the shops and markets. Or if your after views then head up to the Capilano Suspension Bridge and enjoy treetop adventures.

Make the most of your final few hours in Vancouver before heading to the airport for your return flight to the UK

Not seen enough of the bears then why not add on a stay at Knight Inlet Lodge? With packages from 2-6 nights you will get the chance to see grizzly bears in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest. As well as spending time seeing the bears in their natural habitat you will also be able to enjoy the spectacular scenery and learn about the environment from the knowledgeable guides. Speak to our Travel Experts about tailoring this itinerary to suit you.