Canada’s vast and pristine wilderness offers some of the most remarkable wildlife experiences on earth, from the elusive bears that roam dense forests to the majestic whales that patrol its coastal waters, and the ethereal Northern Lights painting the night sky in spectacular displays.
Begin your journey in the ancient rainforests of British Columbia, particularly in the Great Bear Rainforest on Princess Royal Island. Here, you have the rare opportunity to witness the unique Kermode, or Spirit Bear, a white-coated sub-species of black bear that is found only in this region. These bears, steeped in Indigenous mythology, move ghost-like through the dense evergreens, offering an unforgettable sight for nature lovers and photographers alike. Tours by boat or on land provide the best chances to encounter these magnificent creatures safely.
Venturing inland, the rugged mountain landscapes of Banff National Park in Alberta set the stage for encounters with grizzly bears, moose, and mountain goats. The park’s alpine forests and tundra are home to diverse fauna, and drives along the Icefields Parkway or Bow Valley Parkway are popular for spotting grizzlies fishing for salmon in rivers. Meanwhile, the tranquil turquoise waters of Lake Louise provide a contrasting backdrop to your wildlife adventures.
On the eastern coast and seas, Canada is a world-renowned destination for whale watching. More than 20 species of whales migrate along the Atlantic and Pacific shores. Around Vancouver Island and the coastal waters of British Columbia, you can observe orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales. Guided boat tours offer up-close encounters, with expert naturalists explaining the behaviour and ecology of these marine giants. To the east, off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador, the cold waters attract great numbers of humpbacks and the mysterious northern right whales.
When night falls, the spectacle shifts to the skies in the remote northern parts of Canada, including Yukon, Northwest Territories, and parts of Manitoba. Here, the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis perform a celestial ballet of shimmering greens, purples, and reds. This natural light display, best viewed between late autumn and early spring under clear and dark skies, is a magical complement to the palpable wilderness below. Many lodges and wilderness tours offer Aurora-focused trips combining comfortable stays with the thrill of watching the sky’s radiant performance.
As you explore Canada’s vast wilderness, you will realise that its true beauty lies not only in its iconic fauna but in the harmony of landscapes, wildlife, and natural phenomena. Whether tracking bears through dense forests, cruising alongside breaching whales, or gazing at the Northern Lights, these experiences weave together to create an extraordinary story of Canada’s natural heritage.