Bear watching at Knight Inlet Lodge
Bear watching at Knight Inlet Lodge
The Lodge & Bear Sightings at Knight Inlet Lodge
The Lodge & Bear Sightings at Knight Inlet Lodge
Wildlife spotting at Knight Inlet Lodge
Wildlife spotting at Knight Inlet Lodge
Victoria Harbour & Butchart Gardens, Vancouver Island
Victoria Harbour & Butchart Gardens, Vancouver Island
Ucluelet Forest Road, Harbour & Deep Cove Eagle
Ucluelet Forest Road, Harbour & Deep Cove Eagle
Cox Bay, Pacific Rim National Park, Vancouver Island
Cox Bay, Pacific Rim National Park, Vancouver Island
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Self-Drive Grizzlies, Orcas and Black Bears on Vancouver Island

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Overview

A fantastic wildlife self-drive spanning over 8-nights in Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Start your wildlife adventure in vibrant Vancouver before heading to the rugged beauty of Vancouver Island. Cruise across the Strait of Georgia to Campbell River, known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," and take a thrilling floatplane ride to the remote Knight Inlet Lodge, where you’ll be immersed in pristine wilderness. Here, embark on an exhilarating bear watching tour, spotting grizzlies and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Continue your journey to Tofino, a coastal paradise surrounded by ancient forests and beaches, with options for whale watching or bear viewing cruises. Experience the rich history and culture of Victoria, with stops in Chemainus, the "City of Murals," and Duncan, home to towering totem poles. Along the way, explore the stunning landscapes of Vancouver Island, from the towering trees of Cathedral Grove to the tranquil waters of Sproat Lake. With this self-drive, have the freedom of choosing included excursions suited to your interests. (TM/ DH)

Highlights

  • Fly by floatplane to Knight Inlet Lodge and experience thrilling bear watching and spotting local wildlife in their natural habitat. 
  • Explore the coastal paradise of Tofino with an optional whale or bear watching cruise, offering unforgettable encounters with marine life. 
  • Drive through Cathedral Grove's ancient trees and Sproat Lake, soaking in the Vancouver Island’s scenic beauty and unique wildlife along the way. 
  • Visit Victoria's Chemainus' giant murals, Duncan's totem poles, and discover the rich history of Vancouver Island’s indigenous people at Quw’utsun’ Heritage Village.

Itinerary Overview

8 night tour begins and ends Vancouver: Fly into Vancouver 1 night – Campbell River 1 night – Knight Inlet 1 night – Tofino 2 nights – Victoria 2 nights – Fly home

Daily departures available late May – early October

Whats included?
  • Flights & taxes
  • Accommodation
  • Checked baggage
  • CAR licensed & bonded
  • In resort assistance & 24 hour contact centre
Why Book with Canadian Sky?
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  • Choice of airlines and the option to switch
  • A friendly, family run business with a wealth of experience.
  • Great deals on offer for multiple destinations
  • Low deposits
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Day 1

Vancouver

Fly into Vancouver, pick up your rental car and make your way to your downtown hotel. Enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight: Your choice of Vancouver Hotel, we recommend the Century Plaza Hotel.

Day 2

Vancouver to Campbell River (105 miles + ferry)

Depart Vancouver for Horseshoe Bay and sail for 1 hour 45 minutes on BC Ferries to Vancouver Island. Travel through Nanaimo, the Harbour City, and Parksville, known for its beaches and Sandcastle Competition. Arrive in Campbell River, the “Salmon Capital of the World,” surrounded by Strathcona Park and coastal mountains.

Overnight: Comfort Inn and Suites Campbell River or similar

Day 3

Campbell River to Knight Inlet Lodge via floatplane

Today, leave your car and take to the sky with an unforgettable floatplane from Campbell River to Knight Inlet Lodge, a remote and picturesque destination only accessible by air. The 30-minute flight takes you over stunning landscapes, offering breathtaking views before landing at the mouth of the Glendale River, where the lodge floats on massive cedar booms. Once settled, head out on an exciting bear watching and wildlife viewing tour, where you'll have the opportunity to spot grizzly bears that frequent the area. The surrounding wilderness offers ample chances for seeing other wildlife, making this an extraordinary nature experience. Enjoy a delicious lunch and dinner at the lodge, then unwind in the peaceful surroundings, spending the night at Knight Inlet Lodge.

Overnight: Knight Inlet Lodge. Lunch and dinner included.

Day 4

Knight Inlet Lodge to Tofino/ Ucluelet (140 miles)

Early this morning, take in a breakfast and return to the Bear Viewing platforms for a final photo opportunity before flying back to Campbell River by floatplane. After arrival, collect your car and drive southwest to Tofino. En route, visit Cathedral Grove, Sproat Lake, and Sutton Pass, arriving in Tofino by mid-afternoon. Overnight here for two nights.

Overnight: Water’s Edge Shoreside Suites or Black Rock Resort. Breakfast included

Day 5

Tofino/ Ucluelet

During your stay in Tofino, personalise your experience by choosing one of the following excursions included in your tour. Click on Optional Excursions for further information on each tour

Option 1: Coastal Bear Watch Cruise
Option 2: Whale Watching Cruise

Overnight: Water’s Edge Shoreside Suites or Black Rock Resort

Day 6

Tofino to Victoria (195 miles)

Travel back to the East Coast of Vancouver Island, heading south to Victoria. Stop at Chemainus to admire its giant murals and visit Duncan, the "City of Totems." If time allows, explore the Quw’utsun’ Heritage Village to learn about the northwest coast people's history (seasonal hours, admission not included).

Overnight: Inn at Laurel Point or similar

Day 7

Victoria

During your stay in Victoria, personalise your experience by choosing one of the following excursions included in your tour.

Option 1: Butchart Gardens Admission
Option 2: Eat like a Canadian Food Tour
Option 3: Whale Watch Cruise
Option 4: High Tea at the Empress Hotel

Overnight: Inn at Laurel Point or similar

Day 8

Victoria to Vancouver (43 miles + ferry)

Leave Victoria and take the scenic drive to Butchart Gardens a stunning 55-acre floral display. Continue north to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal for a 90-minute ferry ride to Tsawwassen. Enjoy views of the Gulf Islands as you cross the Strait of Georgia. From Tsawwassen, drive to Vancouver airport and drop off your car hire for your flight home.

  • International return flights
  • Economy car rental with fully inclusive insurance (upgrades available at supplement)
  • 1 night pre tour in Vancouver
  • 7 nights accommodation as described or similar including Knight Inlet Resort Package
  • Electronic Roadbook

Knight Inlet Resort Package includes:

  • 1 night accommodation at Knight Inlet Resort
  • Interpretive guided bear viewing tours
  • Knight Inlet sightseeing cruise (weather permitting, no substitute)
  • Use of kayaks on organized estuary tours
  • All meals and snacks while at the lodge
  • Complimentary house wine with dinner
  • Rain gear if required: rubber boots, coats, pants
  • Return BC Ferries for vehicle & passengers, between Vancouver and Vancouver Island with reserved sailing time.
  • Floatplane return transfers to Knight Inlet Lodge
  • Day 5 – Tofino/ Ucluelet – A choice of 1 excursion from: Coastal Bear Watch Cruise, Whale Watching Cruise
  • Day 7 – Victoria – A choice of 1 excursion from: Butchart Gardens Admission, Eat like a Canadian Food Tour, Whale Watch Cruise, High Tea at the Empress Hotel
  • Meals as per itinerary

What’s not included

  • Airport transfers
  • Resort fees
  • Fuel & road tolls, car parking charges
  • Meals unless stated, entrance fees and additional excursions

Your tour includes a selection of optional excursions, allowing you to choose one from each location.

Day 5 – Tofino
Option 1: Coastal Bear Watch Cruise
Experience an exciting bear-watching adventure aboard a 24-foot Zodiac vessel along the West Coast of Vancouver Island. At low tide, black bears forage the shoreline for their favourite treat—Rock Crabs. This safe and comfortable tour offers a unique opportunity to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Option 2: Whale Watching Cruise
Sail through the untouched waters of Clayoquot Sound, taking in stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Depending on the season, you may spot grey whales, humpback whales, sea lions, seabirds, and resident bald eagles.
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Day 7 – Victoria
Option 1: Butchart Gardens Admission
On its 100th birthday in 2004, the Butchart Gardens was named a National Historic Site of Canada. Explore 22 hectares (55 acres) of stunning gardens within the 53-hectare (130-acre) estate.

Option 2: Eat like a Canadian Food Tour
Defining Canadian food is a challenge, but this tour offers the perfect way to experience it. Savor local cuisine, explore the iconic Inner Harbour, and meet the chefs and owners behind Victoria’s vibrant culinary scene.

Option 3: Whale Watch Cruise
Get up close to killer whales on the Salish Sea with a 3.5-hour guided whale-watching cruise from Victoria. Board a covered or open boat equipped with hydrophones to listen to the whales and enhance the underwater experience.

Option 4: High Tea at the Empress Hotel
Enjoy a traditional high tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel, indulging in a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, pastries, and scones. Set in an elegant atmosphere, this experience highlights the charm of Victoria's historic landmark.

Yvonne Knott
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01 6649910 Call us 9am-7pm Mon-Fri / 9am-5pm Sat-Sun

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