Haida Gwaii is an archipelago located in the north of British Columbia, and is considered as the region's best kept secret when it comes to recreation, relaxation, fun and adventure. A mere stone's throw away from the city of Vancouver, a short two hour flight, will see you land on these beautiful islands. No wonder many have taken advantage of Haida Gwaii adventure tours and travel packages that are available today.
The islands are the home for the Haida people, who are also the inhabitants of a large area of Alaska. The archipelago was originally named for the ship of Captain Dixon, the person who first surveyed the island, the Queen Charlotte. They were known before as the Queen Charlotte Islands. Now they are respectfully named again for its people, and named Haida Gwaii, which literally means Islands of the Haida.
Whether one's taste be for relaxation, adventure or plain cultural immersion, one will be quite fulfilled when going there. It should be noted that one needs various forms of transportation when going through an extensive trip of the island, as there will be need for land and water craft on varying occasions. In fact apart from walking, many may need to take either boats, bicycles or even kayaks to get around.
Those who want to absorb and experience the local cultural heritage will need about four days to do so. This is about the right amount of time if one wants to visit each and every one of the communities and go through the local art stores, museums and craft shops. It is also of note to visit the many totem poles erected by the various families to highlight their own histories.
Whale watching can best be enjoyed just within the waters off these islands. In fact it is probably the most strategic spot in the world to whale watch in close proximity when watching humpback whales, gray whales and killer whales. To watch killer whales it is suggested one do so in the months of May to September whilst the months of March and April are best for gray whale watching. Year round tour packages for whale watching are available in the area.
Many hiking trails and organized land tours are also available. What is interesting is a guided tree climbing tour for the adventure minded, something quite novel for a land tour. After a long hike, most hikers take a relaxing walk through the many beautiful beaches around the area. Those who are not inclined to walk can also bike around the island on mountain bikes.
For those who do not want to much strenuous activities, there are plenty of spaces to lounge around in. There are also great fishing spots to be had along areas with great kayaking also. There is always something for anyone to do to make the trip worthwhile.
Anytime is the best time to visit this hidden haven of British Columbia. The weather is always inviting with fairly mild winters and not so hot summers. So take the decision that many others have taken before you and go off to the land of the adventure!
The islands are the home for the Haida people, who are also the inhabitants of a large area of Alaska. The archipelago was originally named for the ship of Captain Dixon, the person who first surveyed the island, the Queen Charlotte. They were known before as the Queen Charlotte Islands. Now they are respectfully named again for its people, and named Haida Gwaii, which literally means Islands of the Haida.
Whether one's taste be for relaxation, adventure or plain cultural immersion, one will be quite fulfilled when going there. It should be noted that one needs various forms of transportation when going through an extensive trip of the island, as there will be need for land and water craft on varying occasions. In fact apart from walking, many may need to take either boats, bicycles or even kayaks to get around.
Those who want to absorb and experience the local cultural heritage will need about four days to do so. This is about the right amount of time if one wants to visit each and every one of the communities and go through the local art stores, museums and craft shops. It is also of note to visit the many totem poles erected by the various families to highlight their own histories.
Whale watching can best be enjoyed just within the waters off these islands. In fact it is probably the most strategic spot in the world to whale watch in close proximity when watching humpback whales, gray whales and killer whales. To watch killer whales it is suggested one do so in the months of May to September whilst the months of March and April are best for gray whale watching. Year round tour packages for whale watching are available in the area.
Many hiking trails and organized land tours are also available. What is interesting is a guided tree climbing tour for the adventure minded, something quite novel for a land tour. After a long hike, most hikers take a relaxing walk through the many beautiful beaches around the area. Those who are not inclined to walk can also bike around the island on mountain bikes.
For those who do not want to much strenuous activities, there are plenty of spaces to lounge around in. There are also great fishing spots to be had along areas with great kayaking also. There is always something for anyone to do to make the trip worthwhile.
Anytime is the best time to visit this hidden haven of British Columbia. The weather is always inviting with fairly mild winters and not so hot summers. So take the decision that many others have taken before you and go off to the land of the adventure!
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