Saturday, May 17, 2014

Haida Gwaii Tours Offer The Perfect Way To Experience This Intriguing Part Of British Columbia

By Minnie Whitley


The Queen Charlotte islands are an archipelago on the north coast of British Columbia, Canada. More commonly known as Haida Gwaii, they offer the adventurous traveler an intriguing mix of natural beauty, culture and adventure. Haida Gwaii tours are an ideal way for travelers to experience this world class destination that is a mere two hours flying time from Vancouver.

There are many reason to visit these islands, but many visitors are undoubtedly lured by the sights and sounds of the indigenous culture. It is unknown exactly how long the native peoples have been on the islands, but humans are known to have been present for many thousands of years. With a ready supply of food from the land and ocean, these people developed a way of life that incorporates a deep reverence for the environment.

Their history is well documented in a modern museum that forms part of a heritage center located in Kay Llnagaay. An impressive array of exhibits amply conveys their art and customs, not to mention their nous as traders. The museum also conducts workshops for visitors and houses a shop, cafe and other amenities.

Documenting the lives of the island's European settlers, the Port Clements museum features exhibits from the area's industrial heyday. Spread out over its grounds are motor boats, huge pieces of logging equipment and miscellaneous farming machinery. It also houses an extensive collection of photographs that vividly bring to life the everyday experience of the islanders who toiled during those times.

The Dixon Entrance Maritime Museum opened in 2001 and focuses on the maritime history of Greater Masset (at the north of the islands). It's housed in what was formerly the Masset hospital (built in 1914) and features exhibits of Masset's shipbuilding industry, fishing fleets and processing plants. The museum also features photos of the people living in these communities as they lived their lives through times of both abundance and great hardship.

For keen bird watchers, touring "the Galapagos of Canada" provides some very special opportunities to see a variety of species. Springtime is the best time of year for these excursions, as the ecosystem comes into bloom and the birds fly in to feed. The Delkatla Wildlife sanctuary is an excellent place to see some of these birds, including puffins, albatrosses and guillemots.

Sports and outdoors activities are another big attraction offered by tour operators. Hikers in particular have an abundance of options. These range from easy walks centered around villages and nature trails, to more challenging excursions where having a guide really comes into its own. Hikers can also enjoy extended treks over several days that include overnight stays at some spectacular sites.

Hikers can also stay overnight at some of the many camp sites. Camping is popular on the islands between May and September when visitors can enjoy peaceful, out-of-the-way spots or designated sites with every modern amenity. What's more, many sites can be used free of charge and make convenient starting points for taking excursions into some of the islands most beautiful areas.




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