Haida Gwaii Tours Offer A Range Of Exciting Experiences For The Intrepid Traveler

By Minnie Whitley


Near the North coast of British Columbia lies an archipelago of islands that offer an intriguing destination for curious travelers. Known as Haida Gwaii, they boast areas of stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife and an indigenous people with a rich and fascinating culture. Haida Gwaii tours are an organized, cost-effective way to explore these islands that are just two hour's flying time from Vancouver.

For many years now, tour operators have capitalized on the draw of the culture and history of the indigenous peoples. Although it is unclear how humans first reached the islands, they are known to have been inhabited for around 13,000 years. An abundant supply of food from the sea and land enabled these settlers to thrive and develop a rich and unique culture that can be enjoyed by visitors today.

The Haida Heritage center documents this culture in a museum that forms part of a multi-building complex. It is one of several museums in the region and gives visitors a fascinating overview of an impressively hardy and creative people. The museum conducts regular workshops to demonstrate aspects of the native culture, and the center also includes a performance theater, a cafe and shop.

The Ports Clements museum documents the machinery that was used for domestic and commercial activities over the island's history. Logging and farming equipment, motor boats and other items are displayed over the museum's grounds. Visitors can also peruse extensive photo albums documenting the lives of those who earned their living on the island during its industrial heyday.

In a similar vein, the Dixon Entrance Maritime Museum documents the maritime history of the area at the north end of the islands known as Greater Masset. Housed in what was the original Masset hospital building, its exhibits cover the area's fishing, seafood processing, whaling and shipbuilding industries. It also has an impressive collection of articles and photographs of the ships that moved freight and passengers to and from the islands for many years.

In addition to its human inhabitants, the region is renowned for its wildlife. For keen bird-watchers, tour operators offer many exciting opportunities to see a variety of birds in a spectacular setting. The islands are part of the migratory route taken by an abundance of fascinating birds, and many can be seen at the Delkatla Wildlife Sanctuary. Birds such as the Bald Eagle, the Canada Goose and the Great Blue Heron arrive annually and are a visual delight for patient wildlife lovers.

Adventure and outdoors activities are another major draw offered by tour operators. Just about every conceivable adventure-style activity is catered for; hiking, caving, camping, climbing, canoeing and zip-lining are just a handful of things for the active traveler to do. Hikers are particularly well catered for, with literally hundreds of potential routes they can take to explore the region's incredible landscapes.

Other pursuits for the more sporty visitor include sailing, kayaking biking and boating. There are tour companies offering all of these activities and more. Some also incorporate complementary activities like photography, painting and writing for visitors wishing to make the most of the inspiring landscapes.




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