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If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable wildlife experience, then look no further than our article on the best grizzly bear tours in Vancouver Island and Campbell River.
This beautiful island located on the west coast of Canada is a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The island is home to a thriving population of grizzly bears, which can be observed in their natural habitat on one of the many guided tours available.
These tours provide an opportunity to witness these magnificent animals up close, while also learning about their behaviour, habitat, and importance in the ecosystem. With a variety of tour operators to choose from, visitors can enjoy a unique and personalised experience that caters to their interests and needs.
Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a first-time visitor to Canada, a grizzly bear tour in Vancouver island is an experienced not to be missed.
The Best Grizzly Bear Tour on Vancouver Island
My pick is this tour which picks you up at Campbell River and takes you to the Toba Inlet, which is one of the best places to watch grizzly bears. I think its the best option because you get to go to a viewing platform to watch the bears eat salmon, be guided by a Klahoose first nation person, and also see one of the nearby waterfalls.
If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to read the full article, I recommend booking this tour.
Best Grizzly Bear Tours on Vancouver Island
Full Day Grizzly Bear Tour at Toba Inlet
This tour visits the Toba Inlet, where you can visit a viewing platform above the salmon feeding area. There is a good chance to see bears in action here, and afterwards you’ll get to see the nearby waterfall.
The tour is guided by a Klahoose first nation person who will give you some information about grizzly bears as you cruise towards the Toba Inlet. On the way you may spot wildlife such as whales.
On arrival you’ll have roughly 3 hours at the viewing platform, and the tour is around 8 hours in total, including the cruise there and back. Fair warning, grizzly bear tours to the viewing platforms are expensive, but no matter which platform you choose, the prices are similar.
If this is a bit out of your budget, you may want to consider the Campbell River cruise option at the bottom of this list.
Take a look at the prices of the tour here.
Bute Inlet Grizzly Bear Tour
Similar to the above tour, you’ll hop on a speedboat where you’ll be afforded some wildlife spotting along the way, although in this tour your destination is the Bute Inlet. Your guide will be a Homalco first nations person and on the ride you’ll learn some interesting facts about grizzly bears and their habitat.
At the Bute Inlet you’ll climb up to the viewing platforms for a birds eye view of the salmon spawning and hungry grizzly bears. Make sure you pack a camera capable of sharp images, and ofcourse, a zoom lens, to make the most of your position.
Much like the Toba Inlet tour, these grizzly bear tours are higher in price than other types of wildlife tours in the area, but are well worth it if you want to be right where the action is.
See the prices and more information here.
Campbell River Wildlife Cruise
A little different to the first two, this cruise doesn’t just focus on bears but instead all of the wildlife you can see on Campbell River. This tour would be the perfect fit for families or someone who wants to relax on a boat with some binoculars and / or a zoom lens, who is more interested in seeing different types of wildlife.
It should be advised that you are not guaranteed to see a grizzly bear, and since it is a cruise, rather than stopping at one of the viewing platforms, you may have less of a chance of seeing bears. So if you want the highest chance of seeing grizzly bears, pick on of the other two tours above.
For more information and to see prices of this tour, click here.
Tips for Choosing a Grizzly Bear Tour
Look for Experienced Guides
When it comes to grizzly bear tours in Vancouver Ireland, it’s crucial to look for experienced guides who can provide a safe and educational experience. Grizzly bears are powerful and unpredictable animals, and interacting with them can be dangerous without proper knowledge and expertise.
An experienced guide can ensure the safety of the group, while also providing valuable insights into the behaviour of the grizzly bears. Experienced guides can also identify the best spots for observing grizzly bears, and can increase chances of seeing them in their natural habitat.
To find an experienced guide, you can do research online and read reviews from previous customers. Tour companies may state the amount of years that their guides have in guiding grizzly bear tours, but if not, reviews are the next best indicator.
You can also ask for recommendations from local tourism offices, your hotel, wildlife conservation groups, fellow travelers, or travel agencies. It’s essential to choose a guide who is knowledgeable, experienced, and passionate about grizzly bears and their conservation. This will help ensure a memorable and informative experience on your grizzly bear tour.
Look at the Reviews
Looking at reviews is an essential step when choosing a grizzly bear tour in Vancouver island. Reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality and safety of the tour, as well as the experience and expertise of the guides.
Reading reviews from previous customers can also help you determine if the tour will meet your expectations and interest, providing you with a better understanding of what to expect and what you prepare for.
Why is Vancouver a Good Place to See Grizzly Bears?
Vancouver Island is considered one of the best places in the world to observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat. This is because the island offers a unique blend of geography, climate and wildlife that makes it an ideal location for these magnificent animals.
The island is home to vast areas of pristine wilderness, including rainforests, rivers and estuaries which provide ample food and shelter for grizzly bears.
Additionally, Vancouver Island is one of the few places in the world where grizzly bears can be observed in a coastal environment, as they feed on the salmon that swim in the nearby waters. This unique environment creates the opportunity to observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat, providing a once in a lifetime experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Furthermore, the island is easily accessible, with many tour operators offering guided tours that allow visitors to witness these majestic animals up close, while ensuring their safety and protection.
What to Wear on a Grizzly Bear Tour?
When going on a grizzly bear tour in Vancouver island, it’s crucial to wear appropriate clothing and footwear to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
It’s recommended to dress in layers, as weather conditions can vary throughout the day. A waterproof jacket and pants are also essential, as tours often involve walking through rainforest or along riverbanks, where conditions can be wet and muddy.
Comfortable, sturdy shoes or boots with good traction are also necessary, as some tours require hiking through rugged terrain. It’s also important to bring a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
Some tours provide additional gear, such as rain boots and binoculars, but it’s best to check with the tour company beforehand to ensure you have everything you need for an enjoyable tour.
By dressing appropriately, you’ll be able to focus on observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, without worrying about the weather or your clothing.
Photography Tips for your Grizzly Bear Tour
Here are 4 tips for taking photos on a grizzly bear tour:
- Bring the right gear, have the right settings: bring a camera with a zoom lens, and use a high shutter speed to capture sharp images from a safe distance. If your tour is photography centred, you may also want to bring a tripod to help steady your camera. Some tours specifically state they don’t allow tripods, while others you’ll be able to take them – so make sure you check beforehand.
- Respect the bears: remember that grizzly bears are wild animals, and it’s important to keep the safe distance from them at all times. Make sure you follow the guides instructions, and avoid approaching the bears or disturbing their natural behaviour.
- Be patient: grizzly bear tours can involve a lot of waiting, as the bears may take some time to appear. Be patient and keep your camera ready, as you never know when the perfect shot may present itself.
- Take advantage of the lighting: Vancouver island has stunning natural light which can enhance your photos. Early morning and late afternoon light can create a warm and golden glow, while overcast days can provide a soft and diffused light that is great for capturing details.
Grizzly Bear Tours FAQ
Can I see grizzly bears without a tour on Vancouver Island? – While it is possible to see grizzly bears without a tour on Vancouver island, it’s not recommended due to safety concerns.
Grizzly bears powerful and unpredictable wild animals, and encountering them in the wild without proper knowledge and expertise can be dangerous for both humans and the bears.
Are grizzly bear tours safe? – Grizzly bear tours in Vancouver island can be safe when conducted by experienced and knowledgeable guides who follow strict safety protocols. However visitors must also take responsibility for their own safety by insuring they follow the guides instructions and stay alert during the tour.
Can children go on a grizzly bear tour? – Children can go on a grizzly bear tour in Vancouver island, but it’s essential to choose a tour that is appropriate for their age and abilities. Some tours may have age restrictions, well others may offer special programs designed for children, insuring a safe and educational experience for the whole family.