Thursday, August 15, 2013

Travellers Can Take Haida Gwaii Tours To See An Older Canada

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By Andrea Davidson


Haida Gwaii tours are becoming increasingly popular, and for very good reasons. This group of islands off Canada's British Columbian coast used to be known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, and are the home of the Haida First Nation. Blessed with stunning natural beauty, as well as retaining their deep First Nations cultural ties, the islands of the Haida Gwaii are a magnet for travellers of all kinds.

With as much sea as land to explore here, visitors can enjoy taking tours of the area by a variety of means of transport. The Haida enjoy a deserved reputation for their high quality art work, and a large number of artists continue to work locally. Some 5000 people in total live on the islands, with around half of those being First Nations people.

The presence of so many First Nations cultural sites in the archipelago is a testament to the persistence of local life ways, and visitors can see many traditional items such as totem poles on display here. Traditional feasts and other events are also often open to visitors. The islands were renamed as a way of helping the process of reconciliation between the Haida and the Canadian authorities.

As well as the rich cultural life of the islands, though, outdoors enthusiasts can find plenty to keep them busy in this part of the world. Woodland and coastal trails are ideal for hikers to explore, and there are spectacular views to soak up. These islands are the only place in western Canada where it is possible to surf, too, while there is plenty of opportunity for anglers to fish too.

As well as surfing or hiking, though, travellers can also take kayaks out on the ocean, making a range of locations accessible. Cyclists are not stuck for good routes to explore either. While some cyclists might want to take their bikes up the coastal highway on Graham Island, others will want to take their mountain bikes out into the wild forest trails.

There is also plenty of wildlife for visitors to spot and enjoy. Much of the islands is protected by the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, and there are also other protected areas. Many protected areas also have First Nations cultural sites present too. On the islands, the largest and the smallest species of North American Black Bear can be found, while hundreds of bird species call the region home.

As well as birds and mammals which can be seen on land, there are also whales and orca to be seen in the seas off the coast. A range of different types of boat tour is available here, ranging from First Nations canoes to hugely powerful motor boats. Fishermen can also find charter boats if they fancy some sea angling.

Anyone wanting a perspective on an older version of Canada should sign up for Haida Gwaii tours. The breathtaking beauty of the land and ocean is enough for many visitors, though others will want to participate in more adventurous activities than enjoying the view. This is a place where anyone can really feel alive.




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