The archipelago of Haida Gwaii lies just off the coast of British Columbia but it feels like another world. It has a history and culture unlike any other place and its wildlife have evolved in isolation from the mainland. Haida Gwaii tours will take you to a place of myth and legend to visit a people and their home which is unique in the world.
In 2010 the Queen Charlotte Islands were re-named Haida Gwaii to reflect their indigenous heritage. This was probably one of the first settled places in the Americas and the people have their own way of life and beliefs going back thousands of years. The place feels remote yet is only a two hour flight from Vancouver or a ferry trip from Prince Rupert.
Once on the islands tourists are amazed at the natural beauty. They have been nicknamed the "Galapagos of the North" as they have many endemic species which have evolved in isolation. The seas are also extremely rich with fish, birds and mammals, such as whales and dolphins. Historically fishing and arts and crafts have been the main sources of income.
Gwaii Haanas National Park was nominated by National Geographic as the best national park in North America. It contains and incredible range of eco-systems, ancient forests with trees over a thousand year old cover ninety percent of the area. Then there are alpine tundra, lakes, fjords and wetlands. It is a paradise for adventure lovers with unparalleled hiking, kayaking, caving and fishing opportunities.
Another thing which makes the islands unique is the human culture. The Haida people made it their home thousands of years ago and learned how to live in harmony with the nature they revere. There is a heritage center in Skidegate which provides an introduction to the people and their way of life. There are displays of their houses, canoes and totem poles.
One of their most iconic creations are their totem poles which were used to tell the stories of their families and were displayed outside the houses. The houses are also interesting, covered in carvings telling the history of the people. In addition to the many indigenous artists there are now many other creators living on the islands. Art enthusiasts will find a number of excellent galleries and workshops to visit.
It is highly recommended that visitors interested in seeing the most remote and mythical parts of the islands take a bout trip. Many abandoned villages, forests and beaches can only be reached from the sea. There are also whale watching tours and many outdoor pursuits in these areas. Climbing, caving, kayaking, fishing, camping and sailing are all popular activities in Haida Gwaii.
Nowhere else on Earth is like Haida Gwaii. It remains relatively unspoiled and evidence of it's unique culture is everywhere. There are many varieties of tour with different focuses for the nature lover or culture vulture. It is also possible to travel independently but there is no transport on the islands so hiring a car or taking one over on the ferry is essential.
In 2010 the Queen Charlotte Islands were re-named Haida Gwaii to reflect their indigenous heritage. This was probably one of the first settled places in the Americas and the people have their own way of life and beliefs going back thousands of years. The place feels remote yet is only a two hour flight from Vancouver or a ferry trip from Prince Rupert.
Once on the islands tourists are amazed at the natural beauty. They have been nicknamed the "Galapagos of the North" as they have many endemic species which have evolved in isolation. The seas are also extremely rich with fish, birds and mammals, such as whales and dolphins. Historically fishing and arts and crafts have been the main sources of income.
Gwaii Haanas National Park was nominated by National Geographic as the best national park in North America. It contains and incredible range of eco-systems, ancient forests with trees over a thousand year old cover ninety percent of the area. Then there are alpine tundra, lakes, fjords and wetlands. It is a paradise for adventure lovers with unparalleled hiking, kayaking, caving and fishing opportunities.
Another thing which makes the islands unique is the human culture. The Haida people made it their home thousands of years ago and learned how to live in harmony with the nature they revere. There is a heritage center in Skidegate which provides an introduction to the people and their way of life. There are displays of their houses, canoes and totem poles.
One of their most iconic creations are their totem poles which were used to tell the stories of their families and were displayed outside the houses. The houses are also interesting, covered in carvings telling the history of the people. In addition to the many indigenous artists there are now many other creators living on the islands. Art enthusiasts will find a number of excellent galleries and workshops to visit.
It is highly recommended that visitors interested in seeing the most remote and mythical parts of the islands take a bout trip. Many abandoned villages, forests and beaches can only be reached from the sea. There are also whale watching tours and many outdoor pursuits in these areas. Climbing, caving, kayaking, fishing, camping and sailing are all popular activities in Haida Gwaii.
Nowhere else on Earth is like Haida Gwaii. It remains relatively unspoiled and evidence of it's unique culture is everywhere. There are many varieties of tour with different focuses for the nature lover or culture vulture. It is also possible to travel independently but there is no transport on the islands so hiring a car or taking one over on the ferry is essential.
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