Discover wildlife, kayak adventures, and Indigenous culture on Vancouver Island.
Discover the wild beauty of northern Vancouver Island on the 7-day North Island Explorer Tour. From the charming waterfront of Telegraph Cove to the cultural hub of Alert Bay, this self-drive tour immerses you in the region’s breathtaking landscapes, rich Indigenous heritage, and incredible wildlife. Highlights include a guided sea kayaking tour through ocean channels teeming with marine life, and an Indigenous-led wildlife tour where you’ll spot whales and grizzly bears in the pristine Broughton Archipelago. Along the way, enjoy the comfort of locally-owned accommodations and authentic West Coast cuisine.
This journey is perfect for those seeking adventure and cultural connection. Explore the picturesque beaches and dramatic sea stacks of San Josef Bay, visit the renowned U’Mista Cultural Centre to learn about Indigenous traditions, and experience the vibrant performances of the T’sasala Cultural Group. With a mix of guided activities and time to explore on your own, this tour offers the ideal balance of excitement, relaxation, and unforgettable moments in one of British Columbia’s most captivating regions.
Highlights of the North Island Explorer Tour
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North Island Explorer Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Campbell River
Arrive in the coastal town of Campbell River. Optionally spend the day exploring sightseeing spots and taking part in local tours. In the evening, enjoy dinner at your leisure.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Campbell River
Meals: None
Day 2 Elk Falls Hike and Telegraph Cove Exploration
Start your day with a scenic hike in Elk Falls Provincial Park. Afterward, drive approximately 2.5 hours to Telegraph Cove, a charming waterfront village steeped in history. Spend the afternoon wandering the boardwalks and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner overlooking the water.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Telegraph Cove
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Kayaking Adventure and Arrival in Alert Bay
Join a guided half-day kayaking tour in the pristine waters of Johnstone Strait, where you may encounter orcas, sea lions, and other marine wildlife. In the afternoon, take the ferry from Port McNeill to Alert Bay where you will spend the night.
Overnight Location: Bed & Breakfast in Alert Bay
Meals: None
Day 4 Wildlife Watching in the Broughton Archipelago
Embark on an Indigenous-led full-day wildlife tour through the Broughton Archipelago, where you’ll have the chance to see grizzly bears, whales, and other iconic wildlife.
Overnight Location: Bed & Breakfast in Alert Bay
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Day 5 Cultural Immersion in Alert Bay
Begin with a peaceful forest walk, then visit the U'Mista Cultural Centre (Optional: Artist-led tour of galleries) to discover Indigenous art and traditions. If traveling on a Saturday in July or August, enjoy a cultural dance performance in the Big House. Later, drive to Port Hardy and check into the Kwa’Lilas Hotel.
Overnight Location: Kwa'Lilas Hotel in Port Hardy
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Discover San Josef Bay
Take a guided full-day tour to San Josef Bay in Cape Scott Provincial Park. Enjoy your lunch and free time to soak in the rugged beauty of the area.
Optional add-on/Alternative: Float plane tour over the Broughton Archipelago.
Overnight Location: Kwa'Lilas Hotel in Port Hardy
Meals: Lunch
Day 7 Return to Campbell River
Spend your final morning exploring Port Hardy, including visits to Fort Rupert and Storey’s Beach. Then make the journey back to Campbell River, bringing your adventure to an end with memories of northern Vancouver Island’s wild beauty and cultural richness.
Overnight Location: None
Meals: None
North Island Explorer Tour Price and Dates
This self-guided tour is fully customizable and available for any group size, based on availability. The prices below are per person, based on double occupancy:
Book NowAccommodation on North Island Explorer Tour
This tour is based on a variety of options such as hotels, lodges and bed and breakfasts, each offering a unique and comfortable stay tailored to your needs.
Hotels on Standard Tour
Hotel in Campbell River
This mid-island adorable town has rustic charm written all over it. Make sure to try some local salmon after a full day of exploring the surrounding nature.
Lodge in Telegraph Cove
Tucked away in the wilderness, where the forest meets the ocean, you'll spend a magical night in the tranquility of Telegraph Cove.
Bed & Breakfast in Alert Bay
Enjoy a cozy stay at a family-run B&B in Alert Bay, offering comfort and warm hospitality.
Kwa'Lilas Hotel in Port Hardy ★★★
Experience the perfect fusion of contemporary design and local Indigenous art throughout the guest rooms and suites.
What’s Included in the North Island Explorer Tour?
Meals
3 breakfasts and 2 lunches are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 6 nights are included.
Transportation during the Tour
This is a self-drive tour, requiring your own vehicle. Guided activities include transportation, but vehicle rental, fuel, and ferry costs are not included.
Also included
- Sea kayaking tour from Telegraph Cove (half-day)
- Indigenous-led wildlife-viewing tour (full-day)
- San Josef Bay/Cape Scott Provincial Park tour (full-day)
- U'Mista Cultural Centre entry (optional add-on: Artist-led tour of the galleries)
- Custom itinerary design, local recommendations, and remote support during your trip.
Not included
- Flights to/from and within British Columbia
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Vehicle rental/usage and fuel
- Ferry to/from Alert Bay
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities
- GST tax (5%)
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Float plane tour over the Broughton Archipelago
- Optional activities or excursions
Frequently Asked Questions about North Island Explorer Tour
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