Compare Tofino Coastal Explorer by Great Canadian Trails
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 4 days |
| Price From | $ 868 |
| Price Per Day | $ 217 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Countries Visited | |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included |
3 Breakfasts |
| Description |
Tofino is located on the western shores of Vancouver Island, just north of Long Beach and Pacific Rim National Park. It has been named the best surf town in North America, but is also the perfect base for exploring the riches of Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. A perfect add-on to your west coast adventure, this 4-day itinerary offers an idyllic getaway combined with marine exploration by kayak and zodiac. On the water, you may spot whales, sealions, bald eagles, and black bears. During land excursions, enjoy old growth forest, waterfalls, and natural hot springs. No kayaking experience required. |
Day 1: Arrive Tofino
Make your way to your centrally-located accommodations in beautiful Tofino. Offering beauty and unaffected hospitality, Tofino is a feat of art, culture, and cuisine. A rich community heritage combined with an idyllic setting north of Pacific Rim National Park and on the doorstep of Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve make this the ultimate destination for the nature lover. Whether you spend your day absorbing Aboriginal traditions, daring body and soul to conquer the world-class surf, or engulfing your palate in the vast sea of local flavours, there is truly something for everyone in Tofino.
Day 2: Marine Safari and Hot Springs
A 5 minute walk brings you to the dock house where you meet your guides. An early afternoon departure by zodiac takes you on an exciting marine safari to explore Clayoquot Sound on the way north to Maquinna Provincial Park. Stops can include California and Stellar sea lion haul-outs, bald eagle lookouts, and a scenic nesting island. Frequently includes whale observation and possibly black bear sightings. At the remote north end of the sound, we reach the park entrance which is accessible only by water or air. We enjoy a walk along the rainforest trail to natural sulfur hot springs (about 50C/110F) where we spend the next 1-2 hours enjoying a relaxing soak in the hot mineral pools. The natural pools are a very unique feature - The geothermal hot springs cascade down a waterfall into half a dozen rocky pools. These pools flow from one level to the next, becoming gradually cooler as the fresh spring water is cooled by ocean swells. Afterwards, we return to the zodiac and retrace our path to Tofino as the sun sets on the western horizon.
Day 3: 4 Hour Kayaking Excursion
Back to the dock house this morning. After a short, land-based training session, we take you from Tofino harbour to the quiet waters nearby where rainforest, beaches, and tidal flats surround you. Move through the protected waters and inlets and listen as your knowledgeable guide explains the rainforest ecology and the natural and cultural history of Clayoquot Sound. We stop to explore Meares Island's old growth forest and walk on the 'Big Tree Trail' (approx 40 minutes), known for its giant redcedars. Keep an eye open for eagles and migratory birds on the mudflats at low tide.
Day 4: Departure Day
No services are included today. Check-out is at 11am. We hope to see you again!
