Canada is a land of breathtaking wilderness, offering endless adventures for those seeking to explore its untamed beauty. From polar bear encounters to scenic national parks, Canada’s wilderness provides an immersive experience like no other. Let’s dive into some of the most interesting facts about this incredible country’s wild spaces and discover how to experience them on your next Canada wildlife holiday.
Churchill is the Polar Bear capital of the world
Nestled in northern Manitoba, Churchill is renowned for its annual polar bear migration, earning it the title of "Polar Bear Capital of the World." Each autumn, hundreds of polar bears gather near Churchill as they wait for Hudson Bay to freeze over.
A visit to Churchill offers the opportunity to embark on a Tundra Buggy adventure, where you'll get up close to these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. You can also take wildlife tours to spot beluga whales and arctic foxes or even go dog sledding for a truly northern experience. This makes Churchill an unmissable stop for any Canada wilderness holiday.
Canada is the second-largest country in the world
With nearly 10 million square kilometres of diverse landscapes, Canada’s size is almost incomprehensible. Its vastness means that travellers can experience an incredible variety of ecosystems, from coastal rainforests to sprawling prairies and frozen tundra.
The best way to explore Canada’s enormity is by exploring via car or motorhome. Embark on cross-country road trips and follow scenic routes like the Icefields Parkway to see glaciers, lakes, and wildlife. Each journey through the Canadian wilderness promises a new discovery.
READ ALSO: How big is Canada?
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Canada is home to the largest intact forest on Earth
Canada’s boreal forest is the largest intact forest on the planet, stretching across much of the country’s northern regions. This vast, pristine wilderness is crucial in maintaining biodiversity and mitigating climate change.
Visiting the boreal forest offers the chance to witness abundant wildlife, including black bears, elk, moose, and grizzly bears. Guided wildlife tours in places like Ontario's provincial parks or Quebec’s wild landscapes let you explore this forest on foot or via canoe. Stay in eco-friendly lodges deep within the forest for a peaceful retreat into nature’s heart, where you’ll be surrounded by wild and stunning vistas.
Canada boasts more lakes than any other country
With over two million lakes, Canada holds the world record for the highest number of freshwater lakes. Many of these are in scenic national parks, surrounded by mountains, forests, and wildlife.
Canada’s lakes offer endless recreational opportunities, from kayaking and fishing to peaceful boat rides. Head to British Columbia’s Pacific Rim National Park or Vancouver Island to explore coastal lakes perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. Alternatively, visit Lake Louise to hike along the shoreline or enjoy a serene canoeing experience on Moraine Lake. The sheer variety of lakes ensures something for everyone, from families seeking calm waters to adventurous couples looking for more of a challenge.
Lisa, from the travel blog Gone with the Family, has visited Moraine Lake and recommends going on a hike to experience its splendour: “Most visitors get off the shuttle bus at Moraine Lake and head directly to the Rockpile, but we decided to walk the shoreline of this world-famous Banff National Park lake first. This is an easy trail that weaves through the forested lakeshore and is an absolute must, in my opinion, for the incredible views that you get of the lake and of the canoes paddling on the lake.”
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Canada has 48 national parks and reserves
Canada’s commitment to preserving its wilderness is evident in its 48 national parks and reserves, which protect vast tracts of forests, mountains, and coastal regions.
Visiting one of its national parks is a must for a quintessential Canada wilderness holiday. The Rocky Mountains in Banff and Jasper are ideal for hiking, wildlife tours, and spotting grizzly bears. On the coast, Pacific Rim National Park on Vancouver Island offers opportunities for whale watching, including sightings of grey whales, humpback whales, and sea lions. Explore the forest trails, go kayaking along the coastline, or simply relax on the beach while soaking in the stunning scenery.
Jules, from the blog Finding Jules, has visited Banff and shared her thoughts on the experience: “Banff will never cease to be the most beautiful, humbling, and haunting place I’ve ever laid eyes on. There is no greater joy, no freer feeling, then looking at the mountain rage and the turquoise lakes, and being reminded of how tiny I am, and how incredibly powerful this world is.”
In Canada, you can witness the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena, and Canada offers some of the best vantage points in the world for witnessing them.
Head to Canada’s northern territories, such as Yukon or Nunavut, to see the Northern Lights in all their glory. The best viewing is during the winter when the skies are clearest, and staying in a remote wilderness lodge can provide an unforgettable backdrop for this natural light show. Combine your aurora viewing with wildlife tours to spot Arctic animals or spend your days snowshoeing and dog sledding before enjoying the lights by night.
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Canada includes the world’s largest uninhabited island
In the high Arctic lies Devon Island, the largest uninhabited island in the world. Its desolate, rugged terrain makes it an ideal location for studying Mars-like conditions, but it also showcases Canada’s extreme wilderness.
While Devon Island is inaccessible to most travellers, you can experience Canada’s Arctic wilderness by visiting the northern territories. Take a wildlife tour to see polar bears, explore the tundra, or witness the awe-inspiring landscapes on foot. The sheer isolation of this region offers an adventure like no other, where you can truly disconnect from the modern world and embrace the vast, untouched wilderness.
Canada’s wilderness includes iconic mountain ranges
Canada is home to some of the world’s most impressive mountain ranges, from the Rocky Mountains to the Coast Mountains. These majestic landscapes are perfect for outdoor activities, whether you’re an avid hiker or a nature enthusiast.
The Rocky Mountains are a must-see for any nature lover. Hike through alpine meadows, visit glacier-fed lakes, and take a tour on the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train. In British Columbia, the Coast Mountains offer rugged hiking trails with spectacular ocean views. Whether you prefer a challenging trek or a relaxing scenic drive, Canada’s mountains promise unforgettable views and experiences.
Bella, from the travel blog Passport and Pixels, has explored the Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer and spoke to us about the experience:
“For me the best thing about Rocky Mountaineer (apart from the delicious food and at-seat cocktail service!), was the ever-changing views. Every moment of the journey brought new dramatic scenery, from snow-capped peaks to plunging valleys to trees clothed in gorgeous autumnal yellows and golds (I travelled in late September) and even glimpses of wildlife.
“I also loved the stories that our host told about the history of the railway line - and my top tip is to make sure you read the ‘in-flight’ newspaper, Mile Post, which has tonnes of information about the route and what you’ll see. There are more tips and inside information in my review of what it's like to ride the Rocky Mountaineer.
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Canada features both frozen tundra and sand dunes
Canada’s wilderness is nothing if not diverse, featuring both the frozen tundra of the north and the unexpected sand dunes of Athabasca in Alberta. For a truly unique wilderness experience, visit the northern tundra regions, where you can explore the icy landscapes and even take a tour to witness the Northern Lights.
Further south, the sand dunes of Athabasca offer a stark contrast, where you can hike through these surprising landscapes or take a scenic drive through the surrounding area. Exploring these vastly different terrains on a Canada wildlife holiday is an adventure like no other.
Canada is home to a wide variety of wildlife species
Canada’s wilderness is teeming with wildlife, from grizzly bears and polar bears to humpback whales, sea lions, and many bird species. Canada offers some of the best wildlife tours in the world. In British Columbia, you can go on a whale-watching holiday along the Pacific Coast to spot humpback whales and grey whales.
On land, explore the forests and mountains where you can encounter black bears and grizzly bears in their natural habitats. Many tours are led by expert guides who will take you into the heart of the wilderness while ensuring the safety of both visitors and wildlife. This is the perfect way to experience Canada’s incredible biodiversity on a wildlife holiday.
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Fascinating facts about Canada’s wilderness
- Churchill is the Polar Bear capital of the world
- Canada is the second-largest country in the world
- Canada is home to the largest intact forest on Earth
- Canada boasts more lakes than any other country
- Canada has 48 national parks and reserves
- In Canada, you can witness the Northern Lights
- Canada includes the world’s largest uninhabited island
- Canada’s wilderness includes iconic mountain ranges
- Canada features both frozen tundra and sand dunes
- Canada is home to a wide variety of wildlife species
Canada’s wilderness is unlike anywhere else on Earth. Whether you’re eager to see polar bears in Churchill, explore the expansive Rocky Mountains, or witness the breath-taking Northern Lights, a Canada wildlife holiday offers endless opportunities for adventure.
Book your trip today with Canadian Affair and discover the untamed beauty of the Canadian wilderness for yourself. We can tailor-make holidays to Canada that include everything you want to see and do.
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