Top British Columbia Outdoor Activities

The Glacier Helicopter Tour is a 14-minute flight that promises memorable scenery and an exclusive vantage point, perfect for those seeking an immersive and unique experience in the region’s natural beauty. Starting from Whistler Heliport, it's an ideal tour for visitors looking to explore the landscape from a fresh, exhilarating perspective.

Drive through Whistler bear habitat on a safari-style small-group adventure—traveling in soft-top Jeeps that let you stand up for unobstructed wildlife viewing. The trucks strike the balance between safety and access, with the chance to observe black bears in their wilderness habitat. Along the way, you’ll also check out Alexander Falls and the Whistler Olympic Park that hosted the 2010 winter games.

Soar above Vancouver on this small-group seaplane experience, and leave the crowds behind as you glide over the city’s top landmarks and natural wonders. Take in bird’s-eye views of the vibrant downtown skyline, the lush Stanley Park, and the beautiful harbor, all set against the backdrop of nearby mountain peaks. This sightseeing experience provides a unique and unforgettable perspective of the city’s beauty, making it perfect for those seeking a more exclusive adventure.

This half-day whale-watching adventure from downtown Vancouver gives you the chance to see whales and other marine life, all with minimal logistical hassle. Hop aboard your luxurious catamaran, complete with heated indoor space and outdoor decks, and set sail. You'll learn all about the local history and geology from your naturalist guides, and can soak up views of the Pacific Northwest scenery while looking out for whales, seals, eagles, and other wildlife.

Immerse yourself in aerial views of Canada’s dramatic landscape—all without actually traveling the country—on this simulated flight. With this unique way to explore, you'll start with a presentation on the history and culture of Canada, then brace yourself for take off. From your seat under the high-dome screen, careen through the sky, hurtle over mountains, and even feel the wind in your face.

Get a closer look at Canada’s marine wildlife on this whale-watching adventure in Victoria. Hop aboard your boat—a luxurious, spacious catamaran—and set sail. Watch the waves from the open sun decks or stay protected from the spray in the heated indoor cabin. Stop off at points of interest through the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Listen to commentary from marine naturalists on board, and look out for orcas, humpback whales, minke whales, and more.

Discover the sights and sounds around Vancouver, British Columbia, on this scenic boat tour. Led by a guide, travel along the coastline of English Bay, west of the downtown peninsula, to popular Lighthouse Park, the Seal Colony and centrally located False Creek, which separates downtown Vancouver from the rest of the city. Along the way, see a plethora of attractions, like Stanley Park, English Bay Beach, the Lions Gate Bridge, plus offshore freighters.

Discover the natural beauty of Vancouver’s Stanley Park aboard a horse-drawn carriage on this charming 1-hour tour. Sit back and relax as your trusty steed clops along Park Drive overlooking the Seawall. An informative guide shares engaging commentary on the sights, including the Rose Garden, Girl in a Wetsuit Statue and the famous First Nations totem poles. Snap memorable photos of Vancouver and the Lion’s Gate Bridge. It’s a great way to experience the fresh air of Stanley Park without tiring your feet!

Whistler, famous for skiing and snowboarding, is an ideal destination for outdoor sports of all kinds. With this tour, thrillseekers can branch out and try bobsledding with no previous experience. After learning the basics, you, a pilot, and two other participants will hop aboard a bobsled and zoom down a track at top speeds. You’ll get a photo of your adventure at the end as a memento.

Cruise the Salish Sea in comfort while you search for whales, seals, bald eagles, and otters on this half-day guided boat cruise. This whale-watching experience is led by a certified naturalist, who shares their knowledge on the area’s wildlife and natural history. If no whales are sighted, you can return for free.

Explore the Whistler backcountry, without having to worry about navigation or route finding, on this guided snowmobile tour of the Brandywine and Callaghan valleys. Explore winding routes with stops at scenic lookouts and a cozy backcountry cabin or dome. Winter and safety gear—including snow pants, jackets, boots, gloves, helmets, and goggles—and a hot drink, and a snack are included for your comfort and enjoyment.

Get behind the wheel of your own 4X4 off-road buggy on this guided tour of Whistler. First, receive instructions on how to drive your buggy. Then, rev your engine and climb rugged mountain roads and forested single-track trails in Callaghan Valley. Take in scenic views while keeping your eyes peeled for local wildlife along the way.

Whistler is known for its fantastic skiing and winter sports, but for travelers that don't want to hit the slopes, there's still lots to see. On this sightseeing tour, experience incredible scenery, and enjoy your guide's commentary as you ride. Visit Green Lake Lookout, Rainbow Park, and more and consider an optional stop at Whistler Brewing Company. This tour—perfect for first-time visitors—is the ideal way to get your bearings and see the sights around Whistler.

Experience Vancouver sights by water on this Zodiac inflatable boat tour from Granville Island. Cross False Creek and admire Siwash Rock, a stone spire near Lion’s Gate Bridge. In Vancouver Harbour, learn about waterfront landmarks. Venture into Deep Cove and the glacial fjord of Indian Arm for views of granite cliffs only accessible by boat. See the beauty of the Granite Falls and Silver Falls up close before heading back.

Save time and discover the wonders of the oceans with this skip-the-line Vancouver Aquarium admission ticket. During your visit, admire more than 65,000 different animals from various marine ecosystems. Watch interpreter-led animal presentations, explore interactive exhibits, meet sea otters and sea lions, and learn about the aquarium's rescue and rehabilitation work. You also have access to a 4D movie theater and interactive pools.

Get some exercise while seeing the sights of Victoria Harbour with a private self-paced walking tour accessed via an audio app. Listen to your tour guide through your smartphone, going at your own pace and stopping and starting whenever you want. You’ll benefit from the structure of a guided tour without having to chase around a live tour guide or strain to hear through the crowds.

There are many places across to take in views of Vancouver’s striking skyline, but most of them are in the busy city and can get quite crowded. But on this sightseeing boat cruise, you’ll be able to take in uninterrupted city and natural vistas. Head out into the waters of False Creek, ride past English Bay, sail past the Lions Gate Bridge, and much more.

Butchart Gardens is one of Victoria's most popular attractions—but if you don't have your own transit, getting there from the city center can be tricky. Instead, make logistics simple with this round-trip shuttle service. With multiple daily departure times and transit from a central meeting point, you can leave the logistics to someone else—and save more time for a self-led, sweet-smelling stroll through the 55-acre (22.2-hectare) garden (admission own expense).

Soar above the mountains and glaciers of British Columbia with this small-group sightseeing helicopter flight from Whistler. Admire stunning aerial views of Whistler, Blackcomb, and the Garibaldi Provincial Park, home to the volcanic Black Tusk, Garibaldi Lake, and Rainbow Glacier. Weather permitting, the helicopter will land to let you enjoy a short stroll around the high alpine wilderness.

Explore beyond Vancouver without the need to hire a taxi or figure out public transit options. Visit popular spots outside Vancouver–Whistler, Shannon Falls, and Porteau Cove Provincial Park–in one tour with roundtrip transportation. En route to Whistler, enjoy beautiful views along the Sea-to-Sky highway. Spend leisure time in Whistler with included admission to the Sea to Sky Gondola and snacks provided.

Immerse yourself in the splendor of British Columbia's wild scenery, and make visiting one of Vancouver's top sights stress-free, when you prebook admission tickets to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Choose from a range of start times, and have the freedom to explore independently: Hike through the temperate rainforest, admire views from the Capilano Suspension Bridge, take in the thrilling Cliffwalk, and more.

There is a world of ancient trees to discover within walking distance of downtown Vancouver. Take a tour of Vancouver’s last ancient forest, located in Stanley Park. Gaze in awe at 800-year-old cedars, towering firs, and more. Discover the park’s history and explore how the forest has evolved over the years, piecing together its past with old maps, postcards, and photographs.

Enjoy round-trip travel from Vancouver to Victoria, and discover top attractions in British Columbia on this Victoria and Butchart Gardens day trip from Victoria. Take the ferry to Vancouver Island, and enjoy fine views over the beautiful Gulf Islands. Dock in Swartz Bay, and visit the famous Butchart Gardens, exploring the grounds at your leisure. Then, enjoy free time to explore the city, perhaps walking through Chinatown and the Inner Harbour, before returning to Vancouver by ferry.