Top Vancouver Wildlife Encounters

Head off the coast of Steveston Village for the chance to see British Columbia’s whales and a vast variety of other maritime wildlife on this half-day tour. Hop aboard a whalewatching vessel and journey through the Canadian Gulf Islands as you cross the Straight of Georgia, all the while carefully watching for signs of killer whales, humpback whales, seals, sea lions, and much more.

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.

Soak up the beauty of British Columbia's Salish Sea and spot some of the many wildlife species that make their way here on this sunset whale-watching cruise from Vancouver. Learn about the native marine life as your comfortable catamaran cruises the water in search of whales and enjoy the spectacle of the sun setting over the Salish Sea.

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.

Become more familiar with whales and other marine life on this whale-watching tour from Granville Island in Vancouver. Explore the Salish Sea and Strait of Georgia with a guide who shares interesting facts about sea life as you search for orcas, humpback whales, seals, sea lions, and sea birds. As it’s a small-group tour, you have plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

Kayak in Howe Sound and snorkel with Vancouver's resident harbor seals during this half-day eco-adventure. Board a boat from Horseshoe Bay with your adventure guide, headed toward the Pam Rocks seal colony. Slip into the provided snorkel gear and wetsuit, then dive in for an up-close experience with seals, following their lead. Kayak around the bay and the rocks, experiencing the marine environment while in a low-profile boat. A sightseeing-only option is available for those passengers who wish to stay dry on the boat. All kayaking and snorkeling equipment, refreshments and light snacks are included.

Vancouver’s mountains, forests, and beaches often star in vacation photos, and this full-day tour takes the guesswork out of getting great shots of the city’s most beautiful settings. Starting with the waterfalls and old-growth forests on the North Shore, your professional photographer guide will provide photography instruction while introducing you to some of the city’s top spots including Granville Island, Stanley Park, English Bay, and Gastown.

Turn dinner into an adventure with this Zodiac tour from Vancouver to Bowen Island at the mouth of Howe Sound. In addition to dinner and a drink at a restaurant on Bowen, your experience includes a high-speed boat ride, ocean-ready gear, and sightseeing along the Vancouver waterfront.

Trade the hustle and bustle of Vancouver for an immersive nature trip when you book tickets to Grouse Mountain. This outdoor and cultural park offers a range of seasonal attractions throughout the year, from wildlife viewing and family-friendly shows to the Skyride aerial tram. Book in advance to guarantee your admission—then, upon arrival, explore at your own pace and add on experiences that interest you most.

Explore the tropical gardens of the Bloedel Conservatory in Vancouver’s Queen Elizabeth Park. Wander through a tropical rain forest with tropical birds and koi fish. The weather inside the conservatory is always lovely. Marvel at the colorful macaws, parrots, finches, and pheasants and engage your senses in the healing garden.

Secure your spot at the lovely VanDusen Gardens by buying your admission in advance. A visit to the vast oasis in the middle of Vancouver is your chance to wander among more than 7,500 species and varieties from around the world. The extensive collection of sculptures throughout the property adds visual interest to the nature on display. Please note: this voucher does not apply to special events such as the VanDusen Festival of Lights.

Learn how to capture the best the West Coast has to offer on this full-day small-group nature photography tour. Departing from downtown Vancouver, you'll take the ferry to Bowen Island for a walk around a lake and through the temperate rainforest to the village. Your professional photographer guide will walk you through techniques for nature and architectural photography (or set up personal photoshoots according to your preference.) Whether you’re on your smartphone or wielding the latest DSLR, this tour will help you capture the sharpest memories.

Cycle and hike your way through British Columbia’s rugged landscape on a 6.5-hour tour from Vancouver with lunch. Watch for signs of wildlife as you walk through Lynn Canyon, cross a scenic suspension bridge and explore a stunning temperate rainforest. Get sweeping views from the saddle while riding the Trans Canada Trail through Pitt Meadows, where the snow capped mountains around Frasier Valley are a dramatic backdrop for winding rivers and marshland. Enjoy all-inclusive access to equipment, lunch and transportation.