intrepid travel newfoundland

Newfoundland Adventure: Eastbound

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Trekking and Hiking
• National parks
• Customizable
• Booking Type Instant booking
• duration 7 days
• tour type Small group Request as private
• age requirement 15-99 yrs
• max group size 12
• guiding method Fully guided
• Tour Code BM-40562

• Starts Deer Lake, Canada
• Ends St John, Canada
• Take in superb coastal views as you enjoy a delicious picnic lunch followed by a hike along the Skerwink Trail, one of the North America’s best trails.
• Marvel at Western Brook Pond, the spectacular glacier-carved landlocked fjord, during a scenic boat tour that gets you closer to nature.
• Take a boat tour through pristine waters surrounding Twillingate, keeping an eye out for whales, seabirds and more.
• Watch puffins at Elliston’s renowned viewing site which offers one of the closest land views of these birds in North America.
• Wander the ancient landscape at UNESCO World Heritage listed Gros Morne National Park and marvel at tumbling waterfalls and towering cliffs.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Water First. Donations support their work to provide critical clean, safe water for indigenous communities in Canada.
• Day 1: Deer Lake / Rocky Harbour
• Day 2: Rocky Harbour
• Day 3: Twillingate
• Day 4: Trinity
• Day 5: Trinity
• Day 6: St. John's
• Day 7: St. John's
• Hotel (1 night), Bed & Breakfast (2 nights), Inn (1 night), Cabin (2 nights)
• 6 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 1 Dinner
• Private Vehicle , boat
• An expert tour leader
• Rocky Harbour - Lobster Cove Lighthouse visit
• Rocky Harbour - Local Dinner with Screech In Ceremony
• Gros Morne National Park - Walk
• Gros Morne NP - Western Brook Pond Boat Tour
• Twillingate - Seabird & Whale watching boat tour
• Trinity - Skerwink Trail hike - Free
• Bonavista - Lighthouse visit
• Elliston - Puffin viewing
• St. John’s – Leader led walking tour
• Any international flights to Deer Lake and from St John are not included in this price. We always recommend that you arrive 1 day prior to your tour starting date.
• Travel insurance is not included in this Newfoundland Adventure: Eastbound tour. Travel insurance is mandatory to buy. World Nomads' travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers.
• Personal Itinerary can be tweaked and customized.
• Protected Travel within your own bubble.
• Professional Access our Travel Specialists' insider knowledge.
• Privacy Enjoy a tour focused solely on you or your travel group.
• Earn USD 103+ in travel credits.
• Best price guaranteed.
• No credit card or booking fees.
• 100% financial protection.
• Carbon neutral tours.
• 25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
• Read more reasons to book with Bookmundi less Read less

No additional cancellation fees apply for this Newfoundland Adventure: Eastbound tour. You can cancel the tour up to 58 days prior departure and avoid paying the full amount, but your deposit paid is non-refundable. No refund applies for cancellations within 57 days of departure.

For any tour departures within 18 September 2024, full payment is required. For tours that depart later than 18 September 2024, a deposit is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 57 days before trip departure.

Newfoundland Adventure: Eastbound tour requires that you have adequate and valid travel insurance covering medical and personal accidents, including repatriation costs and emergency evacuation. World Nomads offers travel insurance for independent travelers and intrepid families.

For this Newfoundland Adventure: Eastbound tour getting the required visa(s) is the responsibility for each individual traveller, as visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. We recommend to check with your local embassies representing the countries that you are traveling to, as part of this itinerary.

• Some of the best scenery in Newfoundland is found on hikes. So, while this trip doesn't require a high level of fitness, it’s essential to be at least moderately fit if you want to partake in all activities.
• This itinerary also runs in reverse, from St. John's to Deer Lake:
• https://www.intrepidtravel.com/canada/newfoundland-adventure-144885

• Joining point description
• Joining point instructions
• Finish point description
• Important information
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• Money matters
• Climate and seasonal
• Your fellow travellers
• Itinerary disclaimer
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Newfoundland Adventure: Eastbound

Health Safety +

• Take in superb coastal views as you enjoy a delicious picnic lunch followed by a walk along the Skerwink Trail, one of the North America’s best trails.
• Marvel at Western Brook Pond, the spectacular glacier-carved landlocked fjord, during a scenic boat tour that gets you closer to nature.
• Cruise through pristine waters surrounding twillingate, keeping an eye out for whales, seabirds and more.
• Watch puffins at Elliston’s renowned viewing site which offers one of the closest land views of these birds in North America.
• Wander the ancient landscape at UNESCO World Heritage listed Gros Morne National Park and marvel at tumbling waterfalls and towering cliffs.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Water First. Donations support their work to provide critical clean, safe water for indigenous communities in Canada.

What's this trip about?

Travel themes.

• High Adventure

Destinations

• North America

Attractions

• Newfoundland

Trip includes

• Rocky Harbour - Lobster Cove Lighthouse visit
• Rocky Harbour - Local Dinner with Screech In Ceremony
• Gros Morne National Park - Walk
• Gros Morne NP - Western Brook Pond Boat Tour
• Twillingate - Seabird & Whale watching boat tour
• Trinity - Skerwink Trail hike
• Bonavista - Lighthouse visit
• Elliston - Puffin viewing
• St. John’s – Leader led walking tour

After breakfast, your Newfoundland adventure comes to an end. You might choose to do a little more exploring around St John’s before making your way to the airport.

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
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Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Intrepid Travel .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Tour Operator

Intrepid travel, the intrepid travel experience.

If you’re looking for adventure, you’ve come to the right place. For the past 25 years, we’ve been taking small groups of travelers on unforgettable trips around the world. What makes them unforgettable? Take a look for yourself and discover the Intrepid experience.

Our travelers have three styles of tour to choose from: Basix, Original and Comfort. Each has a different level of inclusions and accommodation, but all have unforgettable real life experiences as part of the package. Travellers can also choose themed trips, such as Family, Sailing or Food, to suit their interests.

Our group size has an average of just ten travellers, which allows us to get off the beaten track, use local accommodation and transport, and really get to know the culture. It also ensures we are contributing to the local economy; by choosing local suppliers we were able to keep AUD 60 million in local economies in 2012. We’re also working hard to reduce our carbon footprint and were the first in our sector to introduce carbon offset trips. This, along with our many corporate sustainability activities, has meant we’re one of the travel industry’s leaders in responsible travel.

Why Intrepid?

•   Small groups - average of 10 people per trip
•   Sustainability - pioneers for the industry
•   Local leaders - authentic perspectives
•   Local transport - get close and personal
•   Local accommodation - experience real living
•   Intrepid travelers - like-minded companions 

Intrepid Travel has come a long way since its beginnings in 1989. From two university friends, a typewriter and a kitchen desk, it is now a proud member of The Intrepid Group, taking over 100,000 travelers every year.

Intrepid Travel is part of The Intrepid Group of companies, alongside leading small group adventure companies Peregrine, Urban Adventures and PEAK DMC.

Despite growing into a global business with over 1,000 staff based all over the world and over 800 different trips across every continent, we’ve remained devoted to the same grassroots values and responsible travel philosophies that we had at the very beginning.

On every trip we operate and in every interaction we have with a client, supplier or local, we live our core values everyday:

• Integrity – Doing the right thing
• Responsible – Think global, act local
• Growth – Stakeholders in our own success
• Innovation – Thriving on new ideas and embracing change
• Fun – It’s engrained into who we are and what we do
• Passion – We are inspired by the work we do and the trips we offer

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Newfoundland Adventure: Westbound

7 Days Starting in St. John's and ending in Rocky Harbour

Visiting: St John's, Trinity, Twillingate, Rocky Harbour

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

Physical rating:.

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

Trip styles:.

Adventure Tours , Cruise

History , Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Boat/Cruise Excursion , Sightseeing

NB: Prices correct on 23-Jul-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour overview.

Take a trip to North America’s most north-easterly point, where the sun rises first and the dramatic coastline, mighty fjords and wonderful wildlife will take your breath away. Watch huge icebergs bob past the town known as “The Iceberg Capital of the World” in the spring, go whale watching, and spot puffins at one of North America’s best viewing sites. With a knowledgeable leader to guide the way, you’ll experience a landscape that has been shaped by the elements over thousands of years, hike easy yet spectacular trails, and enjoy delicious picnic lunches surrounded by the splendour of Newfoundland’s famous scenery.

Take in superb coastal views as you enjoy a delicious picnic lunch followed by a walk along the Skerwink Trail, one of the North America’s best trails.

Watch the puffins at Elliston’s renowned viewing site which offers one of the closest land views of these birds in North America.

Cruise through Iceberg Alley as you keep an eye out for whales and tap your toes to traditional Newfoundland music on board the boat.

Wander the ancient landscape at UNESCO World Heritage listed Gros Morne National Park and marvel at tumbling waterfalls and towering cliffs.

Cruise through pristine waters as you keep an eye out for whales and tap your toes to traditional Newfoundland music on board the boat.

Cruise through pristine waters as you keep an eye out for whales, seabirds and more.

By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Water First. Donations support their work to provide critical clean, safe water for indigenous communities in Canada.

Take in superb coastal views as you enjoy a delicious picnic lunch followed by a hike along the Skerwink Trail, one of the North America’s best trails.

Take a boat tour from Twillingate through pristine waters as you keep an eye out for whales, seabirds and more.

Not what you're looking for?

People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:

Day 1: St John's

Location: st john's, accommodation: hotel, meals included: dinner.

Welcome to St John’s! Meet your leader at the hotel for a group welcome meeting at 10am before heading off on a leader-led tour of the city. Take a drive up Signal Hill to enjoy sweeping views of St. John’s Harbour and brighten your day with a stop at St John’s famous colourful houses on ‘Jellybean Row’ and the charming harbourfront neighborhood of Quidi Vidi. This afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore St John’s before joining your group for a welcome dinner at Celtic Hearth. Sample Jigg’s dinner pie, a classic Newfoundland dish, then head to a local pub for a traditional “screech-in” ceremony that involves a shot of screech (rum) and kissing a cod. It’s more fun than you might think! Included Activities: - St John’s – Local dinner - St. John’s – Leader led walking tour

Day 2: Trinity

Location: trinity, accommodation: bed & breakfast, meals included: breaksfast, lunch.

After breakfast, drive to the start of the Skerwink Trail for a delicious picnic lunch and a hike along the coast. Named as one of the top trails in North America and Europe by Travel and Leisure Magazine, this moderate hike offers superb photography and wildlife spotting opportunities. After the hike, head to Trinity and check into your accommodation then explore this charming historical town at your leisure or perhaps join your group for an informal dinner at a local restaurant. Included Activities: - Trinity - Skerwink Trail hike - Free

Day 3: Trinity

Today it’s time to spot puffins at Elliston’s renowned viewing site which offers one of the closest land views of puffins in North America. See if you can also spot the Puffin King, a rock formation which looks like a puffin sitting on a throne. After you’ve seen the puffins, drive 20 minutes north to visit the historic Cape Bonavista Lighthouse which is one of the most photographed places in Newfoundland. Climb the stairs to the top of the tower and see the seal oil-fuelled light that was used in the 1800s. Included Activities: - Elliston - Puffin viewing - Bonavista - Lighthouse visit

Day 4: Twillingate

Location: twillingate, meals included: breaksfast.

This morning, sit back and relax on the drive from Trinity to Twillingate where we’ll check into our hotel before a late afternoon boat tour where we will spot whales and seabirds. In the spring, you might get to see icebergs floating down the stretch of water known as Iceberg Alley. Afterward, head back to your hotel and take it easy or explore Twillingate which is known as “The Iceberg Capital of the World". Included Activities: - Twillingate - Seabird & Whale watching boat tour

Day 5: Rocky Harbour

Location: rocky harbour, accommodation: cabin.

Enjoy the scenic drive from Twillingate to Gros Morne National Park with a stop at along the way for a picnic lunch. After lunch, talk a walk around the historic Lobster Cove Lighthouse and enjoy the view of the rolling waves and rocky beaches far below. This evening you’ll have time to settle into your hotel and perhaps take a walk around town or head out for dinner. Included Activities: - Rocky Harbour - Lobster Cove Lighthouse visit - Gros Morne National Park - Walk

Day 6: Rocky Harbour

Start the day with a stroll along the Western Brook Pond Trail and take in the view before boarding the Western Brook Pond Boat Tour. Don’t forget your camera as you’ll want to capture the dramatic waterfalls, towering cliffs and abundant wildlife that can be found in this glacier-carved land-locked fjord. This afternoon there is time to freshen up before the group comes together again for an optional dinner where you can celebrate your adventures! Included Activities: - Gros Morne NP - Western Brook Pond Boat Tour

Day 7: Rocky Harbour

After breakfast, your Newfoundland adventure comes to an end. You can choose to stay in Rocky Harbour or take the complimentary group transfer to Deer Lake Regional Airport. Included Activities: - Rocky Harbour – Complimentary departure transfer to Deer Lake Airport

What's Included

St John’s – Local dinner

St. John’s – Leader led walking tour

Trinity - Skerwink Trail hike

Elliston - Puffin viewing

Bonavista - Lighthouse visit

Twillingate - Whale watching & iceberg tour

Rocky Harbour - Lobster Cove Lighthouse visit

Gros Morne NP - Western Brook Pond Boat Tour

Gros Morne National Park - Walk

Rocky Harbour – Complimentary departure transfer to Deer Lake Airport

Twillingate - Seabird & Whale watching boat tour

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night), Bed & Breakfast (3 nights), Cabin (2 nights)

Private vehicle, Boat

6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner

Trinity - Skerwink Trail hike - Free

What's Not Included

Tipping and Gratuities

International Travel

• AIRPORT TRANSFERS IN THE USA & CANADA
• We recommend taxis and rideshare services like Lyft and Uber when traveling to and from hotels in the USA and Canada. These services are widely available across North America, offering convenient and accessible transportation options. Private transfers in North America incur high costs and present an increased risk of missed connections due to their fixed schedules. In contrast, taxis and rideshares offer both cost-effectiveness and flexibility, ensuring a smoother journey. With transparent pricing, GPS tracking, and on-demand availability, we believe that taxis and rideshare apps not only offer a reliable alternative to private transfers but also provide a secure, trustworthy, and budget-friendly transportation option for our customers.
• NORTH AMERICA VEHICLES
• Our large fleet of 15-passenger vans are fully equipped with air-conditioning system, V8 engines and any camping or cooking equipment needed for your trip. Most have cloth-upholstered seats and carpeted interior with radio or CD players. Your luggage is typically transported in a trailer which is towed behind the van.
• The vans are regularly serviced by a well-established network of maintenance and service facilities throughout the continent. However, unforeseen maintenance problems can still occur while on the road and we appreciate the patience of our travellers as we make necessary repairs as quickly as possible.
• While your group will have a van for all included activities on the trip, the services of the van and leader may not be available for your use during free time, or after you have arrived for the day. If you need a special trip into town you may need to arrange transport or a taxi.
• The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
• Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Important Information

• 1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 10 am. Please make your own way to the Joining Point Hotel listed in the Essential Trip Information for this itinerary.
• 2. Please be careful when booking flights to St. John's, Newfoundland; make sure you fly into St. John's Airport [YYT]. Please do not book flights to Saint John, New Brunswick [YSJ] as this is in another province.
• 3. Your adventure ends on Day 7 after breakfast. There are no activities included on that day. You are free to stay in Rocky Harbour or take advantage of a complimentary group departure transfer to Deer Lake Airport (YDF). We will aim to arrive at the airport at around 10 am.
• 4. A single supplement is available for this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Check out our Q&As

Is this trip right for you.

Some of the best scenery in Newfoundland is found on hikes. So, while this trip doesn't require a high level of fitness, it’s essential to be at least moderately fit if you want to partake in all activities. This itinerary also runs in reverse, from Deer Lake to St, John's: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/canada/newfoundland-adventure-eastbound-144935

Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

Are airport transfers included in this tour, are the local guides on the tour english speaking, are flights included in this tour, are children permitted to take part in the tour, what policies are in place for covid-19.

Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

How long has the tour company been trading?

Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

What ethical travel credentials does the tour company have.

Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Just leaving a review to....

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

I just completed my first...

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

I have just come back...

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

I have travelled with Intrepid...

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

I recently went on an...

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

North American Adventure

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

I have just completed a...

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Cambodia Discovery

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Explore Southern Africa

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Amazing Guatemala and beyond tour with Intrepid

Did Guatemala and beyond trip in November 22. It was amazing, we were so well looked after by our guide Aura. She was very knowledgeable and during our bus trips she gave us the history of the 4 countries. The border crossings can be tricky but handled very well by our guide. We saw all the most interesting and beautiful places. The hotels were lovely comfortable colonial style. I will travel with intrepid again

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The staff at TourHub were very responsive to all of my questions and more! They provided me with all the information I needed to book our trip in a very short period of time. I am very impressed with this company and looking forward to our tour in 2025!

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Book with Confidence

Free date changes.

Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

Transfer as credit to Future Tours

Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

Low Deposit

Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

Cancellation Policy

We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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"Fantastic. Well planned and conducted. Great accommodations." Mer, traveled in June 2022

Canadian Rockies & Northern Lights

"The guide was knowledgeable, pleasant, and worked hard to give all tour participants an extraordinary time." Daniel, traveled in January 2024

Hiking in the Canadian Rockies

"Excellent trip, definitely recommend it!" khoja, traveled in August 2021

Newfoundland Adventure: Eastbound

"Any more than this wouldn't have felt like a family. Everyone was interested in everything we did and saw." Darlene, traveled in June 2023

Canadian Remote Arctic: Northwest Passage to Ellesmere and Axel Heiberg Islands

Classic Canadian Rockies

Real Canada

"The Rocky Mountains will always be beautiful but to have experienced with somebody as smart, funny and caring." Anita, traveled in May 2019

Canadian Rockies

"Great itinerary showcasing British Columbia and the Rockies." Renae, traveled in May 2019

• Canada Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
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Canada Tours & Holidays

Extraordinary is an understatement when describing Canada. Unforgettable? You’re getting closer.

The changing colours of forested valleys and national parks, the freeze and flow of glacial lakes, the light and shade of the Rockies’ snow-capped mountains – Canada is North America’s natural masterpiece. Summer is for surfing and whale-watching off Vancouver Island and seeing Lake Louise in all its blue-hued glory. Winter is for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in Alberta and soaking in natural hot springs in British Colombia. Whatever the season, you’ll be able to find friendly locals, First Nations cultures, pristine landscapes and a delicious plate of poutine.

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Classic Canadian Rockies

Hiking in the Canadian Rockies

Articles of Canada

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We run at dawn: Why I lace up in cities while travelling 

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Canada or Alaska? Which natural wonderland should you travel to?

4 of the best whale-watching spots in Nova Scotia

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Canada departures by month

Popular regions in canada, canada at a glance, capital city.

Ottawa (population 1 million)

Canadian dollar (CAD)

English, French

(GMT-05:00) Eastern Time (US & Canada)

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Canada

Culture and customs.

Canada’s aboriginal communities reside across the country, with the people of the First Nations and the Inuit in the north calling parts of Canada home. Like many indigenous peoples around the world, First Nations communities in Canada have an ongoing struggle to retain and protect their customs and way of life. Modern influences have had adverse impacts on their culture and lifestyle, yet many still actively live and promote a traditional way of life through tribal music, handicrafts, art and clothing.

Anyone who has been to Canada will know that some aspects of the Canadian stereotype are actually very accurate. Well known for being welcoming, friendly, funny and adventure-loving, Canadians generally do a good job of living up to their reputation. Large cities like Vancouver are proudly multicultural, and attitudes towards different ways of life are generally quite liberal. This is reflected in the variety of cuisines, shops and people that occupy the city. Urban and rural residents alike typically remain active and love the outdoors. Hiking, cycling, canoeing and snowboarding are all popular pastimes across the country.

Canada’s eastern reaches have a decidedly different quality to the west coast and retain much of their colonial heritage. The French-Canadian language, often called Quebecois, is widely spoken and French-influenced food and music are very popular. Canada’s aboriginal communities reside across the country, with the people of the First Nations and the Inuit in the north calling parts of Canada home. Like many indigenous peoples around the world, First Nations communities in Canada have an ongoing struggle to retain and protect their customs and way of life. Modern influences have had adverse impacts on their culture and lifestyle, yet many still actively live and promote a traditional way of life through tribal music, handicrafts, art and clothing.

Anyone who has been to Canada will know that some aspects of the Canadian stereotype are actually very accurate. Well known for being welcoming, friendly, funny and adventure-loving, Canadians generally do a good job of living up to their reputation. Large cities like Vancouver are proudly multicultural and attitudes towards different ways of life are generally quite liberal. This is reflected in the variety of cuisines, shops and people that occupy the city. Urban and rural residents alike typically remain active and love the outdoors. Hiking, cycling, canoeing and snowboarding are all popular pastimes across the country.

Canada’s eastern reaches have a decidedly different quality to the west coast and retain much of their colonial heritage. The French-Canadian language, often called Quebecois, is widely spoken and French-influenced food and music are very popular.

History and government

The first nations.

It’s widely accepted that humans first settled in the area that is now Canada around 15,000 years ago, after travelling from what is now known as Russian Siberia. Russia and Northern America are thought to have once been connected by a land bridge until rising sea levels created the Bering Strait. Canada’s first inhabitants were likely hunter-gatherers, and it’s also widely agreed that in around 2500 BC, a second major wave of migration from Siberia brought the ancestors of the Inuit to Canada. In around 1000 BC, Thule communities from Alaska began travelling east into the Canadian Arctic.

By the late 15th century (around the time of European colonisation), indigenous communities had spread beyond the Arctic regions to four main areas – the Pacific, the plains (now south-central Canada), the southern Ontario/St Lawrence River area, and the northeast woodlands.

Colonisation

Both France and Britain competed fiercely for Canadian territory as colonists searched for mineral riches before establishing a lucrative fur trade. Many First Nations communities were displaced during this period and suffered from food and land shortages. The Treaty of Paris was signed in 1763 after hundreds of years of fighting, officially making Canada a British territory.

Bringing the territories together

Britain appointed governors across Canada to head up each colony, much to the French-speaking territories’ distress. The British North America Act was passed in 1867 and Canada became a self-governing state with a new set of rules. It was an improvement, but still not accepted by all. The priority was to gather all colonies under this one confederation. The iconic ‘Mounties’ were established to bring law and order to the ‘wild west’, which itself created conflict, especially with threatened First Nations peoples. In 1931 Canada was granted relative independence from the British Empire, giving it full legal autonomy and equal standing with England and other Commonwealth countries.

Independence and First Nations' progress

Canada's indigenous communities struggled through the 20th century and were only granted the right to vote in 1960. As discrimination and land rights tensions grew, a Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples called for a complete overhaul of government relations with the Indigenous population. An official Statement of Reconciliation from the Ministry of Indian and Northern Affairs was issued in 1998, which accepted responsibility for past injustices towards indigenous peoples. To this day, progress is still being made towards proper recognition and reconciliation of indigenous peoples in Canada.

Canada is still a member of the Commonwealth but the British monarch retains a purely ceremonial role. The country continues to flourish, with immigration from Europe and Asia leading to increased multiculturalism – more than 20% of Canada’s population was born overseas – while a resource boom has strengthened the economy. Canada is becoming increasingly known as a liberal, tolerant nation thanks to legalised marijuana use, same-sex marriage, universal health care and some of the most liveable cities in the world.

Top places to visit in Canada

1. canadian rockies.

It’s picture-perfect moments that encapsulate Banff National Park and beyond. Canoe on Lake Louise, take a dog-sledding adventure through Kananaskis Country, learn ice hockey from the pros in Canmore and take a hike or ice walk through Alberta.

There are so many ways to experience the best of the Canadian Rockies. There's our 7 day Classic Canadian Rockies tour , our 8 day Hiking in the Canadian Rockies trek and our specialty November to March 11 day Canadian Rockies & Northern Lights adventure .

2. Jasper National Park

This section of Canada’s wilderness definitely deserves its worldwide acclaim. Discover the seasonal moods of Maligne Lake, hike to the toe of Athabasca glacier, spot a moose or black bear and get a bird’s-eye view from the scenic Skytram.

Enjoy Jasper National Park up close during our 15 day Canadian Rockies and 10 day Grand Canadian Rockies tours .

3. Sun Peaks

For a next-level Canadian experience, travellers in the know head to Sun Peaks. See this neck of the woods as the 18th-century fur traders did with a canoe trip on Lake McGillivray followed by a hearty four-course meal, all in the style of the 'Voyageurs'.

Explore this history-laden area on our 10 day Grand Canadian Rockies tour .

4. Vancouver

With mountain views from downtown and the perfect summers for strolling along the foreshore, Vancouver has the liveable west-coast vibes most cities dream of. Get among the hip bars in Gastown and hike through the parklands, which are rich in First Nations history.

Vancouver is an incredible city and a perfect spot to start a 12 day Real Canada or 15 day Canadian Rockies adventure .

5. Peace River

You can’t just look around to see Canada’s best – you’ve got to look up. After some ice fishing, take your winter adventure up a notch and discover the dazzling natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights in Peace River on our 11 day Canadian Rockies and Northern Lights tour . Build a campfire, eat s’mores and keep your fingers crossed that the lights appear in a clear sky.

6. Nova Scotia

Canada's maritime region should really be as famed as its interior parks and cities. One look at the charming seaside villages, UNESCO World Heritage sites and jaw-dropping landscapes will have you planning your next trip back.

We've picked some of the most memorable locations to visit on our 6 day The Maritimes: Nova Scotia adventure .

7. Newfoundland

A geographic wonderland, the Newfoundland region boasts scenery fit for being the most northeasterly point with maritime mammals, sheer cliffs and the odd iceberg floating by.

Choose between a 7 day Newfoundland Westbound or 7 day Newfoundland Eastbound adventure , but no matter which direction your route takes, the sights will leave you breathless either way.

Eating and drinking

Oh Canada, what a wondrous country of seasonal beauty and welcoming people. But what’s the food like? Well, you’re in luck – Canada has all the hearty, comforting and sweet food you’ll need at any time of the year.

Things to eat in Canada

It’s a national treasure – French fries topped with a gloriously messy mix of gravy and cheese curds. There’s a range of combinations with different meats, chips and sauces, all classed as ‘poutine’ (or more generally, ‘loaded fries’). All in all, it’s the perfect hangover cure.

Vancouver is known for having one of the best restaurant scenes in the world and seafood is almost always on the menu. Feast on a fresh seafood banquet, try some inventive fusion cuisine or grab a chowder for a quick bite.

3. Maple syrup

It comes as no surprise that maple syrup is super popular in Canada. Be sure to dose up your pancakes and include a side of bacon, just like the locals.

4. Beaver tails

No, they don't come from an actual beaver. Beaver tails are a stretched, fried dough – almost like a doughnut pizza – known as a bannock, topped with all kinds of sweet things, including cinnamon sugar, Nutella, banana, s’mores and more.

5. Nanaimo bars

Named after its birthplace – the city of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island – this bar consists of three layers: a wafer, nut and coconut crumb base, flavoured custard in the middle, and a chocolate ganache to top it off.

6. Butter tarts

You may have realised by now that Canada is full of sweet treats, but how about trying an indulgent butter tart? It’s a sweet pastry shell baked with a filling of butter, sugar, syrup and egg – everything in moderation, right?

7. Boutique beer

The last few years have seen microbreweries pop up all over Canada. Whether you visit a microbrewery that brews chocolate-flavoured beer or dine at a restaurant with a local beer menu, a Canadian boutique beer is definitely worth trying.

8. Caesar cocktail

If beer isn’t your thing, what about Canada’s version of a Bloody Mary? Combine vodka, clamato juice, hot sauce and lime for a unique briny flavour. Throw in a stalk of celery and you’re set – don’t knock it ‘til you try it!

Read more about foods to try in Canada

Geography and environment

Canada is big. And we mean huge. This may seem obvious when looking at a map, but you really feel it when you're out there road-tripping. With such a large land mass, it comes as no surprise that the environment varies depending on which area of Canada you are travelling in.

Sitting between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, Canada shares a long land border with the United States in the south and Alaska (US) and Greenland in the north. Mountains, forests and woodlands can be found throughout the country, with relatively flat, arable plains dotted around too. There’s a lot of ice and tundra in the Arctic North. The country’s unique geography is one of the many reasons that this country is so well-travelled and loved by tourists, but this can pose a risk, notably for drivers. Microclimates along mountain passes, like the Glacier National Park between BC and Alberta, are known for notorious weather conditions. Towns on either side can appear clear and calm, while the national park itself is in the middle of a snowstorm.

Canada’s cities are widespread, well-populated and built-up, though not overly crowded. Expect skyscrapers, malls, the odd traffic jam and all the modern conveniences. Smaller communities exist in more remote areas, with quaint villages on both coasts relying on fishing, tourism and agriculture as main sources of income. Expect a slower pace of life and much less buzz than in the city.

Outdoor experiences

Majestic mountains.

The Rocky Mountains of Canada are famous for a reason – their imposing and rugged beauty is unforgettable. Take in the epic landscapes while hiking, and don't forget to keep a camera handy to capture the best panoramas.

Sensational 'snowscapades'

Make the most of Canada's abundance of snow by getting out there in winter and having some fun. Start a snowball fight (preferably not with strangers), make some snow angels and channel your inner child.

Animal encounters

Keep watch for deer, bears, moose, caribou, mountain goats, bald eagles and timber wolves while hiking through the wilds of Jasper National Park in Alberta. Seeing grizzly and black bears in their natural habitat will take your breath away.

Giant glaciers

Be astounded by the immense size and beauty of Canada's gigantic glaciers. Take a thrilling ride on an ice mobile to experience things up close, or perhaps opt for a hike to the toe of the mighty Athabasca glacier.

Canada may be home to the largest mall in the Americas (West Edmonton Mall), but the shopping experience certainly doesn't end there. The diversity of Canada's population is reflected in the eclectic mix of boutique stores stocking unique artisan wares, modern art and more.

Major cities like Vancouver have an abundance of interesting boutiques, galleries and market-style centres like Granville Island. Smaller towns are great for locally produced gourmet food, wine and quirky kitsch souvenirs. The Chinatown areas of major Canadian cities offer a great shopping experience with good markets and cheap eats.

Canada’s federal goods and services tax (GST) adds 5 per cent to most transactions and most provinces also charge an additional tax to have a combined harmonised sales tax (HST), usually around 10–15 per cent in total. Expect most, if not all, products to have this already included in the marked price.

It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand have particularly strict quarantine laws.

Festivals and events

Canada knows how to put on a show, be it in nature or the cities. Depending on the time of the year, these are some of the festivals and events you can expect to come across:

Calgary Stampede

This 10-day hoedown features rodeos, parades, barbecues and more cowboy hats than you can poke a stick at. The locals call it the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth and it has been running in Calgary, Alberta, since 1912.

Montreal International Jazz Festival

Swap your boot scootin’ for some toe-tapping as more than 3000 performers from over 30 nations entertain millions during this annual celebration of jazz. Over 2500 kilograms of French fries are consumed each year, which is fitting given Montreal is the hub of French-speaking Canada.

Vancouver Festival of Light

This dazzling display of fireworks is not to be missed. Technicians gather from across the world to compete and put on the best and most engaging display. It’s the longest-running offshore fireworks competition in the world.

You'll know that it's Canada Day , no matter where you are in Canada. The locals celebrate this national holiday with parades, fireworks, parties, concerts and barbecues, so be sure to get into the maple-leaf spirit.

If you find yourself in Ottawa or greater Ontario in early February, chances are there’ll be a winter festival like Winterlude happening. Canada’s capital turns into a majestic winter wonderland and the focal point is Rideau Canal, which turns into the world’s largest skating rink at 7.8 kilometres long.

Quebec Winter Carnival

This festival even has its own mascot – a giant, tuque-wearing snow figure called Bonhomme Carnaval – who embodies the ‘joie de vivre’ (or ‘joy of living’) during winter. Come for Bonhomme and stay for parades, snow sculptures, ice skating and more.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Victoria Day

Thanksgiving Day

Remembrance Day

Please note dates of  Canada's public holidays  may vary.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Canada adventure, check out these books:

• Anne of Green Gables – Lucy Maud Montgomery
• Cat’s Eye – Margaret Atwood
• Island – Alistair MacLeod
• Sacre Bleus: An Unsentimental Journey Through Quebec – Taras Grescoe
• Consolation – Michael Redhill
• The Golden Spruce: A True Story of Myth, Madness, and Greed – John Vaillant
• The Vancouver Stories: West Coast Fiction from Canada’s Best Writers – Intro by Douglas Coupland
• Burden of desire – Robert MacNeil

Similar destinations

Inspired by Canada and looking for similar destinations? Here are some neighbouring and not-so-neighbouring countries to consider.

• Australia tours
• Sweden tours

The United States

• United States tours
• Canada or Alaska? Which natural wonderland should you travel to next?

Canada travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Canada?

Canada's vast land mass makes for beautiful scenery and varying climate conditions. December, January and February are the coldest months and travelling can be difficult at times due to the occasional road closure or snowstorm. That said, this time of year is ideal for skiing, snowboarding and all your winter delights.

June, July and August are the warmest months. They’re perfect for outdoor activities like rafting, hiking, camping and canoeing. Tourist hotspots and other popular places will be much busier than in other months due to warmer temperatures. 

While not typically as warm as the summer months, May and September still offer great conditions for travelling and sightseeing without the crowds.

Do I need a visa to travel to Canada?

Many nationalities are able to travel to Canada without a visa, provided they obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before arriving. This includes citizens of Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Japan, France and many others. Like most countries, visitors to Canada must hold a valid passport with at least six months’ validity.

In some cases, visitors may not require a visa, for example, if you are a citizen of the United States. You may, however, still need to present relevant documentation, like a valid passport and evidence of lawful entry into the US.

Travellers from South Africa, China, Russia and other countries need a visa to travel to Canada regardless of their method of entry. Processing these visas may take upwards of three weeks. Visit the Government of Canada’s official website to find out if you will need to apply for a visa.

The is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 17/11/2023

Is tipping customary in Canada?

Tipping is very much a part of the culture in Canada. It's expected in restaurants, cafes and bars, and usually won’t be included in the bill.

People typically add 15-20% to the bill but feel free to tip a higher amount if you’ve enjoyed your experience. Tipping taxi drivers and valet attendants is also customary. Many bills in Canada do feature a tipping indicator under the subtotal, which is a handy method for choosing how much to leave. It's your choice, just remember that tipping in North America is culturally ingrained and wait staff are usually paid minimum wage, so understanding this and tipping accordingly is appreciated.

What is the internet access like Canada?

Canada’s internet is very good and it's easy to get access in most cities and towns.

Hotels, hostels and cafes are usually the best places to access the internet. It may be included with a booking or available at a small fee. Some fast food chains, cafes and restaurants have open wi-fi networks available, which are often accessible with a code from a purchase receipt. Be sure to keep an eye out for the international wi-fi symbol to connect.

Internet cafes are becoming less and less common in Canada, but some computer facilities (including in public libraries) are available in larger tourist areas.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Canada?

Mobile phone coverage is generally very good in Canada, but it may be patchy in remote areas such as national parks. Depending on the service provider, coverage in remote areas can sometimes be non-existent.

Your best bet, if you have an unlocked phone, is to purchase a prepaid SIM card when you arrive in Canada for all your calling, texting and data needs. Canada has a few network providers and while voice coverage can be patchy, mobile data is generally good in tourist areas, so using internet calling apps like Skype and WhatsApp is often preferred.

If you are from the United States (or are also travelling in the US), there is often an option to upgrade or purchase a prepaid roaming plan with a US service provider to use across the border. Otherwise, you could activate global roaming when travelling through Canada. This can incur extremely high fees, so be sure to check with your local service provider before you leave your home country to know the costs.

What are the toilets like in Canada?

Western-style, flushable toilets are the standard in Canada. Public toilet facilities are usually available in shopping malls and town centres and often labelled as washrooms. If you wish to use a washroom in a cafe or restaurant, expect to be told to make a purchase beforehand to gain access.

Can I drink the water in Canada?

Drinking water from taps in Canada is considered safe unless otherwise advised. Canada has some of the best tasting tap water in the world.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Canada?

Major credit cards are accepted by most retailers and restaurants in Canada. As in most countries, be sure to carry adequate cash for smaller purchases; however, it is becoming the norm to buy a coffee or make other small purchases on credit card.

What is ATM access like in Canada?

ATMs are very common in Canada so finding one won't be a problem in most cities or towns. They may not be as abundant in smaller towns and rural areas, so it’s wise to have enough cash before travelling anywhere too remote.

What is the weather like in Canada?

Many people imagine Canada as a winter wonderland with snow-capped mountains and ski resorts vying for their attention, but Canada’s weather is as diverse as its countryside. Summers can get very warm, sometimes reaching 35°C (95°F) and higher, while winters get very cold. It’s not uncommon to get down to -25°C (-13°F). Spring is usually warmer and more pleasant than autumn, which sees brisk and cool temperatures around the country though they’re made bearable by the rich orange and yellows of the trees.

Generally speaking, Canada’s weather fits into four main sections: the coasts, the Prairies (Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba), central Canada and northern Canada. There are, of course, many more regional factors and thousands of microclimates, especially in mountain areas.

Expect milder summers and winters on the coast with temperatures not dropping much below -10°C (14°F) and not rising much above 22°C (72°F). The winters are wetter here with the east coast seeing more rainfall, while Vancouver is an anomaly to the rest of Canada with more of an oceanic climate.

In the Prairies, the summers are hot and dry and winter is icy cold. There are long periods of snow, with Calgary experiencing around 54 days and 50 inches of snow, while Southern Alberta has a weird winter phenomenon called chinook winds. These are dry gusts that melt snow and raise temperatures by over 20 degrees in a matter of hours. Of the three largest cities in the Prairies, Winnipeg has the coldest winter days at -11°C (12°F), compared to Calgary (-1°C/30°F) and Edmonton (-6°C/21°F), but also has the warmest summer days at 26°C (79°F), compared to both Calgary and Edmonton (23°C/73°F).

Central Canada enjoys humid summers and cooler winters, with some areas experiencing snow cover for almost six months of the year. As much of Canada’s interior enjoys a continental climate, winters are cold and the wind chill is brisk. Toronto hits around 27°C (80°F) on a hot summer’s day and -1.5°C (29°F) in winter, while Montreal in summer hits 26°C (79°F) and -5.3°C (23°F) in winter.  

Northern Canada is where temperatures really drop. The far reaches of the Northwest Territories (NWT) rarely rise above 0°C (32°F) and can record temperatures below -45°C (-49°F). These extremes aren’t for everyone and it shows – of the three provinces to make up northern Canada (NWT, Yukon and Nunavut), their total population (around 120,000) is less than Canada’s 40th largest city.

What to wear in Canada

This depends on where you’re traveling. The diversity of seasons rules out a one-size-fits-all packing list, so our advice is to consider both the season and the activities you’d like to participate in. 

You’ll be able to get away with light clothing for most of the summer, like a shirt and shorts or light trousers, plus a jacket to wear in the cooler evenings. During spring and autumn, it’s best to bring layers. Temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at night, so if you’re checking out Vancouver’s nightlife or enjoying a nightcap in Toronto, it’s best to rug up. You’ll need to take the comfort dial up a notch in winter with thermal base layers, warm fleeces and jackets, and at least one wind-breaking outer layer to keep you warm. A beanie, scarf and neck warmer are all highly recommended.

Canada is an active destination so ensure you’re prepared with the right type of gear, including sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, UV protection and warm (but breathable) clothing that can be easily layered. If any water-based activities are on your to-do list, like kayaking or whitewater rafting, consider bringing a pair of dive boots or aqua shoes to save your feet from freezing water and sharp rocks.

For a more comprehensive list on what to wear and what to pack for Canada, be sure to check the packing list included in each trip’s Essential Trip Information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Is Canada a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

In many regards, Canada is a world leader at recognizing LGBTQIA+ rights. It is consistently named as one of the most queer-friendly countries in the world.

Same-sex sexual activity has been lawful since 1969, and same-sex marriages have been legal nationwide since 2005. Anti-discrimination laws are extensive. They were passed in 1996 for sexual orientation and in 2017 for gender identity and expression. The Canadian government announced that it will add a third gender option to all government documents, including census forms and passports, from late 2017.

Canada is home to some of the largest Pride parades in all the world, with over 650,000 attending in Vancouver and over 1 million in Toronto. Toronto is also home to the Church and Wellesley neighborhood, which is known as an LGBT hotspot of the city. Similar LGBTQIA+ friendly neighborhoods exist in Vancouver (Davie Village), Montreal, (commercial district), and Ottawa (Bank Street); however, this is not to say that other neighborhoods are not as socially accepting.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Canada accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries where possible.

Canada is making clear progress on aiding those with disabilities, especially travelers with mobility issues. Many public buildings around Canada’s major cities and tourist zones have access to lifts and ramps, while pedestrian crossings often have sloping curbs.

For more logistical information on air, bus, rail and ferry transportation, visit the Canadian federal government’s Travel portal.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

Learn more about Accessible Travel with Intrepid

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When travelling with us in Canada, you may find yourself staying in a:

Depending on your trip, you may be spending some nights camping with us. We provide you with a full set of camping and cooking supplies. Campsites will have a range of facilities available, from toilets and often showers, to pay-per-use washing machines and dryers.

Check your Essential Trip Notes carefully so you know what equipment you'll need to supply yourself.

How will I be travelling around Canada?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Canada, you may find yourself travelling by:

• Ferry Find your sea legs and enjoy a mode of transport that offers scenic views and a dose of fresh air. A ferry ride to Vancouver Island is the ideal way to get acquainted with the west coast.
• Private vehicle Our vehicle of choice is the 14-seat Ford Transit. Spacious, comfortable, sturdy and safe – it’s hard to beat for a cross‑country road trip. Each vehicle is equipped with large windows, a storage trailer, air conditioning and charging ports.

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip to Canada support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Canada directly support our foundation partner, Water First . 

Water First  

Water First work with Indigenous communities in Canada to address critical water challenges through education and skills training programs. Donations from our trips support three of their programs – preparing young Indigenous adults for careers in their community's water treatment plants, training Indigenous community members to restore places of local significance, and engaging Indigenous school children with fun and unique learning resources.  

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.