The Essential Guide to Visiting Canada
Canada, the world's second-largest country, offers a wealth of natural beauty, diverse cultures, and unique experiences. From the breathtaking landscapes of Banff National Park to the vibrant cities of Toronto and Vancouver, here's everything you need to know about planning a trip to this vast nation.
Why You Should Visit Canada
Canada is home to some of the world's most stunning natural wonders, including Niagara Falls and Banff National Park. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the champagne powder of British Columbia's ski resorts, explore dense forests and teal waters, and encounter wildlife like polar bears and spirit bears. Culinary delights such as poutine in Montreal and lobster rolls in Halifax also make Canada a must-visit destination.
Best Time to Visit Canada
Spring: Whale-watch at Clayoquot Sound as 20,000 gray whales migrate past the coast. Ottawa's spring festival features a million blooming tulips.
Summer: Prime season for canoeing Ontario's lakes, driving the Sea-to-Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler, rock climbing at Squamish, and golfing at world-renowned courses like Cabot Cliffs in Nova Scotia. The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is a highlight at the end of summer.
Autumn: Polar bears gather in Churchill, Manitoba, while Quebec's Saguenay River offers stunning fall colors.
Winter: Enjoy dogsledding, ice fishing, and snowshoeing at the Carnaval de Québec. Ski at top resorts like Whistler Blackcomb and Revelstoke, or ride the bobsleigh track at Whistler from the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Lay of the Land
Cities: Vancouver is nestled between mountains and the ocean, offering a plethora of outdoor activities. Toronto's skyline is dotted with museums and vibrant neighborhoods. Montreal is known for its cobblestone streets and lively atmosphere, while St. John's offers picturesque coastal views and iceberg sightings.
West: British Columbia's Haida Gwaii and Desolation Sound provide opportunities to explore dense rainforests and observe wildlife. The West Coast Trail and Juan de Fuca Marine Trail on Vancouver Island offer challenging hikes through coastal rainforests.
North: The Northwest Territories' Nahanni River features deep canyons and Virginia Falls. The region also boasts the enormous Great Slave Lake and frequent sightings of the northern lights.
Prairie Provinces: Elk Island National Park in Alberta is a haven for wildlife. Saskatchewan and Manitoba offer excellent fishing opportunities, while Jasper National Park in Alberta hosts a Dark Sky festival in the fall.
Ontario: Charter a boat to explore the Rideau Canal or visit Prince Edward County for its wineries and historic towns. Sandbanks Provincial Park features the largest freshwater barrier beach and dune system in the world.
Quebec: Montreal's summer festivals and Quebec City's European charm are highlights. The Gaspé peninsula offers four national parks and the iconic Percé Rock.
Atlantic Canada: Newfoundland's Gros Morne National Park and L'Anse aux Meadows provide unique geological and historical experiences. Nova Scotia's Cliffs of Fundy and Cape Breton Island's Cabot Trail are must-sees.
Getting Around Canada
By Plane: Air Canada offers over 900 flights daily, with floatplanes connecting remote areas. U.S.-bound passengers can pre-clear customs at nine Canadian airports.
By Train: Rail travel is a scenic way to see Canada, with tourist routes like Rocky Mountaineer and regular service by Via Rail.
By Bus: Intercity bus service is limited.
By Car: Essential for regional travel, but some destinations, like Churchill, are accessible only by plane or train.
By Boat: Cruises and boat trips provide a unique perspective on Canada's coastal and inland waters.
Know Before You Go
Cultural Heritage: Land acknowledgements and Indigenous rights are prominent in public discourse. Canada’s history includes the transcontinental railway and its impact on Indigenous peoples.
Legalities: Drinking age varies by province (18 or 19). Marijuana is legal. Canada is highly ranked for LGBTQ+ rights.
Sustainability: Respect wildlife, use reusable items, and support Indigenous-led tours and attractions.
What to Read and Watch
- Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery
- Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands by Kate Beaton
- The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King
- The Sleeping Car Porter by Suzette Mayr
- The Hockey Sweater by Roch Carrier
- Schitt’s Creek and Kim’s Convenience
