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Trip Overview
- Level: Moderate
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Location: West Chilcotin & Bella Coola Valley, BC
- Depart: Bella Coola
- Price: US$3400 Per Person
- Season: September
Our Signature Great Bear Rainforest Tour in National Geographic territory. Explore the beautiful Bella Coola Valley, abundant with outstanding wildlife & Grizzly Bears.
Welcome to the Great Bear Rainforest, a true wilderness gem located in British Columbia’s Central Coast region. Our nature-based tour is designed for you to explore this coastal temperate rainforest that boasts stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife, and an unforgettable Canadian wilderness experience.
On this adventure, you’ll have the chance to see magnificent grizzly bears, black bears, and lots of spawning salmon. You will also see bald eagles and marine life such as dolphins and seals as you journey through the great bear rainforest’s fjords by private boat. Explore the rivers with local Bear biologists on a unique river drift tour.
This is a lodge-based tour, where your local guides will take you to explore the beautiful Bella Coola Valley, its stunning scenery, hidden forests, and abundant grizzly bears and wildlife.
Outside of wildlife viewing, our Great Bear Rainforest Tour offers guests the chance to explore the alpine by local hikes and scenic walks through giant cedar groves and breathtaking alpine lakes perched next to glaciers. We offer a variety of guided soft activities to experience this incredible part of British Columbia’s natural wonderland. As you explore the Great Bear Rainforest, you’ll learn about the area’s unique ecology and how it is protected by the indigenous communities who have lived here for thousands of years. You’ll also discover how these communities have a deep spiritual connection with the land and its inhabitants.
Don’t miss the chance to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Great Bear Rainforest and its breathtaking nature. Join us on this unforgettable journey and discover the magic of this extraordinary place, and one of Canada’s best-kept secrets in Bella Coola BC.
Trip Highlights
Embark on a remarkable journey through the Great Bear Rainforest with our carefully crafted itinerary. Over five days, you’ll experience the raw beauty and incredible wildlife of British Columbia’s Bella Coola Valley. From scenic flights and river drift tours to alpine hikes and cultural insights, each day is designed to immerse you in the heart of this pristine wilderness. Discover the ancient cedar groves, encounter grizzly bears in their natural habitat, and learn about the region’s unique ecology and indigenous heritage. Join us for an adventure that promises awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable memories.
Williams Lake Arrivals - Chilcotin Plateau & Nimpo Lake Float Plane Discoveries
Arriving into Williams Lake, BC, the cowboy capital of Canada, we start our journey west into the West Chilcotin Plateau.
Enjoy a beautiful drive west into the true wilderness of BC, Canada, and the Central Coast, where you'll discover high-dry desert landscapes before viewing the glaciated Coast Mountain Range.
We’ll arrive at a lovely log cabin lodge set on Nimpo Lake, the float plane capital of BC. Enjoy a lovely afternoon on the lake with wildlife viewing opportunities of ospreys, beavers, muskrats, moose, and lots of jumping fish. This is a wonderful wilderness setting right at your private log cabin doorstep.
Scenic Float Plane Flight - Monarch Icefields
Rising to the sound of the loons, we’re off on a beautiful scenic float plane flight in a classic Dehavilland Beaver Float Plane. Soar over the Monarch Icefields and experience some of the largest icefields outside the Polar regions.
Turquoise blue glacier lakes and never-ending glaciers, along with remote wilderness, await you on this stunning 40-minute flight. After our morning flight, we’ll make our way west to explore The Great Bear Rainforest of Bella Coola.
Private Ocean Fiord Boat Tour & Wildlife Viewing | Bella Coola
Rising among giant cedar trees and beautiful, deeply carved valleys, we embark on a private boat tour into the South Bentinck Arm to cruise the fjords in search of wildlife.
Join our local Bella Coola skipper for a peacful and exciting boat tour to Eagle Rocks , where we'll view Eagles in abundance. Then were off deeper into the fjords to see seals, dolphins, bears, and more with towering mountains rising from the ocean floor.
Discover the magnificent Great Bear Rainforest, one of the most pristine and diverse ecosystems in the world. Learn about the rich local flora and fauna on this beautiful boat tour up close with marine life . Your skipper will make a few special stops to view Grizzly Bears feeding along local side streams, in the river beds that flow into the Fiord. Often these areas are rich not only with spawning Salmon but with local grasses and other delicacies this time of year. We'll also head over to a remote historic 1920's Cannery, offering a rich history of the BC Canning era from the early 1900s.
This evening we'll enjoy yet annotehr lovely meal and relaxation at our local lodge.
Grizzly Bear River Drift Tour | Bella Coola
Discover the magnificent Great Bear Rainforest, one of the most pristine and diverse ecosystems in the world.
Rising early were off on a private River Boat with a famous local Bear Bilogist to discover the world of all things Grizzly Bears. As we drift down the beautiful Atnarko River, you'll feel like part of the river and wildlife, quiet and magnificent. The River will be teeming with Salmon this time of year, this quiet river drift boat offers us an up close National Geographic experience with wildlife such as Grizzly bears,Black Bears, river otters, and a variety of local birds. King Fisher, Bald Eagles and more all join us in the Atnarko River for a wonderful opportunity to be amoungst Canadian wildlife at its finest.
This afternoon, your guide will bring you to explore some other local Bear Wildlife hotpsots of the Valley. Patience and a keen eye will have us discovering more Canadian wildlife at its finest.
This evening we'll enjoy a lovely dinner at our local lodge with cascading waterfalls and perhaps a bear or two to marvel at.
Departure
After a final morning in this breathtaking wilderness, we return to Williams Lake for departure, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and stunning landscapes of the Great Bear Rainforest.
The Details
Dive into the heart of British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest with our 4-night, 5-day tour. This all-inclusive adventure includes transport from Bella Coola, accommodation in our lodge, all meals and snacks, and guided tours. Enjoy scenic flights, boat cruises, river drifts, and alpine hikes, all while learning about the local ecology and culture from our expert guides.
Inclusions
- 4 Nights Lodge Accommodation
- 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners, Snacks daily
- Grizzly Bear River Drift Tour
- Private Wildlife Viewing
- Private Boat Tour of South Bentinck Fjord
- Cannery Tour
- Scenic Float Plane Flight Monarch Ice fields
- Day Hikes & Walks
- Private Guide
- Transport throughout the tour
Exclusions
- Domestic airfare to and from Bella Coola with Pacific Coastal Airlines (average cost between 199.00-250.00 CAD per person one way)
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Guide Gratuities
What's the Accommodation Like?
During your 4-day Great Bear Rainforest Tour, you'll stay in comfortable lodge accommodations located in the Bella Coola Valley. These lodges provide a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure. Each lodge is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst the wild beauty of the Great Bear Rainforest. Enjoy hearty meals prepared with local ingredients, and unwind in a setting that blends rustic charm with contemporary comfort. Your lodge stay offers the perfect base for exploring this stunning region.
What's the Weather Like?
Great Bear Rainforest, Coastal BC. Generally quite cool, and wet. Average temperature between 15°C - 0°C for September.
How Fit Do I Need To Be?
Our wildlife viewing adventures are a softer style of experience, engaging with the wilderness areas we specialize in. These adventures are geared towards sightseeing with light and easier walks & hikes. These tours would suit beginner and less agile people looking to engage with nature in a more relaxed and easier style of walking/hiking. The pace is geared to connect with nature with more creature comforts such as staying at a lodge, and not in a backcountry cabin. These trips journey into The Great Bear Rainforest and offer an intimate wildlife viewing experience.
What's The Terrain Like?
Gentle valley walks, some light uphills, scenic lookouts, forest walks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of fitness is required?
Moderate fitness is required for hiking and other activities.
What type of accommodation can I expect?
Comfortable lodge accommodation in the Bella Coola Valley.
What kind of food can we expect?
All meals and snacks are provided, featuring local and fresh ingredients.
Can I bring wine?
Yes, you can bring your own wine.
What should I wear and bring?
Outdoor wear for temperatures between 5°C and 20°C, including rain gear, layers, and sturdy hiking boots.
How do I prepare for the hike?
Ensure you have a moderate level of fitness and bring appropriate gear.
Meet Our Guides
Ben
Founder & Guide
Ben
As kiwi as it gets, hails from a long history of guiding throughout New Zealand and overseas. From The Milford Track, driving jet boats on the Hollyford track, or multi day hiking tours and enduro mountain bike expeditions, he is a man of many talents! Filled with a rich and passionate knowledge of geology and history, and wild places. Ben is the co founder of Tekapo Adventures and enjoys sharing his passion with people from around the globe. On his down time you can find him riding bikes with the kids, hunting and tramping and fixing vehicles!
Cristina
Founder & Guide
Cristina
A Can- Iwi as we call her, shes born in Canada and lives in New Zealand alongside Ben and their little two monkeys. You’ll enjoy her local knowledge and passion for nature and wild places, alongside her rich experience in guiding throughout the southern alps by hiking and Mountain biking for over 16+years. She looks after alot of the admin and marketing and sales and you can also find her behind the driver’s seat too! On her down time you can find her exploring nature with the kids, or doing yoga.
Why Choose Adventure Tours BC
Choosing Adventure Tours BC means opting for an unparalleled wilderness experience in the heart of British Columbia. Our family-run venture, built on world-famous Kiwi hospitality and local knowledge, ensures a warm and personalized wilderness experience. We offer a diverse range of experiences, from serene wilderness tours to challenging alpine hikes, catering to all adventure spirits. Each journey is educational, with rich narratives about local ecology, geology, and history. With access to remote areas, expert guides, and a commitment to sustainability, your adventure will be both unique and conscientious.
FAMILY HERITAGE
Join our family. Experience the warmth and personalized service that can only come from a family-run venture who have spent years hiking and exploring wonderful remote areas of BC, Canada
DIVERSE EXPERIENCES
Whether it’s a peaceful sightseeing tour or a multi day private Alpine hike, our diverse offerings cater to all adventure spirits. We create custom and very unique wilderness adventures to a variety of tastes. Our exclsuive access to remote wilderness areas offers a one of a kind adventure experience.
EDUCATIONAL JOURNEYS
Expand your horizons. Our trips are infused with insightful narratives about the local ecology, geology, and history.
Comfort and Convenience
Enjoy seamless travel with carefully planned logistics, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable adventure. Our accommodations are carefully selected by our many years of working with wonderful partners in beautiful locations.
EXPERT GUIDES
Learn from the best. Our guides are not only wilderness experts but also storytellers of the land. Enjoy stories and adventures from years of experience travelling through some of BC's most remote and wild areas. Share the passion with us!
SUSTAINABLE ADVENTURES
Journey with a clear conscience. Our eco-friendly approach ensures the preservation of these landscapes for years to come. We partner with top the line local operators who are giving back to the remote areas they operate in.
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