Canada has all the ingredients for an adventure holiday. Stunning scenery, incredible wildlife and delicious food combine to make this vast country a thrilling destination for everyone.
Revel in the natural beauty of Niagara Falls or travel to Quebec, where a Unesco-listed walled core feels like far-flung Brittany. Or, delve into the wild side of Canada with a trip to the Aurora Klondike, where lodges on tranquil inlets host aurora viewing and Northern Lights trips.
Bungee Jumping
Canada is a land of spectacular lakes, ancient glaciers and vibrant cities. Its imposing mountains and expansive wilderness provide a range of adventure holidays that are perfect for every type of traveller. This vast country boasts incredible wildlife - including polar bears and other majestic animals - while its multicultural communities add to the excitement of its cities and towns.
When it comes to extreme holidays, few countries do it better than Canada. You can hike up to a glacier, raft down the Ottawa River, or ski on the slopes of Whistler. For those who want a little bit more action, there are plenty of places for white water bungee jumping.
This activity involves strapping on a harness and jumping from an elevated platform. You're tethered to an elastic cord, which means you will fall backwards until the length of the rope reaches its limit. Then, the cord will rebound and propel you up into the air again.
Bungee jumping has a long history, dating all the way back to the Pacific islands. It is believed that the activity first began as a manhood ritual among young men from the island of Pentecost on Vanuatu, who would jump off tall wooden stands with vine leaves tied around their ankles. Then, they would calculate how long the vine had to be so that the young men would touch the ground safely before they landed.
These days, bungee jumping is widely available throughout the world. There are plenty of options to suit any budget, and you can even find some that support local charities and cause. For example, the WildPlay Nanaimo in British Columbia offers a giant bungee jump that benefits the BC Schizophrenia Society. It's also worth noting that some bungee jumping operations have safety measures in place to protect you from injury or death, so check them out before you go.
For a more laidback and calming experience, you can visit Quebec. This city is full of historic sites, and it's also home to the most intact fortified walls in North America. In addition, there are a number of museums and restaurants that offer authentic cuisine from the region. You can also check out the Montreal Jazz Festival, which features top artists from all over the world.
Tourists consider renting a car one of the best ways to enjoy all that Canada has to offer. Renting an economy class car in Toronto will cost about 18 euros per day.
Ziplining
Great lakes, imposing glaciers, snow capped mountains, vibrant cities, wide open spaces, amazing wildlife and some of the world’s friendliest people combine to make Canada a perfect destination for adventure holidays. The country’s size and diversity means that there are activities to suit all tastes, from the thrill seekers to those looking for a slower pace of life.
One of the quickest and most effective ways to experience the country’s stunning scenery is on a zipline tour. Zip line tours, also known as canopy tours, use suspended cables anchored on trees or other structures to allow visitors to glide across the landscape from an elevated position down to a lower one. The activity has gained in popularity because it offers an exciting way to take in the scenery and is surprisingly family friendly.
It’s important to check with the operator that you choose your trip with, as they will have a good understanding of the safety standards that must be met. However, generally anyone over the age of 10, weighing under 115kg (18 stone) and who is not pregnant should be able to take part in the activity. The motion is a gentle lateral movement, not the stomach-churning sensation you get on roller coasters, and it’s not recommended for those who suffer from severe motion sickness or a fear of heights.
Another great way to explore Canada’s incredible wilderness is on a sailing holiday. From a yacht in the sheltered waters of the Aurora Klondike to lodges on tranquil inlets or on a West Coast expedition, there are options to suit all levels of sailing ability and comfort. Sailing allows visitors to spot wildlife such as polar bears and musk oxen as well as to witness the otherworldly beauty of the Northern Lights.
The Canadian Arctic is a wilderness like no other. Embark on a tailor-made adventure holiday to the region to see musk oxen, polar bears and Inuit culture and explore landscapes that bring the drama. The trips are carefully designed and steered by expert guides who know that the Arctic is best explored in cooler seasons, so they steer you away from the crowded viewpoints.
White Water Rafting
White water rafting is an exciting and exhilarating adventure sport that can be enjoyed by everyone from families to experienced thrill seekers. The challenge of maneuvering the rapids provides an adrenaline rush like no other and can be a great way to get back into nature and enjoy the beauty of Canada’s stunning landscape. However, there are several things to keep in mind before you take the plunge. White water rafting can be dangerous for beginners so it is important to choose the right tour company. Fortunately, there are plenty of options in Canada for those who want to try this thrilling activity.
The best time of year for river rafting in Canada is June through November. During these months, the water is usually calmer and the rafting experience will be more relaxing. During these times, you can also observe wildlife as the river is often inhabited by deer and moose.
During your rafting excursion, it is important to bring all of the necessary equipment such as a dry bag, a hat, and a life jacket. You should also have a waterproof camera with you to capture all of the spectacular scenery. In addition, it is a good idea to wear comfortable footwear as you may be walking on rocks and other debris during your rafting trip.
If you are an experienced rafter, you can challenge yourself by taking on the more difficult rapids. However, it is a good idea to go with an experienced guide to increase your safety and enjoyment of the experience. In addition, you should always make sure that your rafting guide is well versed in first aid and river safety.
Experience the excitement of white water rafting on this guided tour of the Clearwater River in British Columbia’s Wells Gray Park. You’ll hit Class III rapids such as The Wall, Tsunami and Buckaroo while experiencing the serenity of Canada’s stunning wilderness. This wet and wild tour is perfect for a day of outdoor adventure, and all rafting equipment is included. You can even upgrade to a longer tour for more action-packed thrills!
Canoeing
Canoeing and kayaking are both low-impact water sports that help improve your aerobic fitness, strength, and flexibility. They are also great for exploring rivers, lakes and the sea. In a canoe, you sit or kneel in an open vessel and use a single-bladed paddle to push through the water. Alternatively, you can sit in an enclosed kayak and paddle with a double-bladed paddle. There are plenty of opportunities to get into kayaking and canoeing during your holidays in Canada.
Whether you are an experienced canoeist or just getting started, there is a trip to suit you. Take a canoeing expedition in Scotland's stunning wilderness, or join a four-day kayaking and hiking adventure in the beautiful Norwegian fjords. During your trip, you will spend the night in cosy glamping tents and campsites that will take you close to nature.
Canada's vast landscape and inspiring scenery make it the ideal destination for a wide range of exciting activities. The country is a natural playground for thrill-seekers, offering 39 national parks, incredible alpine vistas, and crystal-clear lakes. Embark on wildlife-watching adventures and explore the fascinating culture of this remarkable country on a Canada family vacation.
Whistler offers amazing skiing, but for those looking for something more serene, the Canadian Rockies are home to some of the most spectacular mountain lakes and glaciers. During a canoeing tour in this stunning region, you can paddle past dramatic canyons and crystalline waters. You can even spot moose and other wild animals along the way!
Canoeing is a great activity for families, as it can be done at a leisurely pace and requires no special equipment. However, it's a good idea to learn the basics before you head out on your own. The best way to do this is by booking a course with a professional guide. This will give you the skills and confidence to enjoy your canoeing holiday to the fullest.