Nature Tours in Campbell River, BC
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21 results
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Overnight Kayaking Adventure
by Quadra Island KayaksThe ultimate way to experience the world-class kayaking around Quadra Island. Start your two-day adventure by meeting your guide at Quadra Island Kayaks HQ and planning your trip over a hot cup of coffee. Your guide, who is very familiar with the waters here, will help choose an experience that’s right for you. After packing your boat, suiting up and having a quick lesson, you’ll set out for the nearby Breton Islands, a haven for seals and a great spot for lunch. Your afternoon will be spent paddling to your agreed-upon camping spot, where you’ll arrive with enough time to set up, relax and enjoy a dinner cooked by your guide. Spend your evening on the shore, or head out for an evening paddle, lit by the stars above and bioluminescent ocean life below. The next morning, enjoy breakfast and a coffee before packing up and heading back onto the water to explore the many interesting islands, coves and beaches in the area before returning to Quadra Island Kayaks before dinner. Quadra Island Kayaks offers complementary pick up at the Quadra Island ferry terminal. Tours run from May to September, or even October if the weather is nice. Suited for all experience levels. Double or single kayaks available. This area is rich with wildlife. Expect to see seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoise and the occasional whale as well as several bird species (including eagles, herons and cormorants) and inter-tidal life such as sea urchins, sea stars, jellyfish and crabs. All of Quadra Island Kayaks’ guides are trained in wilderness first aid and certified with the British Columbia Sea Kayak Guides Alliance.
Campbell River, BC
$299 CAD Per Person -
Encounter Ocean Rapids on a Zodiac (4 hrs.)
by Campbell River Whale Watching & Adventure ToursEnjoy a thrilling ride over tidal rapids on an open-air boat. The waters near Campbell River are home to five different ocean rapids, and Campbell River Whale Watching can take you there in style. Their smaller Zodiac boats allow you to go where larger boats can’t, which means you can ride the rapids — and since they have currents up to 18 miles an hour, it’s quite a ride, indeed. Your captain knows this area well, and will make sure your tour is chock full of information on local sights as you travel through the area. Keep your eyes peeled for marine wildlife on this tour, too. This tour runs from May to October. Departure times vary depending on the tides. Ocean rapids are a natural phenomenon that occurs when the tide goes in or out in a narrow passage. It’s not just about the rapids! You might see dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, seals, black bear, bald eagles and other birds on your tour. Campbell River Whale Watching’s Zodiacs are equipped with hydrophones, comfortable seating, a washroom and powerful sound systems.
Campbell River, BC
$110 CAD Per Person -
Full-Day Quadra Island Kayaking Classic (6 hrs.)
by Quadra Island KayaksSpend your day paddling remote coves, spotting seals, visiting deserted beaches and taking in the best the Pacific Northwest has to offer in this full-day excursion suited for both first-time and experienced paddlers. After a certified guide goes through all the how-tos of kayaking technique and safety, you’ll set off to explore the waters around Quadra Island. Sandy beaches, native middens, salmon spawning grounds and a plethora of wildlife—including seals, sea lions, dolphins, crabs, jellyfish and dozens of bird species—are only a short paddle away. Stop for lunch on a private beach or remote island and take a dip, beachcomb or just enjoy the breathtaking mountain views. Quadra Island Kayaks offers complementary pick up at the Quadra Island ferry terminal. Tours run every day of the summer from May to September, or even October if the weather is nice. This tour starts at 10am and returns at 4pm. Suited for all experience levels. Areas visited may include Open Bay, Hyacinth Bay, the Brettton Islands, Turtle Island and more. This area is rich with wildlife. Expect to see seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoise and the occasional whale as well as several bird species (including eagles, herons and cormorants) and inter-tidal life such as sea urchins, sea stars, jellyfish and crabs. All of Quadra Island Kayaks’ guides are trained in wilderness first aid and certified with the British Columbia Sea Kayak Guides Alliance.
Campbell River, BC
$85 CAD Per Person -
Half-Day Kayaking Tour (3 hrs.)
by Quadra Island KayaksNot up for a full-day adventure? This three-hour tour is a great way to get a taste of what sea kayaking around Quadra Island has to offer. Start with a quick safety and skill lesson on the dock and then head out to explore. Your well-versed guide will show you some amazing paddling spots in the vicinity, whether it be a popular seal hangout or an island with a spectacular view. If you’re pressed for time, this a great to sample the ocean wilderness around picturesque Quadra Island. Quadra Island Kayaks offers complementary pick up at the Quadra Island ferry terminal. Tours run every day of the summer from May to September, or even October if the weather is nice. This tour runs from 9am-12pm or 2pm-5pm. Suited for all experience levels. Areas visited may include the Brettton Islands, Turtle Island and more. This area is rich with wildlife. Expect to see seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoise and the occasional whale as well as several bird species (including eagles, herons and cormorants) and inter-tidal life such as sea urchins, sea stars, jellyfish and crabs. All of Quadra Island Kayaks’ guides are trained in wilderness first aid and certified with the British Columbia Sea Kayak Guides Alliance.
Campbell River, BC
$69 CAD Per Person -
3-Day Granite Bay Kayaking Adventure
by Quadra Island KayaksExplore the isolated wilderness of northern Quadra Island on this three-day, two-night kayak excursion. Granite Bay is rich in both natural beauty and human history (it was home to a town of 500 in the early 1900s), meaning there’s plenty to explore here. Your professional and knowledgable guide will show you all the hidden wonders in this area, including Discovery Passage and Small Inlet Marine Provincial Park. Hike ancient portage trails, spot middens, relax on pebble beaches, pick fruit from wild orchards and keep your eyes open for plenty of wildlife. All your meals are lovingly prepared by your guide using as many fresh, local ingredients as possible. Quadra Island Kayaks offers complementary pick up at the Quadra Island ferry terminal. Tours run from May to September, or even October if the weather is nice. Your base camp for this trip will be Orchard Bay, the site of an old First Nations village and home to overgrown meadows and wild orchards. Double or single kayaks available. This area is rich with wildlife. Expect to see seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoise and the occasional whale as well as several bird species (including eagles, herons and cormorants) and inter-tidal life such as sea urchins, sea stars, jellyfish and crabs. All of Quadra Island Kayaks’ guides are trained in wilderness first aid and certified with the British Columbia Sea Kayak Guides Alliance.
Campbell River, BC
$599 CAD Per Person -
Waterfall Tour of the Alberni Valley
by Rainbird ExcursionsIt's all waterfalls, all the time on this full-day adventure. Sandy McRuer and his Rainbird Excursions company will take you to four different waterfalls in the Alberni Valley, including Stamp Falls, Weiner Falls and more. Take advantage of Sandy's in-depth knowledge of the flora, fauna, history and geography of the area as you travel to each of these distinctive waterfalls. Stop for lunch at Sproat Lake Park, where you can see ancient petroglyphs that have been etched into rocks. Walk a suspension bridge, see a fish ladder, learn about first nations history, and maybe even do some rope-assisted climbing. You may even see rare birds, bald eagles and perhaps a black bear; if you're visiting during the fall salmon run, expect to see hundreds of these fish heading up Stamp Falls to spawn. Sockeye salmon can be spotted at Sproat Falls in the early summer months. Pick up at your location. This tour includes some moderate hiking. This activity departs at 8am and returns at 5pm. Departure days are flexible.
Port Alberni, BC (93 km from Campbell River)
$116 CAD Per Person -
Pacific Rim Circle Tour
by Rainbird ExcursionsNo trip to Vancouver Island is complete without a stop on its rugged west coast, and Rainbird Excursions offers a memorable day trip to the Pacific Rim. Settle into Rainbird's van and drive along scenic Highway 4, which runs along scenic Sproat Lake before morphing into a twisting, turning mountain road that leads to Ucluelet, a village tucked away on the northern tip of Barkley Sound. You'll be making plenty of stops along the way, including a visit to the Sproat Lake Petroglyphs, the site of the famed Taylor River forest fire and the Amphitrite Lighthouse just south of Ucluelet. When you reach the charming fishing village, you'll stop for a picnic lunch, when you can enjoy while taking in views of the harbour. You'll journey back to Port Alberni via boat; step aboard the MV Frances Barkley, a freighter that hearkens back to a simpler time. You'll have plenty of time to take in the scenery and unwind as the MV Frances Barkley makes her way up the 40-kilometre Alberni Inlet. Pick up at your location. This tour runs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from June to mid-September. This trip departs at 8am and returns at 6:30pm. While there is some walking involved on this tour, there is no strenuous hiking.
Port Alberni, BC (93 km from Campbell River)
$132 CAD Per Adult -
A Day of Whale Watching (6-7 hrs.)
by Eagle Eye AdventuresLet Eagle Eye Adventures take you up the northern coast of Vancouver Island to a world-renowned orca-whale sanctuary. After you board one of their zippy Zodiacs and get acquainted with your naturalist guide, you’ll head through Discovery Passage and into the Johnstone Strait to the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, a protected area where killer whales roam. Watch these beautiful beasts in their natural habitat, with stunning West Coast scenery as your backdrop. Your guide will let you in on some of the secrets of these creatures, as well as tell you about the other animals that make up this Pacific Northwest ecosystem, in order to help foster a deep appreciation for this special, and fragile, place. In addition to orcas, you may also encounter humpback, gray and minke whales as well as seals, sea lions, dolphins and porpoises. This tour requires a minimum of six passengers.
Campbell River, BC
$139 CAD Per Person (12+) -
Whale Watching Safari (6-7 hrs.)
by Discovery Marine SafarisStep aboard the “Eagle XXXIII” or the brand new custom-built “Tenacious III” and prepare for a day of world-class whale watching. Campbell River’s proximity to the Johnstone Strait, Discovery Passage and other orca hot spots means opportunities to spot these magnificent mammals are never far away, and Discovery Marine Safaris knows all the best whale-watching spots. Your well-versed captain will explore the rugged coastline in search of whales, while your on-board naturalist fills you in on the flora and fauna of the BC coast. Use the boat’s hydrophone to listen in on the whales communicating with each other. What other experience will have you biting into your homemade lunch as you watch porpoises racing beside the boat? In addition to orcas, expect to see humpback whales, white-sided dolphins, porpoises, seals, sea lions, eagles and black bears. Discovery Marine Safaris’ vessels have heated, enclosed cabins, washrooms, multiple outdoor viewing decks and are Transport Canada certified. This tour departs daily at 9am.
Campbell River, BC
$159 CAD Per Person (12+) -
Marine Wildlife/Tidal Rapids Safari (4 hrs.)
by Discovery Marine SafarisSample the amazing wildlife around Campbell River and experience the thrill of riding tidal rapids. Discovery Marine Adventures will take you out on one of their customized vessels to search for sunbathing sea lions, soaring bald eagles or playful porpoises, and your well-versed naturalist guide can tell you all about these creatures and the ecosystem they live in. Your captain will also cruise over to nearby Arran Rapids, the second-fastest tidal rapids in the world, where you’ll take a whitewater ride you won’t soon forget. Appreciate BC’s natural beauty up close and personal. This tour’s departure time varies depending on the tides. Wildlife you might spot includes white-sided dolphins, porpoises, seals, sea lions, eagles and black bears. Discovery Marine Safaris’ vessels have heated, enclosed cabins, washrooms, outdoor viewing decks and are Transport Canada certified.
Campbell River, BC
$105 CAD Per Person (12+) -
Spring Birding Expedition
by Rainbird ExcursionsRainbird Excursions' Sandy McRuer knows his birds — and he knows the best places to spot these feathered flyers in the springtime, when their plumage is at its most vibrant. This special birdwatching adventure will allow you to see birds unique to Western North America, like the Black Oystercatcher, the Chestnut-backed Chickadee, the Rufous Hummingbird and more. McRuer, who has won several birding awards and helped to establish Port Alberni's Christmas Bird count, will take you to either the east or west side of Vancouver Island for your morning birding adventure. His knowledge of the local bird populations as well as the area's history and geology makes for an engaging outing. Pick up at your location. This trip operates on April 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 and 30; May 6, 7, 13, 14, 21, 22, 27 and 28; and June 3 and 4. Departure times are at your convenience. Discounts for larger groups (4-6 people).
Port Alberni, BC (93 km from Campbell River)
$90 CAD Per Person -
Wonderful Wildlife Excursion: Nature Tour (3 hrs.)
by Painter's LodgeYou don’t have to be a nature-lover to fully enjoy the magnificence of Vancouver Island’s wildlife. This is simply stunning territory. Take your seat aboard the first-class Hurricane Zodiac, and get your camera and binoculars at the ready! Your trained naturalist will guide you among the Discovery Islands, and immerse you BC wildlife. You may discover black bears, sea lions, seals, whales, wolves, Pacific white-sided dolphins or watch in wonder as bald eagles swoop from the treetops and majestic herons fish contently in tidal pools. The fresh, crisp air will leave you invigorated, and the natural world will leave you inspired. Come along; the Pacific playground is waiting to impress you. This tour is offered through Oak Bay Marine Group’s Painter’s Lodge, located in fabulous Campbell River. Painter’s Lodge also offers a variety of accommodations. This wildlife excursion is offered year-round! Your naturalist guide will offer insight into the beauty that surrounds you, and guide you to locales known for spectacular sightings!
Campbell River, BC
$99 CAD Per Person (12+) -
Bear Watching Expedition (6-7 hrs.)
by Eagle Eye AdventuresJourney to a bear stand in Homalco First Nation territory and watch majestic grizzlies in their home environment. Your day begins when you step aboard one of Eagle Eye Adventures’ covered boats and head up the coast, where a knowledgable naturalist will fill you in on the role and importance of all the animals you encounter, which may include orcas, eagles, seals, whales and more. Then, you’ll arrive at one of three bear stands, where you can sit and watch grizzlies who have come to the area to feast on the fall salmon run. This is a day in BC that you won’t soon forget. This tour only runs in September, during the salmon run. In addition to grizzlies, you may also encounter black bears; orcas; humpback, gray and minke whales; wolves; deer; eagles; seals; sea lions; dolphins and porpoises. This tour requires a minimum of six passengers.
Campbell River, BC
$339 CAD Per Person (12+) -
Spectacular Sunset Cruise (2 hrs.)
by Discovery Marine SafarisWatch the sun sink behind Campbell River from the deck of one of Discovery Marine Safaris’ customized vessels. A sunset cruise with Discovery Marine Safaris is a great way to mark a special occasion with family, friends or colleagues. As an added bonus, you might even spot some local wildlife coming out to play as the sun sinks below the horizon. Whether you’re celebrating a stagette, a family reunion or just want to cap off your vacation the right way, a peaceful sunset ride along the Campbell River shoreline is a good bet. This tour departs between 5pm and 7pm (depending on the sunset) from mid June to late August. Price based on a minimum of 12 people. Wildlife you might spot includes white-sided dolphins, porpoises, seals, sea lions, eagles and black bears. Discovery Marine Safaris’ vessels have heated, enclosed cabins, washrooms, multiple outdoor viewing decks and are Transport Canada certified.
Campbell River, BC
$25 CAD Per Person -
Sunset Sea Kayaking Tour (3 hrs.)
by Quadra Island KayaksThe sky turns pink, the waters are calm and the wildlife viewing is prime; a sunset kayak excursion really is an experience not to be missed. Your guide will give you a quick-but-thorough lesson and then you’re off to watch the sky change colours and the animals frolic. After spending some time paddling, stop and stretch your legs on a nearby island, where you can grab a snack take in a breathtaking view of the sun setting behind glowing mountains. Could you have a better end to your day? Quadra Island Kayaks offers complementary pick up at the Quadra Island ferry terminal. This tour is only offered from June-August and starts at 6pm (June-July) or 5pm (August). Suited for all experience levels. Areas visited may include the Brettton Islands, Turtle Island and more. This area is rich with wildlife. Expect to see seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoise and the occasional whale as well as several bird species (including eagles, herons and cormorants) and inter-tidal life such as sea urchins, sea stars, jellyfish and crabs. All of Quadra Island Kayaks’ guides are trained in wilderness first aid and certified with the British Columbia Sea Kayak Guides Alliance.
Campbell River, BC
$69 CAD Per Person (12+) -
Ocean Rapids Zodiac Tour (4-5 hrs.)
by Eagle Eye AdventuresExperience the thrill of riding ocean rapids. Eagle Eye Adventures’ trusty Zodiac will take you north to the Discovery Island and on to Cordero Channel, home to the second-fastest ocean rapids in the world. These rapids occur when the tide forces water through a narrow passage, creating rapids akin to the kind you’d encounter on a river. With names like “Devil’s Hole” and “the Drain,” these rapids will take you on a thrilling ride. Your guide will point out areas of interest or local wildlife, helping you to appreciate this beautiful part of the world even more. This area is rich with wildlife. Animals you might encounter include orcas, bears, humpback, gray and minke whales as well as seals, sea lions, dolphins and porpoises. This tour requires a minimum of six passengers.
Campbell River, BC
$109 CAD Per Person (12+) -
Covered Wildlife and Nature Tour (4 hrs.)
by Hurricane Jack AdventuresZip around the scenic Discovery Islands and experience all this area has to offer. Watch massive sea lions bathe in the sun, bald eagles swoop down in search of salmon, or porpoises playing nearby. Hurricane Jack has three decades of local knowledge under his belt, which he is more than ready to share with you on this nautical excursion — so step aboard his custom-built, covered boat and prepare for an excellent adventure. This tour runs from May 1 to October 1. Dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, seals, black bear, bald eagles and other birds are often spotted on these tours.
Campbell River, BC
$145 CAD Per Person -
Zodiac Wildlife & Nature Tour (4 hrs.)
by Campbell River Whale Watching & Adventure ToursDiscovery Passage is teeming with marine life, and Campbell River Whale Watching can take you there. Board one of their customized open-air Zodiacs and set out to spot frolicking porpoises, sunbathing sea lions, nesting bald eagles and other coastal wildlife, all while breathing in the crisp ocean air and experiencing the elements. Your captain is also a certified naturalist with loads of local experience that they are happy to share as you visit the inland coastal beauty around the Discovery Islands. This tour runs from May to October. You might see dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, seals, black bear, bald eagles and other birds on your tour. Campbell River Whale Watching’s Zodiacs are equipped with hydrophones, comfortable seating, a washroom and powerful sound systems.
Campbell River, BC
$110 CAD Per Person (12+) -
Expedition Kayaking
by West Coast ExpeditionsThese ocean kayaking trips allow you to truly explore northwest Vancouver Island's rugged coast. Start from West Coast Expeditions’ base camp in Kyuquot on Spring Island and set out for five or six nights out on a paddling journey that will have you exploring stunning parks and ecological reserves while camping in beautiful, remote spots that have to be seen to be believed. Designed for folks with some camping and kayaking experience, these guided paddles will take you through both exposed and sheltered waters, but they're not just about kayaking; you'll also be treated to interpretive programs about the natural and cultural surroundings that you'll see on your trip. Spend your days exploring places such as the Brooks Peninsula and Bunsby Islands, spotting sea otters, whales, bald eagles and black bears and learning about aboriginal culture, before unwinding with a delicious meal at that night's camping spot. All meals, kayaking equipment, safety gear and guiding services are included in the price of your trip, so all you need to bring are your paddling skills, camping gear (or arrange from us), and adventurous spirit. This is true Vancouver Island kayaking. Choose from the 7-Day Bunsby Islands kayaking package, the 8-Day Brooks Peninsula kayaking package, or the 9-Day West Coast Adventure package. All trips depart from West Coast Expeditions' Kyuquot wilderness retreat base camp on the northwestern coast of Vancouver Island. These multi-day paddles are geared towards people with previous kayaking and camping experience. All kayaking gear, safety equipment, meals, guiding services and round-trip transportation from Fair Harbour to Kyuquot are included. Trips are tailored to your group's ability and interests. You will be asked to fill out a pre-trip questionnaire after you are registered. Deposit required at time of booking.
Campbell River, BC
$1,999 CAD Per 7-Day Bunsby Islands Kayaking (person) -
Base Camp Kayaking
by West Coast ExpeditionsSet out from West Coast Expeditions’ Kyuquot base camp on Spring Island and experience a new adventure every day. Suitable for beginner kayakers and families as well as more seasoned paddlers, these four- to seven-day trips explore the area around Kyuquot off northwestern Vancouver Island, returning to the wilderness retreat base camp each evening to eat, sleep and relax in rugged comfort. You can choose to spend your days kayaking — there are plenty of nearby paddling routes to choose from, and your guide can take you on the one that best suits your ability and interests — or spend your time at the base camp, where there are plenty of quiet spots to read, forested trails to hike, and beaches to explore. You are likely to spot sea lions, otters, salmon and sea birds on your paddling explorations, and enjoy lunch breaks on remote beaches as your guide fills you in on the local flora and fauna. This area is also steeped in aboriginal culture, so you'll be sure to learn about the local First Nations during your stay. You'll typically return to the base camp by late afternoon, where you'll be well fed and have the rest of the day to explore, relax, or maybe play some bocce or go for an evening paddle. These retreats can include as little or as much kayaking as you wish; after all, it's your vacation. All your meals, kayaking gear, safety equipment, guiding services and sleeping areas are taken care of; all you need to bring is a sleeping bag (or arrange for one from us) and appropriate clothing. Experience a Canadian kayaking trip like no other. Choose from the 4-Day Kayaking Kyuquot Sound Tour, the 5-Day Sea Otter Kayak Tour, the 7-Day West Coast Adventure, special instructional courses or a customized family trip All trips will be based out of West Coast Expeditions’ Kyuquot wilderness retreat base camp; daily paddling trips will return to the camp by late afternoon. West Coast Expeditions' Kyuquot base camp is home to waterfront sleeping structures with beds, a hot shower, an all-weather dining and kitchen shelter, resource library and much more. Customize your trip to include as much or as little kayaking as you like, with paddles and activities geared towards your level of skill and areas of interest. Beginners and families welcome. More experienced kayakers also love it! All kayaking gear, safety equipment, meals, guiding services, sleeping areas and round-trip transportation from Fair Harbour to Spring Island are included. Deposit required at time of booking.
Campbell River, BC
$1,449 CAD Per 4-Day Kayaking Kyuquot (person) -
See the Giant Spruce of the Carmanah
by Rainbird ExcursionsJourney deep into the Carmanah Valley in search of the tallest Sitka spruce in the world. The 400-year-old, 95-metre Carmanah Giant is just one of the fascinating rainforest relics you'll encounter in this full-day tour with Rainbird Excursions. This truly West Coast experience takes you 2.5 hours down rough logging road to Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park, which was first established in 1990. Your guide Sandy McRuer has lived in the area for 25 years and knows this place well. You'll learn all about the unique ecosystem of the Canadian rainforest, including the important role dead trees play in providing food and shelter on the forest floor, as you walk trails and boardwalks along the Carmanah River. You'll see cedar trees that are upwards of 1,000 years old, and stop to eat lunch among these ancient giants. Once your day draws to a close and you return to Port Alberni, you'll have gained a much deeper appreciation for the old-growth rainforest. Pick up at your location. This trip includes some easy hiking. Be sure to bring a light jacket, rain gear, insect repellent and proper hiking shoes. This activity departs at 7:30am and returns at 5:30pm.
Port Alberni, BC (93 km from Campbell River)
$155 CAD Per Person
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Even though it’s only midway up Vancouver Island’s east coast, Campbell River really does feel like the end of the road; this gateway to northern Vancouver Island and the Discovery Passage is known for its rugged West Coast beauty. Whether you are heading out for a bear-watching adventure, a kayak trip or a fishing expedition, there are plenty of ways to experience nature here.
