ITINERARY: Haida Gwaii’s Immersive Discovery

This blog post was written before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic when physical distancing and other COVID health and safety protocols were not in effect. The businesses and communities featured in this article may be once again welcoming visitors but please double check as some are only open with limited operations and others have not yet reopened.

From Vancouver, head to the “Galapagos of the North” – Haida Gwaii. In just a 1 ½ hour flight from the cosmopolitan centre of Vancouver, you will be exploring this archipelago of mystical islands, offering abundant wildlife and lush surroundings. Discover old-growth rainforest surrounded by ocean waters, teeming with sea life, and immerse yourself in the ancient culture of the Haida First Nation.

Province: British Columbia

Length: 4 Nights / 5 Days

Dates: June 1 – September 30

Route: Vancouver – Haida Gwaii [by plane] – Vancouver

Day 1: Arrive on Haida Gwaii

Today, you fly from Vancouver and will be met at the Sandspit Airport or Masset Airport. A one-hour transfer will bring you to the Haida House at Tllaal on the eastern shores of Graham Island.

The Haida-owned Haida House provides a comfortable accommodation base from which you will spend your next three days exploring this lush and ancient land. After you settle into your room, you may want to take a short stroll to the nearby sandy beach. This evening, you will enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge and a well-deserved rest after your full day of travel.

Overnight at the Haida House at Tllaal

Haida House at Tllaal

Day 2-4: Exploring Haida Gwaii

Over the next three days you will participate in captivating guided tours that showcase the majesty of the landscape and the fascinating history and culture of the Haida people who have occupied this land for thousands of years.

The activities include a cultural tour to the ancient village site of Skedans with Haida Style Expeditions, where you will learn about the Haida culture, a walk along the Golden Spruce Trail, a visit to Tow Hill, and a tour of the Totem Poles in Old Massett. You will also have the opportunity to learn more about the Haida people and their cultural values at the Haida Heritage Centre.

Overnight at the Haida House at Tllaal

Day 5: Depart Haida Gwaii

After breakfast at the Haida House at Tllaal, you will travel a short distance to the small community of Tlell. The surrounding agricultural region is quite different from the north and south ends of Graham Island.

Non-Haida families settled in Tlell decades ago and one of the farms, “Richardson’s Ranch,” is fast becoming world-renowned for its high-grade breeding cattle. Embark on a visit to the local Tlell artisans’ studios and gift shops. You will visit Ernie’s Woodworking Shop, the Sitka Studio and the Crystal Cabin.

After visiting with the artisans, you depart for the airport and your return flight to Vancouver. Enjoy a packed lunch prepared by the lodge.

Accommodation & Relaxation Wildlife, Nature & Adventure

May 24, 2018

Dené Sinclair

Dené Sinclair was ITAC's Director of Marketing. She lives and works in Winnipeg on Treaty 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis Nation. She acknowledges her traditional homeland around Selkirk, Manitoba (St. Peter’s Band) as a member of Peguis First Nation and a proud Anishinaabekwe.