canada travel and tour

Canada Tours & Vacations

Extraordinary is an understatement when describing Canada. Unforgettable? You’re getting closer.

The changing colors of forested valleys and national parks, the freeze and flow of glacial lakes, the light and shade of the Rockies’ snow-capped mountains – Canada is North America’s natural masterpiece. Summer is for surfing and whale-watching off Vancouver Island and seeing Lake Louise in all its blue-hued glory. Winter is for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in Alberta and soaking in natural hot springs in British Colombia. Whatever the season, you’ll be able to find friendly locals, First Nations cultures, pristine landscapes, and a delicious plate of poutine.

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Canadian Rockies & Northern Lights

Articles of Canada

Why 2024 is the best year to see the northern lights

We run at dawn: Why I lace up in cities while travelling 

5 ways to experience indigenous culture in the US and Canada 

The top 8 destinations for travel in June 2024

Canada or Alaska? Which natural wonderland should you travel to?

4 of the best whale-watching spots in Nova Scotia

8 of the best hikes in the Canadian Rockies

8 incredible animals you’ll find in Canada

Canada departures by month

Popular regions in canada, canada at a glance, capital city.

Ottawa (population 1 million)

Canadian dollar (CAD)

English, French

(GMT-05:00) Eastern Time (US & Canada)

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Canada

Culture and customs.

Canada’s aboriginal communities reside across the country, with the people of the First Nations and the Inuit in the north calling parts of Canada home. Like many indigenous peoples around the world, First Nations communities in Canada have an ongoing struggle to retain and protect their customs and way of life. Modern influences have had adverse impacts on their culture and lifestyle, yet many still actively live and promote a traditional way of life through tribal music, handicrafts, art, and clothing.

Anyone who has been to Canada will know that some aspects of the Canadian stereotype are actually very accurate. Well known for being welcoming, friendly, funny, and adventure-loving, Canadians generally do a good job of living up to their reputation. Large cities like Vancouver are proudly multicultural, and attitudes towards different ways of life are generally quite liberal. This is reflected in the variety of cuisines, shops, and people that occupy the city. Urban and rural residents alike typically remain active and love the outdoors. Hiking, cycling, canoeing, and snowboarding are all popular pastimes across the country.

Canada’s eastern reaches have a decidedly different quality to the west coast and retain much of their colonial heritage. The French-Canadian language, often called Quebecois, is widely spoken, and French-influenced food and music are very popular. Canada’s aboriginal communities reside across the country, with the people of the First Nations and the Inuit in the north calling parts of Canada home. Like many indigenous peoples around the world, First Nations communities in Canada have an ongoing struggle to retain and protect their customs and way of life. Modern influences have had adverse impacts on their culture and lifestyle, yet many still actively live and promote a traditional way of life through tribal music, handicrafts, art, and clothing.

Canada’s eastern reaches have a decidedly different quality to the west coast and retain much of their colonial heritage. The French-Canadian language, often called Quebecois, is widely spoken, and French-influenced food and music are very popular.

History and government

The first nations.

It’s widely accepted that humans first settled in the area that is now Canada around 15,000 years ago, after traveling from what is now known as Russian Siberia. Russia and Northern America are thought to have once been connected by a land bridge until rising sea levels created the Bering Strait. Canada’s first inhabitants were likely hunter-gatherers, and it’s also widely agreed that in around 2500 BC, a second major wave of migration from Siberia brought the ancestors of the Inuit to Canada. In around 1000 BC, Thule communities from Alaska began traveling east into the Canadian Arctic.

By the late 15th century (around the time of European colonization), indigenous communities had spread beyond the Arctic regions to four main areas – the Pacific, the plains (now south-central Canada), the southern Ontario/St Lawrence River area, and the northeast woodlands.

Colonization

Both France and Britain competed fiercely for Canadian territory as colonists searched for mineral riches before establishing a lucrative fur trade. Many First Nations communities were displaced during this period and suffered from food and land shortages. The Treaty of Paris was signed in 1763 after hundreds of years of fighting, officially making Canada a British territory.

Bringing the territories together

Britain appointed governors across Canada to head up each colony, much to the French-speaking territories’ distress. The British North America Act was passed in 1867 and Canada became a self-governing state with a new set of rules. It was an improvement, but still not accepted by all. The priority was to gather all colonies under this one confederation. The iconic ‘Mounties’ were established to bring law and order to the ‘wild west’, which itself created conflict, especially with threatened First Nations peoples. In 1931 Canada was granted relative independence from the British Empire, giving it full legal autonomy and equal standing with England and other Commonwealth countries.

Independence and First Nations' progress

Canada's indigenous communities struggled through the 20th century and were only granted the right to vote in 1960. As discrimination and land rights tensions grew, a Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples called for a complete overhaul of government relations with the Indigenous population. An official Statement of Reconciliation from the Ministry of Indian and Northern Affairs was issued in 1998, which accepted responsibility for past injustices towards indigenous peoples. To this day, progress is still being made towards proper recognition and reconciliation of indigenous peoples in Canada.

Canada is still a member of the Commonwealth but the British monarch retains a purely ceremonial role. The country continues to flourish, with immigration from Europe and Asia leading to increased multiculturalism – more than 20% of Canada’s population was born overseas – while a resource boom has strengthened the economy. Canada is becoming increasingly known as a liberal, tolerant nation thanks to legalized marijuana use, same-sex marriage, universal health care, and some of the most liveable cities in the world.

Top places to visit in Canada

1. canadian rockies.

It’s picture-perfect moments that encapsulate Banff National Park and beyond. Canoe on Lake Louise, take a dog-sledding adventure through Kananaskis Country, learn ice hockey from the pros in Canmore, and take a hike or ice walk through Alberta.

There are so many ways to experience the best of the Canadian Rockies. There's our 7 day Classic Canadian Rockies tour , our 8 day Hiking in the Canadian Rockies trek and our specialty November to March 11 day Canadian Rockies & Northern Lights adventure .

2. Jasper National Park

This section of Canada’s wilderness definitely deserves worldwide acclaim. Discover the seasonal moods of Maligne Lake, hike to the toe of Athabasca glacier, spot a moose or black bear, and get a bird’s-eye view from the scenic Skytram.

Enjoy Jasper National Park up close during our 15 day Canadian Rockies and 10 day Grand Canadian Rockies tour .

3. Sun Peaks

For a next-level Canadian experience, travelers in the know head to Sun Peaks. See this neck of the woods as the 18th-century fur traders did with a canoe trip on Lake McGillivray followed by a hearty four-course meal, all in the style of the 'Voyageurs.'

Explore this history-laden area on our 10 day Grand Canadian Rockies tour .

4. Vancouver

With mountain views from downtown and the perfect summers for strolling along the foreshore, Vancouver has the liveable west-coast vibes most cities dream of. Get among the hip bars in Gastown and hike through the parklands, which are rich in First Nations history.

Vancouver is an incredible city and a perfect spot to start a 12 day Real Canada or 15 day Canadian Rockies adventure .

5. Peace River

You can’t just look around to see Canada’s best – you’ve got to look up. After some ice fishing, take your winter adventure up a notch and discover the dazzling natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights in Peace River on our 11 day Canadian Rockies and Northern Lights tour . Build a campfire, eat s’mores, and keep your fingers crossed that the lights appear in a clear sky.

6. Nova Scotia

Canada's maritime region should really be as famed as its interior parks and cities. One look at the charming seaside villages, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and jaw-dropping landscapes will have you planning your next trip back.

We've picked some of the most memorable locations to visit on our 6 day The Maritimes: Nova Scotia adventure .

7. Newfoundland

A geographic wonderland, the Newfoundland region boasts scenery fit for being the most northeasterly point with maritime mammals, sheer cliffs, and the odd iceberg floating by.

Choose between a 7 day Newfoundland Westbound or 7 day Newfoundland Eastbound adventure , but no matter which direction your route takes, the sights will leave you breathless either way.

Eating and drinking

Oh Canada, what a wondrous country of seasonal beauty and welcoming people. But what’s the food like? Well, you’re in luck – Canada has all the hearty, comforting, and sweet food you’ll need at any time of the year.

Things to eat in Canada

It’s a national treasure – French fries topped with a gloriously messy mix of gravy and cheese curds. There’s a range of combinations with different meats, chips, and sauces, all classed as ‘poutine’ (or, more generally, ‘loaded fries’). All in all, it’s the perfect hangover cure.

Vancouver is known for having one of the best restaurant scenes in the world and seafood is almost always on the menu. Feast on a fresh seafood banquet, try some inventive fusion cuisine, or grab a chowder for a quick bite.

3. Maple syrup

It comes as no surprise that maple syrup is super popular in Canada. Be sure to dose up your pancakes and include a side of bacon, just like the locals.

4. Beaver tails

No, they don't come from an actual beaver. Beaver tails are a stretched, fried dough – almost like a doughnut pizza – known as a bannock, topped with all kinds of sweet things, including cinnamon sugar, Nutella, banana, s’mores, and more.

5. Nanaimo bars

Named after its birthplace – the city of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island – this bar consists of three layers: a wafer, nut and coconut crumb base, flavored custard in the middle, and a chocolate ganache to top it off.

6. Butter tarts

You may have realized by now that Canada is full of sweet treats, but how about trying an indulgent butter tart? It’s a sweet pastry shell baked with a filling of butter, sugar, syrup, and egg – everything in moderation, right?

7. Boutique beer

The last few years have seen microbreweries pop up all over Canada. Whether you visit a microbrewery that brews chocolate-flavored beer or dine at a restaurant with a local beer menu, a Canadian boutique beer is definitely worth trying.

8. Caesar cocktail

If beer isn’t your thing, what about Canada’s version of a Bloody Mary? Combine vodka, clamato juice, hot sauce, and lime for a unique briny flavor. Throw in a stalk of celery and you’re set – don’t knock it ‘til you try it! Read more about foods to try in Canada

Geography and environment

Canada is big. And we mean huge. This may seem obvious when looking at a map, but you really feel it when you're out there road-tripping. With such a large land mass, it comes as no surprise that the environment varies depending on which area of Canada you are traveling in.

Sitting between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, Canada shares a long land border with the United States in the south and Alaska (US) and Greenland in the north. Mountains, forests, and woodlands can be found throughout the country, with relatively flat, arable plains dotted around too. There’s a lot of ice and tundra in the Arctic North. The country’s unique geography is one of the many reasons that this country is so well-traveled and loved by tourists, but this can pose a risk, notably for drivers. Microclimates along mountain passes, like the Glacier National Park between BC and Alberta, are known for notorious weather conditions. Towns on either side can appear clear and calm, while the national park itself is in the middle of a snowstorm.

Canada’s cities are widespread, well-populated, and built-up, though not overly crowded. Expect skyscrapers, malls, the odd traffic jam, and all the modern conveniences. Smaller communities exist in more remote areas, with quaint villages on both coasts relying on fishing, tourism, and agriculture as main sources of income. Expect a slower pace of life and much less buzz than in the city.

Outdoor experiences

Majestic mountains.

The Rocky Mountains of Canada are famous for a reason – their imposing and rugged beauty is unforgettable. Take in the epic landscapes while hiking, and don't forget to keep a camera handy to capture the best panoramas.

Sensational 'snowscapades'

Make the most of Canada's abundance of snow by getting out there in winter and having some fun. Start a snowball fight (preferably not with strangers), make some snow angels, and channel your inner child.

Animal encounters

Keep watch for deer, bears, moose, caribou, mountain goats, bald eagles, and timber wolves while hiking through the wilds of Jasper National Park in Alberta. Seeing grizzly and black bears in their natural habitat will take your breath away.

Giant glaciers

Be astounded by the immense size and beauty of Canada's gigantic glaciers. Take a thrilling ride on an ice mobile to experience things up close, or perhaps opt for a hike to the toe of the mighty Athabasca glacier.

Canada may be home to the largest mall in the Americas (West Edmonton Mall), but the shopping experience certainly doesn't end there. The diversity of Canada's population is reflected in the eclectic mix of boutique stores stocking unique artisan wares, modern art, and more. Major cities like Vancouver have an abundance of interesting boutiques, galleries, and market-style centres like Granville Island. Smaller towns are great for locally produced gourmet food, wine, and quirky kitsch souvenirs. The Chinatown areas of major Canadian cities offer a great shopping experience with good markets and cheap eats.

Canada’s federal goods and services tax (GST) adds 5 percent to most transactions and most provinces also charge an additional tax to have a combined harmonized sales tax (HST), usually around 10–15 percent in total. Expect most, if not all, products to have this already included in the marked price.

It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.

Festivals and events

Canada knows how to put on a show, be it in nature or the cities. Depending on the time of the year, these are some of the festivals and events you can expect to come across:

Calgary Stampede

This 10-day hoedown features rodeos, parades, barbecues, and more cowboy hats than you can shake a stick at. The locals call it the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth and it has been running in Calgary, Alberta, since 1912.

Montreal International Jazz Festival

Swap your boot scootin’ for some toe-tapping as more than 3000 performers from over 30 nations entertain millions during this annual celebration of jazz. Over 5500 pounds of French fries are consumed each year, which is fitting given Montreal is the hub of French-speaking Canada.

Vancouver Festival of Light

This dazzling display of fireworks is not to be missed. Technicians gather from across the world to compete and put on the best and most engaging display. It’s the longest-running offshore fireworks competition in the world.

You'll know that it's Canada Day , no matter where you are in Canada. The locals celebrate this national holiday with parades, fireworks, parties, concerts, and barbecues, so be sure to get into the maple-leaf spirit.

If you find yourself in Ottawa or greater Ontario in early February, chances are there’ll be a winter festival like Winterlude happening. Canada’s capital turns into a majestic winter wonderland and the focal point is Rideau Canal, which turns into the world’s largest skating rink at 4.8 miles long.

Quebec Winter Carnival

This festival even has its own mascot – a giant, tuque-wearing snow figure called Bonhomme Carnaval – who embodies the ‘joie de vivre’ (or ‘joy of living’) during winter. Come for Bonhomme and stay for parades, snow sculptures, ice skating, and more.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Canada adventure, check out these books:

• Anne of Green Gables – Lucy Maud Montgomery
• Cat’s Eye – Margaret Atwood
• Island – Alistair MacLeod
• Sacre Bleus: An Unsentimental Journey Through Quebec – Taras Grescoe
• Consolation – Michael Redhill
• The Golden Spruce: A True Story of Myth, Madness, and Greed – John Vaillant
• The Vancouver Stories: West Coast Fiction from Canada’s Best Writers – Intro by Douglas Coupland
• Burden of desire – Robert MacNeil

Similar destinations

Inspired by Canada and looking for similar destinations? Here are some neighboring and not-so-neighboring countries to consider.

• Australia tours
• Sweden tours

The United States

• United States tours
• Canada or Alaska? Which natural wonderland should you travel to next?

Canada travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Canada?

Canada's vast land mass makes for beautiful scenery and varying climate conditions. December, January and February are the coldest months and traveling can be difficult at times due to the occasional road closure or snowstorm. That said, this time of year is ideal for skiing, snowboarding and all your winter delights.

June, July and August are the warmest months. They’re perfect for outdoor activities like rafting, hiking, camping and canoeing. Tourist hotspots and other popular places will be much busier than in other months due to warmer temperatures. 

While not typically as warm as the summer months, May and September still offer great conditions for traveling and sightseeing without the crowds.

Do I need a visa to travel to Canada?

Many nationalities are able to travel to Canada without a visa, provided they obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before arriving. This includes citizens of Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Japan, France and many others. Like most countries, visitors to Canada must hold a valid passport with at least six months’ validity.

In some cases, visitors may not require a visa, for example, if you are a citizen of the United States. You may, however, still need to present relevant documentation, like a valid passport and evidence of lawful entry into the US.

Travelers from South Africa, China, Russia, and other countries need a visa to travel to Canada regardless of their method of entry. Processing these visas may take upwards of three weeks. Visit the Government of Canada’s official website to find out if you will need to apply for a visa.

The is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 17/11/2023

Is tipping customary in Canada?

Tipping is very much a part of the culture in Canada. It's expected in restaurants, cafes and bars, and usually won’t be included in the bill.

People typically add 15-20% to the bill but feel free to tip a higher amount if you’ve enjoyed your experience. Tipping taxi drivers and valet attendants is also customary. Many bills in Canada do feature a tipping indicator under the subtotal, which is a handy method for choosing how much to leave. It's your choice, just remember that tipping in North America is culturally ingrained and wait staff are usually paid minimum wage, so understanding this and tipping accordingly is appreciated.

What is the internet access like Canada?

Canada’s internet is very good and it's easy to get access in most cities and towns.

Hotels, hostels and cafes are usually the best places to access the internet. It may be included with a booking or available at a small fee. Some fast food chains, cafes and restaurants have open wi-fi networks available, which are often accessible with a code from a purchase receipt. Be sure to keep an eye out for the international wi-fi symbol to connect.

Internet cafes are becoming less and less common in Canada, but some computer facilities (including in public libraries) are available in larger tourist areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Canada?

Cell phone coverage is generally very good in Canada, but it may be patchy in remote areas such as national parks. Depending on the service provider, coverage in remote areas can sometimes be non-existent.

Your best bet, if you have an unlocked phone, is to purchase a prepaid SIM card when you arrive in Canada for all your calling, texting, and data needs. Canada has a few network providers and while voice coverage can be patchy, cell data is generally good in tourist areas, so using internet calling apps like Skype and WhatsApp is often preferred.

If you are from the United States (or are also traveling in the US), there is often an option to upgrade or purchase a prepaid roaming plan with a US service provider to use across the border. Otherwise, you could activate global roaming when traveling through Canada. This can incur extremely high fees so be sure to check with your local service provider before you leave your home country to know the costs.

What are the toilets like in Canada?

Western-style, flushable toilets are the standard in Canada. Public toilet facilities are usually available in shopping malls and town centers and often labeled as washrooms. If you wish to use a washroom in a cafe or restaurant, expect to be told to make a purchase beforehand to gain access.

What will it cost for a...?

Canada’s unit of currency is the Canadian dollar (CAD). Prices here are approximate averages.

Cup of coffee = CAD $4.80

Local bus fare = CAD $3.30

Budget takeaway meal = CAD $13.00

Restaurant meal = CAD $23.00 - $64.00

Can I drink the water in Canada?

Drinking water from taps in Canada is considered safe unless otherwise advised. Canada has some of the best tasting tap water in the world.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Canada?

Major credit cards are accepted by most retailers and restaurants in Canada. As in most countries, be sure to carry adequate cash for smaller purchases; however, it is becoming the norm to buy a coffee or make other small purchases on credit card.

What is ATM access like in Canada?

ATMs are very common in Canada so finding one won't be a problem in most cities or towns. They may not be as abundant in smaller towns and rural areas, so it’s wise to have enough cash before traveling anywhere too remote.

What is the weather like in Canada?

Many people imagine Canada as a winter wonderland with snow-capped mountains and ski resorts vying for their attention, but Canada’s weather is as diverse as its countryside. Summers can get very warm, sometimes reaching 95°F (35°C) and higher, while winters get very cold. It’s not uncommon to get down to -13°F (-25°C). Spring is usually warmer and more pleasant than autumn, which sees brisk and cool temperatures around the country though they’re made bearable by the rich orange and yellows of the trees.

Generally speaking, Canada’s weather fits into four main sections: the coasts, the Prairies (Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba), central Canada and northern Canada. There are, of course, many more regional factors and thousands of microclimates, especially in mountain areas.

Expect milder summers and winters on the coast with temperatures not dropping much below 14°F (-10°C) and not rising much above 72°F (22°C). The winters are wetter here with the east coast seeing more rainfall, while Vancouver is an anomaly to the rest of Canada with more of an oceanic climate.

In the Prairies, the summers are hot and dry and winter is icy cold. There are long periods of snow, with Calgary experiencing around 54 days and 50 inches of snow, while Southern Alberta has a weird winter phenomenon called chinook winds. These are dry gusts that melt snow and raise temperatures by over 60 degrees in a matter of hours. Of the three largest cities in the Prairies, Winnipeg has the coldest winter days at 12°F (-11°C), compared to Calgary (-1°C/30°F) and Edmonton (-6°C/21°F), but also has the warmest summer days at 79°F (26°C), compared to both Calgary and Edmonton (23°C/73°F).

Central Canada enjoys humid summers and cooler winters, with some areas experiencing snow cover for almost six months of the year. As much of Canada’s interior enjoys a continental climate, winters are cold and the wind chill is brisk. Toronto hits around 80°F (27°C) on a hot summer’s day and 29°F (-1.5°C) in winter, while Montreal in summer hits 79°F (26°C) and 23°F (-5.3°C) in winter.  

Northern Canada is where temperatures really drop. The far reaches of the Northwest Territories (NWT) rarely rise above 32°F (0°C ) and can record temperatures below -49°F (-45°C). These extremes aren’t for everyone and it shows – of the three provinces to make up northern Canada (NWT, Yukon and Nunavut), their total population (around 120,000) is less than Canada’s 40th largest city.

What to wear in Canada

This depends on where you’re traveling. The diversity of seasons rules out a one-size-fits-all packing list, so our advice is to consider both the season and the activities you’d like to participate in. 

You’ll be able to get away with light clothing for most of the summer, like a shirt and shorts or light trousers, plus a jacket to wear in the cooler evenings. During spring and autumn, it’s best to bring layers. Temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at night, so if you’re checking out Vancouver’s nightlife or enjoying a nightcap in Toronto, it’s best to rug up. You’ll need to take the comfort dial up a notch in winter with thermal base layers, warm fleeces and jackets, and at least one wind-breaking outer layer to keep you warm. A beanie, scarf and neck warmer are all highly recommended.

Canada is an active destination so ensure you’re prepared with the right type of gear, including sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, UV protection and warm (but breathable) clothing that can be easily layered. If any water-based activities are on your to-do list, like kayaking or whitewater rafting, consider bringing a pair of dive boots or aqua shoes to save your feet from freezing water and sharp rocks.

For a more comprehensive list on what to wear and what to pack for Canada, be sure to check the packing list included in each trip’s Essential Trip Information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Canada?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 19 Mar: Good Friday
• 1 Apr: Easter Monday
• 20 May: Victoria Day
• 1 Jul: Canada Day
• 2 Sep: Labor Day
• 14 Oct: Thanksgiving Day
• 11 Nov: Remembrance Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day
• 26 Dec: Boxing Day

Please note: Canada public holidays may vary.

Is Canada a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

In many regards, Canada is a world leader at recognizing LGBTQIA+ rights. It is consistently named as one of the most queer-friendly countries in the world.

Same-sex sexual activity has been lawful since 1969, and same-sex marriages have been legal nationwide since 2005. Anti-discrimination laws are extensive. They were passed in 1996 for sexual orientation and in 2017 for gender identity and expression. The Canadian government announced that it will add a third gender option to all government documents, including census forms and passports, from late 2017.

Canada is home to some of the largest Pride parades in all the world, with over 650,000 attending in Vancouver and over 1 million in Toronto. Toronto is also home to the Church and Wellesley neighborhood, which is known as an LGBT hotspot of the city. Similar LGBTQIA+ friendly neighborhoods exist in Vancouver (Davie Village), Montreal, (commercial district), and Ottawa (Bank Street); however, this is not to say that other neighborhoods are not as socially accepting.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Canada accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries where possible.

Canada is making clear progress on aiding those with disabilities, especially travelers with mobility issues. Many public buildings around Canada’s major cities and tourist zones have access to lifts and ramps, while pedestrian crossings often have sloping curbs.

For more logistical information on air, bus, rail and ferry transportation, visit the Canadian federal government’s Travel portal.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

Learn more about Accessible Travel with Intrepid

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When travelling with us in Canada, you may find yourself staying in a:

Depending on your trip, you may be spending some nights camping with us. We provide you with a full set of camping and cooking supplies. Campsites will have a range of facilities available, from toilets and often showers, to pay-per-use washing machines and dryers.

Check your Essential Trip Notes carefully so you know what equipment you'll need to supply yourself.

How will I be traveling around Canada?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Canada, you may find yourself traveling by:

• Ferry Find your sea legs and enjoy a mode of transport that offers scenic views and a dose of fresh air. A ferry ride to Vancouver Island is the ideal way to get acquainted with the west coast.
• Private vehicle Our vehicle of choice is the 14-seat Ford Transit. Spacious, comfortable, sturdy and safe – it’s hard to beat for a cross‑country road trip. Each vehicle is equipped with large windows, a storage trailer, air conditioning and charging ports.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip to Canada support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Canada directly support our foundation partner, Water First . 

Water First  

Water First work with Indigenous communities in Canada to address critical water challenges through education and skills training programs. Donations from our trips support three of their programs – preparing young Indigenous adults for careers in their community's water treatment plants, training Indigenous community members to restore places of local significance, and engaging Indigenous school children with fun and unique learning resources.  

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.