Canada: How to Get to Haida Gwaii – Traditional Ecological Knowledge & Indigenous Cultures

The Story:

Across the globe, scientists are embracing the knowledge of indigenous people to develop a deeper understanding of our natural world and ways to protect and sustain our fragile ecosystems. Explore the connection between indigenous knowledge, forestry and sustainability in the temperate forests of coastal British Columbia. Hike, climb, and forest bathe in provincial parks as you connect deeply with the natural world. Cruise by ferry through magnificent glacial fjords of the Inside Passage along British Columbia’s stunning North Coast. Travel to the Haida Gwaii islands to learn more about indigenous cultures, arts and traditions. During an exciting month with our neighbor to the north, you and your group will experience rich indigenous cultures and pristine natural ecosystems.

The Program:

After meeting your group at the Vancouver International airport, spend a few days in British Columbia’s largest city. Go sea kayaking, hear from experts about biodiversity and learn about First Nations cultures. Journey by ferry north through British Columbia’s famous Inside Passage. During your 18-hour ferry adventure, feast your eyes on pods of orcas and sail along the coastline past old growth rainforests and craggy cliffs. Spend a few days as honored guests in Kitkatla on the Gitxaala Nation learning about indigenous environmental stewardship, ancient technologies and contemporary challenges. Then head to remote Haida Gwaii, an archipelago off British Columbia’s west coast known for its vast beauty and rich indigenous cultures. Travel by boat to UNESCO world heritage sites, Gwaii Haanas National Park and overnight in a traditional longhouse. Your journey concludes with a few days back in cosmopolitan Vancouver exploring outdoor markets, reflecting on your month in British Columbia and preparing for the journey home.

Sample Activities:

Orientation in Vancouver

• Get to know your group and leader during scavenger hunts across the parks, neighborhoods and beaches of Vancouver.
• Go sea-kayaking and explore the rugged coast of Vancouver Island
• Learn about biodiversity and the rich ecosystems of coastal British Columbia
• Hear from experts about First Nations history and cultures

Seminar in Kitkatla

• Sail the Inside Passage by ferry
• Live in the village of Kitkatla learning about the history and culture of the Gitxaala Nation
• Go sea-kayaking with local students
• Take a catamaran to Khutzeymateen Provincial Park and see a Grizzly bear sanctuary
• Hike to the Butzi tidal rapids, build a campfire and harvest salmon

Field Exploration in Haida Gwaii

• Explore remote indigenous communities
• Take a zodiac boat to the SGaang Gwaii UNESCO world heritage site
• Visit the Haida village of K’unna Llanggay in Gwaii Haanas National Park
• Hear from experts about forestry practices and stay in a traditional longhouse
• Check out sea lion rookeries and keep an eye out for orcas and whales

Journey’s End in Vancouver

• Revisit bustling outdoor markets and hike or bike along Vancouver’s sea wall
• Hike Jericho Beach and spend a day on Granville Island
• Enjoy a canopy walk at the University of British Columbia’s botanical garden
• Discuss re-entry and prepare for your journey back across the southern border