British Columbia Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure to British Columbia with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit and things to do in this breathtaking province in Canada.


Introduction to British Columbia

British Columbia, located in the westernmost part of Canada, is known for its rugged coastline, snow-capped mountains, and vast wilderness. With its diverse landscapes, vast marine life, and endless outdoor adventure opportunities, British Columbia is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we have highlighted the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, places to stay, and local cuisine to ensure that your visit to British Columbia is one to remember.

List of Places to Visit in British Columbia

British Columbia is home to numerous attractions, including culturally important museums and historical sites and vast natural landscapes. Here are some of the best places to visit in British Columbia:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver: This museum is home to over 500,000 ethnographic and archaeological objects from around the world, with a particular emphasis on First Nations cultures of British Columbia.
  • The Butchart Gardens, Victoria: These spectacular gardens are world-famous for their beautiful displays of rare and exotic plants, trees, and flowers.
  • Fort Langley National Historic Site: Situated in Langley, British Columbia, Fort Langley is the site of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s first trading post in the region, established in 1827.
  • Craigdarroch Castle, Victoria: A national historic site, the castle was built in the late 1800s, and it’s an architectural masterpiece and showcase of the finest materials and craftsmanship.

Natural Attractions of British Columbia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Whistler: A world-renowned ski resort and a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The resort also offers summer activities such as mountain biking, hiking, and golfing.
  • Pacific Rim National Park Reserve: The park is located on Vancouver Island and encompasses rugged coastlines, old-growth rainforests, and beautiful sandy beaches.
  • Rocky Mountains: These mountain ranges stretch for over 1,000 miles, offering some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, or driving along the scenic routes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of British Columbia

British Columbia offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in the world. Here are some of the most popular routes to add to your bucket list:

  • The West Coast Trail: Located on the Pacific coast of Vancouver Island, this challenging 75 kilometers hike is a must-do for adventurous travelers.
  • Kettle Valley Railway Trail: This 650 kilometers trail takes visitors through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Okanagan and Kootenay region.
  • North Shore’s Mountains: These mountains offer numerous trails through lush forests, scenic vistas, and mountain lakes.

Best Things to Do in British Columbia: Activities and Tours

From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, British Columbia has something for everyone. Here are some of the top activities and tours to book during your visit:

  • Wildlife Watching Tour: British Columbia is home to a diverse range of marine and land-based wildlife. Visitors can enjoy whale watching tours or bear watching tours to see these magnificent creatures up close.
  • Sea Kayaking Tour: With the rugged coastline and abundant wildlife, sea kayaking is a popular activity in British Columbia.
  • River Rafting on the Fraser River: Rafting down one of the most scenic and challenging rivers in North America is an experience not to be missed.

Week-Long Itinerary for British Columbia

If you’re wondering how to best spend a week in British Columbia, here’s our suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore Vancouver, with highlights including Stanley Park, Granville Island, and Gastown.
  • Day 2 and 3: Go on a road trip to Whistler, stopping at Howe Sound, Squamish, and Joffre Lakes Provincial Park along the way.
  • Day 4 and 5: Explore Vancouver Island, including Victoria, Tofino, and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
  • Day 6 and 7: Go on a hike in the Rocky Mountains, stopping at Banff and Jasper National Parks.

Food and Drink Scene of British Columbia

British Columbia’s diverse population and natural resources have given rise to a thriving food scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Salmon: Freshly caught salmon is a staple in British Columbian cuisine.
  • Poutine: This Canadian classic is made from fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
  • Bannock: A type of bread made by Canadian First Nations peoples that is often fried and served as a side dish or snack.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: British Columbia is known for its wine regions such as the Okanagan Valley and Vancouver Island.
  • Craft Beer: With over a hundred craft breweries, British Columbia is a beer lover’s paradise.
  • Whisky: Whisky distilleries are popping up all over British Columbia, offering a unique taste of the region.

Where to Stay in British Columbia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

British Columbia offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets. Some of the best options include:

  • Fairmont Chateau Whistler: Located in Whistler, this luxurious hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a range of amenities.
  • HI Vancouver Central Hostel: This hostel is located in the heart of Vancouver’s entertainment district and offers affordable accommodation with easy access to public transport.
  • Tofino Resort and Marina: This waterfront resort in Tofino offers an array of outdoor activities, from fishing and kayaking to wildlife watching and hiking.

What to Buy in British Columbia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home, make sure to check out the following:

  • First Nations Art: From totem poles to intricate carvings and paintings, the art of Canada’s indigenous communities is both beautiful and meaningful.
  • Maple Syrup: This iconic Canadian product is delicious and makes for a great gift.
  • Salmon Jerky: A popular snack among locals, salmon jerky is both tasty and healthy.

Local Culture and Customs of British Columbia

British Columbia is a diverse province with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect the following customs:

  • Indigenous Cultures: It’s important to acknowledge and respect the First Nations peoples who have lived on these lands for thousands of years.
  • Multiculturalism: British Columbia is home to a diverse range of ethnic and cultural communities. Visitors are encouraged to embrace this diversity and learn about different cultures.
  • Environmentalism: Sustainability and conservation are at the forefront of British Columbian culture, so visitors are encouraged to minimize their impact on the environment.

Best Time to Visit British Columbia

The best time to visit British Columbia depends on what you want to experience. Summer (June-August) is the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping, while winter (December-February) is ideal for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are also great times to visit, with fewer crowds and milder weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of British Columbia

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to British Columbia:

Do:

  • Be respectful of the environment
  • Respect the cultural heritage of First Nations peoples
  • Try new food and activities

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural resources
  • Disrespect cultural customs
  • Take wildlife for granted

Safety and Health

Safety in British Columbia

British Columbia is a safe destination, but visitors should take the usual precautions to ensure their safety:

  • Keep valuables safe and use common sense when exploring urban areas.
  • Be aware of wildlife and keep a safe distance.
  • Ensure that you have adequate travel insurance.

Health in British Columbia

Travelers are not required to have any specific vaccinations or health certificates to enter British Columbia. However, it’s always advisable to check with your doctor before traveling to ensure that you are up to date with routine vaccinations.

Getting to British Columbia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near British Columbia

  • Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
  • Victoria International Airport (YYJ)
  • Kelowna International Airport (YLW)

Bus Stations Near British Columbia

  • Pacific Central Station, Vancouver (Greyhound)
  • Kelowna Bus Station (Greyhound)

Other Options

  • Ferries from Vancouver to Vancouver Island
  • Rocky Mountaineer Train from Vancouver to Banff and Jasper

How to Get Around in British Columbia

British Columbia has a well-developed transportation network, including a bus and train service, local ferries, and car rentals.

Public Transportation

BC Transit operates bus services in most urban areas, while VIA Rail provides train services to major cities.

Car Rentals

There are several car rental agencies that offer rental vehicles in British Columbia, including Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz.

Where to Go Next from British Columbia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

British Columbia is only a small part of Canada, and there’s much more to explore beyond it. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Banff and Jasper National Parks: Travel east from British Columbia to explore stunning mountain landscapes and wildlife.
  • Seattle: Head south to the US and explore this vibrant city’s culture and attractions, including the famous Space Needle.
  • Yukon: Travel north and discover the unspoiled natural beauty of Yukon, including the Northern Lights.

Conclusion

British Columbia is an incredible destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and outdoor adventure activities. We hope that our comprehensive travel guide has provided you with the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to this breathtaking province in Canada.

Vancouver skyline Vancouver skyline Alpine scenery in Mt Robson Provincial Park Alpine scenery in Mt Robson Provincial Park Wawadit'la, a Kwakwaka'wakw Wawadit'la, a Kwakwaka'wakw "big house", in Victoria Gwaii Haanas National Park Gwaii Haanas National Park Takakkaw Falls, Yoho National Park Takakkaw Falls, Yoho National Park Near Whistler Near Whistler Downtown Vancouver Downtown Vancouver


    Cariboo-Central Coast
    Kootenays
    Lower Mainland
    Northern British Columbia
    Thompson-Okanagan
    Vancouver Island