ECOTOURISM

Clayoquot Spirit

Experience nature at its wildest on Vancouver Island’s West Coast. Feel the circle of life through cultural interpretation of nature. Listen to the secret rush of the Hot Springs, see the world through our eyes and wonder about a different approach to wealth and sharing… Potlatch - This is the land we chose a long time ago…

Tour Details

Day 1: Meares Island - Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations Territory - Clayoquot Sound
At about noon you arrive in Tofino on the wild Pacific Coast of Vancouver Island and after a short walk through the town of Tofino you explore the versatile ecosystem of Clayoquot Sound by sea kayak. All trips start with an introduction to sea-kayaking and are guided by an experienced naturalist guide, if possible a local native guide.

The ocean kayak is the perfect vessel for a venture to Meares Island. You will slide so close to the water that you can touch it with your hands. On Meares Island, an interpretive hike on the Big Tree Trail will be your discovery of the day. Here you can see immense cedar trees that have been untouched for hundreds of years and you can also learn how the natives have practiced forestry (culturally modified trees). You explore the bays of the island and enjoy the fantastic scenery.

Upon returning to Tofino you check in at the Tin Wis Lodge, owned and operated by the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation. The lodge is situated directly on a beautiful beach, which invites you for long walks and where you can observe breathtaking sunsets. The restaurant at the lodge is well known for its cuisine with specialties from the Northwest Coast.

Day 2: Ahousaht Wildside Heritage Trail, Flores Island - Ahousaht First Nations Territo
On the water you head north to Ahousaht on Flores Island. The name Ahousaht means “facing opposite from the ocean”. You explore Ahousaht Wild Side Heritage Trail – rainforest and beaches, built as a community effort in 1996. Together with a local guide you hike through the mystical rain forest and along romantic beaches. The Ahousaht First Nations will share their culture with you, talking about their history, lifestyle and traditions. The whole trail is 11 km long, however it is possible to hike only parts of it. It is recommended that you bring a lunch with you.

After finishing the Heritage Walk, you return to the Ahousaht village where you take a water-taxi to Hot Springs Cove, home to the Hesquiaht First Nations. At the wharf of Hot Springs Cove, you can use a rowboat to get across the bay and land at Maquinna Provincial Park where you can take the trail to the hot springs. Hot Springs Cove is known for the natural hot springs and natural minerals adjacent to the ocean. Have a soak in the hot springs before ending your activities for the day.

Rendez vous back at the wharf after your trek and row back to the village. On this evening, you stay at the Hot Springs Cove Lodge overlooking the bay. During your stay, you are served dinner, breakfast and lunch hosted by a local Hesquiaht family.

Day 3:
After breakfast, you rejoin the water-taxi for an approximately two-hour wildlife tour. On this tour, you are shown the diversity of this ecosystem. Whales, seals, orcas, and sea otters are just one of many animals you can see. Also, view sacred caves and ancient dwellings of the Nuu-chah-nulth peoples. After viewing the coast with your guide, you will have lunch at Hesquiaht/Hot Springs Cove before departing back to Tofino.