Our Trips / Gwaii Haanas

Gwaii Haanas - Queen Charlotte Islands

"Canadian Galapagos" and Haida Homeland

National Geographic - Traveler Magazine 2005
Rated #1 National Park in North America

Known to the Haida as Gwaii Haanas. "Place of Wonder" - the South Moresby Archipelago contains some 130 spectacular islands. The indigenous species found in these isolated areas have earned the Queen Charlotte the reputation of "Canada's Galapagos".

This unique island group offers lush ancient rain forest, alpine hills, and one of the richest intertidal areas in the world found at Burnaby Narrows.There are hot springs overlooking the San Cristoval alpine mountains, abundant wildlife from peregrine falcons to the graceful phalaropes. And increased sightings of Humpbacks, and Orcas whale.

Homeland to the Haida people for thousands of years, today Gwaii Haanas offers a glimpse into the past and reveals the history of a rich and proud culture. We will visit all major village sites including the World Heritage site of Ninstints, where the world's finest collection of totem poles still stands.


Queen Charlottes Photo Library

Thanks to the Duen for providing a wonderful gathering place for this week (a week which passed too quickly), for taking us to places which only a solid vessel can go -the same places which the strong Haida canoes would roam. Thanks to Mike and his great crew for taking such wonderful care of us all - the meals & the natural highlights - the humour & the mist-

P. Clement & K. Schmidt
Victoria, BC

For someone who has for years been "the reluctant conscript" (as Bill Reid would say) what a magnificent discovery. The boat is a treasure, the crew was great; and we saw the sun once - thank you for a memorable week!

C. McIntyre
Vancouver, BC

Thank you! Your part of the world is amazing and your trip was life changing. Take care of it all while I am gone. I will be back.

E. Bailey
Vermont, USA