Whales & Grizzly Bears Adventure
Witness Giants of Land and Sea.
A 7-day grizzly bear and sea kayaking tour from Campbell River, BC: an Indigenous-guided grizzly bear tour in Bute or Toba Inlet, then three nights of glamping and kayaking at Orca Camp in Johnstone Strait orca territory.
Departures August 25 – September 12 | 7 Days | From $4,544.22 CAD + GST
About the Adventure
The best of British Columbia’s fall wildlife season – from salmon-run grizzlies to orca-rich waters.
Set out on a seven-day journey that brings together two of BC’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters. Begin in Campbell River with an unforgettable grizzly bear viewing excursion into Bute or Toba Inlet, welcomed by Indigenous guides from the Homalco or Klahoose First Nations, and watch bears feeding along salmon-rich rivers as the fall run gets underway.
From there, travel by boat into the heart of the Johnstone Strait to our remote Orca Camp, accessible only by water and bordering the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve. For four days, paddle through wildlife-rich waters where orcas, seals, and sea lions frequent the strait this time of year. Unwind in a wood-fired hot tub and sauna overlooking the ocean, enjoy chef-prepared meals with a view, and gather around the fire under star-filled skies.
This trip invites you to experience the wild coast of British Columbia from both land and sea, with expert Indigenous and kayaking guides and a small group of like-minded travelers.
Highlights
- Grizzly bear tour in Bute or Toba Inlet with Indigenous hosts, operated by Campbell River Whale Watching
- 3 nights of glamping at our exclusive Orca Camp
- Sea kayaking in orca territory and relaxing at camp
- Small groups of up to 18 guests, with at least 1 guide per 6 guests
- No kayaking experience needed; ages 10 and up
- 3 hotel nights in Campbell River included
- Camp adjacent to the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, where orcas frequent the strait through late summer and early fall; while the reserve itself is protected, whales often pass close to camp.
2027 Departure Dates
Green = spaces available. Grey = sold out.
Duration
7 days (6 nights)
Guide Ratio
1 Guide / per 6 Guests (3 guides total + one camp manager + one camp chef)
Start Point
Discovery Harbour Marina in Campbell River, Vancouver Island, BC
Impact
Protecting this ecosystem is central to everything we do. Our grizzly bear tour is hosted in partnership with the Homalco and Klahoose First Nations, on whose traditional territory the bears are viewed, ensuring the experience directly supports Indigenous-led conservation and stewardship. We follow a strict code of conduct and all marine wildlife regulations, ensuring wildlife is viewed from respectful distances. A $25 sustainability fee per guest is donated directly to local conservation initiatives, supporting the long-term protection of this extraordinary region.
2027 Trip Price
$4,544.22 CAD per person
A Single Occupancy fee of $600 applies for peak season departures, August 25 – September 3. All prices are subject to 5% GST.
Skill Prerequisites
No experience needed · Ages 10+ · Max 18 guests · 1 guide per 6 guests
Paddling Intensity: 1/4
No previous paddling experience is required. All kayaking sessions are optional, and guests are welcome to skip any outing and relax at base camp while enjoying the glamping amenities. Each kayaking session is led by certified guides who are happy to provide instruction and support at every level.
For those planning to join the longer kayaking day trips from base camp, a moderate level of fitness is suggested, as day trips can last up to six hours (with breaks) at an easy pace.
Camp Comfort: 4/4
Enjoy the best of both worlds – comfortable hotel stays in Campbell River bookending a fully off-grid glamping experience. At Orca Camp, guests stay in spacious safari-style tents equipped with real beds and cozy duvets, with a hot shower and well-maintained outhouses on site. No previous camping experience is required.
Wilderness Immersion: 3/4
While Campbell River offers full modern comfort, both the grizzly bear tour and Orca Camp are true wilderness experiences, with very limited cell service once you’re on the water or at camp.
Guests should be comfortable with the quiet of the wilderness and the unpredictability of nature, from the weather to the wildlife sightings.
Feeling unsure? Please contact us, we are happy to answer your questions!
About Bute & Toba Inlet, Johnstone Strait & Robson Bight
Bute and Toba Inlet are two of the most remote and wildlife-rich fjords on the BC coast, where grizzly bears gather each fall to feed on spawning salmon along their rivers and estuaries. These lands lie within the traditional territory of the Homalco and Klahoose First Nations, whose guides lead each tour and share their deep cultural connection to the bears, the rivers, and the surrounding rainforest.
North of Campbell River, the Johnstone Strait remains one of the world’s most important habitats for northern resident killer whales, and for generations a place of deep cultural connection for the Kwakwaka’wakw peoples. Orca Camp sits adjacent to the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve, a strictly protected sanctuary where orcas frequent the strait through late summer and early fall. While the reserve itself is off-limits to humans, orcas often pass close to shore near camp, giving guests a fitting second chapter to a journey that begins among the grizzlies of Bute or Toba Inlet.
On the traditional territory of the Kwakwaka’wakw peoples.
Your Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Campbell River
Welcome to the wilderness city of Campbell River, British Columbia! Check in to your hotel and settle in ahead of tomorrow’s grizzly bear tour. Evening free to explore Campbell River. Meals not included.
Day 2
Grizzly Bear Tour
Head out on a guided grizzly bear viewing excursion into Bute or Toba Inlet, hosted by Campbell River Whale Watching and Indigenous guides from the Homalco or Klahoose First Nations. Watch bears feeding along salmon-rich rivers as the fall salmon run gets underway, and learn about the deep cultural connection between these Nations and the land. Lunch is included on the tour. Return to Campbell River for your second hotel night. Dinner not included.
Day 3
Into the Strait
After breakfast, transfer by boat to Orca Camp, enjoying a scenic ride north with opportunities for wildlife viewing along the way. Upon arrival, settle into your safari tent, meet your fellow adventurers, and enjoy a welcome lunch. A guided orientation paddle introduces you to kayaking in these pristine waters, followed by a chef-prepared dinner and time to unwind in the oceanfront hot tub or sauna.
Day 4 & 5
Whale Waters
Full days at camp built around guided sea kayaking in the wildlife-rich waters of Johnstone Strait. Paddle in orca territory, keeping an eye out for whales, seals, sea lions, and other wildlife, with stops at remote beaches along the way. Between paddles, relax in the hot tub and sauna, enjoy chef-prepared meals overlooking the ocean, and gather around the fire in the evening under star-filled skies.
Day 6
Final Paddle & Return to Campbell River
Enjoy a final morning paddle before breakfast and some leisurely time at camp. Say goodbye to Orca Camp and travel back to Campbell River by boat, with lunch provided along the way. Settle into your final hotel night in Campbell River. Dinner not included.
Day 7
Departure
Depart Campbell River with a deep sense of place – memories of grizzlies on the riverbank and days spent paddling through orca territory. Breakfast included; onward travel not included.
What’s included
- Grizzly Bear Tour – Guided excursion into Bute or Toba Inlet with Campbell River Whale Watching and Indigenous hosts from the Homalco or Klahoose First Nations, including lunch.
- Hotel Accommodations – 3 nights in Campbell River, with breakfast included.
- Guide Services and Kayak Instruction – Expert guidance from certified kayaking guides throughout your adventure.
- Scenic Boat Transfer – Round-trip transfer from Campbell River to Orca Camp with wildlife viewing opportunities along the way.
- Accommodations – Three nights in safari-style tents with comfortable beds, duvets, and pillows.
- Hot Tub & Sauna – Relax and unwind in our wood-fired hot tub and sauna.
- Common Area & Dining Room – Cozy, wood-heated spaces to gather and enjoy meals.
- Kayaking Gear – Kayaks (double and single kayaks available), paddles, life vests, and kayak skirts included for all paddling sessions.
- Gourmet Meals – All meals at Orca Camp from Day 3 lunch through Day 6 lunch (3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners), plus snacks throughout the day, lunch on the grizzly bear tour and breakfast on hotel mornings.
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages – Water, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and soda.
- Luggage Storage – Safe storage available during your trip.
What’s not included
- Airfare to and from Campbell River, British Columbia
- Transportation between your hotel and our Campbell River office for your bear tour
- Trip cancellation or other travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Lunch and dinner on hotel nights in Campbell River
- Personal gear (see packing list)
- Towels
- Tips for guides (optional but appreciated)
What Our Guests Say
“I recently went on the three night, four day Orca Camp trip. It far exceeded my expectations on all fronts! Brady, Diana and Laura were fun, knowledgeable guides and Chef Josh whipped up amazing meals that kept us full at all times. The food was seriously next level!
The camp is designed so that you can kayak three times a day, or pick and choose when you want to get out on the water. If you don’t go out, there’s plenty to do with the hot tub, sauna, fire pits, cold plunge and amazing scenery. We were lucky enough to see orcas, humpbacks, bears and dolphins on our trip as well.
The glamping tents are super comfortable and you even get power over night to charge up your phone which was a nice surprise. If I ever get the chance, I will definitely go back to this magical place!”
Sara, Orca Camp guest
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Wildlife & Timing
What is the best time to see grizzly bears and orcas on this trip?
This trip runs August 25 through September 12, timed to the fall salmon run in Bute and Toba Inlet, when grizzly bears gather along the rivers to feed, and to the late-summer window when orcas continue to frequent the Johnstone Strait.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
While wildlife is unpredictable and sightings are never guaranteed, this trip offers two distinct opportunities in prime habitat – a guided grizzly tour timed to the salmon run, and days spent paddling adjacent to the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve, one of the best land- and kayak-based orca viewing spots in the world.
Who leads the grizzly bear tour?
The tour is hosted by Indigenous guides from the Homalco or Klahoose First Nations, on whose traditional territory the bears are viewed, and is operated in partnership with Campbell River Whale Watching.
What other wildlife might I see?
In addition to grizzly bears and orcas, guests may observe black bears, bald eagles, seals, Steller sea lions, and diverse coastal birdlife.
The Trip Experience
What are the hotel accommodations like in Campbell River?
Guests stay in comfortable hotel accommodations in Campbell River for three nights, with breakfast included, bookending the wilderness portion of the trip.
What are the glamping accommodations like at Orca Camp?
Guests stay in spacious, safari-style tents built on raised wooden platforms and equipped with real beds and warm linens. Amenities include an oceanfront wood-fired hot tub, a sauna, a hot shower, and well-maintained composting toilets.
Is there Wi-Fi or cell service at camp?
No, Orca Camp is a true wilderness retreat with no Wi-Fi and limited cellphone reception. A small charging station is provided in each tent for cameras and small devices.
How much kayaking is included at camp?
Guided kayaking sessions run throughout Days 3–6, exploring the wildlife-rich waters of the Johnstone Strait. As camp is a basecamp experience, sessions are optional and you’re welcome to relax at the beach or in the sauna instead.
Food & Dietary Logistics
What kind of food is served on the trip?
Dining is a signature highlight, featuring gourmet, all-inclusive meals prepared by an on-site camp chef using fresh, local ingredients, plus a provided lunch on the grizzly bear tour and breakfast at the hotel.
Can you accommodate vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary restrictions?
Yes. We accommodate most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets, as well as specific food allergies.
Group Size & Solo Travel
Do you allow solo travelers?
Absolutely. This trip is a popular choice for solo travelers seeking a safe and communal wilderness experience.
Is there a single supplement fee for solo travelers?
A $600 single supplement fee applies for peak season departures, August 25 – September 3, to guarantee a private hotel room and safari tent.
What is the maximum group size?
To maintain an intimate and high-quality experience, our maximum group size is limited to 18 guests.
Travel & Safety
Do I need prior kayaking experience to join?
No previous experience is required. Our certified guides provide full kayak instruction and safety procedures before your first launch.
Will I get seasick while kayaking or on the grizzly bear tour?
Seasickness is rare, as both the grizzly bear tour and kayaking take place in the sheltered, protected waters of BC’s inlets and the Johnstone Strait archipelago. We recommend bringing non-drowsy anti-nausea medication if you have concerns.
When does the trip return to Campbell River?
The boat from Orca Camp typically arrives back in Campbell River in the afternoon on Day 6, ahead of your final hotel night.
How do I get to Campbell River?
Campbell River is on Vancouver Island, about a 45-minute flight from Vancouver. You can also drive, taking a BC Ferries crossing to Nanaimo and then driving about two hours north. See our Getting Here page for details.
Where do the grizzly bear tour and the boat to Orca Camp depart from?
Both depart from the Campbell River Whale Watching office at Discovery Harbour Marina in Campbell River. Transportation between your hotel and the marina is not included.
What should I pack?
All kayaking gear is provided. Follow our packing list for clothing and personal items, and bring warm, waterproof layers for the grizzly bear tour, as September days on the water can be cool. Remember to bring a towel.
Policies & Requirements
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The minimum age for participants is 10 years old. We require at least one adult to accompany every child aged 15 or younger. If you have a child under 10 with significant kayaking experience, please contact us directly to discuss a custom family booking.
What are the payment terms and booking requirements?
Due to high demand and a short season that often sells out by March, full payment is required at the time of booking to secure your spot. Our limited capacity means dates fill up several months in advance.
What happens if a trip is cancelled due to weather?
We operate in most weather conditions, and our guides are expertly trained to adapt daily itineraries for guest safety. In the rare event that safety concerns prevent a launch, our team will work with you based on our standard operating procedures and safety protocols.