Covering a massive land area, Canada is home to countless picturesque locations where you can get up close and personal with some of the most extraordinary creatures in the world.

So, if you’re looking to embark on a thrilling wildlife adventure, you’ve come to the right place! Without further ado, read on, and let’s dive into our list of the top places to see wildlife in Canada.

Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia

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The Great Bear Rainforest, home to some of the last remaining white spirit bears (also known as Kermode bears), is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these mythical creatures in person. And there are more than just bears here, of course!

You’ve got wolves, cougars, and a whole bunch of birds soaring in the skies above. At over 6.4 million hectares, it’s one of the largest intact temperate rainforests on the planet.

One more thing before we journey onward: the local First Nations communities have stewarded this land for thousands of years, ensuring that we can all have our chance to experience this incredible place.

Churchill, Manitoba

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Churchill, Manitoba, has become the go-to spot for polar bear sightings. And if you’re lucky, you might just see the awe-inspiring aurora borealis dance across the sky.

Now, October and November are prime polar bear-spotting months, but that’s not all Churchill has to offer. As the seasons change, so do the wild inhabitants you’ll encounter.

The summer months bring thousands of beluga whales to the shores, inviting opportunities for incredible boat or even kayak-based whale-watching experiences. 

Plus, the nearby tundra is also home to arctic foxes, snowy owls, and even some wolverines.

Avalon Peninsula, Newfoundland

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Our next destination takes us to the beautiful Avalon Peninsula in Newfoundland, an area known for its stunning coastal landscapes, rugged cliffs, and charismatic wildlife. 

Now, we just have to talk about the puffins, because the Avalon Peninsula is simply teeming with these adorable little sea parrots. But these colourful cuties aren’t alone. 

You’ll also come across kittiwakes, razorbills, and the incredibly powerful northern gannet.

In addition to the lively bird colonies, you might be lucky enough to glimpse humpback whales frolicking off the coast or icebergs drifting by in the distance. Talk about an unforgettable sight!

Northwest Passage, Northwest Territories

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The Northwest Passage is brimming with unique Arctic wildlife, such as muskoxen, caribou, and arctic hares. And let’s not forget about the area’s marine life because walruses and narwhals are all hanging out in those icy waters.

With a little luck, you might even spot the elusive bowhead whale, one of the longest-living mammals on Earth!

On your trip, consider booking an expedition with one of the many knowledgeable guides in the area. After all, who better to show you the wonders of the Arctic than the people who call it home?

Jasper National Park, Alberta

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Jasper National Park is a massive park, one of the largest in the Canadian Rockies, and offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and spot some truly extraordinary wildlife. 

Here, you can encounter a wide array of wildlife, from elk and bighorn sheep to black and grizzly bears. But wait, there’s more! 

Venture into the alpine meadows, and you might even spot hoary marmots, pikas, and mountain goats. Apart from the wildlife and jaw-dropping scenery, Jasper National Park is also known for some of the most spectacular starry night skies in North America.

Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan

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The most famous residents of Grasslands National Park are the beautiful bison, which were reintroduced to the area after nearly facing extinction. Watching these powerful creatures roam the plains is an experience you’ll never forget.

And of course, there are more than just bison. You’ll also spot pronghorn antelope, coyotes, badgers, and a bunch of adorable prairie dogs!

Besides its rich wildlife, the park also boasts spectacular scenery and some fascinating history. Plus, with ancient teepee rings and indigenous artefacts, you’ll get a glimpse into the captivating past that shaped this incredible region.

Thousand Islands, Ontario

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Thousand Islands is a beautiful archipelago of 1,864 islands nestled within the St. Lawrence River; there’s no shortage of eye-popping views and, you guessed it, fantastic wildlife encounters!

As you explore the area by boat or kayak, you’ll discover that the Thousand Islands are home to a variety of birds, including osprey, bald eagles, and great blue herons. 

And let’s not forget the charming reptiles and amphibians, like the adorable painted turtles and northern water snakes. The surrounding waters are teeming with aquatic life, making it a perfect spot to cast a line and experience some world-class fishing.

Caribou Mountains, Quebec

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The star attraction of the Caribou Mountains is none other than the majestic woodland caribou, after which the area is named. These splendid creatures roam the alpine tundra, making it an ideal spot to come face-to-face with them.

You’ll also encounter moose, black bears, and red foxes, to name a few. As you explore this impressive region, you’ll discover the area’s fantastic mountain biking trails, sparkling lakes, and rich plant life.

It’s no wonder Quebec is so proud of the Caribou Mountains! And for bird enthusiasts, keep an eye out for boreal birds like spruce grouse and white-throated sparrows.

Riding Mountain National Park, Manitoba

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In Riding Mountain National Park, you’ll find a home for plains bison, moose, black bears, elk, and even timber wolves! Yup, you’ve got the whole crew right here!

Plus, with a whopping 260 species of birds, you’ll need to keep your binoculars handy (and maybe a little bird guide) as you wander the lush forests. 

The park also boasts over 400 kilometres of hiking and biking trails, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta

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In Waterton Lakes National Park, you’ll come across an incredible array of wildlife, such as grizzly and black bears, moose, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might even spot a shy lynx or two!

And with over 250 species of birds, like Clark’s nutcracker and the mountain bluebird, you’ll find yourself in birdwatching heaven. For water sport enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the crystalline lakes.