Discover the Wild Side of The Rockies with Banff Adventures’ Wildlife Tours!
Banff National Park is a must-visit location for lovers of the great outdoors all year round, but for those looking to spy some of the region’s native inhabitants, the summer months are the perfect time to explore.
Banff National Park is a must-visit location for lovers of the great outdoors all year round, but for those looking to spy some of the region’s native inhabitants, the summer months are the perfect time to explore. The Park is home to hundreds of different species of birds, mammals, fish, amphibians and reptiles, many of which can be spotted with the help of trained guides on a wildlife sightseeing tour.
At Banff Adventures, there’s nothing we love more than welcoming you to our wild backyard and helping you encounter the Rockies like never before.
Below, we’ll highlight the perks of taking a wildlife tour while you visit Banff. Read on to learn more!
What Makes Wildlife Tours in Banff So Unique?
Did you know that Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site? While Banff is often talked about for its awesome ski hills and is well known as a winter wonderland, this beautiful slice of the Canadian Rockies holds so much more to uncover. For those who like to go beneath the surface and truly interact with their environment, wildlife tours offer an unparalleled opportunity to get up “close” to nature and see majestic creatures in action in a safe, thrilling way!
Some of the key benefits of wildlife viewing tours include:
Expert Guidance
Banff National Park is BIG and teaming with life! Our expert guides have the knowledge and know-how to help you spot critters of all shapes and sizes while also respecting the delicate ecosystems and natural conditions of the park. They know the best locations and times to spot various species, increasing your odds of spying wildlife in action, and will ensure that you have as much time as possible to watch and photograph from afar.
Safety First
One of the most dangerous actions that put visitors and animals in danger year after year is tourists approaching wildlife in an unsafe manner. Regardless of whether or not you are on a tour (there’s a strong chance you may encounter some local critters in your downtime as well. It is their home, after all!), DO NOT APPROACH ANY OF THE ANIMALS IN THE PARK. No matter how cute and cuddly they may look, these wild animals are NOT SAFE TO INTERACT WITH ANY MANNER other than taking photos from a safe, respectful distance. Our tours are designed to bring you as close to wildlife as possible while still putting everyone’s safety first.
Failure to follow safe animal guidelines, including maintaining an appropriate distance and/or feeding animals in any way, can result in charges and fines of up to $25,000 or jail time.
Learn While You Observe!
The heart of wildlife tours, much like our sightseeing tours, is education and appreciation for the natural wonder found in and around Banff National Park. Whether you’re visiting on your own and want to learn more or want to provide your little ones with a fun way to learn more about the great outdoors, wildlife tours have you covered!
What Can I Expect to See On a Wildlife Tour?
There are plenty of creatures you may encounter while on your tour, with different species preferring to come out at different times of day (which is why we offer both daytime and evening tours). Common critters spotted include elk, big horn sheep, various species of birds, hawks, eagles, bison, bears, and more.
Please note, as skilled as our guides are, due to the unpredictable nature of wildlife and environmental conditions that may influence their movement patterns, we cannot guarantee that you will see any one species.
Tips for a Memorable Experience
To make the most of your wildlife tour, follow the tips below:
- Dress in layers. Weather can shift rapidly in the mountains, and you’ll want the option to warm up or cool down as needed.
- Bring binoculars and a camera
- Leave noisy objects behind
- Stay Patient and Observant
- Abide by all safety guidelines and park rules. Always follow the directions given by your guide.
Ready, Set, Adventure!
Ready for the most fun you’ll have in the Rockies this summer? Banff Adventures is here to help! Learn more about available summer activities, including wildlife tours, bike (and e-bike!) rentals and more, here!
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