Victoria: Old Growth Rainforest Canyon Waterfall and Beaches

Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast beckons the intrepid explorer, and the "Victoria: Old Growth Rainforest Canyon Waterfall and Beaches" tour offers a chance to take in its natural splendor. Over the course of ten hours, participants embark on a journey that unveils the island’s hidden gems – from the serene Sombrio Beach to the ancient groves of the Upper Avatar. What awaits those who take the plunge is a captivating exploration of a world untouched by time, where the heart of the Pacific Northwest’s wilderness beats strong.

Key Points

• This 10-hour tour from Victoria showcases the region’s natural wonders, including an old-growth rainforest, a sandstone canyon, a waterfall, and coastal beaches.

• Participants can expect to hike to Sombrio Falls, explore the tide pools at Botanical Beach, and visit the ancient Western Red Cedars of Upper Avatar Grove.

• The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience, and includes transportation, coffee, lunch, and entry fees.

• The tour is suitable for adults and children over 10 with a moderate fitness level, with prohibited items including high-heeled shoes and open-toed shoes.

• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for participants.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour is called "Victoria: Old Growth Rainforest Canyon Waterfall and Beaches" and is priced from €199.29 per person.

It lasts 10 hours and is available in English and French. The group size is limited to 6 participants.

Pickup is offered from various locations in Victoria, including hotels, the ferry terminal, airport, and residential addresses.

Transportation is provided in a large SUV with branding.

The tour includes coffee, lunch, entry fees, and gratuities, but additional food, drinks, and souvenirs aren’t included.

Itinerary Highlights

Pickup in Victoria kicks off the tour, followed by a coffee stop at Shirley Delicious for around 20 minutes.

Next, the group hikes for 1.5 hours at Sombrio Beach, exploring a sandstone canyon and visiting the waterfall.

At Botanical Beach, they spend an hour tide pool exploring, observing sea creatures like giant pacific anemones, starfish, and sea urchins.

After a 30-minute lunch at Coastal Kitchen Cafe, the tour moves to the Upper Avatar Grove, where hikers spend an hour among 1000-year-old Western Red Cedars, including the famous "Gnarliest Tree in Canada."

The tour then returns to Victoria.

Pickup in Victoria

Victoria serves as the starting point for this immersive tour, where the group gathers for pickup.

The tour operator offers flexible pickup locations, including hotel lobbies, ferry terminals, airports, or even residential addresses, ensuring convenience for participants.

Guests are transported in a spacious, branded Toyota Highlander SUV, setting the stage for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

This flexibility and attention to detail contribute to a seamless start to the day’s exploration of Victoria’s stunning natural wonders, from old-growth rainforests to picturesque beaches and cascading waterfalls.

Sombrio Beach

After the initial pickup, the tour heads west to the rugged Sombrio Beach.

Here, participants get to hike for 1.5 hours, taking in the stunning scenery. The hike leads to Sombrio Falls and a sandstone canyon, offering a chance to immerse in the old-growth rainforest environment.

Visitors can admire the powerful waterfall and explore the unique geological formations of the canyon. This stop showcases the diverse natural beauty of the region, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for the untamed landscapes of Vancouver Island.

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Botanical Beach

Continuing the exploration, the tour then leads participants to Botanical Beach. Here, visitors can engage in tide pool exploration and observe a variety of fascinating marine life.

The beach is known for its:

• Giant pacific anemones
• Starfishes in vibrant colors
• Diverse sea urchin populations
• Abundance of other intertidal creatures

Guided by the knowledgeable tour guide, guests will have the opportunity to learn about the unique ecosystem and the intricate web of life found in these tide pools.

The exploration at Botanical Beach provides a captivating window into the rich biodiversity of the coastal region.

Lunch

Following the tide pool exploration at Botanical Beach, the tour takes participants to the Coastal Kitchen Cafe for a lunch break.

The cafe offers a menu featuring locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. Guests can choose from a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, and entrees. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, providing a chance to refuel before the next leg of the adventure.

Lunch is included in the tour price, allowing travelers to enjoy a delicious meal without extra costs. With approximately 30 minutes allotted for this stop, participants can savor their food and recharge before continuing the journey through the stunning Vancouver Island landscape.

Upper Avatar Grove

The tour now moves to the Upper Avatar Grove, where visitors can witness the grandeur of ancient Western Red Cedars, including the famed "Gnarliest Tree in Canada."

The hike through this old-growth rainforest lasts approximately an hour, allowing ample time to marvel at the towering trees and take in the serene natural environment.

Highlights of the Upper Avatar Grove include:

• Observing the majestic 1,000-year-old Western Red Cedars that dominate the landscape
• Discovering the twisted and gnarled "Gnarliest Tree in Canada," a true testament to the resilience of these ancient giants
• Exploring the lush, mossy understory and spotting diverse flora and fauna
• Appreciating the peaceful, cathedral-like atmosphere of the old-growth rainforest.

Important Information

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, there are a few important details to keep in mind.

The tour’s cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Participants should wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a reusable water bottle.

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, individuals with mobility issues, back problems, heart problems, visual impairments, or those with low fitness levels.

Prohibited items include high-heeled shoes, weapons, baby strollers, bikes, open-toed shoes, and alcoholic drinks in the vehicle.

Following these guidelines will help make the most of the Victoria: Old Growth Rainforest Canyon Waterfall and Beaches tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention accommodating dietary restrictions. Customers should contact the tour operator in advance to inquire about their ability to cater to any special dietary needs or preferences.

What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?

The average group size for this tour is limited to 6 participants. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience and easier navigation through the various sites on the itinerary.

Are Photography Restrictions in Place at Any of the Sites?

The tour does not mention any photography restrictions at the sites. Participants are free to take photos during the various activities, such as hiking, exploring tide pools, and visiting the old-growth forests.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. Customers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who will tailor the itinerary to accommodate their interests within the tour’s overall framework.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for the tour is casual and comfortable. Participants should wear hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and avoid high-heeled shoes or open-toed footwear. Bringing a reusable water bottle is also recommended.

Recap

This tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the stunning natural beauty of Vancouver Island. From the dramatic coastline of Sombrio Beach to the ancient forests of the Upper Avatar Grove, you will be captivated by the diversity and grandeur of this remarkable region. With a small group size and expert guidance, this is a must-do experience for nature enthusiasts.

You can check if your dates are available here: